Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels are a fun and tasty treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving at a party. They’re made with layers of ham and melted cheese wrapped up in soft, flaky dough that bakes into golden, spiral-shaped bites. The combination of salty ham and gooey cheese makes them a simple crowd-pleaser that’s hard to resist.
I love making these pinwheels because they come together quickly and are always a hit with both kids and adults. One of my favorite things about them is how easy it is to customize – you can use different cheeses or add a little mustard or herbs to switch up the flavor. Plus, they’re great warm right out of the oven, but also tasty at room temperature if you want to prepare them ahead of time.
When I serve these pinwheels, I usually pair them with a fresh salad or some crunchy veggies for a nice balance. They’re also perfect when you just want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. Honestly, they remind me of cozy family gatherings where everyone reaches for another warm, cheesy bite, and it always feels like a little celebration in every pinwheel.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the base of the pinwheels, giving them a flaky, buttery texture. If puff pastry isn’t available, you could use crescent roll dough for a softer, breadier result.
Deli Ham: Classic choice for flavor and saltiness. Turkey or chicken slices can be a great substitute for a lighter option.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds creaminess. Cheddar or Swiss cheese works wonderfully if you want a sharper taste.
Mayonnaise & Dijon Mustard: Optional, but they add moisture and a tangy hint. You can leave them out or swap mustard for honey mustard for a bit of sweetness.
Dried Herbs: Italian herbs or oregano add flavor depth. Feel free to try fresh herbs like basil or thyme if you prefer.
How Can I Roll and Slice the Pinwheels Without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling the dough tightly is key to keeping the pinwheels intact. Here’s how I do it:
- Start rolling from one long side slowly and firmly without pressing too hard to avoid tearing the dough.
- Chill the rolled log in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This firms up the dough and cheese, making clean cuts easier.
- Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean after each slice to keep the edges neat.
- Arrange slices cut side up on your baking sheet so they won’t unravel while baking.
These steps help your pinwheels hold their pretty spiral shape and bake evenly into golden, melty bites.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – I recommend it to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Rolling pin – helps roll the puff pastry smoothly and evenly.
- Sharp knife or dough cutter – for cleanly slicing the pinwheels without crushing the layers.
- Pastry brush – to evenly spread the egg wash for a golden finish.
- Baking sheet – large enough to hold all the pinwheels with space to breathe during baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon or turkey slices instead of ham for a different smoky or lean flavor.
- Add a layer of cream cheese or basil pesto before rolling for extra richness and flavor.
- Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or smoked paprika over the cheese for a spicy kick.
- Mix in chopped spinach or arugula before rolling for a fresh, green touch.
Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6-8 slices deli ham
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for moisture)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or dried oregano
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and roughly 15-18 minutes to bake. In just under 30 minutes, you can have warm, cheesy pinwheels ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the pinwheels from sticking.
2. Assembling the Pinwheels:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth any creases. Spread mayonnaise evenly over the pastry for extra moisture, then add Dijon mustard on top if you like a little tang.
Next, layer the ham slices evenly over the pastry, covering almost all the surface. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the ham, and finish by sprinkling dried Italian herbs or oregano across the top.
3. Rolling and Slicing:
Starting from one long edge, roll the pastry tightly into a log or cylinder shape. With a sharp knife, cut the rolled log into ½ to ¾-inch thick pinwheels. Place each pinwheel cut side up on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between them.
4. Baking the Pinwheels:
Beat the egg and use a pastry brush to lightly coat each pinwheel with the egg wash to help them turn golden brown in the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden, and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
5. Serving:
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool a little. Garnish with fresh parsley if you want a pop of color, then serve warm and enjoy your tasty homemade Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the puff pastry completely in the fridge overnight or for a few hours before using. This helps ensure it rolls out smoothly and bakes evenly.
Can I Substitute the Ham with Another Meat?
Absolutely! Turkey, cooked bacon, or even salami make tasty alternatives. Just choose something thinly sliced for easy rolling and melting.
How Should I Store Leftover Pinwheels?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy and warm.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the pinwheels, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake them straight from the fridge.
