Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines flaky pastry with delicious fillings. These delightful bites are perfect for parties, game days, or even a quick family dinner. Imagine golden-brown dough wrapped around savory ham and melted cheese—what’s not to love? You can whip up these easy-to-make treats in under 30 minutes, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. They also make an excellent dish for meal prep; just bake a batch ahead of time and warm them up when needed. With just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, you’ll find that this recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. Add your favorite spices or veggies to create a unique twist on this classic snack. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these scrumptious Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Puff Pastry Sheets: Use store-bought puff pastry for convenience; it creates a flaky texture that’s hard to resist.
- Sliced Ham: Choose your favorite type of deli ham; smoked or honey-glazed varieties add great flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is a popular choice here, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or Swiss for extra creaminess.
- Mustard: A thin layer of mustard enhances the flavors; Dijon mustard works particularly well.
- Egg Wash: A mixture of beaten egg gives the pinwheels a beautiful golden color when baked.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while preparing the other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare Puff Pastry
Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 3: Add Fillings
Spread a thin layer of mustard over the pastry. Layer sliced ham evenly across the surface followed by shredded cheese.
Step 4: Roll It Up
Starting from one edge, carefully roll the pastry tightly into a log shape. Seal the edges by pressing them together.
Step 5: Slice into Pinwheels
Use a sharp knife to cut the rolled pastry into slices about one inch thick. Place them cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
Brush each pinwheel with egg wash using a pastry brush for that golden finish.
Transfer to plates and serve warm for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Chill Before Baking: If you have time, chill the rolled-up pinwheels in the fridge before slicing; this helps them keep their shape
- Add Herbs: For enhanced flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or parsley inside before rolling
How to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
This Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling for these pinwheels a day in advance. Simply combine the ham and cheese, spread it on the dough, roll it up, and refrigerate it tightly wrapped for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storing: Leftover Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to two months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their crispy texture.
Suggestions for Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Choose the Right Dough
Using the correct dough is crucial for perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. Many recipes suggest using puff pastry or crescent roll dough, which can yield different textures. Puff pastry creates a light and flaky result, while crescent roll dough offers a softer, chewier bite. Ensure that the dough is fresh and properly thawed if frozen. Avoid using expired or stale dough, as it will affect the overall taste and texture of your pinwheels.
Don’t Overfill the Pinwheels
One common mistake when preparing Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels is overfilling them. While it’s tempting to pile on the ham and cheese, too much filling can cause the pinwheels to burst during baking. Use a moderate amount of filling—about one to two tablespoons per pinwheel—to ensure they roll up easily and bake evenly. This balance allows for a harmonious blend of flavors without compromising the structure.
Ensure Even Slicing
Achieving uniform slices is essential for cooking Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels evenly. When you roll up your dough filled with ham and cheese, use a sharp knife to slice them into even pieces, typically about one inch thick. Uneven slices may lead to some pinwheels being undercooked while others are overdone. Take your time with this step to ensure every bite is deliciously consistent.
Bake at the Right Temperature
Baking temperature plays a significant role in how well your Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels turn out. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for optimal results. Baking them at a lower temperature can lead to soggy pinwheels, while too high of a temperature may burn the outside before the inside is fully cooked. Keep an eye on them during baking; golden brown tops usually indicate they’re ready.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels?
To make delicious Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, you will need basic ingredients like ham, cheese, and dough. The most popular choices include deli ham and cheddar cheese, but feel free to experiment with Swiss cheese or turkey ham for variety. Additionally, you will require either puff pastry or crescent roll dough as your base. Some people also add mustard or cream cheese for extra flavor. Always check your pantry for spices like garlic powder or pepper that can enhance the taste of your pinwheels.
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels ahead of time is convenient for gatherings or meal prep. You can assemble the pinwheels in advance, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to save time on baking day, consider freezing unbaked pinwheels instead; just make sure to separate them on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container so they don’t stick together later.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftover Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels properly, allow them to cool completely after baking. Place any remaining pinwheels in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage—up to three months works well! Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through if you choose to freeze them.
Can I customize my Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels?
Absolutely! One of the best things about Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels is their versatility. You can add various ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition or swapping out meats entirely if you’re going vegetarian. Spices like paprika or Italian seasoning can give them a unique flavor twist that caters perfectly to your taste buds.
Conclusion
In summary, Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful snack perfect for any occasion. By choosing the right dough, avoiding overfilling, slicing evenly, and maintaining proper baking temperatures, you’ll create an irresistible treat every time. Additionally, planning ahead allows you flexibility whether you’re preparing for guests or enjoying leftovers later on. Feel free to customize these pinwheels with various ingredients that suit your palate best—there’s no limit to what you can create! Enjoy crafting this tasty dish that everyone will love!
Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
Description
Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a savory delight that combines flaky puff pastry with layers of delicious ham and melted cheese. Perfect for parties, game days, or a quick family meal, these pinwheels are not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. Ready in under 30 minutes, they make for an impressive snack that your guests will love. Simply roll up the ingredients, slice them into bite-sized pieces, and bake until golden brown. Each pinwheel offers a satisfying crunch followed by the rich flavors of cheese and ham. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear!
Ingredients
- Puff Pastry Sheets
- Sliced Ham
- Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or your choice)
- Mustard (Dijon recommended)
- Egg Wash (beaten egg)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread mustard over the pastry, layer with sliced ham, and sprinkle shredded cheese.
- Roll tightly from one edge to form a log shape; seal edges by pressing together.
- Slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels and place cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush each pinwheel with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Customize fillings by adding spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For crispy edges, chill rolled pinwheels in the fridge before slicing. Ensure even cooking by cutting uniform slices.
