There’s nothing better than a warm, flaky croissant filled with melty cheese and savory ham. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying brunch dish, or an easy lunch idea, these baked ham and cheese croissants are the perfect solution. They are buttery, cheesy, and packed with flavor—yet incredibly simple to make.
Using store-bought croissants makes this recipe even easier, but you can also use homemade croissants if you have extra time. A touch of Dijon mustard and a buttery glaze take these croissants to the next level, making them irresistibly delicious. Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or cheddar, Gruyère, or your favorite cheese)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with grease to prevent sticking.
- Slice the croissants in half horizontally, but don’t cut all the way through—keep them connected like a sandwich.
- Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of each croissant.
- Place 2 slices of ham on each croissant, followed by a slice of cheese.
- Gently press the croissants closed to keep everything in place.
Step 3: Prepare the Buttery Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, honey (if using), garlic powder, parsley, and poppy seeds.
- Brush the tops of the croissants with the butter mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Bake the Croissants
- Arrange the croissants on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese has fully melted and the croissants turn golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the croissants cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best taste and texture.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Croissants
- Use quality croissants – Buttery, flaky croissants make a huge difference in taste and texture.
- Choose your favorite cheese – Swiss cheese works great, but cheddar, Gruyère, or provolone are also excellent choices.
- Add extra flavor – A drizzle of honey mustard or a sprinkle of black pepper can enhance the flavor.
- Make them crispy – If you prefer extra crispy croissants, bake them for a few more minutes until golden brown.
Substitutions and Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cheese Options: Swap Swiss cheese for cheddar, mozzarella, or Gouda.
- Meat Variations: Try turkey, roast beef, or even bacon instead of ham.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and margarine instead of butter.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or spread sriracha on the croissants before baking.
- Sweet and Savory: Include a spoonful of fig jam or honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Herb Butter: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the butter glaze for extra depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Croissants in Advance?
Yes! Assemble the croissants ahead of time, wrap them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, brush with butter and bake as directed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
- Refrigerator: Store leftover croissants in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
How Do I Reheat Baked Croissants?
For the best texture, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes until warm and crispy. You can also use an air fryer at 320°F for a few minutes.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap each croissant tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or in an air fryer until crispy.
More Delicious Breakfast Recipes
Looking for more easy breakfast ideas? Try these:
These baked ham and cheese croissants are warm, flaky, and filled with gooey melted cheese and savory ham. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick meal, they’re incredibly easy to make. Try this recipe today and enjoy a bakery-quality treat at home!