Effortless Baked Ham And Cheese Croissants Recipe

Foolproof Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe: Ready in a Flash!

Warm, flaky croissants stuffed with gooey ham and cheese create a mouthwatering breakfast sensation that delights taste buds.

These golden-brown delicacies combine buttery pastry with savory layers of flavor.

A simple yet elegant dish emerges from just a few quality ingredients.

Crisp edges and melted cheese promise a delectable morning treat.

The aroma of freshly baked croissants fills the kitchen with irresistible comfort.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of rich ham and melted cheese.

Savor these delightful croissants and start your day with a delicious culinary embrace.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 38 minutes

Calories: 350 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

For Sandwich Base:
  • Croissant: Buttery, flaky pastry that creates a luxurious foundation for the sandwich.
  • Ham: Protein-rich slice that adds savory depth and classic deli flavor.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Sharp, melty cheese that provides creamy richness and tangy notes.
For Flavor Enhancers:
  • Yellow Mustard: Adds zesty kick and subtle tanginess to the spread.
  • Honey: Brings natural sweetness that balances the savory elements.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Contributes complex, umami undertones to the butter mixture.
  • Softened Butter: Creates smooth, spreadable base for flavor combination.
For Finishing Touches:
  • Egg White: Helps create golden, glossy exterior when brushed on croissants.
  • Water: Thins egg white for easy application and even coating.
  • Poppy Seeds: Provides delicate crunch and visual appeal to the top of croissants.

Serve These Croissants Hot for Breakfast or Brunch

  • Brunch Buddy Pairings: Serve alongside a fresh mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal that combines warm, rich croissants with crisp, refreshing greens.
  • Breakfast Companion: Add a side of scrambled eggs or a small fruit compote to complement the savory ham and cheese croissants, creating a more substantial morning spread.
  • Quick Party Pleaser: Cut the baked croissants into smaller appetizer-sized portions for a delightful finger food that works perfectly at brunches, potlucks, or casual gatherings with friends.
  • Morning Beverage Match: Pair with freshly brewed coffee, a smooth cappuccino, or a zesty orange juice to enhance the flavors and provide a delicious morning beverage experience.

Best Ways to Store Baked Croissants

  • Wrap leftover croissant sandwiches in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container. These tasty treats stay delicious for 2-3 days when refrigerated at 40°F or below. Always store separately from raw meats to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Revive cold sandwiches by warming in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. This technique helps restore the croissant's crispy exterior and melty cheese interior. Avoid microwave reheating to maintain the sandwich's original texture and prevent soggy bread.
  • Assemble sandwiches up to 24 hours before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to allow ingredients to reach room temperature. This technique saves time during busy mornings or when entertaining guests.
  • Wrap individual unbaked sandwiches in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking. Increase baking time by 5-7 minutes when cooking from a partially frozen state to ensure even heating.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make the spread unique?

The spread combines softened butter, yellow mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce, creating a tangy and sweet flavor that enhances the ham and cheese croissant’s taste.

  • Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can swap cheddar with Swiss, provolone, or Gruyère to create different flavor profiles while maintaining the sandwich’s delicious essence.

  • Why add poppy seeds on top?

Poppy seeds provide a subtle nutty crunch and visual appeal to the croissant, adding texture and a gourmet touch to the simple ham and cheese sandwich.

  • Is the egg wash necessary?

The egg wash helps create a golden, shiny surface on the croissants and helps the poppy seeds stick, giving the sandwiches a professional and appetizing appearance.

Kitchen Tools for Baking Flaky Croissants with Filling

  • Baking Dish (9×13-inch): Essential for arranging and baking the croissant sandwiches.
  • Small Mixing Bowls (2): One for butter mixture, another for egg wash.
  • Whisk: Perfect for blending egg white and creating smooth butter mixture.
  • Knife: Needed to slice croissants horizontally.
  • Pastry Brush: Great for applying egg wash evenly on croissant tops.
  • Measuring Spoons: Helpful for precise ingredient measurements.

How to Assemble and Bake Ham and Cheese Croissants

  • Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375F and give your baking dish a quick spray of non-stick.

  • Craft Your Flavor Towers

Slice croissants like you’re opening a delicious book. Layer in cheese, ham, and more cheese to create mouthwatering sandwich islands.

  • Whip Up Secret Sauce

In a small bowl, blend butter, mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce until silky smooth – this is your flavor bomb.

  • Build Your Delicious Stacks

Slather the secret sauce inside each croissant sandwich with generous love.

  • Dress for Success

Whisk egg white with a splash of water, then lovingly brush the tops of your croissants. Sprinkle poppy seeds for extra pizzazz.

  • Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your creation into the hot oven and let it transform for 15-18 minutes. Watch for melted cheese and golden-brown tops that scream “eat me!”

  • Serve and Devour

Pull out your masterpiece and serve immediately while everything is warm and wonderful.

Tips for Golden Layers and Melty Cheese

  • Use high-quality deli ham like Black Forest or honey-roasted for extra flavor depth and juiciness.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like Swiss, Gruyère, or provolone to create unique taste profiles and keep the dish exciting.
  • Replace regular croissants with gluten-free croissants or use large lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative that maintains the delicious filling.
  • Assemble sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator. Simply bake when ready to serve, perfect for busy mornings or quick entertaining.
  • Add thin slices of fresh spinach, roasted bell peppers, or caramelized onions inside the croissant for extra nutrition and a burst of complementary flavors.
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Effortless Baked Ham And Cheese Croissants Recipe

Effortless Baked Ham And Cheese Croissants Recipe


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4.7 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Savory Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants bring French bakery magic to home kitchens with minimal effort. Flaky pastry, melted cheese, and quality ham create a simple yet delicious breakfast or brunch classic you can master in minutes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 mini croissants
  • ¾ lb (340 g) deli-cut ham
  • 4 slices smoked cheddar cheese (or regular cheddar), halved
  • 3 tbsps (45 mL) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsps (30 mL) yellow mustard
  • 1 tbsp (15 mL) honey
  • ½ to 1 tsp (2.5 to 5 mL) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 large egg white
  • Poppy seeds, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 375F (190C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Sandwich Assembly: Slice croissants horizontally and layer with cheddar cheese, ham, and another cheese slice to create a savory filling.
  3. Flavor Infusion: Whisk butter, yellow mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce into a smooth, aromatic spread.
  4. Coating and Seasoning: Spread the flavored butter mixture inside each croissant sandwich and arrange in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Finishing Touches: Create an egg wash by whisking egg white with water, then brush croissant tops and sprinkle with poppy seeds.
  6. Baking Process: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until croissants turn golden brown and cheese melts completely.
  7. Serving: Allow sandwiches to rest briefly before serving warm, letting flavors meld and cheese set slightly.

Notes

  • Choose Fresh Croissants: Select soft, buttery croissants from a local bakery for the best texture and taste.
  • Cheese Melting Tip: Use thin cheese slices to ensure even melting and prevent burning during baking.
  • Customize Flavor Combinations: Experiment with different cheese types like Swiss, Gruyère, or provolone for unique taste profiles.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace traditional croissants with gluten-free pastry or bread to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 16 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
John Nicholson

John Nicholson

Lead Writer & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Development, Kitchen Hacks and Time-Saving Tips, Flavor Pairing and Ingredient Selection, Engaging Food Writing and Storytelling

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: A hands-on curriculum emphasizing farm-to-table cooking, local ingredient sourcing, and creative menu development. Students gained real-world restaurant experience, learning both classic techniques and modern approaches to sustainable cooking.

John Nicholson honed his skills at Johnson & Wales University, learning how to use fresh, local ingredients and down-to-earth techniques to make cooking simple and satisfying.

His recipes blend Southern comfort flavors with a modern touch, inviting everyone to cook with ease and confidence.

Living in Charleston, John takes cues from the city’s lively food scene, local markets, and seasonal produce. He’s all about making meals stress-free through easy tips, flavor pairings, and fun experiments in the kitchen

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