What kind of pastry works best for these pinwheels?

Ready-rolled puff pastry sheets offer the best flaky texture and easy handling for these pinwheels.

Can I substitute the ham with other meats?

Yes, turkey or chicken slices can be used as alternatives to ham for different flavor profiles.

Ensure the pastry is well chilled and avoid overloading with filling. Baking on parchment paper helps achieve crispness.

Dijon mustard is optional but adds a subtle tang that complements the ham and cheese.

Store pinwheels in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the oven to restore their crisp texture.

Flaky, golden pastry spirals filled with savory ham and melted cheese—perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party finger food.

I often make these pinwheel rolls for gatherings and they always disappear fast.

Pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g) ready-rolled puff pastry (chilled, not frozen)
Filling: 100 g thinly sliced cooked ham
Filling: 100 g grated cheddar cheese (or Swiss cheese)
Filling: 2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
Filling: Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Baking: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Step 1:: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:: Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
Step 3:: Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the pastry, if using.
Step 4:: Arrange ham slices evenly over the mustard, leaving a 1 cm border along one long edge.
Step 5:: Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the ham. Season lightly with black pepper.
Step 6:: Starting from the long edge without the border, tightly roll up the pastry into a log, sealing the edge with a bit of beaten egg.
Step 7:: Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 16 equal pieces.
Step 8:: Place pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Step 9:: Brush tops with beaten egg.
Step 10:: Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
Step 11:: Cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

My family loves sharing these pinwheels during weekend brunches; they bring everyone together.

Add chopped chives, caramelized onions, or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.

Baking sheet, parchment paper, sharp knife, pastry brush, rolling pin (optional)

May contain traces of nuts or soy if present in the pastry—always check packaging.

These pinwheel rolls are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

→ What kind of pastry works best for these pinwheels?: Ready-rolled puff pastry sheets offer the best flaky texture and easy handling for these pinwheels.
→ Can I substitute the ham with other meats?: Yes, turkey or chicken slices can be used as alternatives to ham for different flavor profiles.
→ How do I prevent the pinwheels from becoming soggy?: Ensure the pastry is well chilled and avoid overloading with filling. Baking on parchment paper helps achieve crispness.
→ Is it necessary to use Dijon mustard in the filling?: Dijon mustard is optional but adds a subtle tang that complements the ham and cheese.
→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?: Store pinwheels in an airtight container and reheat briefly in the oven to restore their crisp texture.
→ Can I add extra spices or herbs to the filling?: Yes, adding chopped chives, caramelized onions, or a pinch of paprika can enhance flavors.