Ham And Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

Ham and cheese pinwheels are a savory snack featuring ham and usually cheddar cheese, encased in pastry dough. You create them by layering ham and cheese on pastry, then rolling and slicing the dough into pinwheel shapes. After baking, you get appetizers or snacks with a golden, flaky exterior and a melty, flavorful interior.

Key Ingredients

To make ham and cheese pinwheels, you’ll need:

• Pastry Dough: Use store-bought puff pastry for convenience or homemade dough for a personalized touch.
• Ham: Opt for thin slices of deli ham, though honey ham or smoked ham can also work.
• Cheese: Cheddar is most common, but Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone are great alternatives.
• Mustard or Mayonnaise: These can enhance flavor if spread on the dough before adding ham and cheese.
• Seasonings: A sprinkle of salt, pepper, and Italian herbs can elevate the taste.

These core ingredients ensure your pinwheels have delicious layers, making them a hit for any occasion.

How to Make Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Ingredients Needed

You’ll need a few key ingredients to make ham and cheese pinwheels:

• Pastry Dough: Either puff pastry or crescent roll dough.
• Ham: Thinly sliced deli ham.
• Cheese: Shredded or thinly sliced, such as cheddar or Swiss.
• Mustard or Mayonnaise: For added flavor.
• Seasonings: Optional, like black pepper, garlic powder, or dried herbs.
• Egg Wash: One beaten egg with a tablespoon of water for a golden crust.

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Dough: Roll out the pastry dough on a floured surface to ensure it doesn’t stick.
3. Layer Ingredients: Spread mustard or mayonnaise evenly over the dough. Layer ham slices, followed by cheese on top.
4. Roll Dough: Starting from one end, tightly roll the dough into a log shape.
5. Slice Roll: Cut the rolled dough into 1-inch thick slices with a sharp knife.
6. Arrange Slices: Place the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cut side down.
7. Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush each pinwheel with the egg wash for a golden finish.
8. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden and the cheese has melted.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the pinwheels to cool for a few minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions for Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Best Occasions for Serving

Ham and cheese pinwheels serve well as appetizers at parties, providing a delightful start to any gathering. Offer them during family brunches, where their easily consumable format becomes a favorite. Serve them on game day spreads to keep guests satisfied while watching sports. Include them in picnic baskets since they’re easy to carry and eat.

Complementary Side Dishes

Pair the pinwheels with fresh fruit platters, where grapes and berries enhance the savory flavor. Serve alongside mixed green salads to add a refreshing contrast. Include vegetable sticks like carrots and celery to provide a healthy crunch. Provide dipping sauces such as honey mustard or ranch for an added layer of taste. Complement with potato wedges or chips for a hearty addition.

Nutritional Information

Calories and Macros

Ham and cheese pinwheels offer a balanced mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. On average, each pinwheel contains around 150-200 calories. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Protein: About 8-10 grams, mainly from ham and cheese.
• Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams, with saturated fats from cheese and other dairy ingredients.
• Carbohydrates: Roughly 12-15 grams, primarily from pastry dough.

Making adjustments to ingredients like reduced-fat cheese or whole-grain pastry can alter these values.

Health Benefits

Eating ham and cheese pinwheels in moderation provides several health benefits. They deliver essential nutrients:

• Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.
• Calcium: Critical for bone health, with cheese being a good source.
• Vitamins: B-vitamins in ham aid energy production and red blood cell formation.

If you use whole-grain pastry and add spinach or other vegetables, you boost dietary fiber and micronutrient intake.

Variations of the Recipe

Gluten-Free Options

To enjoy ham and cheese pinwheels without gluten, choose gluten-free pastry dough. Numerous brands offer high-quality, gluten-free options that replicate the texture of traditional dough. Substitute regular ham with gluten-free ham for consistent results. Pair with gluten-free cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, to maintain the creamy texture. Ensuring all seasonings and condiments, such as mustard or mayonnaise, are gluten-free is crucial. Following these substitutions, you can create delicious, gluten-free pinwheels.

Vegan Alternatives

For a vegan version of ham and cheese pinwheels, use plant-based ingredients. Start with vegan puff pastry, available in most supermarkets. Replace ham with vegan deli slices, made from ingredients like tofu or seitan. Opt for dairy-free cheese, such as those made from cashews or soy, which melt well and offer a creamy consistency. Use vegan mustard or egg-free mayonnaise for added flavor. These adjustments allow the creation of satisfying vegan pinwheels that cater to dietary preferences.

Conclusion

Ham and cheese pinwheels are a versatile and delightful snack that can elevate any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family brunch, or preparing for a picnic, these savory bites are sure to impress. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up a batch in no time.

Don’t forget to explore the variations to suit dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty treat. So next time you’re in need of a quick and crowd-pleasing dish, give ham and cheese pinwheels a try. You’ll love the convenience and deliciousness they bring to your table.