These ham and cheese croissants are fluffy and tasty! With a crispy crust and gooey cheese, they make a perfect breakfast or snack.
Trust me, nothing beats the smell of these baking in your oven. They’re like little hugs that say, “Eat me!” I love serving them warm—just like a cozy morning vibe.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Freshly baked croissants offer the best texture and flavor. If time is short, look for frozen croissants that you can bake at home. I find that a buttery croissant is key to the richness of this dish!
Ham: Smoked or honey ham gives a nice flavor contrast. If you’re vegetarian, you can swap it for roasted red peppers or mushrooms for a savory kick.
Cheese: Swiss or Gruyère melts beautifully, while cheddar adds a sharper flavor. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese, which can work well, too.
Dijon Mustard: This is optional but adds a zing! You can substitute with honey mustard for a sweeter taste or skip it altogether if you prefer to keep it simple.
Egg Wash: This adds shine and color. If you follow a vegan diet, use a mixture of plant-based milk and a bit of oil instead.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Golden Brown Croissant?
Getting your croissants nicely browned relies on a few key steps. The egg wash helps, but it’s also all about the baking technique.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before placing the croissants inside. This ensures even baking.
- Give enough space between croissants on the baking sheet so air can circulate. This prevents sogginess.
- Check your croissants at the 15-minute mark;, if they aren’t golden yet, keep an eye on them as they can brown quickly at the end!
How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissants?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Croissants:
- 4 large croissants
- 8 slices of ham (preferably smoked or honey ham)
- 8 slices of cheese (such as Swiss, Gruyère, or cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy ham and cheese croissants!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your croissants bake evenly and become perfectly golden.
2. Prepare the Croissants:
Take each croissant and slice it in half lengthwise. Be careful to leave a small hinge at the back so the halves stay connected. This makes it easier to stuff them with delicious fillings!
3. Add the Mustard (Optional):
If you’re using Dijon mustard, spread a thin layer on the inner sides of each croissant. This gives extra flavor and zest to your tasty treat!
4. Fill the Croissants:
Now, it’s time to fill them! Place two slices of ham and two slices of cheese inside each croissant. Press down gently on the croissant to help keep the filling in place.
5. Egg Wash the Tops:
In a small bowl, beat the egg until it’s nice and smooth. Brush this mixture over the tops of your filled croissants. This will give them a lovely, shiny finish when baked.
6. Season and Garnish:
Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper over the tops of the croissants. If you want to add a bit of crunch, sprinkle some sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top too.
7. Bake the Croissants:
Place your prepared croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are golden brown and the cheese has melted nicely.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once they are done, remove the croissants from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle. Serve them warm and enjoy your delicious ham and cheese croissants fresh out of the oven!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or whatever you have on hand. Manchego, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add a delicious twist to your croissants. Just be aware that different cheeses may alter the melting time and flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftover Croissants?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for best results.
Can I Make These Croissants Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the croissants a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Just brush the egg wash right before baking. If you want to prepare them even earlier, consider assembling and freezing them before the egg wash. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Substitute for Croissants?
If you don’t have croissants, you can use puff pastry or even sandwich bread as a base. Just roll out the puff pastry to your desired thickness or cut the bread into a similar size. Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on your substitutes until golden brown!
