If you’re craving something warm, buttery, and satisfying, these Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are the perfect pick. Flaky croissants filled with savory ham and melted cheese, brushed with a flavorful butter glaze, and baked to golden perfection—this recipe is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack. Plus, it’s easy to prep and endlessly customizable!
🧾 Ingredients
Croissants and Filling:
- 8 mini croissants (store-bought or homemade)
- ¾ lb deli-cut ham (choose your favorite)
- 4 slices smoked cheddar cheese (or regular), halved
Savory Butter Spread:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- ½ to 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Topping:
- 1 egg white
- Poppy seeds, for sprinkling
🔪 Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Croissants:
Slice each croissant in half horizontally. On the bottom half, layer a piece of cheese, a slice of ham, and another piece of cheese. Top with the other croissant half to create a sandwich.
3. Make the Butter Spread:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
4. Assemble:
Spread a layer of the butter mixture inside each croissant sandwich before closing them up. Arrange the sandwiches snugly in the baking dish.
5. Egg Wash & Topping:
Whisk the egg white with a splash of water. Brush it over the tops of the croissants and sprinkle with poppy seeds for a golden, bakery-style finish.
6. Bake:
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the croissants are crisp and golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
7. Serve Warm:
Let cool for just a minute or two, then dig in! These are best served warm while the cheese is melty and the croissants are crisp.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Just 20 minutes of prep and a short bake time.
- Versatile: Switch up the meat or cheese, add veggies, or make it spicy.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, lunchboxes, or party trays.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake fresh when needed.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Pair it with: A fresh fruit salad, light mixed greens, or a warm bowl of tomato soup.
- Party-Style: Cut croissants into halves or quarters for brunches or gatherings.
- Condiment Ideas: Serve with Dijon mustard, aioli, or a honey mustard dipping sauce.
🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
Short-Term:
Cool leftovers completely and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes.
Long-Term:
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Avoid Sogginess:
Store in a dry, airtight container. Avoid microwaving, which can make the croissants soft or chewy.
🙋♀️ FAQ
Can I use other meats or cheeses?
Absolutely! Try turkey, chicken, or bacon. For cheese, mozzarella, provolone, pepper jack, or Swiss are all great choices.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Let them sit at room temp for 15 minutes before popping into the oven.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free croissants (available at many specialty stores) and ensure your ham and cheese are gluten-free.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
Substitute with yellow mustard, spicy brown mustard, or even a bit of mayonnaise or cream cheese for a different twist.
⭐️ Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Yield: 8 mini croissants
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
📌 Final Thoughts
These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are everything you want in a comfort food: crispy, melty, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy weekend breakfast or a casual gathering, they’re sure to disappear fast. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Leave a Reply