Salami and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

If you’re looking for a party snack that’s easy to make, irresistibly tasty, and guaranteed to impress, then you’ve got to try my Salami and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe. I absolutely love how these little bites combine flaky puff pastry with savory salami and melty cheese—plus that touch of coarse ground mustard that gives them a zing you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re prepping for game day, a family gathering, or just a fun weeknight treat, these pinwheels come together quickly and deliver big on flavor. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a go-to snack in your recipe rotation!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together effortlessly, and I’ve found that using good-quality puff pastry and sharp Colby Jack cheese really elevates the taste. Plus, shopping for coarse ground mustard can make a noticeable difference in flavor, so don’t skip on it!

• Puff Pastry Sheets: Look for the kind that come frozen, but make sure to let them thaw properly before rolling out to avoid tearing.
• Coarse Ground Mustard: This adds a tangy pop and texture that smooth mustard can’t match—trust me on this one!
• Hard Salami: Using quality, thinly chopped salami gives these pinwheels their savory, meaty punch.
• Colby Jack Cheese: I like this cheese’s mild, creamy flavor and how it melts beautifully inside the puff pastry.
• Egg: This is for the egg wash, which helps seal the pastry edges and browns the tops nicely.
• Water: Just a splash mixed with egg to create the perfect brushable wash.

Variations

I love playing around with this Salami and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe depending on what’s in my fridge or the occasion. Feel free to swap out ingredients to make it your own—you can’t go wrong!

• Meat Variations: I once made these using pepperoni instead of salami, and my family couldn’t get enough of the spicy kick it gave! You can also try turkey or ham for a milder flavor.
• Cheese Swaps: Switching out Colby Jack for sharp cheddar or even mozzarella adds a new dimension of taste that’s equally delicious.
• Mustard Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of coarse ground mustard, a smear of Dijon or honey mustard works nicely too, giving a little sweetness.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling in some chopped fresh rosemary or thyme before rolling changes things up and adds a fresh aroma.

How to Make Salami and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

Step 1: Roll Out Your Puff Pastry Just Right

Start by thawing your puff pastry sheets according to package instructions so they’re pliable but still cold. Roll out each sheet into roughly an 11-inch by 16-inch rectangle. This size helps you get perfect pinwheel slices that are bite-sized but still satisfyingly substantial. Be gentle so the dough doesn’t tear—if you see any holes, patch them up before moving on.

Step 2: Spread the Mustard and Layer the Good Stuff

Spread 2 tablespoons of coarse ground mustard evenly over each puff pastry sheet. It’s the secret weapon here, adding a tang that cuts through the richness of the salami and cheese. Then sprinkle half your grated Colby Jack and chopped salami evenly on top of each sheet. Try to distribute the fillings so every bite has that tasty balance.

Step 3: Roll It Up and Seal with Egg Wash

Starting from one long edge, gently roll the puff pastry into a tight log. This part is fun—it feels a little like rolling sushi! Mix your egg with a tablespoon of water to make an egg wash, then use a pastry brush to paint the edge of the roll; this helps it seal shut so your pinwheels don’t unravel during baking.

Step 4: Chill Out Before Slicing

Wrap the rolled logs in plastic wrap and pop them in the fridge for at least an hour. I discovered this trick when I first tried this recipe—it makes slicing so much easier and cleaner because the dough firms up without squishing. You can even chill the rolls up to 24 hours if you want to prep ahead.

Step 5: Slice and Shape Your Pinwheels

Remove the plastic wrap and slice your logs into ½-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Place the pinwheels on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and gently reshape any that look a bit squished into neat little circles. Toss the ends—they rarely have the perfect filling balance.

Step 6: Final Brush and Bake!

Brush the tops of each pinwheel with a little more egg wash to get that gorgeous golden color when baked. Into a fully preheated 400°F oven they go for about 25 minutes—keep an eye after 20 minutes to make sure they don’t burn. You want them puffed, golden, and smelling like heaven.

How to Serve Salami and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little flaky sea salt or finely chopped fresh parsley over the warm pinwheels right after baking. It adds a fresh pop and a bit of texture that makes these snacks even more inviting. For something fun, a small dollop of whole grain mustard on the side pairs perfectly.

Side Dishes

When I serve these at parties, I usually pair them with a crisp green salad or simple marinated olives to balance the richness. They also go great alongside a bowl of tomato soup on a chilly day for a cozy combo.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve arranged the pinwheels on a large slate board with colorful dipping sauces around—think herbed cream cheese or spicy aioli. You can also thread a couple on cocktail picks for an easy grab-and-go finger food presentation that looks super polished.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After baking, let the pinwheels cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find the puff pastry stays surprisingly flaky even after a day or two, which is great if you want to prep ahead and save them for later snacking.

Freezing

I’ve frozen the unbaked, sliced pinwheels successfully by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When I’m ready to bake, I pop them straight into the oven—adding a few extra minutes to baking time—so you can make these well in advance without stress.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, I like to warm them in a 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes to refresh the crispiness of the puff pastry without drying them out. Microwave reheating tends to soften the texture, so I generally avoid that.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give this Salami and Cheese Pinwheels Recipe a try because it’s one of those all-time favorite snacks that feels special but is so simple to make. I discovered this recipe when I needed a fuss-free appetizer for a family picnic, and now it’s a staple at every gathering. Once you get the hang of rolling and slicing, you’ll find yourself making these on repeat—they’re just that good. So, grab your puff pastry and salami, and let’s get pinwheeling!

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