🥐🧀 Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Makes: 18–24 pinwheels
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 18–22 minutes
Ingredients
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1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
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4–5 slices deli ham, finely chopped or thinly sliced
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1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, Cheddar, Gruyère, or Mozzarella)
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pastry
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Lightly flour a surface and roll out puff pastry into a rectangle.
2. Add the Filling
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Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the pastry (if using).
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Sprinkle ham evenly across the pastry.
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Top with shredded cheese.
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Season lightly with garlic powder and black pepper.
3. Roll & Chill
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Roll the pastry tightly into a log from the long side.
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Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes (makes slicing easier).
4. Slice
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Using a sharp knife, cut into ½-inch slices.
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Place pinwheels cut-side down on the baking sheet, spaced apart.
5. Egg Wash & Bake
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Brush tops with beaten egg.
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Sprinkle with seeds if desired.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Cool & Serve
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Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Ideas
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As party appetizers
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Breakfast or brunch platters
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Lunchbox snacks
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With tomato soup or green salad
❓ Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels Q & A
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble, slice, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze pinwheels?
A: Yes. Freeze unbaked pinwheels for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes.
Q: What cheese works best?
A: Swiss and Gruyère are classic, but cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone work well.
Q: Why did my pinwheels unroll?
A: The pastry may not have been rolled tightly or chilled enough before slicing.
Q: Can I make them vegetarian?
A: Yes. Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers.
Q: How do I keep them crispy?
A: Bake on parchment and avoid overfilling. Serve warm for best texture.
Q: Can I add extra flavors?
A: Absolutely! Try:
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Honey mustard
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Caramelized onions
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Fresh herbs like thyme or chives.