Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels are a deliciously simple snack that’s perfect for any time you want something warm and cheesy. Imagine tender ham and gooey melted cheese wrapped inside soft, flaky dough, all rolled up into little bite-sized spirals. They’re golden on the outside, and full of flavor with every bite.
I love making these pinwheels for casual get-togethers or just when I need a quick and tasty treat. One tip I’ve learned is to make sure the cheese is spread evenly and the ham is thinly sliced, so every pinwheel has that perfect amount of gooey cheese and savory ham. They bake quickly, so they’re great when you want something fast but still satisfying.
These pinwheels are fantastic served warm right out of the oven, maybe with a little honey mustard or a tangy dip on the side. They’re always a hit whether you’re sharing them with friends or just enjoying a cozy snack on your own. I find myself going back for just one more – they’re that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base that gives pinwheels their flaky, golden crust. You can find it in the freezer section. If you don’t have puff pastry, crescent roll dough or biscuit dough works too, but the texture changes slightly.
Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham is best for easy rolling and balanced flavor. Turkey or chicken slices can be swapped for a lighter option, or use vegetarian deli slices if you prefer meat-free.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts smoothly and has a mild flavor. If you want a sharper taste, try cheddar or Swiss cheese instead. Just avoid very soft cheeses as they may make the dough soggy.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice salty punch on top. You can skip it or replace it with Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese you like.
Dijon Mustard: This step is optional but adds a subtle tanginess. If you don’t like mustard, a thin layer of mayonnaise or plain cream cheese will add moisture and richness.
How Do I Roll and Slice the Pinwheels Without Squishing the Filling?
The rolling and slicing step is key to keeping your pinwheels neat and tasty. Here’s how I do it:
- Roll the puff pastry sheet gently but tightly from one long edge to the other for a compact spiral.
- Use a sharp knife to slice to avoid squashing. Some people chill the rolled log in the fridge for 10 minutes first, which makes slicing easier.
- Cut about 1-inch thick slices for bite-sized pinwheels that hold together well during baking.
- Place them cut-side down spaced out on the baking sheet so they puff evenly without sticking together.
This method helped me get nicely shaped pinwheels every time, with all the cheese and ham staying inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use a standard one lined with parchment for easy cleanup and even baking.
- Rolling pin – helps to smooth out the puff pastry for an even layer before assembling.
- Sharp knife or pastry cutter – makes clean, even slices through the rolled log.
- Pastry brush – necessary for egg wash to give the pinwheels a golden, shiny finish.
- Measuring spoons and cup – to measure seasonings and cheese.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ham for cooked bacon or turkey slices for different flavors and textures.
- Add sautéed spinach or chopped bell peppers inside for extra veggies.
- Mix in shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or blue cheese instead of mozzarella for a cheese twist.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or dried herbs on top before baking for extra spice or aroma.
Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pinwheels:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6-8 slices of deli ham
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried parsley, oregano, basil)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, so in total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy for a tasty warm snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Roll and Assemble the Pinwheels:
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the puff pastry to smooth any creases. If you like, brush the whole surface with Dijon mustard for a little tangy kick.
Layer the deli ham evenly over the pastry, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Add the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella. Finally, sprinkle garlic powder and dried Italian herbs evenly across the filling.
3. Roll, Slice, and Bake:
Carefully roll the puff pastry tightly from one long edge to the other to form a log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
Place the pinwheels cut-side down on your baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each one. Beat the egg and brush the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash to help them brown nicely in the oven.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed up and golden brown.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. These are best enjoyed warm, maybe with your favorite dipping sauce like honey mustard or marinara.
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the puff pastry completely in the fridge overnight before using. This makes it easier to roll out and ensures it bakes evenly.
Can I Make Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the pinwheels, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, brush with egg wash and bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a warm oven or toaster oven to keep the pastry crispy.
What Can I Use Instead of Dijon Mustard?
If you’re not a fan of Dijon, try spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise, cream cheese, or even pesto on the pastry before adding ham and cheese. Each adds a different but tasty twist!
