Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe

There is something truly irresistible about the combination of flaky, buttery croissant dough wrapped around savory ham and melty Swiss cheese, all enhanced with a delicate hint of Dijon mustard. The Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe is a classic that feels both comforting and a bit indulgent—a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or even a casual lunch. With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a batch of these golden, gooey delights that will have everyone asking for more. Let me walk you through how to bring this scrumptious recipe to life in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in building the perfect Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe. From the flaky crescent roll dough to the creamy Swiss cheese and tangy Dijon mustard, these components come together to deliver a balance of textures and flavors that is simply unforgettable.

• Crescent roll dough: Provides the buttery, flaky base that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
• Deli ham slices: Adds a savory, smoky touch that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
• Swiss cheese slices: Melts wonderfully inside the croissant, offering a mild nuttiness.
• Dijon mustard: A subtle tang that lifts the overall flavor without overpowering.
• Melted butter: Brushed on top to give a golden, glossy finish and extra richness.
• Poppy seeds (optional): Adds a pretty crunch and visual appeal that makes these croissants feel extra special.

How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps ensure your croissants bake evenly and prevents sticking, which is key for those perfect golden bottoms.

Step 2: Separate the Crescent Dough

Open the package of crescent roll dough and gently unroll it onto a clean surface. Separate the dough into 8 individual triangles, which will each become a croissant. Handling the dough carefully keeps it light and airy for the best texture later.

Step 3: Spread the Dijon Mustard

Using the back of a spoon or a small spatula, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard evenly over each triangle. This adds a subtle zing that perfectly complements the richness of the ham and cheese without taking over.

Step 4: Layer the Ham

Place one slice of deli ham onto each triangle of dough, folding the ham if it’s too big to fit neatly. The ham’s smoky, salty flavor is a delicious contrast against the buttery dough.

Step 5: Add the Swiss Cheese

Next, add a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the ham, again adjusting size as needed. As the croissants bake, the cheese will melt perfectly, oozing a creamy richness that’s just irresistible.

Step 6: Roll up the Croissants

Starting at the wide end of each triangle, roll the dough snugly toward the pointed tip, shaping it into a classic croissant. Rolling tightly helps keep all the delicious fillings inside, while still allowing the dough to puff beautifully.

Step 7: Arrange Croissants on the Baking Sheet

Place your rolled croissants on the parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them comfortably apart so they have room to expand while baking.

Step 8: Butter and Poppy Seeds

Brush the croissants generously with melted butter, which gives them a stunning golden color and extra flakiness once baked. If you like, sprinkle poppy seeds over the top for a charming touch of crunch and a lovely pop of texture.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Bake your croissants in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a deep golden brown and the cheese inside is melted to gooey perfection. The smell alone during baking is enough to make you eager to dig in.

Step 10: Cool and Serve Warm

Once baked, remove the croissants from the oven and let them cool slightly for a few minutes. Serving them warm ensures that melty cheese experience stays front and center with every bite.

How to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a few chives add a bright color contrast and fresh flavor notes, making your croissants look as fabulous as they taste.

Side Dishes

Pair your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe with a crisp green salad or a fresh fruit bowl to balance out the richness. A light cup of soup, such as tomato basil, also complements these croissants beautifully for a more substantial meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these croissants sliced in half with a drizzle of honey mustard or a smear of whole grain mustard on the side for dipping. They also make a charming addition to a brunch board alongside fresh veggies, dips, and cheeses, making a stunning display for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store any leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh without drying out the layers or cheese inside.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the baked croissants tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. They can be frozen for up to one month and still maintain their delicious flavor after thawing.

Reheating

To bring leftover croissants back to life, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 to 8 minutes or until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pastry soggy instead of flaky.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that pairs well with ham, you can substitute Gruyère, cheddar, or mozzarella depending on your personal taste and what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make these croissants vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or even a slice of tomato for a delicious vegetarian twist on the Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe.

Do I have to use crescent roll dough?

Crescent roll dough is ideal because it’s flaky and quick to work with, but if you want a more authentic croissant texture, you could use puff pastry or homemade croissant dough, though that requires more time and skill.

Can I prepare these croissants ahead of time and bake them later?

Definitely! Assemble the croissants as instructed, then refrigerate them covered for a few hours before baking. This is great for prepping in advance for busy mornings or gatherings.

Are poppy seeds necessary?

Poppy seeds are totally optional. They add a nice visual and crunchy element, but the croissants are delicious with or without them.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a simple yet utterly satisfying treat, the Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe is a winner every time. Its blend of flaky pastry, savory ham, and melty cheese makes it a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy every warm, golden bite as much as I do!

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