Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Chilling time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 18–22 minutes

• Total time: Approximately 50 minutes

• Servings: 12–15 pinwheels

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the pastry:

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry (approximately 250–300 g), thawed

• 6 slices deli ham

• 6 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon milk

For extra flavor:

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• 1 teaspoon melted butter (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Remove the puff pastry from the freezer.

2. Allow it to thaw according to package instructions.

3. Lightly flour your work surface.

4. Place the pastry sheet on the surface.

5. Gently roll it into a rectangle using a rolling pin.

6. Avoid rolling it too thin because it needs to remain flaky.

Step 2: Add the Mustard

1. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry.

2. Leave approximately 1 cm of space around the edges.

3. Sprinkle lightly with black pepper and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Add the Ham

1. Arrange the ham slices evenly over the pastry.

2. Slightly overlap the slices.

3. Make sure the pastry is covered without excessive filling.

4. Press gently to help the ham stay in place.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

1. Place cheddar or Swiss cheese slices over the ham.

2. Cover the surface evenly.

3. Sprinkle with garlic powder.

4. Add Parmesan cheese if desired.

Step 5: Roll the Pastry

1. Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log.

2. Roll slowly to keep the filling inside.

3. Gently press the seam to seal.

4. Wrap the log in plastic wrap.

5. Refrigerate for approximately 15–20 minutes.

This chilling step makes slicing easier and helps the pinwheels maintain their shape.

Step 6: Slice the Pinwheels

1. Remove the pastry log from the refrigerator.

2. Use a sharp knife.

3. Cut into approximately 1–1.5 cm thick slices.

4. Arrange the pinwheels with the spiral facing upward.

5. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray.

6. Leave space between each piece.

Step 7: Prepare the Egg Wash

1. Crack one egg into a small bowl.

2. Add one tablespoon of milk.

3. Whisk until smooth.

4. Brush lightly over the tops and exposed pastry edges.

This creates a beautiful golden-brown finish.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Place the baking tray in the center of the oven.

3. Bake for 18–22 minutes.

4. Watch until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

5. Make sure the bottom is cooked and crisp.

6. Remove from the oven.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the pinwheels to cool for 5 minutes.

2. Brush lightly with melted butter if desired.

3. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme.

4. Arrange on a serving platter.

Serve warm while the cheese is deliciously melted!

Nutritional Information

Estimated per pinwheel, assuming 15 servings.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Allergen information: Contains wheat/gluten, milk and egg. No nuts are intentionally added. Check puff pastry, cheese and ham labels for possible nut cross-contact.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Pinwheels

1. Keep puff pastry cold before baking.

2. Do not overfill with ham and cheese.

3. Chill the rolled pastry before slicing.

4. Use a sharp knife for clean spiral shapes.

5. Avoid placing pinwheels too close together.

6. Bake in a fully preheated oven for maximum puffiness.

7. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze unbaked pinwheels for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 5–8 minutes until crispy.

• Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the flaky texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these golden pinwheels with:

• Garlic mayonnaise

• Honey mustard dip

• Tomato ketchup

• Ranch dressing

• Fresh green salad

• Creamy tomato soup

Variations

• Chicken & Cheese: Replace ham with cooked shredded chicken.

• Pizza Pinwheels: Add pizza sauce, mozzarella and Italian herbs.

• Turkey Pinwheels: Use sliced turkey instead of ham.

• Spinach & Cheese: Add cooked spinach and cream cheese.

• Spicy Pinwheels: Add chili flakes and jalapeños.

Final Result

Beautiful golden-brown puff pastry spirals with layers of savory ham, creamy melted cheese and a crispy buttery exterior.

Flaky on the outside, soft and cheesy inside — these homemade pinwheels are guaranteed to be a delicious favorite at any gathering!