Here’s a clear, step-by-step recipe for Chilled Ham & Cheese Pinwheels. This is a no-cook, fridge-chilled snack—great for lunches, parties, or quick bites.
Chilled Ham & Cheese Pinwheels (Step by Step)
🥪 Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas (8–10 inch)
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby-Jack, or Swiss)
- 6–8 slices deli ham (thinly sliced)
- 1–2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon or yellow mustard (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Plastic wrap
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Soften the Cream Cheese
- Take the cream cheese out of the fridge 10–15 minutes early.
- It should be soft enough to spread easily (not melted).
Step 2: Make the Spread
- In a bowl, combine:
- Softened cream cheese
- Mayonnaise (if using)
- Mustard (if using)
- Garlic powder
- Black pepper
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas
- Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the tortilla.
- Leave about ½ inch around the edges uncovered.
Step 4: Add Ham and Cheese
- Lay 1–2 slices of ham evenly over the cream cheese.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Don’t overfill or the pinwheels won’t roll well.
Step 5: Roll the Tortilla
- Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly into a log.
- Keep it firm but don’t squeeze too hard.
Step 6: Wrap and Chill
- Wrap the rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- This helps the pinwheels hold their shape.
Step 7: Slice into Pinwheels
- Remove the wrap.
- Use a sharp knife to slice into ½–1 inch pieces.
- Wipe the knife between cuts for clean slices.
Serving
- Serve chilled
- Optional garnish: parsley or a small toothpick for parties
Storage
- Store in an airtight container
- Keep refrigerated
- Best eaten within 24–36 hours
Easy Variations
- Veggie: Add spinach or bell peppers
- Spicy: Add a little hot sauce or pepper jack cheese
- Italian: Swap ham for salami and add Italian seasoning
If you want a kid-friendly version, a healthier option, or a party-size batch, just let me know 😊