These golden, flaky spirals are the ultimate savory snack—crispy puff pastry wrapped around layers of smoky ham and melty cheese, baked to perfection and finished with a touch of herbs. They’re elegant enough for party platters yet simple enough for everyday indulgence. The visual appeal of the spiral shape, with its visible layers of filling, makes them irresistible on sight alone.
This recipe is a celebration of texture and flavor: buttery pastry, salty ham, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs all rolled into one bite-sized delight. Whether served warm from the oven or at room temperature, these spirals are crowd-pleasers. They’re perfect for brunch spreads, lunchboxes, tea-time treats, or as a starter for dinner parties. You can customize the filling with different cheeses, add mustard or pesto for a flavor twist, or even swap the ham for turkey, chicken, or roasted vegetables.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), thawed
- 6–8 slices of deli ham (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or pesto
- Optional garnish: fresh thyme sprigs or parsley
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth and slightly enlarge it. If using mustard or pesto, spread a thin layer over the surface of the pastry.
- Layer the Filling: Arrange the ham slices evenly across the pastry, leaving a small border on one edge for sealing. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the ham, followed by a light dusting of dried thyme or oregano.
- Roll the Pastry: Starting from the filled edge, gently roll the pastry into a tight log, keeping the layers snug. Seal the edge by pressing gently. Place the roll seam-side down.
- Slice into Spirals: Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into 1-inch thick rounds. You should get about 10–12 spirals. Arrange them cut-side up on the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each for expansion.
- Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush the tops of the spirals lightly. This gives them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the spirals are puffed and golden brown. The cheese should be melted and slightly caramelized.
- Cool and Garnish: Let the spirals cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs or chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips & Variations:
- Cheese options: Try Swiss, pepper jack, or a mix of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers.
- Make-ahead: Assemble and slice the spirals, then refrigerate or freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
- Serve with dips: Pair with honey mustard, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce for dipping.
