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Hot Ham and Cheese Pinwheels: A Delightful Snack for Any Occasion

If you’re searching for a delectable snack that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd, look no further than hot ham and cheese pinwheels. These savoury bites are perfect for parties, picnics, or simply as a tasty treat at home. Not only are they quick to make, but they can also be easily customised to suit your taste. Let’s delve into how to create these mouth-watering pinwheels that are bound to become a favourite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

To make hot ham and cheese pinwheels, you will need:

• 1 pack of puff pastry: You can use ready-rolled sheet pastry for convenience, which saves you time in the kitchen.
• 200g cooked ham: Sliced thinly for optimal rolling. Choose your favourite type, from smoked to honey-baked, for a personal touch.
• 200g cheese: Cheddar is a popular choice, but feel free to experiment with your favourites, such as mozzarella or Gruyère.
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard (optional): For an extra kick of flavour.
• 1 egg: Beaten, for egg wash to give the pinwheels a lovely golden finish.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Chopped herbs (optional): Such as thyme or parsley, to enhance the flavours.

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface if it isn’t already rolled out. You want it to be approximately 0.5cm thick.

Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels

Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the pastry, if using. Evenly distribute the ham slices across the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges. Grate or lay out the cheese on top of the ham, sprinkling with salt, pepper, and any chopped herbs you desire.

Step 3: Roll and Cut

Starting from one edge, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log. Ensure you roll it evenly to create uniform pinwheels. Once you’ve rolled it up, use a sharp knife to slice the log into equal pieces, about 2.5cm thick.

Step 4: Bake

Place the pinwheels on the prepared baking tray, leaving some space between each one to allow for expansion. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve that gorgeous golden hue while baking. For an extra touch, sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. The aroma of baked ham and melting cheese will fill your kitchen, a sure sign that they’re nearly ready!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the pinwheels cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them an excellent snack for gatherings. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce, such as barbecue or sweet chilli sauce, for a delightful twist.

Variations

The beauty of hot ham and cheese pinwheels lies in their versatility. Here are a few ideas for variations to suit your taste:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ham with sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers for a tasty vegetarian version.
• Cheesy Delight: Add a mix of different cheeses for a more flavourful filling, or incorporate cream cheese for a creamy texture.
• Spicy Kick: Include jalapeños or a sprinkle of paprika for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Conclusion

Hot ham and cheese pinwheels are a simple yet delicious snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Their ease of preparation, combined with the endless possibilities for flavour combinations, makes them a fantastic addition to any treat repertoire. So next time you need a crowd-pleasing snack, whip up a batch of these delightful pinwheels, and watch them disappear in moments!