Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are the ultimate snack or appetizer that combines the savory flavors of ham and gooey cheese, all wrapped in golden, flaky dough. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing game-day snacks, or need a quick meal idea, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious pinwheels step by step.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Perfect for beginners, this recipe uses store-bought dough for convenience.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite cheeses, meats, or add some veggies for extra flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a snack for kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients for Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious treat:

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

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Step-by-Step Instructions

this recipe

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, flat surface. Press any seams together to create a single sheet.

2. Layer the Fillings

• Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (if using) over the dough.
• Evenly layer the ham slices over the entire sheet.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the ham.

3. Roll and Slice

• Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one of the shorter sides.
• Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels.

4. Bake to Perfection

• Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
• 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.

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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.
• Serve warm: These pinwheels taste best straight out of the oven when the cheese is melted and gooey.

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Serving Suggestions

Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are versatile and pair well with a variety of dips, such as:

• Honey mustard sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Marinara sauce

They’re also perfect alongside a crisp side salad for a complete meal.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked pinwheels for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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Final Thoughts

Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a must-try recipe that delivers on flavor, ease, and versatility. Perfect for any occasion, these bite-sized delights will have everyone coming back for more. Don’t forget to customize them to your taste and share the joy with your loved ones!

Serving Tips for Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

1. Best Served Warm: These pinwheels taste best straight out of the oven, when the cheese is melted and gooey.
2. Pair with Dips: Enhance their flavor by serving with dips like honey mustard, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce.
3. Side Options: Make them a part of a meal by pairing with a light salad, soup, or fresh fruit platter.
4. Party Presentation: Arrange the pinwheels on a platter with garnishes like parsley or sliced vegetables for a colorful and inviting look.

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Storage Tips for Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

1. Refrigerate Leftovers: Place cooled pinwheels in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating Instructions: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dough soggy.
3. Freeze for Later:
   • Before Baking: Freeze assembled 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 at 350°F until warmed through.
4. Avoid Overcrowding: When storing, arrange pinwheels in a single layer to prevent sticking or crushing.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels anytime!

1. Can I use a different type of dough?
   Absolutely! While crescent roll dough is convenient, you can also use puff pastry or pizza dough. Puff pastry gives a flakier texture, while pizza dough makes them more substantial.
2. What other fillings can I use?
   The possibilities are endless! Try turkey, pepperoni, or roasted vegetables. You can also experiment with cheeses like provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.
3. Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Bake them fresh when ready to serve. You can also freeze unbaked pinwheels for later use.
4. How do I prevent the pinwheels from unrolling while baking?
   Make sure the dough is rolled tightly when assembling. You can also chill the assembled log for 10-15 minutes in the fridge before slicing to keep the shape intact.

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