Introduction:
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a fun, easy-to-make appetizer or snack that’s perfect for parties, lunches, or even a quick dinner. These savory rolls are made with deli ham, cheese, and a creamy spread, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Once baked, they turn golden and crispy on the outside with a melty, delicious filling inside. You can customize them with different meats and cheeses to suit your taste. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients:
4 large flour tortillas
8 oz sliced deli ham
8 oz sliced cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your favorite cheese)
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions:
Prepare the spread: In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the pinwheels: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface of the tortilla.
Add the fillings: Place 2-3 slices of ham and a layer of cheese on top of the cream cheese mixture, covering the entire tortilla.
Roll it up: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly to form a log. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Slice the rolls: Once all the tortillas are rolled up, slice each roll into 1-inch wide pinwheels.
Bake (optional): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the pinwheels on a baking sheet, brush them lightly with melted butter, and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden brown and crispy.
Serve and enjoy: If serving cold, simply arrange the pinwheels on a plate. If baked, garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Description:
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful bite-sized treat with a creamy, savory filling wrapped in a soft tortilla. The creamy spread and layers of ham and cheese melt together when baked, creating a delicious combination of flavors. These pinwheels are perfect for any occasion and can be customized with your choice of fillings, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.
Tips:
For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat tortillas and low-fat cream cheese or yogurt.
If you prefer a spicier flavor, add some hot sauce or jalapeño slices to the filling.
Make sure to slice the pinwheels evenly for uniform baking and presentation.
To prep ahead, you can assemble the pinwheels and store them in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight before baking.
If you don’t have an oven, you can also cook these in a skillet over medium heat, flipping them until golden and crispy.
Variations:
Chicken Pinwheels: Replace the ham with cooked chicken breast or turkey for a variation.
Veggie Pinwheels: For a vegetarian option, add spinach, bell peppers, and cucumber slices instead of the ham.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Sweet & Savory: Add a thin layer of honey mustard or fig jam for a sweet contrast to the salty ham and cheese.
Corrections:
If your cream cheese spread is too thick, you can thin it out with a teaspoon of milk or water to make it easier to spread.
If you find the pinwheels not crisping up as expected, you can increase the baking time by a few minutes, but watch them carefully to avoid burning.
Enjoy:
Once baked or chilled, your Ham and Cheese Pinwheels will be ready to enjoy! Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal, these pinwheels are sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy the delicious combination of creamy, cheesy goodness wrapped up in a perfectly crispy bite.