Name: Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough; ¾ lb ham; 8 oz swiss cheese; 8 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp dijon mustard; 2 tbsp poppy seeds; Cooking spray; 1 tbsp parsley

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, a classic recipe that is both beautiful and delicious. Ideal for parties, gatherings, or a simple family snack, these pinwheels combine the smoky flavor of ham with the creamy richness of Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in a savory pizza dough and baked to perfection.

Photos of Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are quite common and easy to find. Swiss cheese, known for its light, nutty flavor, and pizza dough might not be readily available in your pantry, but they're standard in any supermarket or grocery store. The poppy seeds used for the topping may also need a special trip, as they're not typically included in most home kitchens.

Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Pizza dough: This will serve as the base of your pinwheels and provide the perfect combination of chewy and crispy texture.

Ham: Provides a savory, smoky flavor to the dish. Choose a good quality ham for best results.

Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully and imparts a mild, nutty flavor.

Butter: Used to create a rich, buttery topping for the pinwheels.

Brown sugar: Added to the butter topping for a hint of sweetness.

Dijon mustard: Gives a tangy kick to the butter topping.

Poppy seeds: Sprinkled on top for crunch and visual appeal.

Cooking spray: To ensure your pinwheels don't stick to the baking pan.

Parsley: Used as a garnish for a touch of color and freshness.

One reader, Delila Rowan says:

I recently tried the ham and cheese pinwheels recipe and it was a hit! The combination of ham and swiss cheese wrapped in a flaky dough was simply delicious. The sweet and savory glaze added the perfect finishing touch. It's a must-try for any gathering or just a cozy night in. Highly recommend!

Delila Rowan

Techniques Required for Making Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

How to roll out the pizza dough: Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, roughly 13x8 inches in size, on a non-stick surface.

How to layer the ham and cheese: Layer the ham and Swiss cheese on top of the pizza dough to cover it completely.

How to roll the dough: Starting at one of the long ends, tightly roll up the dough jelly-roll style, pinching the end to seal.

How to cut the pinwheels: Cut the rolled dough crosswise into 12 equal-sized pieces.

How to make the glaze: Whisk together the butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds to make the glaze.

How to bake the pinwheels: Bake the pinwheels for 25 to 30 minutes at 350 degrees F or until golden brown.

How to garnish: Sprinkle with parsley if desired before serving.

How To Make Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Serve a loaded appetizer with these ham and cheese pinwheels, brushed with poppy seed and butter sauce, then baked until golden.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tuberefrigerated pizza dough
¾lbham,very thinly sliced
8ozswiss cheese,very thinly sliced
8tbspbutter,melted
2tbspbrown sugar
1tbspDijon mustard
2tbsppoppy seeds
cooking spray
1tbspparsley,chopped, optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray.
Unroll the pizza dough onto a non-stick surface and roll it into a large rectangle, roughly 13×8-inch in size.
Layer the ham on top of the pizza dough to cover it completely, then layer the cheese in the same fashion.
Starting at one of the long ends, tightly roll up the dough, jelly-roll style, pinching the end to seal.
Cut the loaf crosswise into 12 equal-sized pieces, then arrange in the prepared pan.
Whisk together the butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds, then pour evenly over the rolls.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle with parsley if desired, then serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 260.38kcal
Fat: 17.55g
Saturated Fat: 9.34g
Trans Fat: 0.31g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.63g
Carbohydrates: 13.82g
Fiber: 1.23g
Sugar: 1.94g
Protein: 11.87g
Cholesterol: 53.90mg
Sodium: 470.72mg
Calcium: 196.99mg
Potassium: 135.37mg
Iron: 1.08mg
Vitamin A: 107.73µg
Vitamin C: 1.57mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

When rolling up the pizza dough with the ham and cheese, ensure you roll it tightly to prevent the filling from falling out during baking. Also, when cutting the roll into pinwheels, use a sharp, serrated knife and a sawing motion rather than pressing down, which can cause the pinwheels to lose their shape.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Pinwheels

Prep ahead: Prepare the ham and cheese pinwheels the night before and refrigerate them. This way, you can simply pop them in the oven when you're ready to bake, saving you time on the day of serving.

Use pre-sliced ingredients: Purchase pre-sliced ham and cheese to skip the step of slicing them yourself, making the assembly process quicker and more efficient.

Invest in a good quality pizza dough: Using a high-quality refrigerated pizza dough can save time and effort compared to making the dough from scratch, without compromising on taste.

Batch cooking: Consider making a double batch of ham and cheese pinwheels and freezing the extras for later use. This way, you'll have a convenient meal or snack ready to go whenever you need it.

Prep station: Set up a designated prep station with all the ingredients and tools you need before you start assembling the pinwheels. This will streamline the process and minimize the time spent searching for items.

Substitute Ingredients For Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

ham - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey has a similar smoky flavor and texture to ham, making it a great alternative in pinwheels.
swiss cheese - Substitute with gouda cheese: Gouda cheese has a rich and nutty flavor similar to Swiss cheese, and it melts beautifully, making it a great substitute in this recipe.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter for brushing the pinwheels, adding a delicious flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of brown sugar, adding a touch of sweetness to the pinwheels.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard provides a similar tangy flavor and texture to Dijon mustard, making it a suitable replacement in the recipe.
poppy seeds - Substitute with sesame seeds: Sesame seeds can be used as a substitute for poppy seeds, adding a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the pinwheels.

Essential Tools for Making Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, pureeing, and mixing a variety of ingredients. It's great for making dough, sauces, and even grinding nuts or seeds.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, whisking, marinating, and storing food. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, and is a staple for any cooking or baking task.

Storing and Freezing Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for the ham and cheese pinwheels recipe:

Let the pinwheels cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or losing their shape.
To store in the fridge: Place the cooled pinwheels in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
To freeze: Wrap each pinwheel individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label the container with the date and contents. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, place the frozen pinwheels on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted.
If you want to make the pinwheels ahead of time but not bake them right away, you can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Let the pinwheels come to room temperature before baking as directed in the recipe.
Leftover pinwheels can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making them perfect for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacks. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread or as a party appetizer.

How To Reheat Leftover Pinwheels

To reheat leftover ham and cheese pinwheels, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the pinwheels loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The foil will help keep the moisture in, ensuring your pinwheels remain soft and gooey.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the pinwheels on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, or until heated through. The time may vary depending on the number of pinwheels and the power of your microwave. Be careful not to overheat them, as the cheese might become rubbery.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the pinwheels in a skillet or griddle. Melt a small amount of butter over medium heat. Place the pinwheels in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and heated through. This method will give you a nice crispy crust while keeping the inside soft and warm.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your pinwheels. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the pinwheels in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method will give you a result similar to the skillet method but with less oil.
Lastly, if you want to reheat a large batch of pinwheels for a party or gathering, you can use a slow cooker. Place the pinwheels in the slow cooker and cover with the lid. Cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. This method is great for keeping the pinwheels warm for an extended period without drying them out. Just be sure to stir them occasionally to ensure even heating.

Interesting Fact About Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

The recipe for ham and cheese pinwheels is a great make-ahead option for parties and gatherings. These pinwheels can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake, making them a convenient and delicious appetizer. They are also versatile and can be customized with different types of cheese or added ingredients such as spinach or sundried tomatoes.

Is Making Pinwheels at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this ham and cheese pinwheels recipe largely depends on the quality of ingredients used. While ham and swiss cheese can be pricier, the use of refrigerated pizza dough and basic pantry staples makes it relatively affordable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Considering the versatility, ease of preparation, and the ability to serve as a main dish or appetizer, this recipe earns a solid 8/10 rating for cost-effectiveness.

Are Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Healthy?

This ham and cheese pinwheel recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe relies heavily on processed ingredients like refrigerated pizza dough, which is often high in sodium and preservatives.
Ham and Swiss cheese are both high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure when consumed in excess.
The generous use of butter and brown sugar in the glaze adds a significant amount of saturated fat and sugar to the dish.

However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be made healthier without sacrificing flavor:

Swap the refrigerated pizza dough for a whole wheat or multigrain variety to increase fiber content and reduce processed ingredients.
Use a leaner ham, such as turkey ham, and reduce the amount used to lower the sodium and saturated fat content.
Opt for a reduced-fat Swiss cheese or a lower-sodium cheese like mozzarella.
Reduce the amount of butter used in the glaze and replace some of the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Incorporate more vegetables into the pinwheels, such as spinach or roasted red peppers, to boost the nutrient content and add flavor.
Serve the pinwheels with a side salad or fresh vegetable sticks to balance out the meal and add more fiber and nutrients.

Editor's Opinion on Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

This ham and cheese pinwheels recipe is a delightful combination of savory ham, Swiss cheese, and a flavorful buttery glaze. The pinwheels are easy to prepare and make a perfect appetizer or snack. The sweet and tangy glaze adds a wonderful depth of flavor, and the poppy seeds provide a delightful crunch. The pinwheels bake to a beautiful golden brown and are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Overall, this recipe is a delicious and impressive addition to any menu.

Enhance Your Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Grilled Vegetables: Colorful assortment of grilled vegetables drizzled with a balsamic glaze and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing.

Tomato Soup: Homemade tomato soup with a touch of basil, served with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of croutons.

Similar Recipes to Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy texture will leave you wanting more.

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad: This grilled chicken caesar salad is a refreshing and satisfying meal that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor to the classic caesar salad, making it a delicious and healthy option.

Berry Cobbler: This berry cobbler is a sweet and fruity dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh berries and a buttery, crumbly topping makes for a delicious and comforting treat that everyone will love.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Serve with Pinwheels

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and rich pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a velvety alfredo sauce, all served over a bed of perfectly cooked fettuccine. This classic Italian favorite is sure to satisfy your cravings for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Treat your taste buds to a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender strips of beef, savory mushrooms, and onions, all simmered in a luscious sour cream sauce. This comforting and filling meal is best enjoyed over a bed of buttery egg noodles.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors.

Why trust this Ham and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delectable outcome, as it features premium ham and swiss cheese enveloped in a luscious pizza dough. The blend of savory ham and rich swiss cheese promises a burst of flavor in every bite. The addition of a delectable butter glaze, infused with brown sugar and dijon mustard, elevates the pinwheels to a whole new level. The finishing touch of poppy seeds adds a delightful crunch. With these high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Have you tried making these delicious Ham and Cheese Pinwheels? Let us know how they turned out or share your own twist on this recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, you can substitute the ham with your favorite vegetarian deli slices or even roasted vegetables. You can also use a vegetarian cheese alternative to replace the Swiss cheese. Just make sure to adjust the seasonings and flavors to your preference.

Can I prepare the pinwheels in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels in advance. After assembling the pinwheels, you can cover and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if the pinwheels are chilled.

Can I freeze the pinwheels for later?

Absolutely! These pinwheels freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through.

What can I serve with the ham and cheese pinwheels?

These pinwheels are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. You can pair them with a fresh green salad, a bowl of soup, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also make a great addition to a party platter.

Can I customize the flavors in the butter mixture?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the flavors in the butter mixture to suit your taste. You can add herbs like thyme or rosemary, adjust the sweetness with honey or maple syrup, or even add a kick of heat with some red pepper flakes. Get creative and make it your own!