Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels

• Prepare the Puff Pastry:
  • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape (if it’s not already).

• Add the Filling:
  • Spread a thin layer of mustard over the puff pastry (optional).
  • Evenly layer the ham slices on top of the mustard.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the ham.
  • Sprinkle dried herbs over the cheese, if desired.

• Roll and Slice:
  • Roll the pastry tightly from one long edge to the other to form a log.
  • Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.

• Assemble and Bake:
  • Place the pinwheels flat-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  • Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

• Serve:
  • Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Here are some variations and tips for your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels:

Variations:

1. Different Meats: Swap out the ham for turkey, salami, or even cooked bacon for a different flavor.
2. Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, pepper jack, or feta for unique tastes.
3. Vegetarian Version: Replace the ham with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a vegetarian option.
4. Add Spices: Incorporate spices like paprika or garlic powder into the cheese mixture for an extra kick.

Tips:

1. Thawing Puff Pastry: Make sure to thaw the puff pastry in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight for best results.
2. Chill Before Baking: If the pinwheels become too soft while assembling, chill them in the fridge for about 15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
3. Serving Suggestions: Serve with a dipping sauce like honey mustard, ranch, or marinara for added flavor.
4. Storage: Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.

To store your Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels, follow these steps:

1. Cooling: Allow the pinwheels to cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
2. Airtight Container: Place the cooled pinwheels in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together.
3. Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within 3 days.
4. Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the pinwheels. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
5. Reheating: To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

This way, you can enjoy your pinwheels later without losing their deliciousness!