Crowd-Pleasing Ham and Cheese Pinwheels with Fresh Herb Garnish

Introduction

Crowd-Pleasing Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a perfect snack or appetizer for any gathering. These tasty treats are made with flaky puff pastry and filled with savory ham and gooey cheese. The fresh herbs on top add a beautiful touch that makes them even more inviting. Whether it’s for a party, a game night, or a casual family dinner, these pinwheels are sure to impress everyone!

Why Make This Recipe

Making ham and cheese pinwheels is simple and fun. They are quick to prepare and bake, making them a great choice for busy cooks. This recipe uses common ingredients that you may already have at home. Plus, they are deliciously crunchy on the outside and cheesy on the inside. You cannot go wrong with these crowd-pleasers!

How to Make Crowd-Pleasing Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
6 slices deli ham
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or cheddar, if preferred)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 large egg, beaten
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
Optional: 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for topping

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to ensure it’s even and smooth.
Spread an even layer of Dijon mustard over the puff pastry.
Arrange the ham slices evenly over the mustard, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly on top of the ham.
Carefully roll the puff pastry tightly into a log, starting from one long edge.
Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch-thick pinwheels. You should get about 10-12 slices.
Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are puffed and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and transfer the pinwheels to a serving plate. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley and chives for a fresh and vibrant garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Crowd-Pleasing Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

These pinwheels are best served warm. Place them on a nice serving dish and add a few sprigs of fresh herbs for extra charm. You can serve them with dipping sauces like mustard, ranch, or even a spicy mayo for added flavor. They make a great finger food, perfect for guests to grab and enjoy!

How to Store Crowd-Pleasing Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Tips to Make Crowd-Pleasing Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Ensure your puff pastry is thawed completely before using it. This will make it easier to roll out.
Feel free to mix and match the cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can be delicious alternatives!
Use different meats, such as turkey or roast beef, if you prefer a change from ham.

Variation

You can add veggies to the pinwheels. Try adding some thinly sliced bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs for garnish!

Related Recipes

Looking for more recipes like this? Check out these:

FAQs

1. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pinwheels, cut them, and freeze them before baking. Just bake them right from the freezer and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

2. What can I serve with these pinwheels?
These pinwheels pair well with various dips, salads, or even a simple fruit platter.

3. Are there any vegetarian options?
Absolutely! You can replace the ham with more cheese and some roasted vegetables or use a plant-based meat alternative.