My family gobbled these up in no time last Easter and requested them again this year!

These little ham and cheese pinwheels are soft, warm, and easy to eat. I made them last Easter and everyone loved them so much they asked for more this year. This recipe reminds me of a family recipe I grew up making and it is just as simple and tasty.

Why make this recipe

Make these pinwheels when you want a quick snack, a party food, or a dish that kids will eat without fuss. They bake fast, use simple ingredients, and travel well for picnics. If you like dishes that bring people to the table, try this one and the way it fills the room with a warm smell. You can also pair this with other comfort recipes like the make-ahead family recipes you already love.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (about 8 oz / 225 g)
• 4 oz (110 g) thin-sliced ham
• 4 oz (110 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp mustard or 2 tbsp cream cheese (pick one)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp melted butter (optional)
• 1 tsp dried parsley or mixed herbs (optional)
• A pinch of salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll the puff pastry into a rough 10×12 inch rectangle. Keep it even in thickness.
3. Spread the mustard or cream cheese thinly over the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
4. Lay the ham slices evenly on top, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the ham. Add a little salt and pepper if desired.
5. Roll the pastry tightly from the long side into a log. Seal the edge by pinching lightly. Chill the log in the fridge for 10 minutes to make slicing easier.
6. Cut the log into 12 even slices (about 3/4 inch each) and place them flat on the baking sheet, spaced a little apart.
7. Brush each pinwheel with the beaten egg and, if you like, a little melted butter. Sprinkle dried parsley on top.
8. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden and puffed. Let cool for 2 minutes on the sheet, then move to a cooling rack.
9. For a full meal idea, serve with a warm side like a good dauphinois gratin to make the plate feel extra special.

Serving

Serve these warm on a platter for a party or fresh from the oven for a family snack. They are great with a simple green salad, a bowl of soup, or raw veggies and dip. For kids, cut into smaller pieces and arrange on a fun plate.

Storage

• Room temp: Keep in an airtight container for up to 6 hours if you plan to eat them the same day.
• Fridge: Store cooled pinwheels in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to keep them crisp.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked slices on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–8 minutes to the bake time.

Tips

• Use thin ham slices so the roll stays soft and easy to slice.
• Chill the roll before slicing to get cleaner rounds. This tip came from a book of grandmother’s springtime treats that taught me to keep things tidy in the kitchen.
• Swap cheddar for Swiss or havarti for a milder melt.
• If the pastry browns too fast, cover with foil for the last few minutes.

Variations

• Veggie pinwheels: Replace ham with thinly sliced zucchini or roasted peppers and use cream cheese.
• Spicy: Add a little sriracha or chopped jalapeño to the spread for heat.
• Pizza style: Use tomato sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella instead of ham and cheddar.
• Leftover-friendly: Use leftover roast ham or turkey and mix with herbs; see more leftover ideas to make new meals from what you already have.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these ahead and heat later?
A: Yes. Bake, cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Q: Can I use homemade pastry?
A: Yes. Homemade puff pastry or a simple savory dough works fine. Watch bake time if dough thickness changes.

Q: Are these good for kids?
A: Very much so—most kids enjoy the mild cheese and ham flavors.

Q: Can I make mini or larger pinwheels?
A: Yes. Cut sizes change bake time slightly; smaller pieces may need less time, larger ones a bit more.

Q: What if I am out of egg for the wash?
A: Brush with a little milk or melted butter for a softer shine.