Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

This ham and cheese pinwheels recipe is a quick and delicious way to make a crowdpleasing appetizer using puff pastry. Perfect for parties, snacks, or a simple family treat, these pinwheels combine the savory flavors of ham and cheese with a touch of sweet chili sauce and olives for a delightful bite every time.

I first made these during a busy holiday season and they were such a hit that now they are a go to for every gathering. The combination of flaky puff pastry and melty cheese is irresistible to everyone I serve them to.

Ingredients

• Puff pastry: the base of the pinwheels look for good quality prerolled dough for ease and best texture
• Thai sweet chili sauce: adds a gentle sweet heat substitute pesto for a different flavor profile
• Ham: thinly sliced for layering deli ham works great for convenience and tenderness
• Cheese: mozzarella or cheddar recommended for melting qualities choose freshly grated or sliced for best melt
• Olives: pitted green or black olives add a salty bite and depth opt for pitted versions to avoid any surprises

Instructions

Spread the Puff Pastry:

Gently unroll your thawed puff pastry on a clean surface. Use a spatula or back of a spoon to evenly spread a thin layer of sweet chili sauce over the entire surface. This gives moisture and flavor to balance the savory ingredients.

Layer the Ham and Cheese:

Lay out the ham slices neatly over the coated pastry making sure to cover as much surface as possible. Next, scatter or layer slices or shreds of cheese evenly on top of the ham. This will melt into the perfect gooey center.

Add the Olives and Roll:

Finely chop your olives to ensure even distribution and a manageable bite size. Sprinkle these over the cheese. Then, starting from one short edge, carefully roll the puff pastry tight into a log shape. Press the edge gently to seal the roll.

Slice and Bake:

Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into approximately one inch thick slices. Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them slightly apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up.

Cool and Serve:

Let the pinwheels cool a few minutes before serving. They are fantastic warm, but still delicious at room temperature for snacking later.

These pinwheels are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something special. My favorite part is the crispy, flaky outer layer paired with the creamy cheese inside. I remember making these with my kids on a lazy Sunday and the whole kitchen smelled amazing. Everyone crowded around the oven waiting for the first warm bite.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They reheat well in a low oven to retain crispiness but are just as tasty cold.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try swapping the sweet chili sauce for a pesto or tomato spread. Use cooked chicken or turkey if you want to change up the protein. Experiment with cheeses like gouda or fontina depending on your mood.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh green salad or pickled vegetables for a nice balance. They also pair well with a fruity chutney or a simple mustard dip to add some zing.

These pinwheels are an easy crowdpleasing appetizer that is simple to customize. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can these pinwheels be cooked in an air fryer?

Yes, they can be air fried in batches since the appliance size may limit cooking quantity at once. Air frying keeps them crisp and golden.

→ How long do pinwheels stay fresh after baking?

Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be kept in an airtight container refrigerated for up to two days.

→ Is it possible to prepare them in advance?

They can be made ahead of time and served cold or gently reheated prior to serving.

→ What puff pastry type is recommended?

Chilled, pre-rolled puff pastry is convenient for this dish. Frozen pastry works well too but requires adequate thawing time.

→ Can I substitute the olives or sauce?

Yes, green or black olives may be used depending on preference. Sweet chili sauce can be replaced with red or green pesto for different flavor profiles.