Here is a warm and simple guide to make a tasty snack for your holiday table.
INTRODUCTION
Easter Ham and Cheddar Pinwheels are a quick and easy snack. They use ready puff pastry, ham, and cheese. You can make them in under 30 minutes. Kids like the shape and grown ups like the flavor. These pinwheels can sit on a party tray and look nice. They also travel well to picnics or potlucks. If you like simple party bites, you may also enjoy this air fryer spiced pitta chips and chickpeas recipe as another snack idea.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is fast. You only need a few ingredients. The roll and bake method saves time. The puff pastry makes the outside flaky and light. The ham adds meat and salt. The cheddar gives a rich, mild bite that many people enjoy. The egg wash gives a nice brown top. You can make many pinwheels at once. They are great warm or at room temperature. The recipe fits holiday meals and quick weekday snacks. They also pair well with sweet treats like these apricot and chocolate bars if you want a dessert on the side.
HOW TO MAKE Easter Ham and Cheddar Pinwheels
This section shows how to make the pinwheels step by step. The method is simple. You roll out the pastry, add mustard if you like, layer ham and cheese, then roll and slice. You bake until golden brown. Use cold puff pastry so it keeps its layers. Work on a lightly floured surface so the dough does not stick. Cut even slices so they bake the same. If you want smaller appetizers, cut thinner slices. For larger bites, cut a bit thicker. Keep the oven hot so the pastry puffs well.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Sharp knife or a pizza cutter
- Small bowl for egg wash and a brush
- Measuring spoon for mustard if using
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 1 package of puff pastry
- 8 ounces deli ham, sliced
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread mustard if using, over the rolled pastry.
- Layer the ham slices evenly over the pastry, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log and cut into 1-inch slices.
- Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden color.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
HOW TO SERVE Easter Ham and Cheddar Pinwheels
Serve the pinwheels warm for the best texture. They come out flaky and soft when fresh. If you must serve at room temperature, they still taste good. Place them on a big plate or a wooden board. Add small bowls of mustard, ketchup, or a mild dipping sauce next to them. For a fuller board, include olives, fresh veggies, and crackers. You can also serve them with a soft cheese and fruit to balance the savory flavors. A warm baked brie with fig jam and pecans makes a lovely pairing for guests who like richer items.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Easter Ham and Cheddar Pinwheels
Cool the pinwheels fully before you store them. Place them in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 8 minutes. This brings back some of the crispness. For longer storage, freeze the raw sliced pinwheels on a baking sheet for 1 hour until firm. Then move them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes, adding a few minutes if needed until golden. Do not refreeze after you have thawed and baked them.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Place the pinwheels on a platter with a cloth napkin for style. Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color. Use toothpicks if you want easy grab-and-go bites. Pair with light salads or raw veggies to add freshness. A small bowl of ranch dressing or honey mustard is nice for kids. For adult guests, offer a mustard with a bit of spice. You can also make a simple side of pickles and sliced apples. These choices bring a good mix of textures and tastes.
VARIATIONS
Change the filling to match what you like or have on hand. Use Swiss or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder melt. Swap the ham for turkey or cooked bacon if you prefer. Add a thin layer of pesto or sun-dried tomato spread in place of mustard for a different flavor. Sprinkle chopped green onions or cooked spinach for a fresh note. For a richer option, add a bit of cream cheese under the cheddar. Try serving with a soft spread like boursin appetizer with pistachios and honey on the side for a creamier bite.
FAQs
Q: Can I use puff pastry sheets from the freezer?
A: Yes. Keep the pastry cold until you work with it. Thaw it in the fridge or on the counter for a short time until it is soft enough to roll.
Q: Can I make pinwheels ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can assemble and slice them, then cover and store in the fridge for a few hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze the raw slices and bake later.
Q: What if the cheese leaks while baking?
A: Small leaks are normal. Use shredded cheese and avoid overfilling the pastry. Chill the roll for a few minutes before slicing to reduce leaks.
Q: Can I use fresh ham or cooked ham from the store?
A: Yes. Use any thinly sliced ham. Thicker slices may need to be layered more thinly to fit the pastry.
Q: Are these good for a crowd?
A: Yes. One package of pastry makes about 12–16 pinwheels depending on slice size. Make more than one package for a large group.
Q: Can I bake them on a higher rack for crisper bottoms?
A: Yes. Place the baking sheet on a middle or lower rack for a crisp base. Watch them closely so they do not burn.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Easter Ham and Cheddar Pinwheels
You can make the rolls up to a day ahead. Roll and wrap them in plastic wrap. Keep them in the fridge until you are ready to slice and bake. For frozen make-ahead, slice and freeze the raw pinwheels on a tray first, then bag them for later baking. Label the bag with the date. When you bake from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the bake time. If you want the best puff, bake from chilled rather than room temperature. This helps the dough keep its layers and puff in the oven.
Easter Ham and Cheddar Pinwheels
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread mustard, if using, over the rolled pastry.
- Layer the ham slices evenly over the pastry, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Roll the pastry tightly into a log and cut into 1-inch slices.
- Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden color.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!