Ham Cheese Croissants Recipe

Flaky Ham & Cheese Croissants Recipe: A Morning Joy

Flaky croissants meet their perfect match in this irresistible ham cheese croissants recipe that promises pure comfort on a plate.

Golden-brown pastry embraces savory ham and melted cheese in a delightful culinary embrace.

The combination creates a mouthwatering harmony of textures and flavors that dance across your palate.

Crisp edges and soft, buttery interiors make these croissants a breakfast or brunch sensation.

Each bite delivers a delectable blend of salty ham and rich, gooey cheese nestled within delicate layers of pastry.

Weekend mornings or quick weekday breakfasts will never be the same once you master this simple yet elegant dish.

Prepare to elevate your morning meal with these irresistible ham and cheese croissants that are sure to become a new favorite.

Ham and Cheese Croissant Flavorful Details

  • Whip Up Quickly: Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute meal prep, these ham and cheese croissants come together in just a few simple steps.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like different meats, cheeses, or mustard types to match your taste preferences or use what's in your fridge.
  • Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love these golden, flaky croissant sandwiches packed with savory ham and melted cheese.
  • Elevate Casual Gatherings: Serve as a delightful brunch option or casual party appetizer that looks impressive but requires minimal cooking skills.

Ingredients in Ham and Cheese Croissant

Main Ingredients:
  • Croissants: Soft, buttery pastries that form the base of these delectable sandwiches.
  • Ham: Savory, sliced meat that adds protein and rich flavor to the dish.
  • Cheese: Melty ingredient that provides creaminess and enhances the overall taste.
Spread Ingredients:
  • Butter, Mustard, Green Onions, Honey, Salt, Pepper: Flavorful mixture that creates a tangy and sweet spread for the croissants.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Egg White, Water, Poppy Seeds: Light egg wash that helps achieve a golden, shiny crust and adds a slight crunch with poppy seeds.

Baking Ham and Cheese Croissant Steps

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a cozy 375°F.

Grab your 9×13 baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil or rub with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Flavor Magic

In a small mixing bowl, combine:
  • Softened butter
  • Dijon mustard
  • Chopped green onions
  • Honey
  • Pinch of salt
  • Dash of black pepper

Whisk these ingredients until they form a smooth, fragrant spread that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Build Delicious Sandwiches

Slice your croissants gently.

Generously spread the mustard mixture on both halves.

Layer in:
  • Thin slices of ham
  • Shredded or sliced cheese

Press the croissant halves together to create perfect little flavor packages.

Step 4: Add Golden Shine

In a small bowl, whisk an egg white with a splash of water.

Brush this mixture over the top of each croissant.

Sprinkle poppy seeds for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven.

Bake for 15-18 minutes until the croissants turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Let them rest for 5 minutes – this helps the cheese settle and flavors meld.

Serve warm and enjoy your gourmet creation!

Tips for Flaky Ham and Cheese Croissants

  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the butter mixture for extra depth and complexity.
  • Select high-quality ham and good melting cheese like gruyère or swiss for richer taste.
  • Use fresh, buttery croissants from a local bakery for the best texture and taste.
  • Lightly toast croissants before assembling to maintain crispness and prevent moisture buildup.
  • Prepare assembled croissants earlier and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for convenience.

Variations for Savory Croissant Lovers

  • Vegetarian Veggie Croissant: Replace ham with roasted bell peppers, grilled zucchini, and spinach for a plant-based alternative.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free croissants and swap regular mustard for Dijon mustard to maintain flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwestern Croissant: Add jalapeños, swap green onions for cilantro, and include pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
  • Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap: Skip croissants entirely and wrap ingredients in large lettuce leaves for a lighter version.

Serving Ham and Cheese Croissants Fresh

  • Breakfast Brilliance: Pair these croissants with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced morning meal.
  • Brunch Bonanza: Serve alongside a light spinach quiche or crisp mixed green salad to create a delightful weekend spread.
  • Side Companion: Complement the rich flavors with a tangy cucumber yogurt dip or zesty homemade salsa for extra excitement.
  • Wine & Dine: Match with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio for an elegant lunch experience.

Storage Tips for Ham and Cheese Croissants

  • – Refrigerate Wrap leftover ham and cheese croissants in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
  • – Freeze Store in airtight freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags for maximum 2 weeks. Place parchment paper between croissants to prevent sticking.
  • – Reheat Warm refrigerated croissants in preheated oven at 350F for 8-10 minutes. For frozen croissants, thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
  • – Best Served Enjoy these croissants fresh and warm for optimal taste and texture, as reheated versions might lose some crispness.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make the spread special?

The spread combines butter, mustard, green onions, honey, salt, and pepper, creating a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that elevates the classic ham and cheese croissant.

  • Can I use different types of ham?

Yes, you can use various ham types like honey ham, black forest ham, or even turkey ham to suit your taste preferences while maintaining the recipe’s core concept.

  • Are poppy seeds necessary for the recipe?

Poppy seeds are optional but add a nice nutty crunch and visual appeal to the croissant’s surface, enhancing both texture and presentation.

  • What cheese works best for this recipe?

Swiss, provolone, or cheddar cheese are excellent choices that melt well and complement the ham and spread flavors in the croissant.

Print
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Ham Cheese Croissants Recipe

Ham Cheese Croissants Recipe


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4.6 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Elevate breakfast with these irresistible ham and cheese croissants, a delightful French-inspired morning treat. Flaky pastry embraces savory ham and melted cheese, creating a quick, satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 12 mini croissants, halved
  • 1 pound (454 grams) sliced smoked deli ham
  • 12 slices Swiss cheese

Condiments and Seasonings:

  • 1/3 cup (79 milliliters) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Toppings:

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 large egg white
  • 2 teaspoons poppy seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F and coating a 9×13 baking dish with a light grease layer to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a flavorful spread by blending softened butter with tangy mustard, finely chopped green onions, sweet honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
  3. Slice croissants horizontally and generously coat both interior surfaces with the prepared herb-honey mustard mixture.
  4. Layer thin slices of ham and cheese inside each croissant, ensuring even distribution and complete coverage.
  5. Whisk egg white with a small amount of water to create a glossy wash that will help achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
  6. Carefully brush the tops of assembled croissants with the egg white mixture and sprinkle poppy seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
  7. Place the prepared croissants in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, watching for a rich golden-brown color and crisp edges.
  8. Remove from oven and allow sandwiches to rest for 5 minutes, which helps set the filling and prevents burning when serving.
  9. Serve warm, allowing the melted cheese and crisp croissant to create a delightful culinary experience.

Notes

  • Double-check croissant freshness by gently pressing; they should feel soft and springy, not stale or hard.
  • Customize ham selection for dietary needs, using turkey ham for lower fat or vegetarian ham alternatives.
  • Try cheese varieties like Swiss, Gruyère, or provolone to enhance flavor complexity and texture.
  • Brush egg wash carefully to achieve golden, glossy surface without making croissants soggy or overly wet.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 276
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 645 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 11 g
  • Cholesterol: 22 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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