Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: A Timeless Classic with a Twist
There’s something about the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked ham and cheese pinwheels that brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Perhaps it’s the golden, buttery pastry or the rich, savory filling that makes this dish a favorite among both the young and the old. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that not only encapsulates the essence of this timeless snack but also introduces a delightful twist that will leave your taste buds craving more.
For Whom This Recipe Shines
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and satisfying snack for your kids, a host in need of a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or simply someone who enjoys the pleasures of homemade comfort food, this recipe is for you. Its simplicity, coupled with the irresistible combination of flavors, makes it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What sets these ham and cheese pinwheels apart is the addition of a special glaze—a harmonious blend of butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds. This glaze not only enhances the flavors of the ham and cheese but also adds a touch of sweetness and depth that elevates the entire dish.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
- 1 can refrigerated Classic Pizza Crust
- 3/4 lb deli ham (thinly sliced, but not shaved)
- 12 slices Swiss cheese (thinly sliced)
- For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Kitchen Equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Cooking spray
- Cutting board
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Oven
Step-by-Step: Crafting the Perfect Pinwheels
- Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and coating your baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures that your pinwheels will release easily after baking.
- Assemble: Unroll the pizza dough onto a cutting board, pressing it into a rectangle. Evenly layer the ham and cheese, then roll up tightly from the longer side. Cut into 12 slices and arrange in the baking dish.
- The Glaze: The secret to these pinwheels’ irresistible flavor lies in the glaze. Combine the glaze ingredients over medium heat until smooth, then pour over the arranged pinwheels.
- Bake to Perfection: Whether you choose to bake immediately or refrigerate for later, these pinwheels take just 25 minutes in the oven to reach golden perfection.
Tips, Tricks, and Swaps
- Quick Fix: In a pinch, pre-made crescent roll dough can substitute for pizza crust, offering a slightly different but equally delicious result.
- Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar or Gouda can offer a nice variation.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ham with a layer of roasted vegetables for a delightful vegetarian treat.
Storing Leftovers
These pinwheels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to preserve the crispiness of the crust.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair these savory delights with a crisp side salad or a light soup for a balanced meal. For drinks, a glass of chilled white wine or a light beer complements the flavors wonderfully.
FAQ
- Can I make these ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Prepare and glaze the pinwheels, then refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
- How do I ensure my pinwheels don’t become soggy?
- Make sure to seal the seam well before cutting, and don’t skip the pre-bake glaze step as it creates a barrier.
Conclusion: A Call to Culinary Adventure
These ham and cheese pinwheels with their unique glaze are more than just a snack; they’re a journey into the heart of comfort food. Simple yet sophisticated, they’re sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
I invite you to try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and subscribe to our blog for more delightful dishes. Your feedback and variations are always welcome, as they inspire us to continue exploring and sharing the world of flavors. Together, let’s make every meal an adventure.
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Found joy in the golden swirls of these ham and cheese pinwheels? Share this recipe on social media and subscribe to our blog for more culinary inspirations. Your next favorite dish is just a recipe away!
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Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
Nothing beats the smell of Ham and Cheese Pinwheels fresh out of the oven! 😍
Ingredients
1 can refrigerated Classic Pizza Crust
3/4 lb deli ham (thinly sliced, but not shaved)
12 slices Swiss cheese (thinly sliced)
Glaze:
1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) butter
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Unroll the pizza dough on a cutting board and press into a 13×18-inch rectangle. Layer evenly with ham and cheese slices.
Starting from the longer side, roll up tightly. Seal the seam and place seam side down. Cut into 12 slices, each about 1-inch wide. Arrange in the baking dish.
For the glaze, combine butter, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and poppy seeds in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until smooth and pour evenly over the pinwheels.
Refrigerate for up to 24 hours or bake immediately, uncovered, for 25 minutes until golden.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 pinwheels
- Calories: 320 Kcal