Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels are the perfect little bites for any time you want something warm, cheesy, and full of ham. They’re made by rolling up dough with layers of savory ham and gooey melted cheese, then baked until golden and bubbling. The spiral shape makes them fun to eat and easy to share, whether it’s for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a cozy movie night treat.
I love making these because they come together so quickly and everyone always asks for more. One of my favorite things is how the cheese stretches out when you pull them apart—they’re just so satisfying and comforting! If you want them extra tasty, try brushing the tops with a little butter or garlic butter before baking—it adds a nice golden crunch and an extra pop of flavor.
These pinwheels are super versatile too. I like serving them with a side of mustard or a simple dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard. They remind me of casual family gatherings where finger foods bring everyone together. Honestly, they’re the kind of snack that makes any day feel a little more special and cozy at the same time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: The puff pastry gives these pinwheels their flaky, buttery layers. You can use store-bought for convenience. If you don’t have puff pastry, crescent roll dough works well for a softer texture.
Ham: Deli ham offers a mild, salty flavor. You can swap it with turkey, chicken, or even cooked bacon if you prefer a different taste or want a leaner option.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar melt nicely and add a creamy richness. Feel free to use Swiss, provolone, or a blend to suit your taste. For a sharper bite, add a little Parmesan on top before baking.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy kick but is optional. If you want a milder flavor, spread a bit of mayonnaise or skip it altogether.
How Do You Roll and Slice the Puff Pastry Without It Tearing?
Rolling puff pastry smooth and slicing cleanly are key to neat pinwheels. Here’s how:
- Make sure the puff pastry is cold but pliable—not too soft to avoid tearing.
- Lightly flour your surface to prevent sticking.
- Roll gently to even out creases but don’t press too hard.
- After adding fillings, roll tightly from one edge to create a firm log.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to slice. This helps you cut through evenly without squashing the roll.
Taking your time with these steps keeps your pinwheels looking pretty and helps the layers puff up in the oven.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet: A standard rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper makes baking easy and cleanup simple.
- Rolling pin: Helps you roll out the puff pastry smoothly and evenly for consistent pinwheels.
- Sharp knife or pastry cutter: Necessary for slicing the rolled dough into neat, even pinwheels without crushing the layers.
- Brush or small spoon: For brushing melted butter mixed with herbs onto the pinwheels for a golden finish.
- Measuring spoons/cups: To accurately measure ingredients like butter and seasonings, ensuring balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese options: Swap mozzarella and cheddar for Swiss, provolone, or a feta-spin to change the flavor profile.
- Meat choices: Use cooked bacon, turkey, or roast beef instead of ham for different tastes and textures.
- Extras: Add sautéed spinach, sliced jalapeños, or caramelized onions inside for extra flavor and texture.
- Spice it up: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to give a smoky or spicy kick.
Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6-8 slices of deli ham
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for spreading)
For the Topping:
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley flakes (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and about 15-20 minutes for baking. Overall, you can have these delicious pinwheels ready in about 30 minutes, making them a quick and tasty snack or appetizer option.
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 to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet into a rectangle to smooth out any creases. This helps create an even base for the filling.
3. Add the Fillings:
Optionally, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry for a tangy flavor. Then, lay the deli ham slices evenly over the pastry, covering the surface. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the ham.
4. Form the Pinwheels:
Starting from one edge, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into approximately 1-inch thick slices to form the pinwheels.
5. Prepare for Baking:
Place the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the tops of the pinwheels for a flavorful, golden finish.
6. Bake and Serve:
Bake the pinwheels for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and sprinkle extra parsley on top for garnish. Let them cool slightly before serving warm.
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or for a few hours before rolling it out. Working with thawed puff pastry makes it easier to roll and prevents tearing.
Can I Make Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pinwheels and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, brush with the garlic butter mixture and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to keep them crispy.
Can I Customize the Fillings?
Definitely! Feel free to swap the ham with turkey or cooked bacon, and try different cheeses like Swiss or provolone. You can also add sautéed veggies or a little spice to suit your taste.