Ham and Cheese Pinwheels (Printable)

Flaky puff pastry spirals filled with savory ham and melted cheese, baked until golden for irresistible appetizers or snacks.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 1 sheet puff pastry (approximately 9 oz), thawed if frozen

→ Filling

02 - 5 oz thinly sliced ham
03 - 3.5 oz shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese
04 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
05 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
06 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Finish

07 - 1 egg, beaten for egg wash

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Unroll puff pastry on lightly floured surface. If using, spread Dijon mustard evenly over surface.
03 - Arrange ham slices evenly over pastry, leaving 1/2 inch border along one long edge.
04 - Sprinkle shredded cheese and chives evenly over ham. Season with black pepper.
05 - Starting from opposite long edge, tightly roll pastry into log toward border. Press edge to seal.
06 - Slice roll into 16 even pieces. Place pinwheels cut side up on prepared baking sheet, spacing apart.
07 - Brush tops with beaten egg for glossy finish.
08 - Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
09 - Let cool slightly before serving warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They disappear faster than you can bake them, so consider making a double batch
  • The combination of flaky pastry and savory filling feels fancy but comes together in under 40 minutes
02 -
  • Working with cold puff pastry is essential, so if it starts feeling sticky or soft, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes before continuing
  • A serrated knife makes cleaner cuts through the spiral without squishing the delicate layers
03 -
  • Freeze unbaked sliced pinwheels on the baking sheet, then transfer to a bag and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time
  • Rotating the baking sheet halfway through ensures even browning on all sides