Delicious Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels: The Ultimate Easy Party Appetizer

When you need an appetizer that’s both incredibly simple to make and universally loved, look no further than these spectacular Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels. These savory bites are a true crowd-pleaser, featuring layers of thinly sliced, savory ham and gooey, melted cheese, all encased in a golden, flaky, and impossibly buttery puff pastry. Whether you’re hosting an elegant holiday gathering, a casual game-day party, or simply looking for a delightful weekend brunch addition, these irresistible pinwheels consistently hit the mark. Their ease of preparation belies their impressive presentation, ensuring they bake up perfectly golden and crisp every single time. Once you discover the magic of this recipe, these baked ham and cheese roll-ups are destined to become a cherished staple in your entertaining repertoire, promising smiles with every delicious bite.

These ham and cheese appetizers are renowned for being an exceptionally easy and utterly irresistible choice for any party snack. Their versatility makes them ideal for a wide array of celebrations, from festive holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, to more relaxed occasions such as a casual game day get-together or a vibrant summer BBQ. Each pinwheel offers a delightful culinary experience, with every bite bursting with the rich flavor of savory ham, the comforting indulgence of gooey, melted cheese, and a hint of sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce. All these exquisite components are lovingly enveloped in a delicate, flaky pastry that quite literally melts in your mouth. Beyond their delectable taste, these ham and cheese pinwheels with puff pastry are also incredibly convenient. They are not only simple to assemble but are also perfectly suited for preparing ahead of time, allowing you to bake them fresh just as your guests arrive. This incredible convenience ensures a stress-free hosting experience, making this crowd-friendly appetizer an absolute triumph for any event.

Why These Ham & Cheese Pinwheels Are a Must-Make Appetizer

Essential Ingredients for Flaky Ham & Cheese Pinwheels

• Egg: A single large egg, mixed with a touch of water, creates a simple yet effective egg wash. This egg wash is crucial for giving your baked puff pastry that desirable crispy, golden-brown topping and a beautiful sheen that enhances its appeal.
• Unsalted Butter: We highly recommend using unsalted butter to maintain control over the overall sodium content of your pinwheels. Deli ham and many cheeses are already quite salty, so unsalted butter helps balance the flavors. If you only have salted butter on hand, simply remember to omit any additional salt called for in the recipe.
• Dijon Mustard: This culinary hero introduces a delightful tangy and slightly spicy kick that perfectly complements the rich ham and cheese, preventing the pinwheels from tasting one-dimensional. It’s a key ingredient for achieving that classic hot ham and cheese flavor profile.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A small amount of Worcestershire sauce provides a layer of deep, rich umami flavor that rounds out the savory profile. For a suitable substitution, an equal amount of soy sauce can be used to achieve a similar depth, though it will introduce a slightly different flavor nuance.
• Honey: The natural sweetness of honey creates a fantastic counterpoint to the sharp Dijon mustard, resulting in that beloved sweet and savory “honey mustard” taste that is universally appealing. If honey isn’t available, brown sugar or maple syrup can serve as excellent alternatives, each adding its own unique touch of sweetness.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder is our preferred seasoning, infusing a warm, aromatic base flavor. Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like onion powder, or a pinch of dried thyme or oregano, to tailor the taste to your preference.
• Puff Pastry: The star of the show! You’ll typically find this in the freezer section of your grocery store. Store-bought puff pastry is what truly sets this delicious ham and cheese pinwheels recipe apart, providing an unparalleled flaky texture that cannot be replicated with flour tortillas or crescent roll dough. Its distinct layers create an incredibly light and airy base.
• Sliced Deli Ham: Opt for thinly sliced deli ham for even distribution and easier rolling. For variety, consider using thinly sliced turkey, roast beef, or chicken, offering different flavor profiles while maintaining the same delicious texture.
• Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheeses works wonderfully, or choose your favorite! Mozzarella, Gouda, sharp cheddar cheese, Gruyere, or Swiss cheese are all excellent choices. These varieties are known for their superb melting properties, guaranteeing a gooey, melty cheese experience and that satisfying “cheese-pull” in every bite.

Recipe Variations to Delight Every Palate

• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, drizzle our hot honey mustard sauce over the top of the ham and cheese appetizers just before serving. This adds an exciting layer of flavor.
• Turkey Puff Pastry Pinwheels: Transform this recipe into a fantastic way to utilize holiday leftovers. Simply swap out the sliced deli ham for a generous layer of thinly sliced leftover turkey. This is particularly delicious with a touch of cranberry sauce!
• Roast Beef Pinwheels: For a heartier alternative, substitute thinly sliced deli roast beef for the ham. Pair it with a robust cheese like sliced Provolone or even a smoked cheddar for cheesy roast beef roll-ups that are incredibly satisfying.
• Ham and Cream Cheese Pinwheels: For an extra creamy texture and a different flavor profile, modify the spread. Instead of melted butter, mix 2 ounces of softened cream cheese with the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread this rich cream cheese mixture in a thin layer over the rolled-out puff pastry before adding the ham and cheese.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and instead layer with caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, and a variety of colorful bell peppers for a savory vegetarian delight.

Recommended Equipment for Effortless Pinwheel Preparation

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Bake Perfect Ham & Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it lightly with cooking spray. This will prevent your pinwheels from sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Set the prepared baking sheet aside.
2. Whisk the Egg Wash and Mix the Flavorful Sauce: In a small bowl, lightly beat the large egg with one tablespoon of water to create your egg wash. This mixture will give the pinwheels their beautiful golden color and crisp texture. Set this aside. Next, in a medium bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir all these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined into a cohesive, fragrant sauce.

3. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: Carefully unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Using a floured or non-stick rolling pin, gently and evenly roll the pastry until it forms a square approximately 12 inches by 12 inches. Aim for a consistent thickness to ensure even baking.
4. Assemble the Pinwheels: With a tablespoon or a silicone spatula, generously spread the prepared butter mixture over the entire surface of the rolled-out puff pastry, making sure to leave about a 1/2-inch border clean on all sides. Next, arrange the slices of deli ham evenly over the butter mixture. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the ham. Carefully and tightly roll the puff pastry from one end to the other, jelly-roll style, forming a long, compact log.
5. Slice and Arrange: Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the rolled log into 16 to 18 individual pinwheels, each approximately 3/4-inch thick. A serrated knife helps to slice through the layers without compressing them, maintaining the flaky texture. Carefully transfer the sliced pinwheels onto your prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for even expansion and browning during baking. Finally, use a pastry brush to lightly coat the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash.

5. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet with the ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels into the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pastry is beautifully golden brown, puffed up, and the cheese is delightfully melted and bubbly. Once baked, remove them from the oven. For an optional fresh garnish, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and thinly sliced green onions just before serving. Serve these delectable treats warm and savor every bite!

This dish is an absolute triumph for gatherings of all sizes! If you found joy in preparing these, you’ll undoubtedly adore our easy charcuterie appetizers and our festive pigs in a blanket wreath recipes too. They’re perfect companions for any party spread.

Creative Serving Suggestions for Any Occasion

These ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are truly at their best when served warm, straight out of the oven. This is when the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey, and the pastry boasts its maximum golden flakiness. Arrange them beautifully on a large platter, perhaps alongside other beloved party foods like mini pizzas or a selection of easy appetizers. For an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish your platter with finely chopped fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions.

To elevate the flavor experience, consider pairing them with a variety of delectable dipping sauces. Classic choices include a sweet and tangy honey mustard, creamy ranch dressing, a vibrant spinach dip, a rich tomato dip, or even a sophisticated garlic aioli. Each dip offers a unique flavor dimension that complements the savory pinwheels.

For a comprehensive and satisfying spread, these pinwheels harmonize wonderfully with other charcuterie elements such as additional ham, crispy bacon bits, savory salami, and an assortment of fine cheeses. You can also lighten the spread by offering fresh veggie sticks or a crisp green salad on the side. Planning a brunch gathering? Incorporate these savory pinwheels into your menu alongside fresh fruit platters, fluffy scrambled eggs, or a selection of sweet pastries for a perfect balance of flavors.

Searching for more crowd-pleasing recipes like these irresistible pinwheels? Explore our extensive list of 40+ finger food ideas—each packed with easy and delicious bites that are perfect for potlucks, parties, and any social gathering!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ham & Cheese Pinwheels

You’ll Love These Hot Appetizers Too…

• Irresistible Jimmy Dean Sausage Balls
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• Classic How to Make Pigs in a Blanket

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Ham Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

By Renae Gerhardstein

Make these easy and delicious ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels featuring flaky pastry, melty cheese, and savory ham. They are perfect for parties or holiday gatherings!

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• Course: Appetizer, Holiday, Entree
• Cuisine: American
• Servings: 18 pinwheels
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Calories: 61 kcal

Equipment

• Rimmed baking sheet (or a shallow, large baking pan)
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Small and medium bowls
• Serrated knife
• Cutting board
• Tablespoon or silicone spatula
• Pastry brush
• Rolling Pin

Ingredients

For the Pinwheels:

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (If using salted butter, omit the added salt.)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon honey (or use brown sugar or maple syrup)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ (17.5 ounce) package frozen puff pastry (one sheet), thawed
• 6 slices deli ham (or use sliced roast beef, turkey, or chicken)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Optional Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sliced green onion

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400° F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix the egg and water together for the egg wash. Set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Set aside.
4. Unroll the thawed puff pastry and place it on a lightly floured surface. Use a floured or non-stick rolling pin to evenly roll the puff pastry into a square approximately 12″ x 12″.
5. Use a tablespoon or silicone spatula to spread the butter mixture onto the puff pastry, leaving a ½-inch border on the sides. Top the puff pastry with the ham and then the cheese.
6. Carefully roll the puff pastry up into a tight jelly roll log.
7. Using a serrated knife, cut the roll into 16-18 pinwheels, each about ¾-inch thick. Transfer the pinwheels onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
8. Coat the tops of the pinwheels with the egg wash using a pastry brush.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Top with fresh parsley and sliced green onions (optional). Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Pro Tip: Warm your honey before using. Warm honey is easier to measure and mix together with other ingredients! Add the container of honey to a bowl of hot water while you’re assembling your ingredients, and it will be ready when you need it.

Recipe Variations:

• Turkey Puff Pastry Pinwheels: Swap out the sliced deli ham for a layer of shredded leftover turkey.
• Beef Pinwheels: Substitute thinly sliced deli roast beef for the ham. Pair it with sliced Provolone cheese for a delicious variation.
• Ham and Cream Cheese Pinwheels: Instead of melted butter, mix 2 ounces of softened cream cheese with the mustard, Worcestershire, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread this cream cheese mixture thinly on the rolled-out puff pastry in place of the butter mixture.

Storing Instructions:

• You can keep any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Reheat them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-7 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.

Make Ahead Instructions:

• Follow the recipe steps 1-6 for assembly. Once the log is rolled, cover it completely with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. The next day, simply slice, brush with egg wash, and bake just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 pinwheel | Calories: 61 kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 191mg | Potassium: 47mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 114IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 0.2mg

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