Imagine biting into a warm, flaky croissant, its delicate layers giving way to gooey, melted Swiss cheese and savory smoked ham. These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants bring that café-quality experience right into your kitchen with minimal effort.
Perfect for a decadent breakfast, an elegant brunch, or a satisfying snack, this recipe is incredibly easy to assemble and offers fantastic customizability. You can even prepare them ahead of time for ultimate convenience, making busy mornings a breeze!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Texture: Enjoy the signature flaky, buttery layers of a perfectly baked croissant.
- Gooey Cheese Heaven: Experience the joy of warm, stretchy, melted Swiss cheese with every bite.
- Savory Ham Filling: Thinly sliced smoked ham adds a delicious, satisfying savory flavor.
- Quick & Easy Preparation: Assemble these delicious ham and cheese croissant sandwiches in minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Serve them for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or as an afternoon snack.
- Customizable Flavors: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your personal preferences or what you have on hand.
- Excellent for Meal Prep: Prepare a batch for the week or freeze for later, ensuring you always have a tasty option ready.
Ingredients
To create these delightful Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants, gather these simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter: Ensure it is at room temperature for easy blending into the savory spread.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: This adds a tangy, sophisticated kick that perfectly complements the ham and cheese.
- 2 green onions: Thinly slice them for a fresh, mild oniony flavor that brightens the filling.
- 1 tablespoon honey: A touch of honey balances the savory notes with a subtle, natural sweetness.
- ½ tsp sea salt: Enhances and brings out all the individual flavors in the croissant.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a mild warmth and depth to the butter mixture.
- 12 croissants: Choose large, buttery, good-quality croissants. They can be fresh or even day-old for a slight crispier texture once baked.
- 1 pound thinly sliced smoked deli ham: Thin slices layer beautifully and ensure a balanced ham distribution.
- 12 slices Swiss cheese: This cheese melts wonderfully, offering a nutty, mild flavor that pairs classically with ham.
- 1 large egg white: Whisk this with water to create a golden, shiny glaze for the croissant tops.
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds: Sprinkle these over the egg wash for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Notes & Substitutions
- Croissants: Use fresh, bakery-quality croissants for the best results. Slightly stale croissants will also work and can crisp up nicely in the oven.
- Cheese: Experiment with Gruyère for a richer, nuttier flavor, sharp cheddar for a bolder taste, or mozzarella for a milder, stretchier melt.
- Ham: Feel free to substitute with thinly sliced turkey, crispy bacon, or even explore vegetarian alternatives like grilled mushrooms or spinach.
- Herbs: Fresh chives or a pinch of dried parsley can replace or supplement the green onions for an herbaceous touch.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup makes an excellent alternative to honey, offering a different, yet equally pleasant, sweet note.
Equipment
Gathering your tools before you begin ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. You will need:
- 9×13 inch baking dish: A standard size to hold all twelve croissants in a single layer.
- Small mixing bowls: Essential for preparing the savory butter spread and the egg wash.
- Whisk: For thoroughly combining ingredients in your small bowls.
- Pastry brush: Helps apply the egg wash evenly over the croissants for a golden finish.
- Sharp knife: Crucial for carefully slicing the croissants without tearing.
How To Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
Follow these simple steps to create perfectly golden and gooey Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, making delicious results achievable for any home baker.
- Prepare your oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9×13 inch baking dish or coat it with a nonstick cooking spray.
- Make the savory butter spread: In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, thinly sliced green onions, and honey. Season the mixture with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Mix these ingredients thoroughly with a whisk until they form a smooth, well-combined spread.
- Slice the croissants: Carefully take each croissant and slice it horizontally using a sharp knife. Be sure not to cut all the way through, keeping one side attached to create a hinge, similar to slicing a bun for a sandwich.
- Spread the butter mixture: Open each croissant like a book. Spread a generous and even layer of the savory butter mixture on both the top and bottom halves of the interior of each croissant.
- Layer the fillings: Take the thinly sliced smoked deli ham and Swiss cheese. Carefully layer the ham and cheese inside each buttered croissant. Arrange the ham and cheese to ensure they fit neatly within the croissant halves.
- Arrange in baking dish: Place the filled croissants in a single layer into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Ensure they fit snugly but are not overly crowded.
- Prepare egg wash: In another small bowl, whisk together the large egg white with 1 tablespoon of water until well combined and slightly frothy. This creates your golden egg wash.
- Brush and sprinkle: Using a pastry brush, evenly coat the tops of all the filled croissants with the egg white mixture. Afterward, generously sprinkle poppy seeds over each croissant. This adds both flavor and a beautiful visual texture.
- Bake to perfection: Transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven. Bake the croissants for 15-18 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown color and appear toasted. The cheese inside should be visibly bubbly and completely melted.
- Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Allow the Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving. This cooling time prevents burns from the hot, gooey cheese and allows the flavors to settle. Serve them warm and enjoy!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving perfect ham and cheese croissants every time is simple with these expert insights. Follow these tips to ensure a delightful experience and troubleshoot common issues.
- Prevent sogginess: For a crispy exterior, layer your cheese slices first onto the croissant, creating a barrier between the ham and the dough. This helps prevent the ham from making the croissant soggy. Always bake them unwrapped for maximum crispiness.
- Achieve a golden crust: Apply the egg wash evenly across the entire top surface of each croissant using a pastry brush. An even application ensures a consistent, beautiful golden-brown color and a glossy finish.
- Flavor variations: Do not hesitate to experiment with the savory butter spread. Add a pinch of garlic powder, a dash of smoked paprika, or a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or oregano to customize the flavor profile.
- Do not overbake: Keep a close eye on your croissants while they are in the oven. Bake until they reach a golden brown color. Overbaking can lead to dry croissants and overly crispy, hard cheese.
- Cool slightly: Resist the urge to dive in immediately. Allowing the croissants to cool for a few minutes after baking prevents burns from the molten cheese and ensures the filling settles perfectly.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
These delicious baked ham and cheese croissants are incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into various meals and occasions.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy them warm straight from the oven as a standalone delight. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a vibrant fresh fruit salad, a light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, or a bowl of comforting soup. Pair them with your favorite morning coffee, tea, or a refreshing glass of orange juice.
- Storage Instructions: Store any leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.
- Reheating Tips: To maintain their flaky texture, reheat refrigerated croissants in an oven or toaster oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the croissants soft and chewy.
- Make Ahead: For ultimate convenience, assemble the croissants with the butter mixture, ham, and cheese. Arrange them in the baking dish, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Before baking, remove them from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Then, proceed with the egg wash and baking steps as directed.
- Freezing Instructions: Freeze unbaked or baked croissants individually on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen unbaked croissants in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Reheat frozen baked croissants directly from the freezer in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm and flaky.
- Flavor Variations: Elevate your croissants by adding extra ingredients. Incorporate caramelized onions for sweetness, sautéed spinach for a touch of green, or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of savory tang. Consider spreading a thin layer of pesto or a different type of gourmet mustard for an exciting flavor twist.
Nutrition
Understanding the nutritional content of your meals helps you make informed choices. Below are the approximate nutrition facts for one serving of Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 323 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Protein | 17 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 89 mg |
| Sodium | 838 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Please note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You have questions, and we have answers! Here are some common inquiries about making delicious Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants.
What type of croissants are best for this recipe?
Use high-quality, buttery croissants from a local bakery or a good grocery store. Their flaky texture elevates the final dish.
Can I use other cheeses besides Swiss?
Yes, absolutely! Gruyère, cheddar, or mozzarella all melt wonderfully and offer different flavor profiles.
How do I prevent the croissants from becoming soggy?
Layer the cheese directly onto the croissant dough first. This creates a barrier that helps keep the pastry flaky and prevents the ham from making it damp.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Get creative! Sliced tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or a thin spread of caramelized onions can add fantastic extra flavor and texture.
Can I make these croissants ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the croissants and refrigerate them overnight. Bring them to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants offer an effortless way to enjoy a truly delightful treat. Their flaky, buttery pastry, combined with savory ham and gooey melted cheese, creates an irresistible flavor and texture combination perfect for any meal. We encourage.
Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly oil or coat a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, Dijon mustard, sliced green onions, and honey; season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Spread the prepared butter mixture evenly on both sides of each croissant half, then fill them with slices of ham and cheese to create 12 sandwiches.
- Arrange the filled croissants in a single layer within the prepared baking dish.
- In another small bowl, whisk together the egg white and 1 tablespoon of water, then brush this mixture over the tops of the croissants and sprinkle with poppy seeds.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and toasted; allow them to stand for 5 minutes after baking.
- Serve the baked ham and cheese croissants warm.
Notes
Diabetes Nutrition Specialist | Healthy Diet Advocate | Founder of GoldFoodie.
My passion for nutrition began with a deeply personal journey supporting my father through his battle with diabetes. Watching his daily struggles made me realize how powerful the right food choices can be in improving quality of life. That experience drove me to dedicate my career to helping others live healthier, more balanced lives.
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
