Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Introduction:

Indulge in a delectable culinary creation that promises to elevate snack time to new heights—Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. These savory delights feature a delicate puff pastry rolled with savory ham, creamy cheese, and flavorful seasonings, resulting in a perfect combination of textures and tastes that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a quick appetizer, or looking for a satisfying snack, Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are sure to impress with their simplicity and irresistible flavor. Join us as we explore the recipe for these delightful treats and discover how easy it is to bring a touch of gourmet elegance to any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 can refrigerated Classic Pizza Crust
• 3/4 lb deli ham (thinly sliced, but not shaved)
• 12 slices Swiss cheese (thinly sliced)
• Glaze:
• 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

Directions:

1. Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
2. Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 12 pinwheels
3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
4. Unroll the pizza dough on a cutting board and press into a 13×18-inch rectangle. Layer evenly with ham and cheese slices.
5. Starting from the longer side, roll up tightly. Seal the seam and place seam side down. Cut into 12 slices, each about 1-inch wide. Arrange in the baking dish.
6. For the glaze, combine butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and poppy seeds in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until smooth and pour evenly over the pinwheels.
7. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours or bake immediately, uncovered, for 25 minutes until golden.

Serving Tips:

1. Serve Warm or at Room Temperature: Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are best served warm or at room temperature to preserve their flaky texture and gooey cheese filling. Arrange them on a platter just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and inviting.
2. Garnish for Presentation: Enhance the presentation of your pinwheels by garnishing them with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle them with additional grated cheese or a dusting of paprika for added flavor and visual appeal.
3. Pair with Dipping Sauces: Offer a selection of dipping sauces on the side, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli, to complement the savory flavors of the pinwheels. Guests can dip their pinwheels for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Create a Platter with Variety: Serve Ham and Cheese Pinwheels alongside an assortment of other appetizers, such as vegetable crudités, cheese and charcuterie, or fruit skewers, to create a diverse and appealing snack platter that caters to different tastes.
5. Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, a cocktail party, or a family movie night, Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a versatile and crowd-pleasing option that’s sure to be enjoyed by all. They’re perfect for any occasion, from formal events to laid-back get-togethers.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: If you have leftover Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate the leftovers within two hours of serving to maintain their freshness.
2. Reheat Gently: To reheat leftover pinwheels, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid overheating to prevent the puff pastry from becoming too crisp.
3. Freeze for Future Enjoyment: Ham and Cheese Pinwheels can be frozen for future use. Arrange the cooled pinwheels in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or container, and label with the date. Frozen pinwheels can be reheated directly from the freezer in a preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. Enjoy Within a Few Days: Consume leftover Ham and Cheese Pinwheels within 2-3 days for the best quality and flavor. Discard any leftovers that have been stored in the refrigerator for longer than the recommended timeframe.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: Consider making a batch of Ham and Cheese Pinwheels ahead of time and storing them in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and convenient snacks or appetizers. They’re ideal for meal prep and can be reheated as needed for busy weeknights or on-the-go lunches.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different types of cheese in the pinwheels?
   • Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is commonly used, you can experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or provolone to customize the flavor to your liking.
2. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time for a party?
   • Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Simply wrap the rolled puff pastry log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before slicing and baking as directed.
3. Can I freeze the unbaked pinwheels for later use?
   • Yes, you can freeze unbaked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels for future use. After slicing the rolled puff pastry log into pinwheels, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. Can I make a vegetarian version of these pinwheels?
   • Absolutely! Simply omit the ham and replace it with your favorite vegetarian toppings such as sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also add a layer of pesto or tapenade for extra flavor.
5. What can I serve with Ham and Cheese Pinwheels?
   • Ham and Cheese Pinwheels pair well with a variety of dips and sauces such as honey mustard, marinara sauce, or barbecue sauce. They also complement other appetizers like stuffed mushrooms, cheese platters, or crudité with dip. Additionally, you can serve them alongside soups or salads for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful fusion of savory flavors and buttery puff pastry, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any gathering or snack time. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create these irresistible treats that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, party snack, or quick bite on the go, Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends alike. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the deliciousness of these delightful pinwheels at your next gathering.