Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining the savory goodness of ham, gooey cheese, and flaky dough. These pinwheels are perfect for game day recipes, party snacks, or quick meal ideas. Let’s dive into this easy, step-by-step guide to make these delicious treats.
Ingredients for Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 package crescent roll dough or puff pastry
- 1/2 lb thinly sliced deli ham
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
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 flat surface, pressing any seams together to form a single sheet.
2. Layer the Fillings
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the dough (optional).
- Evenly layer the ham slices across the sheet.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the ham.
3. Roll and Slice
- Tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from one of the shorter sides.
- Slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels using a sharp knife.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- 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 bubbling.
Tips for Success
- Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Experiment with Fillings: Add spinach, caramelized onions, or substitute ham with turkey or pepperoni for a twist.
- Serve Warm: These pinwheels taste best fresh out of the oven when the cheese is melted and gooey.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels with dips like:
- Honey mustard sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Marinara sauce
For a complete meal, serve with a crisp side salad or a bowl of soup.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead
- Assemble the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh before serving.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough soggy.
Freezing
- Before Baking: Freeze unbaked pinwheels on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- After Baking: Wrap cooled pinwheels individually in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Common Questions
Can I use a different type of dough?
Yes! While crescent roll dough is convenient, puff pastry offers a flakier texture, and pizza dough creates a heartier option.
What other fillings can I try?
Get creative! Use turkey, pepperoni, or roasted vegetables. Experiment with cheeses like provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
How do I prevent the pinwheels from unrolling while baking?
Roll the dough tightly and chill the assembled log for 10-15 minutes before slicing to help maintain the shape.
Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are the perfect addition to your collection of game day recipes. Easy, versatile, and packed with flavor, these pinwheels are sure to score big with your guests. Try them out and enjoy the compliments!