If you’re looking for a warm, flaky, and utterly delicious breakfast or snack, these baked ham and cheese croissants are perfect for you. They combine buttery croissants with savory ham and gooey melted cheese to create a simple yet indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
These croissants are ridiculously easy to make yet taste like something straight out of a French café. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy breakfast, a casual brunch, or a last-minute appetizer, they’re guaranteed to impress. Plus, they’re completely customizable—use your favorite type of ham, cheese, or even a touch of Dijon mustard to make them your own.
Ingredients
Here’s a peek at what you’ll need to make these baked ham and cheese croissants. The full list of ingredients and measurements can be found below.
- Fresh croissants
- Sliced ham
- Cheese of your choice (Swiss, cheddar, or Gruyère work beautifully)
- Optional: Dijon mustard or honey for a touch of sweetness
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the croissants in half horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside (optional).
- Layer a slice of ham and your chosen cheese inside each croissant.
- Close the croissants and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the croissants are golden and flaky.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Expert Tips and Tricks
- For the ultimate flaky texture, use bakery-fresh croissants or even make your own if you’re feeling ambitious.
- To avoid sogginess, pat the ham slices dry with a paper towel before layering them in the croissant.
- Don’t skimp on the cheese—it’s what makes these croissants extra gooey and satisfying.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap out the ham for turkey, prosciutto, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
- Experiment with different cheeses—brie, mozzarella, or even a sharp blue cheese can bring a new flavor profile to the recipe.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Pair these croissants with a fresh green salad, a cup of hot coffee, or a side of fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal. They also go beautifully with a warm bowl of soup, like tomato basil or creamy potato. For brunch, serve alongside mimosas or freshly squeezed orange juice.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the croissants soggy.
FAQs
Can I make these croissants ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble them the night before, cover them tightly, and store them in the fridge. Just bake them fresh when ready to serve.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Swiss, cheddar, and Gruyère are classics, but you can use any cheese that melts well and pairs with ham.
Can I freeze these croissants?
Yes! Wrap each croissant individually in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to a month. Bake from frozen at 375°F until heated through.
Can I add extras like veggies?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, or roasted peppers are great additions.
Conclusion
Baked ham and cheese croissants are the perfect mix of indulgence and simplicity. They’re quick to make, endlessly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack, these croissants are sure to bring smiles all around. Go ahead and give them a try—you’ll be hooked!
Print
Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Description
Flaky, buttery croissants stuffed with savory ham and melty cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack, these croissants are both simple and irresistible.
Ingredients
(Full list of ingredients, let me know if you have specifics. Otherwise, I’ll include common components for this recipe.)
- 4 large croissants
- 8 slices of deli ham
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or preferred cheese)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice each croissant in half horizontally.
- Spread Dijon mustard on the bottom half of each croissant (if using).
- Layer 2 slices of ham and 1 slice of cheese on each croissant. Replace the top halves.
- Brush the tops of the croissants with melted butter.
- Arrange the croissants on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the croissants are golden brown.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute ham with turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian option if desired.
- Add a slice of tomato or a handful of fresh spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 croissant
- Calories: ~310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: ~720mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: ~45mg