Oh my goodness, let me tell you about baked ham and cheese croissants! These little beauties are the ultimate flaky pastries, bursting with savory goodness. Imagine biting into a warm, golden croissant, the layers gently flaking away to reveal delicious ham and melted cheese inside. They’re just perfect for breakfast or brunch, or honestly, any time you need a little pick-me-up! I love how easy they are to whip up, yet they feel so indulgent. Trust me, once you try these baked ham and cheese croissants, you’ll be hooked! They’re an absolute crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds)! 
Ingredients List
- 4 large croissants
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of cheese (Swiss or Gruyère)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
How to Prepare Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because a hot oven ensures that your croissants bake evenly and puff up beautifully. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a soggy croissant! So, get that oven warming up while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Croissants
Now, let’s get to the fun part! Start by slicing each croissant in half horizontally. Be gentle—these flaky pastries can crumble if you’re too rough. If you’re feeling adventurous, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside for a zesty kick. Then, layer 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of cheese on the bottom half of each croissant. Don’t skimp here; the more cheese, the better! Finally, place the top half back on, and voila, your croissants are ready for the next step!
Step 3: Apply Egg Wash
To achieve that gorgeous golden finish, it’s time to prepare the egg wash. In a small bowl, beat your egg until it’s nice and smooth. Then, using a pastry brush, gently brush the tops of each croissant with the egg wash. This will give them that irresistible shine and color as they bake. It’s a small step, but it makes a huge difference!
Step 4: Bake the Croissants
Alright, it’s showtime! Place your prepared croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be golden brown and the cheese melted and gooey. The smell will be heavenly, and you might find it hard to wait, but trust me, it’ll be worth it! Once they’re done, let them cool for a minute before diving in.
Nutritional Information
Each baked ham and cheese croissant contains approximately 350 calories, with 20g of fat and 15g of protein. You’ll also find 30g of carbohydrates and 1g of sugar in every delightful bite. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. So, if you swap out cheeses or add extra fillings, the nutrition will change a bit, but they’ll still be oh-so-delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super easy to make—perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans!
- Flaky, buttery croissants filled with savory ham and melted cheese create an irresistible flavor combination.
- Versatile enough for any occasion—great for breakfast, brunch, or even as a snack!
- Customizable with different meats, cheeses, or spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Quick baking time means you can enjoy these delicious treats in just about 30 minutes!
- They look impressive on any table, making you feel like a gourmet chef with minimal effort!
Tips for Success
To take your baked ham and cheese croissants to the next level, choose a high-quality cheese like Gruyère for that rich, nutty flavor or Swiss for a classic taste. Don’t forget to let your croissants come to room temperature before baking; this helps them bake evenly. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary on the ham before adding the cheese. And remember, keep an eye on them while they bake—ovens can vary, and you want that perfect golden hue without burning. Trust me, these little tips make a world of difference!
Variations on Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
One of the best things about baked ham and cheese croissants is how adaptable they are! Feel free to get creative with your fillings. For a twist, try using turkey or chicken instead of ham—both offer a deliciously different flavor profile. You could also switch up the cheese; sharp cheddar or creamy brie can add a whole new dimension to your croissants!
If you’re looking to sneak in some veggies, consider adding sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor. You can even mix in some pesto or a hint of garlic for a gourmet touch. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to experiment! Each variation will give you a unique spin on these delightful baked ham and cheese croissants, keeping things fresh and exciting every time you make them.
Serving Suggestions
These baked ham and cheese croissants are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with a fresh side salad for a light meal. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette adds a nice zing. For beverages, consider serving them with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice. Trust me, this combination elevates your brunch experience to a whole new level!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it happens!), store your baked ham and cheese croissants in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them up for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps the croissants flaky and the cheese melty. Trust me, they’ll taste just as good as when they were freshly baked! Enjoy!
Print
Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants: 5 Simple Steps to Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Baked ham and cheese croissants are flaky pastries filled with savory ham and melted cheese, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants
- 8 slices of ham
- 8 slices of cheese (Swiss or Gruyère)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice each croissant in half horizontally.
- If using, spread Dijon mustard on the inside of each croissant.
- Layer 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of cheese on the bottom half of each croissant.
- Place the top half of the croissant back on.
- Prepare the egg wash by beating the egg in a small bowl.
- Brush the tops of the croissants with the egg wash to achieve a golden color.
- Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the croissants are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Notes
- Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavor.
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 croissant
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: baked ham and cheese croissants, croissant recipe, savory pastries
