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Ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are a perfect bite-sized snack that combines flaky, buttery pastry with savory ham and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer, a snack for a picnic, or something easy to serve at a party, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to making these mouthwatering treats.
Ingredients (for 12-15 pinwheels):
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6-8 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or mozzarella work great)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, but adds a nice kick)
- 1 egg (for the egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk or water (to mix with the egg wash)
- Optional: Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Take your puff pastry out of the fridge or freezer and allow it to thaw if needed.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the pastry out to smooth out any creases. Roll it into a rectangle, aiming for about 10 x 12 inches.
- Spread the Base Layer:
- If you’re using Dijon mustard, spread a thin layer evenly across the pastry, leaving a small border (about ½ inch) around the edges.
- Layer the Ham and Cheese:
- Lay the slices of ham over the pastry, ensuring they overlap slightly to cover the whole surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the ham. If you’re adding fresh herbs, sprinkle them on now.
- Roll the Pastry:
- Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the pastry into a tight log. Be sure to seal the edges well.
- Chill the Roll:
- Wrap the rolled pastry log in plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes. Chilling makes the log firmer and easier to slice.
- Preheat the Oven:
- While the pastry chills, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the Pinwheels:
- Take the pastry log out of the fridge and unwrap it.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log into ½-inch thick rounds. Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
- Apply the Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk (or water) together.
- Brush the egg wash over the tops and sides of each pinwheel. This gives them that beautiful golden, glossy finish.
- Bake the Pinwheels:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels puff up and turn golden brown.
- Serve Warm:
- Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, but you can serve them at room temperature too.
Tips for Success:
- Variations: Feel free to get creative! You can add spinach, caramelized onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the pastry log ahead of time, then store it in the fridge or freezer. When you’re ready to bake, just slice and follow the instructions.
- Cheese Options: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese. Parmesan, Gouda, or even spicy pepper jack can add a unique twist.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve these pinwheels with a side of dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or marinara, for an extra layer of flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Pinwheels:
- Quick and Easy: With ready-made puff pastry, you can whip these up in no time.
- Versatile: Whether for a snack, appetizer, or a fun lunch, they’re the perfect treat.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These pinwheels are sure to impress your guests and become a party favorite.
Enjoy making and indulging in these delicious ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels. They’re simple to prepare, satisfyingly tasty, and always a crowd-pleaser!