Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels are a simple and tasty snack that’s perfect for when you want something warm and cheesy with a little ham in every bite. These pinwheels are made by rolling up slices of ham and melty cheese inside soft dough, then baking until golden and delicious. They’re flaky on the outside and gooey on the inside, making them really fun to eat.
I love making these pinwheels because they come together quickly and everyone seems to enjoy them. Sometimes I add a little bit of mustard or a sprinkle of herbs inside before rolling them up—it gives a nice little extra kick. They’re great for when friends pop by unexpectedly or just as a comforting treat after a busy day.
These pinwheels are perfect served warm right out of the oven with a simple side of pickles or a fresh salad. I’ve also brought them to parties, and they always disappear fast. If you want to keep things easy and tasty, these hot ham and cheese pinwheels are a go-to in my kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff pastry: This is the base that gives pinwheels their flaky, buttery texture. Frozen puff pastry works great—just thaw it before using. If you can’t find puff pastry, crescent roll dough is a softer option, but the layers won’t be as crisp.
Ham: Deli ham is easy and flavorful. You can swap in turkey, chicken, or even thinly sliced roast beef. For a vegetarian twist, try smoked cheese and sautéed mushrooms instead of meat.
Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds a mild nuttiness. I also like Gruyère for its rich flavor. Cheddar or mozzarella work fine if you prefer those; just pick a cheese that melts well.
Dijon mustard: This is optional but adds a tangy punch. If you don’t have Dijon, a little honey mustard or mayo can work. You can also skip it if you want a milder taste.
Herbs: Dried thyme or Italian seasoning brightens the flavor on top. Feel free to use rosemary, oregano, or parsley depending on what you have.
How Do You Get Perfectly Flaky and Golden Pinwheels Every Time?
Getting the pastry crisp and golden while fully melting the cheese can be tricky. Here’s how to nail it:
- Ensure your puff pastry is well thawed but still cold. Warm dough can get sticky and won’t puff well.
- Roll it gently on a floured surface to smooth out creases without tearing the dough.
- Don’t overfill—the ham and cheese layer should be even but not too thick to help the dough roll tightly.
- Slice with a very sharp, serrated knife to avoid squishing the roll.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a shining, golden crust.
- Bake at a high temperature (around 400°F/200°C) so the pastry puffs up quickly and crisps.
These tips help make your pinwheels look and taste great—crispy outside with melty, cheesy ham inside!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use a standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Rolling pin – helps roll out the puff pastry evenly and smoothly.
- Sharp serrated knife – makes slicing the rolled pastry into even pinwheels without squishing the layers.
- Pastry brush – for brushing on the beaten egg to get a shiny, golden crust.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate ingredient portions, especially for herbs and mustard.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ham for cooked bacon or turkey slices for different smoky or savory flavors.
- Add a layer of cream cheese or pesto before rolling for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Replace Swiss cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack to change up the taste.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or basil before baking for a fresh kick.
How to Make Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 6-8 slices deli ham
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, for a total of roughly 30 minutes. It’s quick and easy to get these golden, cheesy pinwheels ready for a snack or party!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare for baking:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the pinwheels don’t stick and clean-up is a breeze.
2. Roll out the puff pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth out any creases. Take your time to keep the dough even.
3. Add the fillings:
If you like, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry for a little tang. Then, lay the ham slices evenly over the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese on top of the ham, covering it nicely.
4. Roll and slice:
Carefully roll the pastry up from one of the long edges into a tight log. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into pinwheels about 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
5. Bake the pinwheels:
Place the pinwheels cut side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a lovely golden finish, then sprinkle dried thyme or Italian seasoning over them. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until the pastry puffs up, turns golden brown, and the cheese melts all gooey and delicious.
6. Serve and enjoy:
Take the pinwheels out of the oven and let them cool just a minute or two—then serve warm and enjoy that cheesy, hammy goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the puff pastry completely in the fridge for a few hours or overnight before you start. This helps it roll out smoothly and bake evenly.
Can I Make Hot Ham & Cheese Pinwheels Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pinwheels and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap and bake them straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes to keep the pastry crispy.
Can I Substitute Other Cheeses or Meats?
Yes! Swiss and Gruyère melt beautifully, but cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack work well too. You can swap ham with turkey, bacon, or even vegetarian options like sautéed mushrooms for a tasty twist.