Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: An Easy and Delicious Appetizer or Snack

A Simple Yet Satisfying Treat for Any Occasion

Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a classic appetizer or snack that’s always a hit. These savory pinwheels are made with just a few simple ingredients: refrigerated crescent roll dough, deli ham, Swiss cheese, and a touch of Dijon mustard for extra flavor. They’re incredibly easy to assemble and bake, making them perfect for parties, game days, after-school snacks, or any time you need a quick and delicious treat. The combination of flaky dough, salty ham, melted cheese, and a hint of mustard is simply irresistible. They are also a great way to use up leftover ham.

A Recipe That’s Perfect for Last-Minute Entertaining

I first made these Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels when I needed a last-minute appetizer for unexpected guests. I had some crescent roll dough and leftover ham in the fridge, and I remembered seeing a similar recipe online. I threw them together in minutes, popped them in the oven, and they were a huge success! My guests loved the warm, cheesy, savory bites, and I loved how easy they were to make. Since then, these pinwheels have become one of my go-to recipes for easy entertaining. They’re always a crowd-pleaser, and they require minimal effort on my part. I often make them for game day, or for a quick and easy snack.

Ingredient Insights: Choosing the Right Ingredients for Flavor and Convenience

This recipe is all about simplicity and convenience, using readily available ingredients to create a delicious result. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: The foundation of the pinwheels, providing a flaky, buttery crust.
  • Tip: Using refrigerated dough is a major time-saver.
  • Brand: Pillsbury is a common and reliable brand, but you can use any brand you prefer.
• Deli Ham: Adds a savory, salty flavor that pairs well with the cheese and dough.
  • Tip: Use your favorite type of deli ham, such as Black Forest, honey ham, or smoked ham.
  • Alternative: You can also use cooked ham that you have leftover.
• Swiss Cheese: Provides a nutty, slightly sweet flavor and a melty texture.
  • Tip: Swiss cheese is a classic pairing with ham, but you can use other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a touch of tanginess and complexity to the pinwheels.
  • Alternative: You can use yellow mustard, honey mustard, or omit the mustard altogether.
• Melted Butter: Brushed on top of the pinwheels before baking for added richness and a golden-brown finish.
• Poppy Seeds: Add a subtle nutty flavor and a visually appealing touch.

Essential Equipment: Tools for Easy Pinwheel Assembly and Baking

• Baking Sheet: For baking the pinwheels.
• Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Rolling Pin (Optional): May be needed to slightly roll out the crescent dough.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the melted butter and poppy seeds, if using.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing the melted butter on top of the pinwheels.
• Knife or Pizza Cutter: For slicing the log into individual pinwheels.

The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheel Perfection

Ingredients with Measurements

• 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 8 slices deli ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)

Detailed Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Getting Ready to Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the pinwheels from sticking and make cleanup much easier.

2. Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough: Creating the Base

1. Unroll Dough: Open the can of crescent roll dough and carefully unroll it onto a clean, lightly floured surface.
2. Press Seams: Gently press the seams of the dough together to form a single, large rectangle. You can use your fingers or a rolling pin to help seal the perforations.

3. Add Mustard (Optional): A Touch of Tangy Flavor

1. Spread Mustard: If using, spread the Dijon mustard evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. Layer Ham and Cheese: Building the Savory Filling

1. Layer Ham: Arrange the ham slices in an even layer over the dough, covering the entire surface (except for the border if you used mustard).
2. Layer Cheese: Top the ham with the Swiss cheese slices, creating an even layer.

5. Roll Up the Dough: Forming the Pinwheel Log

1. Start Rolling: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll up the dough into a log, jelly-roll style.
2. Seal Edge: Pinch the edge of the dough to seal the log closed.

6. Slice into Pinwheels: Creating Individual Portions

1. Slice: Using a sharp knife or a serrated knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
   • Tip: For cleaner cuts, you can chill the log in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

7. Arrange and Prepare for Baking: Adding the Finishing Touches

1. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down, leaving a little space between each one.
2. Brush with Butter: Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the melted butter.
3. Sprinkle with Poppy Seeds (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the tops of the pinwheels with poppy seeds.

8. Bake to Golden Brown: Achieving Flaky Perfection

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes.
   • Check for Doneness: The pinwheels are done when they are golden brown on top and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes before serving.

9. Serve and Enjoy: A Delicious and Easy Treat

1. Serve Warm: These Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are best served warm, when the cheese is gooey and the pastry is flaky.

Troubleshooting Common Problems: Tips for Pinwheel Success

• Filling Leaking Out:
  • Problem: The cheese or ham filling leaks out during baking.
  • Solutions: Don’t overfill the pinwheels. Make sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the seam closed.
• Dough Sticking:
  • Problem: The dough is sticking to the work surface or rolling pin.
  • Solutions: Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Work quickly with the dough so it doesn’t become too warm.
• Pinwheels Burning:
  • Problem: The pinwheels are burning on the bottom before they’re cooked through.
  • Solutions: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature. Use parchment paper to help distribute heat.

Tips and Variations: Customize Your Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

• Cheese Variations:
  • Cheddar: Use cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor.
  • Provolone: Provolone adds a slightly smoky flavor.
  • Monterey Jack: For a milder, creamy flavor.
• Mustard Choices:
  • Honey Mustard: Adds a touch of sweetness.
  • Spicy Brown Mustard: For a bolder flavor.
  • Whole Grain Mustard: Adds texture and a more complex flavor.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped, cooked vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrients.
• Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning, thyme, or rosemary to the filling or on top of the pinwheels before baking.
• Make them Mini: Cut the log into smaller, ½-inch thick pinwheels for bite-sized appetizers.

Serving Suggestions: Perfect for Parties, Snacks, and More

• Appetizers: These pinwheels are a great appetizer for parties, game days, or any gathering.
• Snacks: A satisfying snack for kids and adults alike.
• Lunchbox: Pack them in lunchboxes for a fun and tasty treat.
• Light Meal: Serve alongside a salad or soup for a light lunch or dinner.

Pairing Recommendations: Drinks and Sides

• Drinks:
  • Beer: A light-bodied beer, such as a lager or pilsner, pairs well with the savory flavors.
  • Wine: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, would complement the pinwheels.
  • Soda: A refreshing choice, especially for kids.
  • Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened iced tea is a great option.
• Sides:
  • Dipping Sauces: Serve with extra Dijon mustard, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or even marinara sauce for dipping.
  • Salad: A simple green salad or a pasta salad pairs well with the pinwheels.
  • Fruit: A bowl of fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast.
  • Chips: Potato chips or pretzels add a salty crunch.

Nutritional Information: A Savory Treat

Per serving (1 pinwheel, approximate, will vary based on size and specific ingredients): Calories: 180-220, Fat: 10-14g, Carbohydrates: 15-18g, Protein: 7-9g. (Note: This is an approximation and may vary based on the specific ingredients used).

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Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: An Easy and Delicious Appetizer or Snack

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• Author: Jessica

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Learn how to make irresistible Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels! This easy recipe uses refrigerated crescent roll dough, deli ham, Swiss cheese, and a touch of Dijon mustard for a savory, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.

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Ingredients

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• 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 8 slices deli ham
• 8 slices Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Getting Ready to Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the pinwheels from sticking and make cleanup much easier.

2. Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough: Creating the Base

1. Unroll Dough: Open the can of crescent roll dough and carefully unroll it onto a clean, lightly floured surface.
2. Press Seams: Gently press the seams of the dough together to form a single, large rectangle. You can use your fingers or a rolling pin to help seal the perforations.

3. Add Mustard (Optional): A Touch of Tangy Flavor

1. Spread Mustard: If using, spread the Dijon mustard evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

4. Layer Ham and Cheese: Building the Savory Filling

1. Layer Ham: Arrange the ham slices in an even layer over the dough, covering the entire surface (except for the border if you used mustard).
2. Layer Cheese: Top the ham with the Swiss cheese slices, creating an even layer.

5. Roll Up the Dough: Forming the Pinwheel Log

1. Start Rolling: Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll up the dough into a log, jelly-roll style.
2. Seal Edge: Pinch the edge of the dough to seal the log closed.

6. Slice into Pinwheels: Creating Individual Portions

1. Slice: Using a sharp knife or a serrated knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick pinwheels.
   • Tip: For cleaner cuts, you can chill the log in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

7. Arrange and Prepare for Baking: Adding the Finishing Touches

1. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, cut-side down, leaving a little space between each one.
2. Brush with Butter: Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the melted butter.
3. Sprinkle with Poppy Seeds (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the tops of the pinwheels with poppy seeds.

8. Bake to Golden Brown: Achieving Flaky Perfection

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes.
   • Check for Doneness: The pinwheels are done when they are golden brown on top and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes before serving.

9. Serve and Enjoy: A Delicious and Easy Treat

1. Serve Warm: These Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are best served warm, when the cheese is gooey and the pastry is flaky.

Comprehensive FAQ: Your Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheel Questions Answered

• Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
  • A: You can assemble the pinwheels ahead of time and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. You can also bake them ahead and reheat them in the oven or microwave.
• Q: How do I store leftovers?
  • A: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Q: Can I freeze these pinwheels?
  • A: Yes, you can freeze them either baked or unbaked.
    • Baked: Let the pinwheels cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
    • Unbaked: Assemble the pinwheels, but don’t brush with butter or add poppy seeds. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time, then brush with butter and add poppy seeds.
• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
  • A: Absolutely! Cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious.
• Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
  • A: Yes, you can substitute cooked and crumbled sausage, cooked and chopped bacon, or even deli turkey or roast beef for the ham.
• Q: What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?
  • A: You could try using puff pastry as an alternative, but the texture will be different.
• Q: Can I add other toppings before baking?
  • A: Yes, you could sprinkle on sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even a little extra shredded cheese.
• Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
  • A: Leftovers can be reheated in a toaster oven, a conventional oven at 350F for a few minutes, or in the microwave for a shorter amount of time (though the microwave may make them less crispy).
• Q: Can I make these vegetarian?
  • A: You could try using a vegetarian ham substitute or a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and onions for a vegetarian version.
• Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
• A: You would need to find a gluten-free crescent roll dough alternative.
• Q: Are these good for kids?
• A: Yes, these are generally kid-friendly, especially if you omit the mustard.