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Easy Freezer Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Easy Freezer Ham and Cheese Pinwheels - featured image

Flaky, savory appetizers made with puff pastry, ham, and sharp cheddar cheese. These pinwheels are quick to assemble, perfect for freezing, and ideal for parties or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed but cold
  • 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 stalks green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Thinly sliced deli ham (honey or Virginia ham)

Instructions

  1. Thaw puff pastry sheets according to package instructions until pliable but cold (approx. 30-40 minutes).
  2. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, grated cheddar, Dijon mustard, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry sheets into a large rectangle (approx. 1/8 inch thick).
  4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border on all sides.
  5. Lay ham slices over the cream cheese layer, overlapping slightly to ensure full coverage.
  6. Starting from a long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, tucking in the filling as you go. Pinch the seam to seal.
  7. Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for at least 1 hour until firm.
  8. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  9. Unwrap the chilled log and slice into 1-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife.
  10. Place pinwheels on the baking sheet, leaving space between them.
  11. Brush the tops with the egg wash.
  12. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Keep all ingredients cold until baking to ensure flaky layers. Use a sharp knife to slice the log to prevent tearing. Can be frozen raw for up to 3 months or baked and frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven at 350°F for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: ham and cheese pinwheels, puff pastry appetizer, freezer friendly appetizer, party food, easy appetizer, game day snacks, make ahead appetizer