Nothing quite beats the warm, melty goodness of a fresh croissant filled with savory ham and gooey cheese. This Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe is the perfect blend of flaky, buttery pastry paired with satisfying layers of deli ham and Swiss cheese that melt together beautifully during baking. Whether you’re making a cozy brunch or a quick yet impressive snack, these croissants deliver on flavor and comfort with every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is delightfully simple, yet every item plays a crucial role in bringing together that classic ham and cheese flavor. These staples are easy to find but combine to create a croissant that’s flaky, savory, and perfectly golden.
- 4 large croissants: Fresh croissants provide the buttery, flaky base that’s essential for this dish’s irresistible texture.
- 8 slices of deli ham (about 200g): Choose quality deli ham for a tender, flavorful filling that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese or Gruyère (about 120g): Swiss or Gruyère melt into a creamy, slightly nutty layer that complements the ham perfectly.
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional): Adds a subtle tang that brightens the richness—feel free to skip if you prefer a milder taste.
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional): Provides a creamy base inside the croissant, balancing flavors and adding moisture.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Brushed on top, it ensures the croissants bake into a beautifully golden and shiny finish.
How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) which is just the right temperature to melt the cheese without burning the croissants. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze and prevent sticking.
Step 2: Add the Flavor Base
If you enjoy a bit of tang and creaminess, spread Dijon mustard and mayonnaise on the inside of each sliced croissant half. This step is optional but really elevates the flavor, adding a lovely moisture barrier between the pastry and ham so everything stays juicy.
Step 3: Layer the Ham and Cheese
Now, layer two slices of deli ham followed by two slices of Swiss or Gruyère cheese inside each croissant half. Closing the croissants gently but firmly will help keep all those delicious fillings snug inside as they bake.
Step 4: Butter Up for the Perfect Crust
Brush the tops of the assembled croissants lightly with the melted butter. This step seals in moisture and gives you that irresistibly golden and shiny crust that makes these croissants so tempting.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the croissants on your prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted and luscious, and the croissants to be a gorgeous golden brown. Keep an eye on them from 12 minutes on so they don’t overbake.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy
The real magic happens when these croissants are served warm. The melted cheese, savory ham, and buttery croissant come together perfectly for a truly comforting bite. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives on top of the croissants just before serving for a fresh, herbaceous pop that contrasts the rich filling.
Side Dishes
Light side salads with a vinaigrette, such as arugula or mixed greens with lemon dressing, beautifully offset the rich, baked ham and cheese croissants. For a heartier meal, pair with a bowl of tomato soup for a classic combination.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut these croissants into smaller fingers for a shareable appetizer platter or wrap them in parchment and twine for a charming picnic treat. You can also add a touch of honey mustard dipping sauce on the side for extra flavor fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 2 days while maintaining decent texture and flavor.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the croissants as directed but do not bake. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Reheating
Warm leftover croissants in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 5 to 7 minutes to revive that crispy exterior and melty cheese inside. Skip the microwave if possible to avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Swiss or Gruyère are classics due to their melting quality and flavor, cheddar, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses can work well. Just choose cheeses that melt smoothly and complement ham.
Is it okay to skip the mustard and mayonnaise?
Definitely. Those ingredients add a little extra flavor and moisture but are not required. The recipe still tastes fantastic with just ham and cheese inside the croissants.
Can I use pre-sliced croissants from the store?
Yes, using store-bought croissants is the easiest approach, especially if they are fresh and flaky. Just slice them carefully in half and proceed with the recipe as usual.
How can I make these croissants ahead of time for guests?
You can assemble the croissants the night before, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake right before serving to enjoy that perfect warm and melty texture.
Are these croissants suitable for breakfast or dinner?
They are incredibly versatile and can be served at brunch, lunch, or even a casual dinner. Pairing them with salad or soup can make a complete meal any time of day.
Final Thoughts
If you ever want an easy yet impressive dish that feels like a little celebration with every bite, this Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe should be on your list. It’s simple enough for a weeknight treat but special enough to serve guests. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these buttery, melty delights as much as I do!
Print
Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast/Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American/French-inspired
Description
These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a delicious, savory treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack. Layers of tender deli ham and melty Swiss cheese are nestled inside flaky croissant halves, then baked to golden perfection with a buttery finish. The optional Dijon mustard and mayonnaise add a subtle tang and creaminess that complements the rich flavors.
Ingredients
Croissants and Fillings
- 4 large croissants, sliced in half
- 8 slices of deli ham (about 200g)
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese or Gruyère (about 120g)
Condiments (Optional)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
Finishing
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Prepare the Croissants: If using, spread Dijon mustard and mayonnaise evenly on the inside of each croissant half to add flavor and moisture.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Layer 2 slices of deli ham and 2 slices of Swiss cheese inside each croissant half, then close the croissants carefully to keep the filling inside.
- Butter the Croissants: Lightly brush the tops of the assembled croissants with melted unsalted butter to ensure a golden, crispy crust during baking.
- Bake: Place the croissants on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese has melted fully and the croissants are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let them cool for a minute, then serve warm to enjoy the melty, flaky goodness.
Notes
- Use Swiss cheese like Gruyère for a richer flavor, but other melting cheeses can work well too.
- For a stronger tang, increase the Dijon mustard amount or swap mayonnaise for a flavored aioli.
- You can prepare these croissants ahead and refrigerate them before baking; just add a few extra minutes when baking.
- Make sure croissants are evenly sliced to hold the filling better while baking.
- Serve with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
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