Savory Ham Cheese Pinwheels

Featured in: Quick Snack Fixes

These golden pinwheel rolls combine flaky puff pastry with thinly sliced ham, melted cheddar cheese, and a touch of Dijon mustard. After spreading the mustard on the pastry, ham and cheese are layered, then rolled tightly and sliced into 16 pieces. Brushed with egg wash for a glossy finish, they bake to crisp perfection in about 20 minutes. They make an easy, flavorful appetizer or snack, ideal for gatherings and casual occasions. Variations include substituting turkey or adding chives and paprika for extra character.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 14:52:00 GMT
Golden, flaky Savory Ham and Cheese Pinwheel Rolls fresh from oven, smelling so delicious for lunch. Pin it
Golden, flaky Savory Ham and Cheese Pinwheel Rolls fresh from oven, smelling so delicious for lunch. | smartyskitchen.com

Flaky, golden pastry spirals filled with savory ham and melted cheese—perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party finger food.

This recipe has been a favorite at family gatherings, loved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

  • Pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g) ready-rolled puff pastry (chilled, not frozen)
  • Filling: 100 g thinly sliced cooked ham
  • Filling: 100 g grated cheddar cheese (or Swiss cheese)
  • Filling: 2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Filling: Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • For Baking: 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Preheat oven:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare pastry:
Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.
Apply mustard:
Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the pastry, if using.
Add ham:
Arrange ham slices evenly over the mustard, leaving a 1 cm border along one long edge.
Add cheese and season:
Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the ham. Season lightly with black pepper.
Roll pastry:
Starting from the long edge without the border, tightly roll up the pastry into a log, sealing the edge with a bit of beaten egg.
Slice roll:
Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 16 equal pieces.
Arrange pinwheels:
Place pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
Apply egg wash:
Brush tops with beaten egg.
Bake:
Bake for 18 20 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
Cool and serve:
Cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
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These pinwheels always bring back warm family memories during holiday parties and casual get-togethers.

Notes

Substitute turkey or chicken slices for ham if preferred. Add chopped chives, caramelized onions, or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor. Serve with a honey-mustard dipping sauce or alongside a green salad.

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (cheese), and pork (ham). May contain traces of nuts or soy if present in the pastry—always check packaging.

Nutritional Information

Per pinwheel: Calories 95, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 7 g, Protein 4 g

Melted cheese oozes from inside these warm Savory Ham and Cheese Pinwheel Rolls with flaky, golden pastry. Pin it
Melted cheese oozes from inside these warm Savory Ham and Cheese Pinwheel Rolls with flaky, golden pastry. | smartyskitchen.com

Enjoy these pinwheels warm for the best flavor and texture. They also make excellent party appetizers that impress every time.

Recipe Questions & Answers

What type of pastry should I use?

Use ready-rolled puff pastry, preferably chilled but not frozen, for flaky layers and easy handling.

Can I substitute the ham with another ingredient?

Yes, turkey or chicken slices work well as alternatives to ham for a milder flavor.

Is Dijon mustard necessary in the filling?

While optional, Dijon mustard adds subtle tanginess that complements the ham and cheese nicely.

How do I ensure the pinwheels hold their shape during baking?

Roll the pastry tightly and seal the edge with beaten egg to prevent unrolling. Slice gently using a sharp knife.

What are good serving suggestions for these pinwheels?

Serve warm or at room temperature, alongside a honey-mustard dipping sauce or a fresh green salad.

Savory Ham Cheese Pinwheels

Flaky pastry spirals filled with ham, cheddar, and Dijon mustard, perfect as a savory finger food.

Prep Time
15 min
Time to Cook
20 min
Overall Time
35 min
Created by Emily Scott


Skill Level Easy

Culinary Roots International

Makes 16 Portions

Diet Details None specified

What You'll Need

Pastry

01 1 sheet (about 8.8 oz) ready-rolled puff pastry (chilled, not frozen)

Filling

01 3.5 oz thinly sliced cooked ham
02 3.5 oz grated cheddar cheese (or Swiss cheese)
03 2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
04 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Baking

01 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions

Step 01

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Roll Out Pastry: Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface.

Step 03

Spread Mustard: Evenly spread Dijon mustard over the pastry, if using.

Step 04

Layer Ham: Arrange ham slices evenly over the mustard, leaving a 0.4 inch border along one long edge.

Step 05

Add Cheese and Seasoning: Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the ham and season lightly with black pepper.

Step 06

Roll Pastry Log: Starting from the long edge without the border, tightly roll up the pastry into a log, sealing the edge with a bit of beaten egg.

Step 07

Slice Pinwheels: Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 16 equal pieces.

Step 08

Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place pinwheels cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 09

Apply Egg Wash: Brush tops with beaten egg to enhance browning.

Step 10

Bake: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

Step 11

Cool and Serve: Allow pinwheels to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife
  • Pastry brush
  • Rolling pin (optional)

Allergy Info

Review each item for allergens and reach out to a healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (cheese), and pork (ham). May contain traces of nuts or soy depending on pastry brand.

Nutrition Info (per portion)

Info for reference only. Always check with your doctor for health guidance.
  • Energy (Calories): 95
  • Fats: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Proteins: 4 g