Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a delightful treat that everyone loves. These flaky, buttery pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a quick snack. With savory ham and melted cheese, they offer a rich flavor that satisfies any craving. Easy to make and always a hit at gatherings, these croissants will impress your family and friends.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Croissants
• For the Spread
• For Topping
• For Garnish
• How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Croissants
• Step 3: Make Spread
• Step 4: Assemble Sandwiches
• Step 5: Arrange in Dish
• Step 6: Egg Wash
• Step 7: Bake
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Perfect for Breakfast
• Ideal for Brunch
• Great as Snacks
• How to Perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Best Side Dishes for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Reheating Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants ahead of time?
• What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
• How do I customize my Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?
• Are these croissants suitable for brunch?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes of prep time.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack at any time of the day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These croissants are loved by both kids and adults, making them perfect for gatherings.
• Customizable Ingredients: Add your favorite ingredients like spinach or tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the croissants ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to whip up these delicious Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Essential for evenly baking the croissants while holding all the ingredients snugly together.
• Knife: A good knife allows you to slice the croissants easily without tearing them.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the spread ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a frothy egg wash that gives the croissants their shiny finish.

Ingredients

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a buttery, flaky delight filled with savory ham and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack, they come together easily and bake to golden perfection.

For the Croissants

• 8 mini croissants
• 4 slices smoked cheddar cheese (or regular cheddar), halved
• 3/4 pound deli-cut ham

For the Spread

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For Topping

• 1 large egg white
• Poppy seeds, for sprinkling

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare Croissants

Slice each croissant in half horizontally.
On the bottom half:
1. Place a half slice of cheddar cheese.
2. Add a slice of ham.
3. Top with another half slice of cheese.
Place the top half of the croissant over the fillings.

Step 3: Make Spread

In a small bowl, mix together:
– Softened butter,
– Yellow mustard,
– Honey,
– Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble Sandwiches

Spread the butter mixture evenly on the inside of each assembled croissant sandwich.

Step 5: Arrange in Dish

Place all the assembled croissant sandwiches in your prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Egg Wash

Whisk the egg white with a splash of water until frothy. Brush this egg wash over each croissant’s top and sprinkle with poppy seeds.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for about 15-18 minutes or until you see melted cheese bubbling inside and tops turn golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from oven and serve warm for an irresistible treat!

How to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants make for a delightful meal at any time of the day. They can be enjoyed alone or paired with various sides and beverages to enhance their flavor.

Perfect for Breakfast

• Serve with fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with a steaming cup of coffee to kickstart your morning.

Ideal for Brunch

• Offer alongside mimosas for a festive touch.
• Accompany with a light salad to balance the richness.

Great as Snacks

• Enjoy them with a side of crunchy pickles for added zest.
• Pair with a creamy dip, like ranch or garlic, for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Achieving the perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh croissants and quality cheese to elevate the taste.
• Adjust the Filling: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes.
• Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the croissants with egg wash gives them a beautiful golden color and enhances flavor.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the croissants while baking; remove them once they are golden brown and cheese is bubbly.

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Best Side Dishes for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants can be complemented by several tasty side dishes. These pairings add variety and nutritional balance to your meal.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light mix of greens, dressed simply, adds freshness.
2. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits provides sweetness.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side.
4. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup pairs well for dipping.
5. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and tanginess that complements the croissants.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the outcome of your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Egg Wash: Not brushing the croissants with egg wash can result in dull tops. Always apply an egg wash for a beautiful, golden finish.
• Overstuffing: Adding too much ham or cheese can make it difficult to close the croissants properly. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Neglecting to Preheat: Baking in an unpreheated oven may lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap cheese or ham can affect flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality cheese and fresh deli ham for the best taste.
• Not Allowing Time for Cooling: Cutting into the croissants too soon can cause the filling to spill out. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days without losing quality.

Freezing Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• For longer storage, freeze croissants before baking.
• Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm. This method may not keep them crispy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat slowly until warmed, which helps retain crispiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?

Smoked cheddar adds depth of flavor, but regular cheddar cheese works just as well if preferred.

How do I customize my Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?

You can add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes for extra freshness. Experiment with different types of cheeses as well!

Are these croissants suitable for brunch?

Absolutely! Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are perfect for brunch gatherings, offering both convenience and deliciousness.

Final Thoughts

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a delightful addition to any meal, whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making them ideal for various occasions. Try out this recipe and enjoy these flaky delights filled with savory goodness!