If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors perfectly, this Pineapple Ham Pinwheels Recipe is exactly what you need. These delightful pinwheels combine creamy cheese, smoky ham, and juicy pineapple wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough for a bite-sized treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a flavorful snack, this recipe is a guaranteed winner that will quickly become one of your favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pineapple Ham Pinwheels Recipe is how straightforward yet thoughtfully balanced the ingredients are. Each item plays a crucial role in building layers of texture and flavor that turn simple components into an irresistible snack.
- Cream cheese, 8 ounces, softened: This is the creamy base that binds everything and adds smooth richness to the filling.
- Ham, ½ cup finely diced: Smoky and savory, the ham brings a hearty, meaty bite that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of pineapple.
- Crushed pineapple, ½ cup drained very well: Adds a juicy burst of natural sweetness and a touch of tropical flair to enliven every bite.
- Scallion, 1 thinly sliced: A fresh, mild onion note that cuts through the richness and adds a lovely green pop of color.
- Spicy mustard, 1 tablespoon: A bit of tang and heat that wakes up the palate and blends beautifully with cream cheese.
- Garlic, 1 clove minced: For a subtle aromatic lift that complements the other savory ingredients.
- Crescent roll dough sheet, 1: This flaky, buttery dough wraps everything up and bakes into golden, tender pinwheels.
- Chopped fresh parsley, optional: Garnish for a fresh, herbaceous finish and a burst of color to brighten the presentation.
How to Make Pineapple Ham Pinwheels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a medium-sized bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, finely diced ham, well-drained crushed pineapple, sliced scallion, spicy mustard, and minced garlic. Mixing these ingredients well ensures an even spread of flavors inside every pinwheel.
Step 2: Assemble the Pinwheels
On a clean work surface, roll out your crescent roll dough sheet with the longer edge facing you. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, taking care to leave about a ¾ inch border free of filling around the edges. This border helps seal the pinwheels nicely. Then, starting at the long edge closest to you, roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the seam to seal it well. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 even pinwheels, aiming for consistent thickness so they bake uniformly.
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the pinwheel slices close together but not touching on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Arranging them in neat rows makes handling easier and allows for even baking. Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown. When they come out of the oven, allow them to cool about 10 minutes to set before serving and to avoid burning any eager fingers.
How to Serve Pineapple Ham Pinwheels Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or additional thinly sliced scallions adds a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens the rich, cheesy pinwheels. These garnishes not only add a pop of color but also enhance the flavor profile, giving a lovely contrast to the baked dough and savory filling.
Side Dishes
Pineapple Ham Pinwheels Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or tangy coleslaw, which add crunch and lighten the mood of the plate. For a heartier meal, try them alongside roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup to round out your meal with warmth and comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider stacking these pinwheels on a beautiful serving platter in a circular pattern for a festive presentation. You can even serve them with a variety of dipping sauces such as a honey mustard, a spicy aioli, or a tropical fruit chutney to delight guests and add layers of flavor that complement the pinwheels’ sweet and savory notes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Pineapple Ham Pinwheels Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their best texture, avoid stacking them too tightly or else they might become soggy. A quick reheat in the oven will bring back their crispness.
Freezing
If you want to keep these pinwheels on hand for longer, they freeze beautifully. Place the unbaked pinwheels on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time and bake from frozen for fresh-tasting results anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pinwheels in a preheated 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes until they are heated through and the exterior is crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it tends to make the dough chewy rather than flaky and crisp.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can add a brighter, juicier sweetness. Just be sure to finely chop it and drain as much juice as possible to avoid soggy dough.
Is it possible to make these pinwheels vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ham with diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a plant-based protein to keep the flavor interesting and still delicious.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Definitely. The filling can be mixed and refrigerated up to a day in advance. Just give it a good stir before spreading it onto the dough.
What kind of mustard works best in this recipe?
A spicy brown mustard adds great depth and a little heat, but you can experiment with Dijon or honey mustard to change the flavor profile slightly.
How do I prevent the pinwheels from getting soggy?
Draining the pineapple thoroughly is key, and baking on parchment paper helps with airflow. Also, avoid piling them too close together in storage to keep their crispness.
Final Thoughts
This Pineapple Ham Pinwheels Recipe is one of those gems that brings big flavor with minimal fuss, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself. The delightful combination of creamy cheese, sweet pineapple, savory ham, and flaky crust is simply irresistible. I can’t recommend giving this recipe a try enough—once you make them, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Print
Pineapple Ham Pinwheels Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 pinwheels
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pineapple Ham Pinwheels are a delightful savory snack featuring a creamy blend of cream cheese, ham, and sweet pineapple wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. These bite-sized pinwheels are perfect as an appetizer or party treat, offering a balance of tangy, sweet, and salty flavors baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Pinwheel Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup finely diced ham
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained very well
- 1 scallion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon spicy mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Dough
- 1 crescent roll dough sheet
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Additional sliced scallions
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
- Mix Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, finely diced ham, thoroughly drained crushed pineapple, thinly sliced scallion, spicy mustard, and minced garlic. Stir well until the ingredients are evenly mixed to create a flavorful filling.
- Assemble Pinwheels: Roll out the crescent roll dough sheet on a clean surface with the longer side facing you. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a ¾-inch border without filling around the edges.
- Roll and Slice: Starting at the long edge nearest you, tightly roll the dough over the filling to form a log. Pinch the seam closed to seal the roll. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 even slices to form the pinwheels.
- Bake: Arrange the pinwheel slices on the prepared baking sheet, placing them close but not crowded, ideally in 4 rows of 3. Bake for 15-20 minutes until they are puffed up and golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the pinwheels cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra sliced scallions if desired before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is drained very well to prevent soggy pinwheels.
- If you don’t have spicy mustard, you may substitute with Dijon or yellow mustard for a milder flavor.
- Allow the pinwheels to cool slightly as the filling will be hot right out of the oven.
- These pinwheels can be served warm or at room temperature, making them great for parties and gatherings.
- You may substitute ham with cooked bacon or turkey for variation.
