Party Pinwheels

Delightful Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels: A Savory Treat

Looking for an appetizer that will impress your guests and make your taste buds dance with joy? Our Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are the perfect choice! This recipe combines the flaky goodness of puff pastry with the savory excellence of ham and Swiss cheese, all tied together with a subtly sweet and tangy glaze. Whether you're planning a cozy gathering or a lavish party, these pinwheels will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

The secret to these pinwheels lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The puff pastry dough, with its buttery and flaky layers, forms a perfect base. Make sure to thaw the pastry just until it's pliable to work with but still cool to the touch. The thinly sliced sweet ham provides a succulent, meaty element, while the Swiss cheese adds a creamy depth. Each ingredient complements the other in both taste and texture.

For a flawless presentation, ensure you roll the dough tightly around the filling so that each pinwheel holds its shape. A serrated knife will help you cut through the rolls without flattening them. The key to achieving a golden crust is in the baking process—high heat and a touch of patience are essential.

Ingredients

• 2 frozen puff pastry sheets - The foundation of our pinwheels, it's essential for that delightful flakiness.
• Cooking spray - To ensure the pinwheels don’t stick and achieve that perfect bake.
• ¼ cup egg substitute - Helps the pastry brown beautifully and seal the edges.
• 1 package thin-sliced sweet ham (7–9 oz) - Provides a savory, slightly sweet depth.
• 8 slices Swiss cheese (6 oz) - Offers creamy texture and mild flavor.
• ½ cup unsalted butter - Enriches the glaze for a buttery finish.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar - Balances the savory elements with a hint of sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - Adds a layer of umami, enhancing overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - Brings a touch of tang to complement the cheese.
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional) - For added crunch and a nutty flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Thaw the puff pastry sheets until they're soft enough to unfold without cracking. Preheat your oven to 375°F and coat two baking sheets with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, carefully roll each puff pastry sheet into a 13 x 10-inch rectangle. This ensures the dough is thin enough to bake evenly.
3. Brush and Layer: Brush each rectangle with the egg substitute to help the layers bind and brown nicely. Arrange the ham and Swiss cheese uniformly over the pastry, leaving a ½-inch border on the longer sides to allow room for sealing.
4. Roll and Slice: Starting with one long side, roll the dough tightly around the filling. Pinch the seams together to secure the roll. Place seam-side down and, using a serrated knife, slice each roll into 12 one-inch-thick pinwheels.
5. Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Cook on medium heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot and well-blended.
6. Top and Bake: Arrange your pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared sheets. Spoon the glaze evenly over each pinwheel, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you're using them.
7. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20–25 minutes until your pinwheels puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown. Let them stand for 5 minutes to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Troubleshooting

• Too Thick: If your glaze is too thick, thin it out with a little melted butter or water, stirring until you achieve the desired consistency.
• Underbaked Centers: If the centers seem underbaked, cover loosely with foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to ensure thorough cooking.
• Cheese Oozing Out: If cheese is spreading too much during baking, chill the filled rolls for 10–15 minutes before cutting to help everything stay in place.
• Burning Top: If the tops brown too quickly, tent with aluminum foil and continue baking to allow the centers to finish cooking.

Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe

Enhance your dining experience with these delightful pairings:

• Side Dishes: A crisp, tangy coleslaw or a fresh green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pinwheels.
• Drinks: Pair these savory bites with a chilled glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or offer a zesty lemonade for a non-alcoholic option.
• Desserts or Garnishes: Serve with a tray of mixed fruit like grapes and melon or a light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate after your meal.

How to Store Properly

• For Refrigeration: Store your cooled pinwheels in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. They'll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For Freezing: Arrange the baked pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
• Prepping in Advance: The rolls can be prepped and stored in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before baking, making them an excellent option for advanced preparation.

FAQs

• Can I use regular ham instead of sweet ham?
  Yes, regular ham can be used. However, you may want to add a touch more brown sugar to balance the savory flavors.
• What if I don’t have Swiss cheese?
  Gruyere or a mild cheddar are great substitutes for similar taste and meltability.
• Can I make these pinwheels vegetarian?
  Absolutely! Replace the ham with sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers for a meat-free option.
• Why is my puff pastry not flaky?
  Ensure the oven is preheated and avoid over-handling the dough, which can activate the gluten and result in a tougher pastry.