Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a delightful mix of buttery, flaky pastry filled with savory ham and melted cheddar cheese. They offer a wonderful option for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick snack. The combination of flavors and textures makes them irresistible. Easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection, these croissants are sure to impress at any gathering.

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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
• Pair with Fresh Fruit
• Add a Side Salad
• Serve with Dipping Sauces
• Include Beverages
• How to Perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Best Side Dishes for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Reheating Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of cheese in Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?
• How long does it take to make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?
• Can I prepare Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants ahead of time?
• What’s the best way to serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?
• Are there any customization options for the recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these croissants without any fuss.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of smoked cheddar and deli-cut ham creates a rich and savory taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as an appetizer at parties.
• Make Ahead Option: Assemble them in advance and bake when ready, saving time on busy mornings.
• Kid-Friendly: These croissants are sure to please both kids and adults alike with their delicious flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even baking of the croissants while providing ample space to arrange them.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for easily combining the spread ingredients without making a mess.
• Pastry brush: Perfect for applying the egg wash, giving your croissants that beautiful golden 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 a 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.
Finally, place the top half of the croissant over the fillings.

Step 3: Make Spread

In a small bowl:
1. Mix the softened butter with yellow mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble Sandwiches

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

Step 5: Arrange in Dish

Place the assembled croissant sandwiches in the prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white with a splash of water. Brush this mixture over the tops of each croissant and sprinkle poppy seeds generously on top.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes or until the cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.

Step 8: Serve

Remove from oven and serve warm for best enjoyment!

How to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack, here are some serving suggestions.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Seasonal Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing touch.
• Sliced Melon: Cantaloupe or watermelon slices provide a sweet contrast to the savory croissants.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the croissants.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons create a satisfying side that pairs well.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard Sauce: A tangy sauce that enhances the flavors of the ham and cheese.
• BBQ Sauce: Adds a smoky sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory filling.

Include Beverages

• Fresh Orange Juice: A classic breakfast drink that brightens up the meal.
• Iced Coffee: Perfect for brunch gatherings, providing both refreshment and energy.

How to Perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

To ensure your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Croissants: Always opt for fresh mini croissants to achieve that flaky texture.
• Layer Wisely: Place cheese both above and below the ham to maximize melty goodness throughout.
• Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing egg wash on top gives the croissants a golden color and shiny finish.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like Swiss or gouda for unique flavor profiles.
• Add Herbs or Spices: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or rosemary in the butter spread for an extra flavor kick.

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Best Side Dishes for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of fruits adds brightness and freshness to your meal.
2. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit create a deliciously creamy complement.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender enhance the meal’s nutrition profile.
5. Chips or Crisps: Crunchy snacks provide a fun texture contrast to soft croissants.
6. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs add protein and elegance to your brunch spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best results with your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale croissants: Always use fresh mini croissants for the best texture and flavor. Stale croissants can lead to a dry result.
• Overstuffing the filling: Be careful not to overfill each croissant. Too much ham or cheese can cause them to spill out while baking, making a mess.
• Skipping the egg wash: The egg wash gives your croissants a beautiful golden finish. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for presentation.
• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps the cheese melt properly.
• Ignoring storage instructions: Proper storage is key for maintaining freshness. Make sure to follow the guidelines to keep leftovers delicious.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• Wrap each croissant tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze them for up to 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed, which helps keep them flaky.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cheese in Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?

Yes, feel free to experiment with various cheeses like Swiss or provolone for different flavors.

How long does it take to make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?

The total time is approximately 38 minutes, including prep and baking.

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

Absolutely! You can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What’s the best way to serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?

Serve these delicious treats warm as part of breakfast, brunch, or as a tasty snack any time of day.

Are there any customization options for the recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes inside the croissants for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a delightful mix of buttery pastry, savory ham, and melted cheese. They are perfect for any meal or snack time. Don’t hesitate to customize them by adding your favorite ingredients!

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