Flaky, cheesy, and packed with savory ham, these Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are the ultimate appetizer or snack. Whether you're hosting a brunch, prepping for a party, or just need something quick and delicious for the family, this recipe is always a hit. The buttery puff pastry turns beautifully golden and crisp in the oven, while the inside stays melty and flavorful thanks to a blend of cheese and ham.

Even better? These pinwheels take just a few minutes to assemble and bake in under 20 minutes—making them a go-to recipe when you want maximum flavor with minimal effort.

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📝 Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (from a 17.3 oz package, typically comes with 2 sheets)
• ¾ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère all work well)
• ½ cup diced ham (or thinly sliced deli ham)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon milk or water (to mix with egg)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle (if not already). If desired, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the surface.

3. Add Fillings

Evenly sprinkle shredded cheese over the puff pastry, leaving a ½-inch border. Then layer the diced or sliced ham on top of the cheese.

4. Roll & Slice

Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log. Slice the roll into ½-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife.

5. Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk or water. Brush the tops of each pinwheel with the egg wash for a golden finish.

6. Bake

Place the pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

7. Cool Slightly & Serve

Let the pinwheels cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

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🍽️ Nutrition Estimate (per pinwheel, based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 130
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: <1g
• Fiber: 0.5g

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💡 Tips & Tricks

• Thaw puff pastry properly: Let it thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Don’t let it get too warm or it becomes sticky and hard to handle.
• Use different cheeses: Try pepper jack for a spicy twist, or Swiss for a more classic deli flavor.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the pinwheels, slice, and freeze them raw. When ready, bake directly from frozen—just add 3–5 minutes to the baking time.
• Serve with dips: These pair beautifully with honey mustard, ranch, or a creamy garlic sauce.

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✨ My Personal Touch

These ham and cheese pinwheels are a staple in my kitchen. I often prep a batch ahead of time and freeze them for impromptu gatherings or lazy weekend snacks. The combo of buttery pastry, gooey cheese, and salty ham is comforting, nostalgic, and crowd-pleasing. Sometimes, I sprinkle a bit of fresh thyme or everything bagel seasoning on top for a gourmet twist.