Easy and Delicious Ham and Cheese Pinwheels – Perfect for Any Occasion

Introduction to Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

A Flavorful and Convenient Snack

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that combines the savory taste of deli ham, melted cheese, and flaky crescent roll dough or puff pastry. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a simple after-school snack. The rich and creamy cheese paired with the slight saltiness of ham and the warm, flaky dough creates a satisfying snack everyone will enjoy. With just a few ingredients, you can make these versatile pinwheels in no time.

Why Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Are a Hit

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are incredibly versatile and customizable. You can easily adjust the fillings to suit your preferences. Add a dollop of Dijon mustard for extra flavor or sprinkle in Italian seasoning for a more herbaceous profile. The use of crescent roll dough or puff pastry makes them wonderfully flaky and buttery, creating a contrast of textures. Plus, they’re quick to assemble and bake, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Basic Recipe: How to Make Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Easy and Delicious Ham and Cheese Pinwheels – Perfect for Any Occasion

---

• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 20-22 minutes
• Yield: 12-16 pinwheels (depending on size) 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a quick and easy appetizer or snack that’s bursting with savory flavors. Using crescent roll dough (or puff pastry for a flakier texture), these pinwheels are filled with deli ham, melty cheese, and a hint of Dijon mustard. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a tasty treat, these pinwheels are sure to disappear fast!

 

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package of crescent roll dough or puff pastry
• 1/2 lb sliced deli ham (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella work great)
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. If using crescent roll dough, unroll the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If using puff pastry, roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness (about 1/8-inch thick).
3. Spread the Dijon mustard evenly across the dough (if using).
4. Layer the sliced deli ham over the dough, covering it completely.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the ham.
6. Starting at one end, carefully roll up the dough into a tight log or cylinder.
7. Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch pieces to form individual pinwheels.
8. Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them out slightly.
9. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Brush the butter mixture over the top of each pinwheel.
10. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
11. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Feel free to mix up the cheese based on what you have on hand, such as a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
• For an extra kick, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the cheese before rolling up the dough.
• You can make these pinwheels ahead of time by assembling them, refrigerating them, and then baking just before serving.
• These pinwheels are also great for dipping in mustard or a creamy sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2-3 pinwheels (depending on appetite)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or follow the temperature on the crescent roll dough package.
2. Prepare the Dough: Roll out the crescent roll dough or puff pastry on a clean surface. If using crescent rolls, press the seams together to form one large rectangle.
3. Assemble the Pinwheels: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the dough (if using). Next, layer the sliced deli ham evenly across the dough, followed by the shredded cheese of your choice.
4. Roll and Slice: Starting from one end, carefully roll up the dough into a log. Slice the log into even pinwheels (about 1-inch thick).
5. Brush with Butter: Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder for added flavor.
6. Bake: Bake the pinwheels in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a side of marinara sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Advanced Techniques: Customizing Your Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Adding Vegetables

For a burst of color and added nutrients, consider adding spinach, sliced bell peppers, or onions to the filling. These vegetables will enhance both the flavor and texture of your pinwheels.

Switching Up the Cheese

While cheddar, Swiss, and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Gruyère adds a nutty flavor, while provolone offers a more robust taste. You can also mix multiple cheeses for a richer flavor.

Making Them Spicy

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha sauce to the filling. The slight spice will perfectly complement the richness of the ham and cheese.

Using Herb-Infused Butter

To elevate the flavor, infuse the melted butter with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano. This simple step will add an aromatic depth to the pinwheels.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer them warm, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

Freezing Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels freeze very well. After baking and cooling, wrap each pinwheel individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake frozen pinwheels in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

Reheating Tips

For optimal results, reheat the pinwheels in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain their flakiness. You can also microwave them for 30-60 seconds, but the texture may not be as crisp.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Option

If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crescent roll dough or puff pastry. Be sure to check the labels for any hidden gluten ingredients, especially in the Dijon mustard and seasonings.

Low-Carb Version

For a low-carb variation, try using low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps in place of the dough. This will eliminate the carbs while still maintaining a similar taste.

Dairy-Free Option

To make these pinwheels dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely and use vegan cheese alternatives. Use vegan butter for brushing and a dairy-free mustard for flavor.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian twist, replace the deli ham with sliced mushrooms or tofu. You can also add more cheese or other vegetables like zucchini or tomatoes for a hearty filling.

FAQs About Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Can I Make Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, follow the instructions as usual.

Can I Use Different Types of Meat?

Absolutely! You can replace the ham with other deli meats like turkey, chicken, or even bacon for a different flavor profile.

Are Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Freezable?

Yes, these pinwheels freeze beautifully. Once baked and cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for later use. Simply reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy them.

Can I Add Sauces to the Pinwheels?

You can definitely add sauces such as mustard, mayonnaise, or even a little barbecue sauce before rolling up the pinwheels. This will add an extra layer of flavor.

How Do I Keep the Pinwheels from Becoming Soggy?

To avoid soggy pinwheels, make sure to bake them until golden and crispy. Avoid overfilling with moist ingredients, and always store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delicious, simple, and highly customizable snack that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, party, or game day, these pinwheels are easy to prepare and offer endless possibilities for customization. Try them with different meats, cheeses, or vegetables to suit your taste, and enjoy the perfect balance of savory, melty, and flaky goodness!