Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are the perfect go-to appetizer or snack for any occasion. Flaky, golden puff pastry is rolled up with layers of savory ham and gooey melted cheese, then baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing lunchboxes, or just craving a quick and satisfying bite, these pinwheels come together in no time with just a handful of ingredients.
🕒 Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 pinwheels
🧾 Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (about 250g), thawed
- 150g sliced ham (approx. 6 thin slices)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- ½ teaspoon dried herbs (optional – oregano or thyme)
👩🍳 Directions
1. Prep the Puff Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle (if not already pre-shaped).
2. Add the Fillings
- Optional: Spread a thin layer of mustard across the pastry.
- Evenly layer the ham slices on top.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the ham.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of dried herbs for extra flavor.
3. Roll & Slice
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log.
- Chill the log in the fridge for about 10 minutes for cleaner slicing (optional but helpful).
- Slice into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife.
4. Bake
- Arrange pinwheels cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
5. Serve
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
🍴 Serving Ideas
- Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or marinara.
- Add to a charcuterie board for a fun savory element.
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- Include in lunchboxes for an easy-to-pack snack.
- Offer at parties or brunch as bite-sized finger food.
🔥 Expert Tips
- Keep it cold: Cold puff pastry puffs best. Don’t let it sit out too long.
- Customize it: Try adding caramelized onions, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Chill before slicing: It helps keep the pinwheels neat and prevents them from squishing.
- Even bake: Rotate the pan halfway through for golden, even browning.
- Reheat in the oven: Avoid the microwave to keep them crisp.
🧠 Nutritional Highlights
- Ham – A great source of protein and iron
- Cheese – Packed with calcium and protein
- Puff Pastry – A buttery, satisfying base for indulgent treats
❗Dietary Notes
- Vegetarian: ❌ (Use plant-based ham for a vegetarian version)
- Gluten-Free: ❌ (Use GF puff pastry if available)
- Dairy-Free: ❌ (Use dairy-free cheese to adapt)
🔢 Nutrition Info (per pinwheel)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 1g
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze (Unbaked): Freeze the pinwheels on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.