Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels are a fun and tasty snack that everyone loves! These little spirals are filled with classic ham and melty cheese, all wrapped in soft, buttery dough. When they bake up golden and warm, they’re perfectly gooey on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside.
I like making these pinwheels when I want something quick but super satisfying. They’re easy to prep, and it’s fun to roll out the dough, layer on the ham and cheese, then slice it into cute little rounds. Sometimes I add a bit of mustard or a sprinkle of herbs for a little extra flavor—I always find a way to make them my own!
They’re perfect for a cozy game night, a lunchbox treat, or even just to snack on during a movie. I love serving them with a side of pickles or a simple salad, but honestly, they taste great on their own. Plus, they’re the kind of finger food that disappears fast, which makes me think they’re a hit with everyone who tries them.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is what makes the pinwheels light and flaky. If you can’t find puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough for a softer texture. Just roll it out flat before adding fillings.
Ham: Deli ham works great, but you can switch to turkey slices, cooked bacon, or even vegetarian deli slices for different tastes.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar give a nice melt and flavor combo. Feel free to try Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack for a twist. Grate your own cheese for better melt and taste.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a bit of zing but is optional. You can substitute with honey mustard, regular mustard, or skip it if you prefer a milder flavor.
How Do You Roll and Slice the Pinwheels Without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling puff pastry tightly is key to keeping the pinwheels together. Work gently but firmly when rolling.
- Spread fillings evenly but don’t overload to keep the roll neat.
- Use a sharp knife to slice, and wipe the blade with a damp cloth between cuts to avoid squishing the roll.
- Chill the rolled dough for 10-15 minutes before slicing if it’s too soft; cold dough is easier to cut cleanly.
Following these tips will help your pinwheels hold their shape and bake evenly, resulting in pretty and tasty bites every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Rolling pin – helps you roll out the puff pastry evenly for smooth, uniform pinwheels.
- Sharp knife or pastry cutter – essential for slicing the rolled pastry cleanly without squishing the layers.
- Brush – to apply the egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for precise amounts of mustard, water, and seasonings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap deli ham for cooked bacon or turkey slices for different flavors and textures.
- Add sliced green onions, chopped herbs, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese for extra flavor.
- Mix in some cooked spinach or bell peppers with the cheese for a veggie boost.
- Replace the cheeses with Swiss or pepper jack to suit your spice preference.
Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6-8 slices of deli ham (about 6 oz)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in roughly 30 minutes, you’ll have hot, delicious pinwheels ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the pinwheels from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry and Add Fillings:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your puff pastry into a rectangle about 12 by 9 inches. If you like, spread Dijon mustard evenly over the pastry for a little tang. Layer the ham slices over the pastry, then sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly on top.
3. Roll, Slice, and Bake:
Starting at one long edge, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels. Place each pinwheel, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with water to make an egg wash, then brush it lightly over each pinwheel. Sprinkle each with dried parsley or Italian seasoning for a fresh touch. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
4. Cool and Serve:
Let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm and gooey!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the puff pastry completely in the refrigerator before rolling it out. This helps it roll smoothly and bake evenly.
Can I Make These Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pinwheels, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Filling?
Definitely! Try adding chopped spinach, cooked bacon, or your favorite herbs to customize the flavor. Just be sure not to overfill so the rolls stay neat.