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Transform basic ingredients into crowd-pleasing pinwheels that combine buttery puff pastry with savory ham and melted cheese. This four-ingredient appetizer proves that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most irresistible results.
The first time I served these at a gathering, watching guests return repeatedly for "just one more" convinced me that sometimes simple really is best.
Essential Ingredients
- Puff Pastry: Store-bought works perfectly
- Good Ham: Choose thin, quality slices
- Sharp Cheese: Any melting variety works
- Dijon Mustard: Adds perfect tang
- Fresh Parsley: Optional but pretty
- Black Pepper: Enhances all flavors
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Creating Your Pinwheels
- Pastry Prep:
- Roll thawed puff pastry into even rectangle.
- Layer Building:
- Spread mustard, then layer ham and cheese.
- Tight Rolling:
- Create uniform log, keeping layers snug.
- Chill Time:
- Refrigerate roll for easier slicing.
- Perfect Baking:
- Cook until golden and cheese melts.
Through countless parties, I've learned that chilling the rolled log thoroughly makes all the difference in achieving picture-perfect spirals.
Perfect Pairings
Serve warm or room temperature. Add fresh fruit platter for balance. Perfect with champagne or sparkling cider.
Easy Variations
Try different cheese combinations. Add fresh herbs or pesto. Make breakfast version with scrambled eggs.
Smart Storage
Keep unbaked rolls wrapped in refrigerator for one day. Freeze baked pinwheels for up to one month. Reheat in oven to restore crispiness.
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These pinwheels have become my signature party appetizer. The combination of flaky pastry, savory ham, and melted cheese proves that sometimes the most impressive dishes are also the simplest. Even better, they're nearly impossible to mess up, making them perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.