Description
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a perfect savory appetizer or snack. Featuring layers of thinly sliced deli ham, a melty cheese blend, and Dijon mustard rolled inside flaky puff pastry, these pinwheels bake up golden and crispy with a delightful puffed texture. Topped with a glossy egg wash and optional sesame or poppy seeds, they make an elegant yet easy bite-sized treat for gatherings or casual munching.
Ingredients
Scale
Pastry and Filling
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 8 slices deli ham (thinly sliced works best)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (Swiss, cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Topping
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and lightly flour a clean work surface to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Roll out the puff pastry: Place the thawed puff pastry on the floured surface and gently roll it out into a rectangle if needed to create an even layer for assembly.
- Spread mustard: Evenly spread 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard over the surface of the puff pastry, creating a flavorful base layer.
- Add ham and cheese: Arrange the deli ham slices evenly over the mustard, then sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top to cover the ham.
- Roll into a log: Starting from one long edge, roll the puff pastry tightly into a log shape, ensuring the roll stays snug to hold filling during baking.
- Slice into pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, slice the log into ½- to ¾-inch thick rounds to create about 18 to 24 pinwheels, depending on the thickness.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the pinwheel slices cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow even baking.
- Apply egg wash and seeds: Whisk together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon water, then brush this mixture over the tops of the pinwheels for a golden glaze. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top if desired for added texture and flavor.
- Bake until golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed up and golden brown. Remove from the oven and serve warm for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure puff pastry is properly thawed before rolling to avoid cracking.
- Use a sharp knife chilled in the freezer to slice pinwheels cleanly without squishing.
- Feel free to customize the cheese blend depending on your preference (Gruyère adds nuttiness, cheddar adds sharpness).
- Pinwheels can be made ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
- For a dairy-free or vegetarian option, substitute cheese and ham accordingly or omit ham entirely with a vegetable filling.
