Christmas Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

The holiday season is a time for family, laughter, and delicious food that brings everyone together. These Christmas Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful addition to any festive spread. They’re irresistibly flaky, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect appetizer for holiday parties or cozy family gatherings.

If you’re a fan of effortless yet elegant recipes, this one is for you! Let’s dive in to create these savory bites that are anything but ordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and Fun: These golden, flaky pinwheels are not only tasty but also visually impressive, making them ideal for holiday entertaining.
• Easy to Prepare: Using store-bought puff pastry saves time without sacrificing that homemade charm.
• Customizable: Swap out the fillings for your favorite meats, cheeses, or even vegetarian options.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfectly portioned and hand-held, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike.

What Do They Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a warm, flaky pastry that’s buttery on the outside and melty on the inside. The savory ham adds a satisfying saltiness, while the cheese creates gooey layers of indulgence. Add the optional Dijon mustard for a tangy kick, and you’ve got a flavor-packed treat that’s hard to resist.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Great for Christmas breakfast, brunch, or appetizers.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep and freeze before baking to save time later.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these holiday pinwheels:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 6 slices deli ham
• 6 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

this Recipe

Tools You’ll Need

• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or pastry cutter
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Brush for egg wash

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

• Meats: Swap ham for turkey, salami, or cooked bacon.
• Cheese: Try Gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
• Flavor Boosters: Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or a thin layer of fig jam for a sweet-savory twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, and feta cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Puff Pastry

Unroll the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If you’re feeling adventurous, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard for a tangy base.

2. Add the Fillings

Layer the ham evenly over the pastry, followed by the cheese slices. Make sure the edges are slightly uncovered to help seal the roll.

3. Roll and Slice

Gently roll the pastry into a tight log. Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1-inch pinwheels.

4. Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for them to puff up. Brush each piece with egg wash to achieve that golden finish. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until puffed and beautifully golden.

5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve warm. These pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh from the oven.

What to Serve with Christmas Pinwheels

These pinwheels pair wonderfully with a variety of dips and sides:

• Dips: Honey mustard, marinara, or ranch dressing.
• Sides: A fresh green salad or a warm bowl of soup.
• Drinks: Serve alongside mulled wine, sparkling cider, or hot cocoa for a festive touch.

Tips for Perfect Pinwheels

1. Keep It Cool: Work quickly with the puff pastry to prevent it from becoming too soft.
2. Uniform Slicing: Use a serrated knife for clean cuts without squishing the roll.
3. Egg Wash Mastery: Don’t skip the egg wash—it’s the secret to that glossy, golden finish.
4. Freezer-Friendly: Freeze the unbaked pinwheels on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to regain crispness.
• Freezer: Freeze baked or unbaked pinwheels for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the pinwheels and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for later use.

Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes! While store-bought pastry is a time-saver, homemade puff pastry adds a rich, buttery flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat them?

Reheat in the oven for the best texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pastry soggy.

Conclusion

These Christmas Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a holiday must-have! With their flaky crust, gooey cheese, and savory ham, they’re a guaranteed hit for any festive gathering. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, they’ll quickly become a family favorite.

Looking for more holiday inspiration? Check out these related recipes:

• Christmas Cranberry Feta Pinwheels
• Cheddar Cups with Avocado Feta Mousse
• Christmas Bruschetta Wreath Recipe

Don’t forget to share your creations! Tag us on Pinterest at EMMARECIPES18 or leave a review below. Let’s spread the holiday cheer, one delicious bite at a time!

Nutritional Information

Approximate per pinwheel (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 6g
• Carbs: 9g
• Fat: 7g

Happy Holidays and happy baking!

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