These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a delightful, bite-sized treat perfect for snacks, appetizers, or even breakfast. With layers of savory ham, cheesy goodness, and a hint of zucchini, all wrapped in buttery puff pastry, these pinwheels are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Made effortlessly in an air fryer, they’re quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious!
📋 Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed but cold)
- 6–8 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup shredded zucchini (squeeze out excess water with a paper towel)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for the best melt)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper , to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to smooth out any creases. Ensure it’s thawed but still cold for easier handling.
Step 2: Layer with Ham
- Arrange the ham slices evenly across the entire surface of the puff pastry sheet, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 3: Add the Zucchini
- Spread the shredded zucchini evenly over the ham. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini using a paper towel to prevent sogginess.
Step 4: Sprinkle with Cheese
- Top the zucchini with shredded cheese . Use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a rich, melty flavor.
Step 5: Season
- Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper over the filling to enhance the flavors.
Step 6: Roll the Pastry
- Starting from one side, carefully roll the puff pastry into a tight log, similar to rolling a Swiss roll. Use gentle but firm pressure to keep the filling in place while rolling.
Step 7: Slice into Pinwheels
- Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled pastry into 1-inch thick rounds . You should end up with 8–10 pinwheels , depending on the size of your pastry sheet.
Step 8: Preheat Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 3–5 minutes .
Step 9: Arrange in Air Fryer
- Place the pinwheels in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one to allow for even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Step 10: Apply Egg Wash
- Brush the tops of each pinwheel with a little beaten egg . This will give the pastry a beautiful golden color as it cooks.
Step 11: Cook
- Air fry the pinwheels at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes , checking halfway through and rotating them for even browning. Cook until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 12: Cool and Serve
- Let the pinwheels cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best texture and flavor!
Tips for Success
- Zucchini Prep: Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Parmesan, or provolone for unique flavor profiles.
- Add-Ins: Mix in finely chopped spinach, caramelized onions, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days . Reheat in the air fryer or oven for a crispy finish.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Ham and Cheese Puff Pastry Pinwheels are a crowd-pleasing combination of buttery puff pastry, savory ham, and gooey melted cheese. The addition of zucchini adds a subtle freshness and balances the richness of the dish. Made in the air fryer, they’re quick to cook and come out perfectly golden and crispy every time. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing a lunch, or just craving a snack, these pinwheels are sure to impress. Dive into this flaky, cheesy delight and let it become your new go-to recipe!
⏱ Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
- Total Time: ~25–30 minutes
🍽 Servings:
8–10 pinwheels
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~150 kcal per pinwheel (varies based on ingredients and portion size)
