Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels! They are an absolute delight, and not just because they envelop the delicious duo of ham and cheese in that glorious, flaky crust. I first made these for a family gathering a few years ago, and they disappeared faster than I could say “pinwheel.” Seriously, I stood there in disbelief, snacking on the few that remained while everyone else raved about them!
I love how versatile these pinwheels are. Whether it’s a fancy party or just a casual movie night, they elevate any gathering. The aroma of them baking in the oven creates a cozy atmosphere that draws everyone to the kitchen, and trust me, you’ll be proud to serve them. Plus, they’re so simple to make that you can easily whip up a batch on a whim!
What’s in Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels?
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these savory treats so special:
Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: This is the magical crust that holds everything together and provides that lovely flaky texture. You can also use pizza dough if you want an alternative that’s equally delicious.
Cooked Ham: Thinly sliced ham is the star of this show. It provides that savory, salty flavor that melts beautifully with the cheese. I usually opt for a good-quality, deli-style ham.
Shredded Cheese: You can go with Swiss for a classic taste or cheddar if you want a bit of sharpness. Either way, the gooey cheese is the real crowning glory of these pinwheels.
Dijon Mustard: A dash of Dijon adds a lovely bit of zing to the pinwheels. It’s optional, but trust me, it elevates the flavor!
Olive Oil: Drizzling a bit of olive oil before baking helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
Dried Thyme: I love the earthy aroma that thyme brings. Fresh thyme can be used as a garnish for an extra touch.
Black Pepper and Garlic Powder: These seasonings pack a punch and enhance the ensemble of flavors perfectly.
Egg: This is used for an egg wash to give the pinwheels a shiny, golden finish. It’s optional, but oh-so-nice!
Is Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Good for You?
Let’s keep it real—these pinwheels are a treat, not a health food, but they do have their perks!
Cooked Ham: It’s a great source of protein, making these pinwheels a filling choice for a snack or appetizer. However, be mindful of sodium levels if you’re watching your intake.
Cheese: Packed with calcium, cheese has its health benefits too, but it’s always good to consume it in moderation because of the fat content.
Dijon Mustard: This condiment has less sugar than many alternatives, and it adds flavor without adding calories.
Remember, it’s all about balance! Enjoy these pinwheels guilt-free in moderation, and you can even add some veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost your snack game!
Ingredients for Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
– 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (or pizza dough)
– 1 cup cooked ham, thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss or cheddar)
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme, for garnish)
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Serves: 4-6
How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the crescent roll dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle. If you’re using crescent rolls, make sure to pinch the seams together to avoid any gaps.
3. Spread Dijon mustard (if using) over the dough for added flavor.
4. Evenly distribute the slices of ham on the rolled-out dough, followed by a generous layer of shredded cheese.
5. Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough up into a log shape.
6. Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch thick pinwheels and place them cut side up in the prepared baking dish.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the pinwheels and sprinkle with thyme, black pepper, and garlic powder.
8. (Optional) Beat the egg and brush it over the pinwheels for a golden finish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
10. Let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional thyme if desired.
Pinwheel Perfection: Tips & Tricks
– Serve these warm as an appetizer or snack; they taste best fresh from the oven!
– Feel free to get creative with your filling! You can add spinach, bell peppers, or even a different type of cheese for a unique twist.
– If you want to meal prep, these pinwheels can be frozen before baking. Just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer—no need to thaw, just add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
I can’t wait for you to try making these Baked Ham and Cheese Pinwheels! They’re so easy and oh-so-delicious; I’m sure they’ll become one of your go-to recipes just like they are for me. Don’t forget to share your experience, and happy cooking!
