Easter gatherings have a special kind of magic—laughter in the kitchen, kids sneaking extra treats, and a table packed with Foods For Easter everyone’s excited about. And let’s be real: no one wants to spend the whole day cooking while everyone else is having fun. That’s exactly why these Easter Ham and Cheddar Pinwheels stole the show at our brunch this year.
The moment they came out of the oven, the kitchen smelled dangerously good. Flaky puff pastry? Check. Savory ham? Obviously. Sharp cheddar melting into every swirl? Yes, please. Add a subtle swipe of Dijon, and suddenly you’ve got Finger Food Savory perfection. IMO, this is how Easter snacking should be done.
What really sealed the deal? They’re ridiculously easy to prep ahead. That alone puts them at the top of my list for Easy Easter Party Food. Pop them in the oven, pour yourself a drink, and enjoy being the calm, collected host everyone secretly envies. FYI, they disappear fast—make extra.
These pinwheels fit every Easter scenario. Brunch spread? Done. Buffet table? Perfect. Outdoor vibes? They even work as Easter Cookout Food. No wonder they’ve become one of my go-to Party Savory Snacks and reliable Bunco Appetizers when I need something foolproof.
Looking for fresh Easter Day Food Ideas that don’t require complicated steps or fancy ingredients? This recipe checks all the boxes. It’s casual but impressive, simple yet crave-worthy—basically the unicorn of Easter Dishes Recipes Dinners.
Best part? These pinwheels prove that Easy Easter Recipes Dinner ideas don’t have to be boring. They’re fun, flavorful, and dangerously snackable. Fair warning: you will get asked for the recipe—probably before the tray is even empty.
Ham and Cheddar Pinwheels
Ingredients
Method
In a bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and chopped parsley until smooth and spreadable.
Lightly dust your counter with flour. Lay out one puff pastry sheet and gently roll it just enough to smooth and slightly enlarge it.
Evenly coat the pastry with half of the cream cheese mixture, leaving a narrow border around the edges.
Cover the cream cheese with half of the ham slices, then sprinkle half of the cheddar evenly over the top.
Starting from one long side, roll the pastry tightly into a log. A snug roll keeps the pinwheels neat.
Assemble the second sheet the same way using the remaining ingredients.
Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes until firm.
Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a sharp serrated knife, cut each log into ½-inch rounds.
Arrange pinwheels cut-side up on the baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and bake for 18–20 minutes until puffed and golden.
Let rest for a few minutes before transferring to a serving platter.
Notes
How to Serve
-
Easter Brunch or Dinner Starter:
Arrange on a platter with deviled eggs or a crisp spring salad. -
Party or Holiday Appetizer:
Perfect grab-and-go bites for mingling guests. -
Lunchbox Favorite:
Delicious at room temperature and less messy than sandwiches. -
Picnic or Potluck:
Easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser. -
Game Day Snack:
Serve alongside dips, wings, or chips for a savory spread.
Optional Dips
- Honey mustard
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy mayo
- Warm cheese sauce
Tips for Perfect Pinwheels
- Handle puff pastry gently to keep it flaky.
- Fully soften the cream cheese for easy spreading.
- Don’t skip chilling—it makes slicing much easier.
- Use a serrated knife with a light sawing motion.
- Switch up the cheese if you like—Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack all work great.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?Yes! Assemble and chill the logs up to a day in advance, then slice and bake when ready. Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze sliced, unbaked pinwheels and bake straight from frozen with a few extra minutes added. Any vegetarian options?
Swap the ham for roasted veggies, spinach and artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes for a meat-free version.