Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

This savory ham and cheese pinwheel recipe has become my go-to party appetizer that never fails to impress guests. The combination of flaky pizza dough wrapped around thin slices of ham and melty Swiss cheese creates the perfect bite-sized treat that disappears within minutes at every gathering.

I first made these pinwheels for a last-minute game day gathering when I needed something quick and satisfying. My friends devoured them so quickly I had to make a second batch before halftime even started.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: This versatile base creates the perfect flaky texture. Store-bought works perfectly but homemade adds extra flavor if you have time.
• Thin ham slices: Opt for quality deli ham sliced very thin for the best texture. Black forest or honey ham both work wonderfully.
• Swiss cheese: The classic pairing with ham that melts beautifully. Look for thinly sliced Swiss that will melt evenly without overpowering.
• Butter: Creates the rich base for the sauce. Use unsalted so you can control the overall saltiness.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a sophisticated tang that balances the richness. French varieties tend to have the best flavor profile.
• Worcestershire sauce: This umami ingredient adds depth and complexity. A little goes a long way here.
• Minced onions: Optional but recommended for subtle savory notes throughout the sauce.
• Poppy seeds: Also optional but they add a pleasant textural contrast and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the baking dish:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking dish by either buttering it thoroughly or lining with parchment paper for easy cleanup and serving.

Roll out the dough:

Carefully unroll the pizza dough onto a clean cutting board maintaining its rectangular shape. Gently press out the edges to create an even rectangle making sure there are no thin spots that might tear.

Layer ham and cheese:

Arrange the ham slices evenly across the entire surface of the dough leaving a small border around the edges. Then layer the Swiss cheese slices on top of the ham creating an even distribution for consistent flavor in every bite.

Create and slice the roll:

Starting with the short edge slowly roll the dough into a tight log using your fingertips to keep it even and compact. A tight roll prevents gaps when baking. Cut the log in half then each piece in half again using a sharp serrated knife with a gentle sawing motion. Finally slice each section into three even pieces to create 12 pinwheels.

First bake:

Arrange the pinwheels cut side up in your prepared baking dish with a small space between each one to allow for expansion. Bake for 15 minutes until they begin to turn golden but are not yet fully done.

Prepare the sauce:

While the pinwheels are baking whisk together the melted butter Dijon mustard Worcestershire sauce minced onions and poppy seeds in a small bowl until completely combined. The sauce should be smooth and aromatic.

Finish baking:

Remove partially baked pinwheels from the oven and gently brush the sauce mixture over the tops making sure to cover all exposed surfaces. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until beautifully golden brown and completely cooked through.

Rest and serve:

Allow the pinwheels to rest in the pan for 5 minutes which helps the cheese set slightly for easier serving. Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy while still warm.

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My favorite part of this recipe is the buttery Dijon sauce that gets brushed on during baking. It creates this incredible flavor explosion that elevates simple ingredients into something truly special. My nephew once declared these the "fancy pizza rolls" and now requests them at every family gathering.

Make-Ahead Options

These pinwheels are perfect for planning ahead. You can prepare the entire roll up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Simply cover the sliced pinwheels tightly in the baking dish with plastic wrap until you're ready to bake. The cold dough actually becomes easier to slice cleanly when chilled making this a great option for entertaining. Allow an extra 3-5 minutes of baking time if coming straight from the refrigerator.

Creative Variations

While the classic ham and Swiss combination is delicious this recipe template works beautifully with endless variations. Try turkey and provolone for a milder flavor or pepperoni and mozzarella for an Italian twist. Vegetarian options work wonderfully too spinach and feta create a Greek-inspired version while roasted red peppers and goat cheese offer sophisticated flavor. The sauce can also be customized with honey for sweetness or red pepper flakes for heat.

Serving Suggestions

These pinwheels shine as part of a larger appetizer spread alongside fresh vegetables and dip. For a complete meal pair them with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. They also make excellent lunch box additions for school or work as they taste great at room temperature. For an elegant presentation arrange them on a wooden board with fresh herbs and a small bowl of extra sauce for dipping.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough?

Yes, crescent roll dough works well as a substitute and gives a slightly softer texture to the pinwheels.

→ What kind of cheese is best for this dish?

Swiss cheese is ideal, but you can substitute with provolone or cheddar based on your taste preferences.

→ Can these pinwheels be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pinwheels, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.

→ How do I prevent the dough from unrolling while baking?

Roll the dough tightly and place the pinwheels snugly in the baking dish to help keep their shape during baking.

→ Can I omit the poppy seeds in the sauce?

Yes, the poppy seeds are optional and can be skipped without affecting the taste of the sauce.