Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delicious, savory snack or appetizer that combine the rich flavors of ham and melted cheese with the soft, savory dough of crescent rolls or puff pastry. These pinwheels are versatile and can be made for parties, gatherings, or even as a quick weeknight dinner. They’re easy to make, and once baked, they’re golden, crispy, and gooey!
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that the pinwheels cook evenly and turn golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough or puff pastry on a clean, flat surface. If using crescent dough, be careful not to tear the perforated lines between the triangles. If using puff pastry, roll it out to ensure it’s an even thickness. If you use puff pastry, you can cut the dough into squares if preferred.
Step 3: Add the Mustard (Optional)
Spread a thin layer of mustard (Dijon or yellow) over the dough, depending on your taste. The mustard adds a tangy flavor that complements the ham and cheese, but this step is optional.
Step 4: Layer the Ham and Cheese
Start layering your ham and cheese slices on top of the dough. Lay 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of cheese (or one larger slice of cheese) on each dough rectangle. Make sure to spread them out evenly, leaving a small border on the edges to ensure everything sticks together during baking.
Step 5: Roll the Dough
Begin at the shorter edge of the dough and carefully roll it up into a tight log or cylinder. Make sure to press gently but firmly to keep the ham and cheese tightly rolled inside the dough.
Step 6: Slice the Pinwheels
Once your dough is rolled up, use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 1-inch wide pieces. You should end up with around 8-10 pinwheels depending on the size of the dough you used.
Step 7: Arrange the Pinwheels on a Baking Sheet
Place the pinwheels onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Arrange them with a small gap between each pinwheel.
Step 8: Brush with Butter and Season
Brush the tops of the pinwheels with melted butter. This will give them a golden, crispy texture. Sprinkle the garlic powder and onion powder on top for extra flavor. If desired, sprinkle a little parsley for color and freshness.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on them after 10 minutes to ensure they don’t overcook.
Step 10: Serve
Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm!
Tips for Perfect Pinwheels:
- Cheese Choices: You can experiment with different cheeses based on your preference. Cheddar, mozzarella, Gouda, or even a mix of cheeses work great! If you’re making these for a crowd, try offering a few different options to please everyone.
- Ham Variations: You can swap the deli ham for other types of ham like smoked ham, prosciutto, or even turkey if you prefer a lighter option. For a unique twist, try adding cooked bacon or chicken.
- Flavored Dough: Add a twist to the dough by using herb-infused crescent rolls or puff pastry. The additional flavor will complement the fillings well.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare these pinwheels ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before baking. They can be baked within 1-2 days of preparation. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 3 months before baking, which is perfect for future snacks or gatherings.
- Serve with a Sauce: A mustard-based dip pairs excellently with these pinwheels. You can also serve them with a creamy ranch dip, honey mustard, or spicy aioli.
Variations of Ham and Cheese Pinwheels:
While the classic ham and cheese version is delicious, there are numerous ways to customize your pinwheels to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
1. Veggie and Cheese Pinwheels
For a vegetarian option, skip the ham and use sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. Add a creamy cheese like ricotta or cream cheese to bind everything together.
2. Pesto Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Spread pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade) over the dough before adding the ham and cheese. The fresh basil and garlic flavor will add a delightful twist.
3. BBQ Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
For a smoky, tangy flavor, try using BBQ sauce instead of mustard. Swap in smoked ham and add shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for extra depth of flavor.
4. Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels
If you want a spicy kick, use cooked, shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce as the filling. Add a creamy blue cheese dressing or ranch for dipping.
5. Breakfast Pinwheels
Use scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, and cheddar cheese for a savory breakfast option. These are great for brunches or breakfast meetings.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use gluten-free dough? Yes, gluten-free crescent rolls or puff pastry alternatives can be used for this recipe. Just make sure the dough is gluten-free to keep it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I freeze these pinwheels? Absolutely! After slicing the pinwheels, arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and cook as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the frozen dough.
Can I make these with other meats? Yes, you can substitute the ham for turkey, roast beef, or even chicken. The pinwheels will still turn out delicious with different meats.
How can I make these healthier? To make a healthier version of ham and cheese pinwheels, try using whole wheat crescent roll dough, leaner cuts of deli meat, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also load them up with veggies for extra nutrition.
Conclusion:
Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a fun and versatile recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or preparing a family meal, these pinwheels are sure to please. With endless customization options and simple ingredients, they can easily become a go-to favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy baking and sharing these cheesy, savory bites!
Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delicious, savory snack or appetizer that combine the rich flavors of ham and melted cheese with the soft, savory dough of crescent rolls or puff pastry. These pinwheels are versatile and can be made for parties, gatherings, or even as a quick weeknight dinner. They're easy to make, and once baked, they’re golden, crispy, and gooey!
Ingredients
- 1 package of refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 count)
- 1/2 lb thinly sliced deli ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or honey mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing on top)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll the crescent dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pinch the seams together to form a solid sheet.
- Spread mustard (optional) over the dough. Then, layer the ham slices evenly over the dough, followed by the shredded cheese.
- Roll up the dough tightly from one long side to the other. Pinch the seam to seal it.
- Cut the roll into 12-16 slices, depending on how thick you want your pinwheels.
- Arrange the pinwheels on a baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle garlic powder and parsley on top (optional).
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use a variety of deli meats like turkey or chicken for a different flavor.
- For a spicy twist, add a few slices of jalapeño or a drizzle of hot sauce before rolling.
- These pinwheels can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a meal with a side salad.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil them for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.