Easy Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are my go-to appetizer whenever I need something quick, elegant, and crowd-pleasing. With just a handful of ingredients and under an hour of effort, they look gourmet but couldn’t be easier to make.
Flaky puff pastry wraps around layers of salty ham, melty cheese, and a touch of Dijon mustard for irresistible flavor. As they bake, the pastry turns golden and crisp while the cheese becomes hot and gooey. A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end adds color and brightness.
Perfect for holidays, game days, or any gathering—these pinwheels disappear fast!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen puff pastry | 2 sheets (17.3 oz package), thawed overnight | Roll into rectangles |
| Dijon mustard | 3 tbsp, divided | Adds zippy flavor |
| Deli ham | 12 slices (about 10 oz), thinly sliced | Use good-quality ham |
| Gruyère or sharp cheddar | 2 cups (about 5 oz), grated | Melty, bold flavor |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp, chopped | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Pastry
- Lay one sheet of puff pastry on plastic wrap.
- Roll into a 10×12-inch rectangle.
- Layer Filling
- Spread 1½ tbsp Dijon mustard over pastry, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Layer 6 slices of ham, slightly overlapping.
- Sprinkle with 1 cup grated cheese.
- Roll & Chill
- Roll pastry tightly from the long edge into a log.
- Trim ends, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
- Repeat with second sheet and remaining filling.
- Slice & Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment.
- Slice logs into ½-inch pinwheels. Place cut-side up, 1 inch apart.
- Bake 18 minutes, until puffed and golden.
- Finish & Serve
- Garnish immediately with chopped parsley.
- Serve warm.
Notes & Variations
- Try Swiss or provolone for a different flavor.
- Swap parsley for chives or thyme.
- Serving idea: Pair with a simple mustard dip or honey-mustard sauce.
