Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Introduction

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delicious and versatile appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. These flaky pastries are filled with savory ham and gooey cheese, making them the perfect finger food for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

For the puff pastry:

2 sheets of puff pastry, thawed
Flour, for dusting

For the filling:

1 cup cooked ham, diced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite variety)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the puff pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheets to create a rectangle shape. If the sheets are sticking, lightly dust them with flour. Trim the edges to create straight edges.

Step 2: Assemble the filling

In a small bowl, combine the diced ham, shredded cheese, Dijon mustard, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Fill the puff pastry

Spoon the ham and cheese mixture onto one of the puff pastry sheets, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Leave a small border around the edges.

Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the puff pastry sheet into a log shape, enclosing the filling. Repeat this step with the second puff pastry sheet.

Step 4: Slice and bake

Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled puff pastry into 1-inch thick slices. Place the pinwheels onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each pinwheel to allow for expansion.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden brown and puffed up. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Variations

While the classic ham and cheese combination is always a winner, feel free to get creative with your fillings. Here are a few variations you can try:

Spinach and Feta: Replace the ham with cooked spinach and use crumbled feta cheese instead of shredded cheese.
Chicken and Pesto: Use diced cooked chicken breast and spread pesto sauce over the puff pastry before adding the filling.
Vegetarian: Skip the meat and use a combination of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions.

Tips

Thaw the puff pastry according to the package instructions before using. This will ensure it rolls out easily and bakes evenly.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for added flavor. Gruyere, mozzarella, or pepper jack can all work well.
If you prefer a crispier texture, brush the pinwheels with a beaten egg before baking. This will give them a beautiful golden color.
Make sure to leave some space between the pinwheels on the baking sheet to allow for expansion.
These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat them in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the flakiness of puff pastry with the savory goodness of ham and cheese. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a delicious snack, these pinwheels are sure to satisfy.

FAQs

Can I freeze the pinwheels?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen pinwheels on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use puff pastry sheets instead of rolls?

Absolutely! Puff pastry sheets work just as well as rolls for this recipe. Simply follow the instructions for rolling out the sheets and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Can I make these pinwheels in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven and bake as directed.

Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a versatile and delicious appetizer that will impress your guests. With a flaky pastry crust and a savory filling, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you stick to the classic ham and cheese combination or get creative with different fillings, these pinwheels are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead and give them a try for your next party or snack time!