Name: Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: Easy Recipe & Perfect Appetizer
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12-16 pinwheels
Ingredients: 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 8 ounces sliced ham, thinly sliced; 4 ounces Swiss cheese, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes; Optional: Everything bagel seasoning for topping

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: Prepare to be amazed by these savory, bite-sized delights that are perfect for any occasion! I'm so excited to share this recipe with you because it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Imagine flaky, golden-brown pastry swirled with creamy cheese and savory ham – it's a flavor explosion in every bite!

While the exact origins of pinwheels are a bit hazy, the concept of wrapping fillings in dough has been around for centuries, appearing in various forms across different cultures. These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, in particular, are a modern take on this classic idea, offering a convenient and delicious way to enjoy the timeless combination of ham and cheese.

What makes these pinwheels so irresistible? Well, it's a combination of factors. The flaky pastry provides a delightful textural contrast to the soft, melted cheese and savory ham. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! Serve them as appetizers at your next party, pack them in lunchboxes for a satisfying midday snack, or enjoy them as a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The possibilities are endless! I know you'll love how simple and delicious these are.

Ingredients:

1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
8 ounces sliced ham, thinly sliced
4 ounces Swiss cheese, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Optional: Everything bagel seasoning for topping

Preparing the Cream Cheese Spread

Okay, let's get started! The first thing we need to do is whip up that delicious cream cheese spread. This is what's going to bind everything together and add a ton of flavor to our pinwheels. Trust me, don't skip this step!

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Using a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat the ingredients together until they are smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining. This is important for even spreading later on.
Taste the spread and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you like a little more tang, add a touch more Dijon mustard. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add a pinch more garlic powder. Remember, you're the chef here!
Set the cream cheese spread aside while we prepare the pizza dough.

Preparing the Pizza Dough

Now, let's tackle the pizza dough. This is the foundation of our pinwheels, so we want to make sure it's nice and even. Don't be intimidated, it's easier than you think!

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the pinwheels bake evenly and get that golden-brown color we're looking for.
Lightly grease a baking sheet. You can use cooking spray or a little bit of olive oil. This will prevent the pinwheels from sticking to the pan.
Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. If the dough is sticking, sprinkle a little more flour underneath.
Using a rolling pin, gently roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12x16 inches. Try to keep the rectangle as even as possible so the pinwheels are uniform in size. Don't worry if it's not perfect!

Assembling the Pinwheels

This is where the magic happens! We're going to layer all those yummy ingredients onto the pizza dough and create our pinwheel masterpiece. Get ready for some fun!

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pizza dough rectangle. Make sure to go all the way to the edges. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Layer the sliced ham evenly over the cream cheese spread. You can overlap the slices slightly to ensure complete coverage.
Top the ham with the sliced Swiss cheese. Again, make sure the cheese is evenly distributed over the ham.
Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the pizza dough into a log. Try to keep the roll as tight as possible to prevent the pinwheels from unraveling during baking.
Once you've rolled the entire dough into a log, pinch the seam to seal it. This will help keep the pinwheels together.
Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels. You should get about 12-16 pinwheels from one log.
Place the pinwheels onto the prepared baking sheet, cut-side up. Leave a little space between each pinwheel to allow for even baking.

Baking the Pinwheels

Almost there! Now it's time to bake our pinwheels to golden-brown perfection. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be irresistible!

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley flakes.
Brush the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the pinwheels. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and add a delicious cheesy flavor.
Optional: Sprinkle the tops of the pinwheels with everything bagel seasoning for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

Cooling and Serving

The hardest part is waiting! Let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth and allow the flavors to meld together even more.

Remove the baked pinwheels from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
Transfer the pinwheels to a serving platter.
Serve warm and enjoy! These pinwheels are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal.

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your pinwheels? Here are a few ideas:

Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone.
Meat Variations: Substitute the ham with turkey, pepperoni, or salami.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese spread for a little heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the cream cheese spread for a more sophisticated flavor.
Dipping Sauces: Serve the pinwheels with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard.

Make-Ahead Instructions

These pinwheels can be made ahead of time and baked later. Simply assemble the pinwheels as directed, but don't bake them. Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the pinwheels from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking as directed.

Storage Instructions

Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

Appetizer: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or game day.
Snack: A quick and easy snack for kids and adults alike.
Lunchbox Treat: Pack them in your lunchbox for a delicious and satisfying midday meal.
Brunch Item: Add them to your brunch spread for a savory and crowd-pleasing option.
Potluck Dish: A guaranteed hit at any potluck or picnic.

Enjoy your homemade Ham and Cheese Pinwheels! I hope you love them as much as I do!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are truly a must-try recipe for so many reasons. They're incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. The flaky, golden-brown pastry combined with the savory ham and melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that's simply irresistible. But beyond the taste, these pinwheels are incredibly versatile. They're perfect as a quick and satisfying lunch, a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties, or even a fun snack for the kids. Seriously, what's not to love? Why are these Ham and Cheese Pinwheels a must-try? Because they are the ultimate comfort food, elevated with a touch of elegance. They're far more exciting than a regular sandwich and significantly less fussy than many other appetizer options. Plus, they're endlessly customizable! Speaking of customization, let's talk about some serving suggestions and variations. For a more sophisticated flavor profile, try using Gruyere or Swiss cheese instead of cheddar. A sprinkle of poppy seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking adds a delightful textural element and extra flavor. You could also incorporate a thin layer of Dijon mustard or a pesto spread for an extra kick. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the filling. For a vegetarian option, simply swap the ham for roasted vegetables or spinach and artichoke hearts. Serving Suggestions: These pinwheels are delicious served warm, straight from the oven. They're also great at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics or potlucks. Serve them with a side of honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a simple marinara sauce for dipping. For a more substantial meal, pair them with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup. They even make a fantastic addition to a brunch spread! Variations to Explore: Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, meats, and seasonings to create your own signature pinwheel recipe. The possibilities are truly endless! Think about adding a touch of heat with some jalapenos, or going Italian with some salami and provolone. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. I truly believe that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of homemade Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe! And I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Please, share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps inspire others to try this delicious and easy recipe. Happy baking!