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Crispy Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: 30-Minute Party Appetizer

Crispy Ham and Cheese Pinwheels - featured image
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A quick, flaky, and savory appetizer made with deli ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and puff pastry. Perfect for last-minute parties or busy weeknights, these pinwheels are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 sheet (16 oz) puff pastry, thawed but cold
  • 8–10 slices thick-cut deli ham
  • 1 to 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
  • 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Unroll the puff pastry onto a lightly floured surface and roll into an even 12×12 inch rectangle.
  3. Brush the entire surface of the pastry with Dijon mustard, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
  4. Layer the ham slices over the mustard, overlapping slightly to create a solid layer.
  5. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the ham.
  6. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log, tucking in the ends.
  7. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
  8. Unwrap the log and slice into 1-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife.
  9. Place pinwheels on prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  10. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with poppy seeds, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  11. Bake for 15-18 minutes, rotating pans halfway through, until golden brown and puffed.
  12. Cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Keep the pastry cold until baking to ensure flakiness. Do not overfill the rolls to prevent bursting. Use a sharp knife to cut cleanly without crushing the layers. For best results, chill the rolled log before slicing. Can be frozen unbaked for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham and cheese pinwheels, puff pastry appetizer, party food, quick appetizer, holiday party snacks, easy finger food

Find it online: https://cravemila.com/crispy-ham-and-cheese-pinwheels-30-minute-party-appetizer/