Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe

Introduction

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal that combines the savory flavors of ham and melted cheese in a buttery, flaky croissant. These croissants are perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even as a comforting dinner. The combination of the tender, flaky pastry with the rich, salty ham and gooey cheese creates a satisfying bite that is both indulgent and irresistible.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or craving a simple but delicious snack, Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are sure to hit the spot. This guide walks you through the process step by step, offers tips for success, and explores a few fun variations to try out for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• Flaky and Buttery Pastry: The croissant dough is buttery and flaky, creating a perfectly tender and crisp outer layer that complements the rich filling.
• Savory Ham and Melty Cheese: The savory ham pairs beautifully with the creamy, gooey melted cheese. Together, they create a flavor combination that is both satisfying and comforting.
• Quick and Easy: These croissants are incredibly simple to make, especially if you use store-bought croissant dough. They come together quickly and don’t require any special techniques.
• Customizable: You can easily customize the filling with different types of cheese, ham, or even add extras like mustard or herbs to make these croissants your own.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you need a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a filling meal, Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30-40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 8 croissants
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per croissant, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 17-22g
• Carbohydrates: 28-32g
• Protein: 12-15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants:

• 1 package (8 count) refrigerated croissant dough (or homemade croissant dough if preferred)
• 8 slices of deli ham (or more if preferred)
• 8 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your favorite cheese)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or honey mustard (for extra flavor)
• Optional: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, finely chopped (for an added touch of flavor)

Special Equipment

While making Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants doesn’t require specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment can help ensure the best results:

1. Baking Sheet: A baking sheet is necessary to bake the croissants evenly. Line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
2. Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is helpful to evenly apply melted butter to the croissants, giving them a golden, shiny finish once baked.
3. Knife or Scissors: You’ll need a knife or kitchen scissors to cut the croissant dough if it’s not already pre-cut.
4. Rolling Pin: If you’re making homemade croissant dough, a rolling pin will be needed to roll the dough to the right thickness.
5. Cooling Rack: After baking, a cooling rack is useful to let the croissants cool properly and maintain their crispy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Croissant Dough

If you are using store-bought croissant dough, open the package and unroll the dough. Separate the dough into individual triangles. If you’re using homemade dough, roll it out to about 1/8 inch thickness and cut into triangles.

2. Assemble the Filling

Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on each dough triangle. You can fold the ham to fit the dough if necessary. For a bit of extra flavor, you can also spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard or honey mustard on the dough before adding the ham and cheese. If you prefer, sprinkle some fresh herbs over the ham and cheese for a fragrant and flavorful twist.

3. Roll the Croissants

Starting from the wider end of the triangle, gently roll the dough up around the ham and cheese to form a croissant shape. Be sure not to roll too tightly, as you want the croissant to expand and puff up in the oven. Seal the edges lightly by pinching the dough together at the ends.

4. Prepare for Baking

Place the assembled croissants onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, leaving space between each one to allow them to puff up as they bake.

5. Brush with Butter

Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops of the croissants with melted butter. This will help them turn golden brown and give them a deliciously buttery flavor.

6. Bake the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the oven is hot, bake the croissants for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese has melted inside. The croissants should be puffed and crispy on the outside, while the ham and cheese inside should be warm and gooey.

7. Cool the Croissants

Once baked, remove the croissants from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. If desired, you can brush the tops with a little more melted butter for extra flavor and shine.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the croissants warm as an appetizer, snack, or meal. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be stored and reheated for later.

Tips for Perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• Use High-Quality Ham and Cheese: The flavor of your croissants depends largely on the quality of the ham and cheese. Opt for deli ham and a good melting cheese like Swiss, cheddar, or Gruyère for the best results.
• Roll Loosely: When rolling the croissants, make sure not to roll them too tightly. You want them to have room to expand in the oven for the best texture and fluffiness.
• Brush with Butter: Don’t skip the melted butter! It adds a golden, glossy finish and a richer flavor to the croissants.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add extra ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even a slice of tomato to the filling.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the croissants ahead of time, place them on the baking sheet, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just allow them to come to room temperature before popping them into the oven for the best results.

Variations of Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• Classic Ham and Swiss Croissants: For a traditional combination, use deli ham and Swiss cheese, adding a bit of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
• Cheddar and Bacon Croissants: Swap the ham for crispy bacon and the cheese for sharp cheddar for a smoky and savory twist.
• Turkey and Provolone Croissants: Use thinly sliced turkey and provolone cheese for a lighter version of this classic.
• Spinach and Ham Croissants: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the filling for a healthy green boost. The spinach pairs beautifully with the savory ham and cheese.
• Ham and Pineapple Croissants: For a sweet and savory version, add a slice of pineapple to the ham and cheese filling. This combination is reminiscent of a Hawaiian pizza.

Storage and Shelf Life

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can store them for later:

• Room Temperature: Store cooled croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days.
• Refrigeration: If you want to store them longer, place the croissants in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze the croissants, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Pair these croissants with complementary dishes to round out your meal:

• Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich and savory croissants.
• Soup: Serve your croissants with a comforting bowl of tomato soup, French onion soup, or a creamy potato leek soup for a full meal.
• Fruit: A side of fresh fruit like grapes, apples, or melon can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the croissants.
• Pickles or Olives: The tanginess of pickles or olives can balance the richness of the ham and cheese, providing a nice contrast of flavors.

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Conclusion

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are a simple yet indulgent treat that will elevate any occasion. With their buttery, flaky exterior and savory, gooey interior, these croissants are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you make them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they are always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy experimenting with different fillings and variations to find your perfect combination. These croissants are versatile, delicious, and easy to make—what’s not to love?