15 Best Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

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Introduction

Imagine biting into a warm, baked ham and cheese croissant – the buttery layers shattering beneath your teeth, revealing a center of melted cheese and savory ham. These baked ham and cheese croissants are the ultimate comfort food that combines the flakiness of fresh pastry with the hearty, satisfying flavors of ham and cheese. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for your family, planning a brunch gathering, or simply craving a delicious savory snack, this ham and cheese croissant recipe delivers gourmet results with surprisingly minimal effort. Perfect for busy mornings or weekend treats, these baked croissants will quickly become a household favorite that everyone will request again and again.

Table of Contents

• Why You’ll Love These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Ingredients for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants – Step by Step
• Pro Tips for Making the Best Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Best Ways to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Nutritional Information for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Storage & Leftovers
• FAQs for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Related Recipes
• Conclusion & Call to Action

Why You’ll Love These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• Ready in just 25 minutes – perfect for busy weekday breakfasts!
• Requires only 5 simple ingredients that you likely already have
• Versatile recipe that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
• Creates that bakery-quality taste without leaving your home
• Perfect for meal prep – make ahead and reheat for grab-and-go meals
• Customizable filling options to suit everyone’s preferences
• Kid-friendly recipe that the whole family will enjoy
• Impressive enough for guests but easy enough for beginners

Ingredients for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

For the Basic Recipe:

• 6 large croissants (store-bought or homemade)
• 12 slices of quality ham (about 8 oz/225g)
• 6-8 oz (170-225g) Swiss cheese, sliced (or your preferred cheese)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 tablespoon honey (for honey ham variation)
• 2 tablespoons bechamel sauce (for a creamier version)
• 1 teaspoon freshly chopped herbs (thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
• Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard for extra flavor
• Gruyère or cheddar cheese as alternatives to Swiss

For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free croissants at specialty bakeries or grocery stores. The best cheese for ham croissants is typically Swiss, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!

How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Carefully slice your croissants horizontally, as if you were making a sandwich.
4. Mix the melted butter with Dijon mustard in a small bowl (if using).

Step 2: Assemble the Croissants

1. Brush the inside of each croissant half with the butter-mustard mixture.
2. Layer 2 slices of ham on the bottom half of each croissant.
3. Add 1-2 slices of cheese on top of the ham.
4. If using any optional fillings, add them now.
5. Replace the top half of the croissant.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

1. Arrange the assembled ham and cheese croissants on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Lightly brush the tops with any remaining butter mixture for extra flavor and golden color.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the croissants are golden and crispy.
4. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the baked croissants from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes.
2. Serve warm for the best taste and texture experience.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for an elegant presentation.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• Use day-old croissants for a sturdier base that won’t get too soggy from the fillings.
• Thin-sliced ham works better than thick cuts for these delicate pastries.
• For an extra crispy croissant, brush the outside with egg wash before baking.
• Don’t overstuff your croissants, or the fillings may leak out during baking.
• Layer your ingredients strategically – place the cheese between the ham slices to create a perfect melt.
• The secret to the best baked ham and cheese croissants is using high-quality ingredients – especially the ham and cheese.
• Can I make ham and cheese croissants ahead of time? Yes! Assemble them the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
• For a breakfast croissant version, add a thin omelet layer between the ham and cheese.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

These baked ham and cheese croissants are versatile enough to be served in multiple ways:

• For breakfast: Pair with fresh fruit and a cup of coffee for a complete morning meal.
• For brunch: Serve alongside a simple green salad and mimosas for a delightful weekend spread.
• For lunch: Add a cup of tomato soup for dipping – the perfect comfort food combination.
• For dinner: Create a more substantial meal by serving with roasted vegetables or our Creamy Potato Soup.
• For a party: Cut into smaller pieces for elegant finger food at your next gathering.

The best way to serve baked ham and cheese croissants is warm from the oven when the cheese is still gooey and the exterior is crispy. However, they’re also delicious at room temperature for picnics or packed lunches.

Nutritional Information for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Per serving (1 prepared croissant):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g

These ham and cheese croissants can fit into a balanced diet when paired with lower-calorie sides like fresh fruits or vegetables. For a lower-calorie option, use reduced-fat cheese and lean ham.

Storage & Leftovers

How long do ham and cheese croissants last in the fridge? Properly stored in an airtight container, these baked croissants will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

For longer storage, can you freeze ham and cheese croissants? Absolutely! Wrap each cooled croissant individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

To reheat refrigerated croissants:

• Microwave for 20-30 seconds for a quick warm-up
• Oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for the best texture restoration

To reheat frozen croissants:

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes
• Or reheat from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through

FAQs for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Can I use crescent rolls instead of croissants?

Yes, crescent roll dough makes a great substitute for croissants in this recipe. Simply unroll the dough, separate into triangles, add your ham and cheese, then roll up and bake according to the crescent roll package instructions. The result will be less flaky but still delicious.

What can I use instead of ham in baked cheese croissants?

Turkey, prosciutto, or vegetarian deli slices work wonderfully as alternatives to ham. For a meatless option, try roasted vegetables, spinach, or avocado paired with the cheese of your choice.

How do I keep my croissants from getting soggy?

To prevent soggy baked ham and cheese croissants, avoid adding wet ingredients like tomatoes. Toast the croissant halves for 2-3 minutes before adding fillings, and serve immediately after baking for the best texture.

Can I add eggs to my ham and cheese croissants?

Absolutely! Adding a thin layer of scrambled eggs transforms these into complete breakfast croissants. Prepare the eggs first, let them cool slightly, then layer them between the ham and cheese before baking.

Related Recipes

If you love these baked ham and cheese croissants, try our other popular breakfast and brunch recipes:

• Easy Breakfast Casserole with Ham and Cheese
• Homemade Flaky Croissants from Scratch
• French Toast Casserole
• Savory Breakfast Muffins
• Quiche Lorraine with Ham and Swiss15 Best Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now you know how to make the best baked ham and cheese croissants at home! This simple yet impressive recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal suitable for everything from rushed weekday breakfasts to elegant weekend brunches. The combination of buttery croissants, savory ham, and melted cheese creates a timeless flavor profile that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Have you tried making these ham and cheese croissants? We’d love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist? Share your tips, variations, and success stories in the comments below. Don’t forget to save this recipe and share it with friends and family who appreciate good food made simple!

Note: This recipe was last updated on April 19, 2025, to include new serving suggestions and storage information.

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