Ham and Cheese Pinwheels is a great snack or appetizer that combines the savory flavors of ham and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a golden, flaky dough. Perfect for parties, game days, or even a quick, family-friendly dinner. With simple ingredients and easy to prepare, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up these pinwheels in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack, a holiday gathering, or a school lunchbox addition, these pinwheels fit the bill.
Customizable: Swap out the fillings or seasonings to create endless variations.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep them in advance and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible Ham and Cheese Pinwheels:

1 package crescent roll dough (or puff pastry for a flakier texture)
1/2 lb thinly sliced deli ham
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella work best)
2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
1 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder

How to Make Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

1: Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the crescent roll dough on a clean surface, pressing any seams together to form a single sheet.

2: Layer the Fillings

Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the dough if using.
Evenly layer the ham slices over the dough.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously across the top.

3: Roll and Slice

Roll the dough tightly from the shorter side to create a log.
Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 1-inch thick slices.

4: Bake to Perfection

Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Tips for the Best Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to slice cleanly, refrigerate the rolled log for 10-15 minutes before cutting.
Customize the Fillings: Try different deli meats like turkey or pepperoni, and experiment with cheeses such as provolone, gouda, or pepper jack.
Keep Them Rolled: Roll the dough tightly and chill before slicing to prevent the pinwheels from unrolling while baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels taste amazing on their own but pair beautifully with a variety of dips:

Honey mustard sauce
Ranch dressing
Marinara sauce

Serve them warm alongside a crisp side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete and satisfying meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead: Assemble the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the ham for roasted vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Breakfast Twist: Use scrambled eggs, cooked bacon, and cheddar cheese for a morning-friendly version.

Frequently Asked Questions For Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

Can I use a different type of dough? Yes! While crescent roll dough is quick and convenient, puff pastry creates a flakier texture, and pizza dough makes a heartier roll.
What other fillings work well? Feel free to get creative! Try combinations like turkey and Swiss, pepperoni and mozzarella, or even spinach and feta.
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time? Absolutely. You can assemble and refrigerate them up to a day in advance or freeze unbaked pinwheels for longer storage.
How do I prevent the pinwheels from unrolling while baking? Ensure the dough is rolled tightly, and consider chilling the log before slicing to help maintain their shape.

More Appetizer Recipes For Your Next Family Dinner

Conclusion

These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are an easy, delicious, and versatile appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick lunch, or looking for a fun snack, these pinwheels deliver on flavor and convenience.

Try this recipe today and watch them disappear in no time! Don’t forget to customize the fillings to your taste and share the love with friends and family. Enjoy your homemade Ham and Cheese Pinwheels!”