Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Try Today

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a delightful treat that never fails to impress. Imagine biting into a flaky, buttery croissant, only to discover a warm, gooey center filled with savory ham and melted cheese. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings back memories of cozy brunches and family gatherings. Originating from the French pastry tradition, croissants have become a beloved staple in many cultures, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. People adore Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants for their perfect balance of taste and texture—the crisp exterior gives way to a rich, satisfying filling that leaves you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, these croissants are a convenient and delicious option that will surely delight your taste buds.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large croissants
• 8 slices of deli ham (your choice of smoked, honey, or black forest)
• 8 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your favorite)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Preparing the Croissants

First things first, let’s get our croissants ready. I love using fresh, flaky croissants for this recipe because they add a delightful texture and flavor.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking our croissants to golden perfection.
2. While the oven is heating, take your croissants and slice them in half lengthwise. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want them to open like a book.
3. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of each croissant half. This adds a nice tangy flavor that complements the ham and cheese beautifully.

Layering the Ham and Cheese

Now that our croissants are prepped, it’s time to layer in the delicious fillings.

1. Take two slices of ham and place them on the bottom half of each croissant. You can fold the ham if necessary to fit it nicely.
2. Next, add two slices of cheese on top of the ham. If you’re using a cheese that melts well, like Swiss or cheddar, it will create a gooey, delicious filling.
3. Close the croissant gently, pressing down slightly to help the layers stick together.

Preparing for Baking

Before we pop these beauties in the oven, let’s get them ready for baking.

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will give our croissants a lovely golden color and extra flavor.
2. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the melted butter mixture over the top of each croissant. Make sure to cover the entire surface for that perfect golden finish.
3. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little more cheese on top of each croissant if you like it extra cheesy!
4. Finally, brush the tops with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful shine and help them brown nicely in the oven.

Baking the Croissants

Now it’s time to bake our croissants to perfection!

1. Place the prepared croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent them from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t over-brown. You want them to be perfectly golden!

Serving the Croissants

Once your croissants are out of the oven, it’s time to serve them up!

1. Let the croissants cool for a couple of minutes on the baking sheet. This will help the cheese set slightly, making them easier to handle.
2. If you’d like, you can sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve the baked ham and cheese croissants warm, either as a delightful breakfast treat or a savory snack. They pair wonderfully with a side salad or some fresh fruit.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store them:

1. Allow the croissants to cool completely before storing them.
2. Wrap each croissant individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them fresh.
3. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.


Conclusion:

In summary, these Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast or brunch game. The flaky, buttery croissant enveloping the savory ham and gooey cheese creates a delightful combination that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, preparing a quick weekday breakfast, or simply indulging in a delicious snack, these croissants are versatile enough to fit any occasion. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these croissants with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad for a balanced meal. You can also experiment with variations by swapping out the ham for turkey or adding a slice of tomato or avocado for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try different types of cheese, like sharp cheddar or creamy brie, to customize the taste to your liking. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of creating something so delicious and satisfying. Once you’ve made your own Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delightful recipe together! Happy baking! Print

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Try Today
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• Author: Dottie
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
Print Recipe
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Description
Enjoy these flaky ham and cheese croissants, filled with savory deli ham and melted cheese, perfect for breakfast or a snack. Easy to make and sure to impress, they are brushed with a buttery mixture and baked until golden brown. Serve warm for a delightful treat!
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Ingredients
Scale 1x2x3x
• 4 large croissants
• 8 slices of deli ham
• 8 slices of cheese
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
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Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the croissants in half lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of each croissant half.
4. Place two slices of ham on the bottom half of each croissant.
5. Add two slices of cheese on top of the ham.
6. Close the croissant gently, pressing down slightly.
7. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with a pinch of salt and pepper.
8. Brush the melted butter mixture over the top of each croissant.
9. Optionally, sprinkle more cheese on top.
10. Brush the tops with the beaten egg.
11. Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
13. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
14. Let the croissants cool for a couple of minutes on the baking sheet.
15. Optionally, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
16. Serve warm, paired with a side salad or fresh fruit.
Notes
• Feel free to customize the type of ham and cheese based on your preferences.
• For an extra cheesy experience, add more cheese on top before baking.
• These croissants are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for later.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes