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### Instructions
#### 1. **Preheat Your Oven**:
– Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
#### 2. **Prepare the Puff Pastry**:
– Lay the sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If you’re using frozen puff pastry, make sure it’s fully thawed before starting.
– Roll the puff pastry slightly with a rolling pin to ensure it’s an even thickness and has smooth edges.
#### 3. **Add the Mustard (Optional)**:
– If you’re using Dijon mustard for extra flavor, spread a thin layer over the entire surface of the puff pastry. The mustard adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the ham and cheese.
#### 4. **Layer the Ham and Cheese**:
– Evenly layer the cooked ham slices or pieces over the puff pastry, covering it almost completely, leaving about half an inch along the edges.
– Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the ham.
#### 5. **Roll the Pastry**:
– Starting from one edge of the puff pastry, carefully roll it up tightly, ensuring the filling stays inside. Roll it like a jelly roll, keeping it as tight as possible without squishing the ingredients.
– Once fully rolled, trim any uneven ends to create a neat log.
#### 6. **Cut into Pinwheels**:
– Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled-up pastry into about 1-inch thick pinwheels. Try to make the slices as even as possible for uniform cooking.
#### 7. **Prepare the Egg Wash**:
– Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it lightly over the top of each pinwheel. This will give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
#### 8. **Bake**:
– Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching each other.
– Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
#### 9. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Once baked, remove the pinwheels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
– Serve them warm, and enjoy the delicious flaky texture with gooey cheese and savory ham!
### Tips for the Perfect Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels
1. **Use High-Quality Ham**: The flavor of the ham plays a significant role in the overall taste of the pinwheels. Choose a high-quality, cooked ham for the best results. You can also use leftover holiday ham for a more flavorful twist.
2. **Cheese Variety**: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic options, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or gouda. A combination of cheese types will give the pinwheels extra depth of flavor.
3. **Add Vegetables**: If you want to add some extra nutrition, toss in some spinach, arugula, or sautéed mushrooms along with the ham and cheese. These additions will give the pinwheels a fresh, savory twist.
4. **Make-Ahead**: You can make these pinwheels ahead of time! Prepare them, slice, and place them on a baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them for later use and bake them from frozen.
5. **Serve with Dipping Sauces**: These pinwheels go perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces. Try serving them with mustard, ranch dressing, or a tangy BBQ sauce for added flavor.
### Variations to Try
– **Veggie Pinwheels**: For a vegetarian version, use sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and spinach in place of the ham. You can still add cheese for richness.
– **BBQ Chicken Pinwheels**: Swap out the ham for cooked shredded chicken and add some BBQ sauce for a smoky, savory alternative.
– **Pepperoni and Cheese**: For a pizza-inspired pinwheel, add slices of pepperoni and mozzarella cheese, and brush the top with a little Italian seasoning.
### Healthier Options
If you’re looking for a slightly lighter version, you can try these substitutions:
– **Use Whole Wheat Puff Pastry**: Look for whole wheat or reduced-fat puff pastry for a healthier alternative.
– **Reduce the Cheese**: Use less cheese or opt for a lighter cheese like part-skim mozzarella.
– **Add More Veggies**: Consider adding more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value of your pinwheels.
### Conclusion
**Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels** are a simple, savory, and crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer that will quickly become a favorite in your home. With their golden, flaky pastry and gooey filling, these pinwheels are the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests, packing lunchboxes, or simply craving a quick snack, these pinwheels are guaranteed to satisfy. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s both impressive and irresistibly delicious. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors in every bite!
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