Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Breakfast or Brunch

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a delightful treat that never fails to impress. Imagine biting into a flaky, buttery croissant, only to discover a warm, gooey center filled with savory ham and melted cheese. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings back memories of cozy brunches and family gatherings. Originating from the French pastry tradition, croissants have become a beloved staple in many cultures, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. People adore Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants for their perfect balance of taste and texture—the crisp exterior gives way to a rich, satisfying filling that leaves you craving more. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to make, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings or impromptu gatherings. Join me as we explore this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 4 large croissants
• 8 slices of deli ham (your choice of smoked, honey, or black forest)
• 8 slices of Swiss cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Preparing the Croissants

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for getting those croissants nice and crispy.
2. While the oven is heating, take your croissants and slice them in half lengthwise. Be careful not to cut all the way through; you want them to open like a book.
3. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of each croissant half. This adds a delightful tangy flavor that complements the ham and cheese beautifully.

Assembling the Croissants

1. Now it’s time to layer in the ham. Place two slices of ham on the bottom half of each croissant. Feel free to mix and match different types of ham for added flavor.
2. Next, add two slices of Swiss cheese on top of the ham. If you’re using a different cheese, make sure it melts well!
3. Close the croissant by folding the top half over the cheese. Press down gently to help everything stay in place.

Preparing for Baking

1. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will give the croissants a lovely golden color and extra flavor.
2. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the melted butter mixture over the top of each croissant. Make sure to cover them well for that beautiful finish.
3. In another small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. Brush a little of the egg wash over the top of each croissant for an extra shiny and golden crust.

Baking the Croissants

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the assembled croissants on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each one to allow for expansion.
2. Once your oven is preheated, carefully place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t over-brown. If they start to get too dark, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil.

Finishing Touches

1. Once the croissants are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This will help the cheese set a little, making them easier to handle.
2. If you’re using fresh parsley, sprinkle it over the croissants for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve the baked ham and cheese croissants warm. They’re perfect for brunch, a quick lunch, or even as a snack!

Tips for Success

1. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a slice of tomato or a few leaves of spinach inside the croissant before baking.
2. If you want to make these ahead of time, you can assemble the croissants and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
3. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or meats. Turkey, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a unique twist!

Serving Suggestions

1. These croissants pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or some fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
2. For a heartier option, serve them alongside a bowl of soup, like tomato basil or a creamy potato soup.
3. Don’t forget to offer some extra Dijon mustard or a spicy ai

   Conclusion:

   In summary, these Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast or brunch game. The flaky, buttery croissant enveloping the savory ham and gooey cheese creates a delightful combination that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack, these croissants are the perfect choice. For serving suggestions, consider pairing them with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad to balance the richness of the croissants. You can also experiment with variations by adding ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a touch of mustard for an extra kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the ham for turkey or even a vegetarian option with roasted vegetables and cheese. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience! I’d love to hear how your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants turn out. Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag your friends; they’ll definitely want to join in on the deliciousness. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is a favorite in my kitchen. Happy baking! Print
   

   Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Breakfast or Brunch

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   • Author: Maria
   • Total Time: 35 minutes
   • Yield: 4 servings 1x

   Print Recipe

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   Description

   Enjoy these flaky ham and Swiss cheese croissants, perfect for brunch or a quick snack. Filled with savory deli ham and melted cheese, brushed with a Dijon mustard and butter mixture, and baked to golden perfection, they are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress.

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   Ingredients

   Scale 1x2x3x

   • 4 large croissants
   • 8 slices of deli ham
   • 8 slices of Swiss cheese
   • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
   • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
   • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • 1 egg (for egg wash)

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   Instructions

   1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   2. Slice the croissants in half lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through.
   3. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of each croissant half.
   4. Place two slices of ham on the bottom half of each croissant.
   5. Add two slices of Swiss cheese on top of the ham.
   6. Close the croissant by folding the top half over the cheese and press down gently.
   7. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with a pinch of salt and pepper.
   8. Brush the melted butter mixture generously over the top of each croissant.
   9. In another small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash and brush it over the top of each croissant.
   10. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the assembled croissants on it, leaving space between each.
   11. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   12. Monitor closely during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning; cover loosely with aluminum foil if necessary.
   13. Let the croissants cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
   14. If using, sprinkle fresh parsley over the croissants for garnish.
   15. Serve warm, perfect for brunch, lunch, or as a snack!

   Notes

   • For added flavor, consider adding a slice of tomato or spinach inside the croissant before baking.
   • You can assemble the croissants ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add extra baking time if they are cold.
   • Experiment with different cheeses or meats for a unique twist.

   • Prep Time: 15 minutes
   • Cook Time: 20 minutes