Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
These flaky, buttery pinwheels are a quick 25-minute appetizer. Made with puff pastry, savory ham, sharp cheddar, and creamy mustard-infused cheese, they are perfect for holiday parties or easy weeknight snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry about 8.5 oz, thawed completely
- 8 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 1 Tbsp mustard for tangy flavor balance
- 6 oz ham finely chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar shredded fresh
- 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground recommended
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, stir together softened cream cheese, mustard, and black pepper until smooth. Fold in the chopped ham and shredded cheddar.
- Lay puff pastry on a floured sheet of parchment paper. Roll gently into a 10x12 inch rectangle, taking care not to crush the pastry layers.
- Spread the filling evenly over the pastry, leaving a quarter-inch border along the edges.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a cylinder. Pinch the seam to seal.
- Wrap the log in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Slice the log into rounds about half an inch thick and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, rotating pans halfway through, until deep golden brown and bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
To reheat: Avoid the microwave. Use a 350°F oven for 5–8 minutes to restore the pastry's flakiness. If your pastry cracks while unfolding, use a damp finger to pinch the seam shut.