Oh my goodness, let me tell you about baked ham and cheese pinwheels! These delightful little bites are a total crowd-pleaser, whether you’re at a party, a casual get-together, or just enjoying a cozy night in. I remember the first time I made them for a family gathering; they disappeared faster than I could say “pinwheel!” The flaky puff pastry wraps around savory ham and melted cheese, creating a delicious combination that’s hard to resist. You’ll find them perfect as an appetizer or a snack, and they’re oh-so-easy to whip up. Trust me, once you try these baked ham and cheese pinwheels, you’ll be hooked! They’re simply irresistible and always leave everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients List
To make these scrumptious baked ham and cheese pinwheels, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Grab a package of puff pastry sheets, which will provide that flaky, buttery texture we love. You’ll also need 8 slices of ham and 8 slices of cheese—feel free to choose your favorites! A beaten egg will help give them that gorgeous golden finish, and a tablespoon of mustard adds a delightful tang. That’s it! You’re all set to create this tasty treat!
How to Prepare Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Making baked ham and cheese pinwheels is a breeze, and I promise you’ll enjoy every step! First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your pinwheels are ready. While that’s heating up, roll out your puff pastry sheets on a floured surface until they’re nice and even. This is where the magic happens! Spread a tablespoon of mustard evenly over the pastry—don’t skimp here; it adds an amazing flavor!
Next, layer your 8 slices of ham and 8 slices of cheese on top of the mustard. Be sure to cover the surface well, as this is what makes every bite delightful. Now, roll the pastry tightly into a log; it might take a little effort, but keep it firm! Once rolled, slice the log into 1-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with your beaten egg for that gorgeous golden finish. Finally, bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and calling your name!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out puff pastry sheets on a floured surface.
- Spread mustard evenly over the pastry.
- Layer ham and cheese on top of the mustard.
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log.
- Slice the log into 1-inch pieces.
- Place pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush tops with beaten egg.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy days!
- Flaky and delicious, making them a hit at any gathering.
- Versatile—customize with your favorite meats and cheeses.
- Great as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as tasty reheated.
Tips for Success
To make your baked ham and cheese pinwheels truly shine, here are a few pro tips! First, make sure your puff pastry is thawed but still cold; this helps it stay flaky when baked. Don’t rush the rolling process—take your time to keep everything tight and even. For the best flavor, experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or Swiss, and don’t forget to season your ham if it’s not pre-seasoned. Lastly, brush the tops with a little extra egg wash right before they go in the oven for a beautiful golden finish. Trust me, these little details make all the difference!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
When it comes to baked ham and cheese pinwheels, the beauty lies in their versatility! If you’re not a fan of ham, feel free to swap it out for turkey or even chicken for a lighter option. As for cheese, the world is your oyster! Cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack can bring a fun twist to the flavor. Want to get fancy? Try adding some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of garlic powder with your filling. Just remember, the key is to have fun and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftover baked ham and cheese pinwheels (which is a big if, right?), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them nice and fresh, you can layer parchment paper between the pinwheels to prevent sticking. When it’s time to enjoy them again, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to warm them up. You’ll want to ensure they’re heated through and that golden crispiness comes back to life! Enjoy your delicious leftovers just like they were fresh out of the oven!
Nutritional Information
Wondering about the nutritional values of these delightful baked ham and cheese pinwheels? Well, here’s a quick breakdown! Each serving, which is about 2 pinwheels, typically contains around 250 calories, 15 grams of fat, 10 grams of protein, and 20 grams of carbohydrates. Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. So, if you’re keeping an eye on your intake, feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary needs. Enjoy these tasty bites without a worry in the world!
FAQ Section
Can I make baked ham and cheese pinwheels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them up to the point of baking and then refrigerate them. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the fridge!
Can I freeze baked ham and cheese pinwheels?
Yes, they freeze beautifully! Just make sure to let them cool completely after baking, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’re great to have on hand for a quick snack or appetizer.
What can I serve with baked ham and cheese pinwheels?
These pinwheels pair wonderfully with a variety of dips like mustard, ranch, or even a spicy aioli. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or some crunchy veggies for a complete meal!
What type of cheese works best?
While I love using classic cheddar or Swiss, feel free to experiment! Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while mozzarella offers a gooey stretch. The choice is yours!
How do I know when they’re done baking?
You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and puffed up! Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking for that perfect color.
For more delicious recipes, check out this ham and cheese pinwheels recipe for a quick and tasty snack!
Print
Baked ham and cheese pinwheels: 5 Irresistible delights
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 pinwheels 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Baked ham and cheese pinwheels are a delicious snack or appetizer made with flaky dough, ham, and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 package of puff pastry sheets
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon of mustard
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface.
- Spread mustard evenly over the pastry.
- Layer ham and cheese on top of the mustard.
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log.
- Slice the log into 1-inch pieces.
- Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Serve warm for best flavor.
- You can substitute turkey for ham if desired.
- Try different types of cheese for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pinwheels
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: baked ham and cheese pinwheels
