Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Ingredients:
Puff Pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g), thawed
Ham: 150 g (6 slices), thinly sliced
Cheese: 1 cup (100 g), shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
Mustard: 2 tbsp (optional, for extra flavor)
Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
Fresh parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet onto a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to smooth it out, if necessary, to ensure it’s an even thickness.
Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of mustard (if using) over the entire surface of the puff pastry. Then, layer the slices of ham evenly on top of the mustard. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the ham, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
Roll Up the Pastry: Carefully roll the puff pastry sheet from one edge to the other, forming a log-like shape. Try to roll tightly but without squeezing the ingredients out. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to slice the roll into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels.
Egg Wash and Baking: Arrange the pinwheels on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Brush the tops of the pinwheels with the beaten egg to give them a nice golden color once baked. Season with a little salt and pepper.
Bake: Place the pinwheels in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed, golden brown, and crispy.
Serve: Once out of the oven, let the pinwheels cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
These ham and cheese puff pastry pinwheels are perfect for parties, picnics, or as a savory snack. They combine the crispiness of puff pastry with the savory flavors of ham and melted cheese, making them a delicious treat for all ages.