Savory Ham and Cream Cheese Pinwheels
These Savory Ham and Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a delightful appetizer that brings a burst of flavor to any gathering. Originating from a memorable office Christmas party, they quickly became a staple in my party repertoire. Perfectly seasoned cream cheese mingles with the rich, smoky ham, complemented by the mild zing of fresh green onions. What started as a two-hour preparation endeavor has transformed into a quick and easy recipe that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes! These bite-sized treats are not only simple to make but are also irresistibly delicious - a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at your next event!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Square-shaped deli ham
0.5 lb (Smoked or honey-flavored)
Cream cheese
1 (8 ounce) package (Softened)
Green onions
3 (Chopped very fine)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the finely chopped green onions until well incorporated.
2
Lay out the ham slices on a clean surface, ensuring they are slightly overlapping for better coverage.
3
Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture on each ham slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
4
Carefully roll each ham slice from one end to the other, creating a tight jelly-roll shape.
5
Secure the rolls with toothpicks, spacing them about one inch apart.
6
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled ham into pinwheels, each about one inch thick.
7
Arrange the pinwheels on a round serving platter in a circular pattern, or creatively stack them for an appealing presentation.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Ham and Cream Cheese Pinwheels?
Savory Ham and Cream Cheese Pinwheels are a bite-sized appetizer made with seasoned cream cheese spread over ham slices, rolled up, and sliced into small rounds.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need square-shaped deli ham, one 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese, and three finely chopped green onions.
How long does it take to make these pinwheels?
This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish.
What kind of ham works best for this recipe?
Square-shaped deli ham is recommended for better coverage; smoked or honey-flavored varieties are excellent choices.
How should I prepare the cream cheese?
The cream cheese should be softened to room temperature so it can be easily mixed with the onions and spread onto the ham.
How do I prepare the green onions?
The green onions should be washed and chopped very finely before being mixed into the cream cheese.
How do I assemble the pinwheels?
Lay out overlapping ham slices, spread the cream cheese mixture on top, roll them into a jelly-roll shape, secure with toothpicks, and slice.
What is the purpose of the toothpicks in this recipe?
Toothpicks are used to secure the ham rolls every inch or so to keep them from unrolling while you slice them into pinwheels.
How thick should I slice the ham pinwheels?
It is recommended to slice the rolled ham into pinwheels that are approximately one inch thick.
Are these pinwheels suitable for holiday parties?
Yes, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and were originally inspired by a memorable office Christmas party.
Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls in advance and keep them chilled in the refrigerator until you are ready to slice and serve.
How should I arrange the pinwheels for serving?
You can arrange them in a circular pattern on a round platter or creatively stack them for an appealing visual presentation.
Can I use round ham if I cannot find square ham?
Yes, you can use round ham, though you may need to overlap the slices more carefully to ensure the cream cheese is fully enclosed.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, as it primarily consists of ham, cream cheese, and green onions, it is a low-carb and keto-friendly appetizer.
Can I add other seasonings to the cream cheese?
While the recipe calls for green onions, you could add garlic powder, ranch seasoning, or cracked black pepper for extra flavor.
How many people does this recipe serve?
While servings depend on the size of the ham slices, using 0.5 lb of ham typically makes enough for a standard party appetizer platter.
Do I need any special equipment?
No special equipment is needed other than a mixing bowl, a spreading utensil, toothpicks, and a sharp knife.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes, using a chive or vegetable flavored cream cheese can provide an even deeper savory flavor profile.
What is the best way to slice them cleanly?
Using a very sharp knife and slicing in a smooth motion helps maintain the round shape of the pinwheels.
Are these pinwheels considered finger food?
Yes, they are the perfect bite-sized finger food for gatherings, office parties, or holiday snacks.
Can I substitute the green onions?
If you don't like green onions, you can substitute them with fresh chives or finely diced red bell peppers for color.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover pinwheels should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these ham pinwheels?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese and the ham may change and become watery upon thawing.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Absolutely, it is described as a quick and easy recipe that anyone can whip up in just 30 minutes.
Why is it called a 'jelly-roll' shape?
The term refers to the method of rolling the flat ham and filling into a tight cylinder, similar to how a jelly roll cake is formed.
Can I use turkey instead of ham?
Yes, you can substitute deli turkey for ham to create a different flavor profile using the same method.
Should I leave a border when spreading the cream cheese?
Yes, leaving a small border around the edges of the ham helps prevent the cream cheese from squeezing out the sides when you roll it.
Are these pinwheels spicy?
No, they are savory and mild, though the green onions provide a very slight zing.
Can I double this recipe for a large crowd?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients to accommodate more guests.
How do I ensure the cream cheese is well incorporated?
Ensure the cream cheese is very soft before mixing with the onions to achieve a smooth, consistent spread.