Ham and Cheese Croissants: The Ultimate Easy Pastry Experience
A quick, flavorful bake that delivers golden, flaky treats perfect for any meal.
Ham and cheese croissants are a delicious, quick-to-make pastry that blend the buttery crispness of puff pastry with a savory, melted cheese and ham filling. This recipe is ideal for anyone needing a satisfying breakfast, standout snack, or simple lunch that’s ready in just 20 minutes. While not the classic French croissant, these treats win on flavor and convenience, making them a favorite for busy families and weekend brunches alike.
Why Make These Ham and Cheese Croissants?
- Fast and simple: Only six ingredients and about 20 minutes of baking time.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, snacks, or even as elegant appetizers.
- Customizable: Easily swap in your favorite cheeses or specialty hams.
- Family-friendly: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults.
- No fancy skills: Ready-made puff pastry does the work for you!
What Makes These Croissants Special?
While traditional croissants require finesse and patience, this version uses store-bought puff pastry, cutting down on time while still delivering a golden, flaky exterior. The filling—sharp white cheddar, ham, and Dijon mustard—creates a punchy, well-balanced flavor. Brushing with egg wash ensures a beautiful shine and helps sesame seeds adhere, adding a subtle nutty crunch. With just a few steps, you can achieve impressive, bakery-style results at home.
Core Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Croissants
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Puff Pastry Sheets | 2 (from a 17.3-oz package), thawed | Freezer section, must be thawed before use. |
| Dijon Mustard | 1/4 cup | For flavor and moisture. |
| Large Egg | 1 | For the egg wash. |
| Black Forest Ham | 1/2 lb, shaved | Any favorite deli ham works. |
| White Cheddar Cheese | 8 slices | Other cheese options listed below. |
| Sesame Seeds | 2 Tbsp | Optional, for topping. |
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven: Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare your pastry:
- Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Lay out 1 sheet of thawed puff pastry (about 10×10 inches).
- With a sharp knife or pizza wheel, cut into 4 long strips, each about 2.5 inches wide and 10 inches long.
- Repeat with the second pastry sheet for eight strips total.
- Add the flavor:
- Brush each strip with Dijon mustard, leaving a 1-inch border along one short edge.
- Prepare the egg wash:
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water.
- Fill with ham and cheese:
- Divide shaved ham and cheese slices evenly among the pastry strips, laying them along the length but not past the border.
- Fold slices as needed for a neat fit.
- Assemble:
- Starting at the bottom of each strip, create a 3-inch fold up.
- Brush exposed edge with egg wash, fold again, and press to seal.
- Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
- Finish:
- Brush croissants all over with egg wash.
- Sprinkle tops with sesame seeds.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until deep golden brown and crisp.
Ingredient Flexibility: Choose Your Cheese
White cheddar is recommended for its sharpness and meltability. However, you can easily swap in other cheeses:
- Swiss: Mild and nutty.
- Gruyère: Rich, slightly sweet, and melts beautifully.
- Pepper Jack: Spicy, ideal for those who like heat.
- Mozzarella, provolone, or gouda: For different flavors and textures.
Feel free to experiment based on your preferences or what you have in the fridge—almost any melting cheese will work well in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast: Fresh croissants with coffee, fresh fruit, or juice.
- Lunch: Pair with a bowl of creamy tomato soup or leafy green salad.
- Snacks: Serve warm croissants after school or at parties.
- Appetizer: Serve mini versions for elegant gatherings.
For extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling or sprinkle with grated Parmesan for an Italian twist.
Tips for Perfect Ham and Cheese Croissants
- Thaw puff pastry: For best results, let pastry thaw overnight in the fridge or for 30–40 minutes at room temperature.
- Work quickly: Puff pastry is easier to handle when cold, so assemble and bake swiftly to keep croissants flaky.
- Seal edges: Ensure you press the edges well after each fold to prevent leaks during baking.
- Egg wash: A thorough, even coat will help achieve a deep golden finish and keep sesame seeds in place.
- Use parchment: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
What others are reading
How to Store and Reheat Croissants
- Short-term storage: Wrap cooled croissants tightly or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day.
- Reheating in oven: Place in a preheated 350°F oven for about five minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave option: Heat for 20 seconds for a quick snack, though the pastry may lose some crispness.
- Freezing: Croissants can be frozen after baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as above.
Common Variations and Creative Twists
- Herby croissants: Add dried thyme into the mustard for a French-inspired flavor.
- Dipping sauce: Whisk together mayo, ketchup, Dijon, and dill for a tangy dip.
- Alternative meats: Try turkey, roast beef, or soppressata for a different protein profile.
- Vegetarian option: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers.
- Mini croissants: Cut pastry strips thinner and shorter for bite-sized appetizers.
Nutritional Overview
| Per Croissant | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310–380 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbs | 25g |
This is an estimate and will vary based on cheese, ham, and pastry brand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of cheese works best for ham and cheese croissants?
Sharp white cheddar delivers great flavor, but you can swap in Swiss, Gruyère, or pepper jack for a twist. Any good-melting, flavorful cheese will work well.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and bake croissants up to one day ahead. Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to crisp up before serving.
Can I freeze ham and cheese croissants?
Absolutely. Let croissants cool, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best texture.
How do I prevent my croissants from becoming soggy?
Cool completely before storing, and don’t overfill with wet ingredients. Reheat in the oven to revive crispness.
Are these gluten-free?
Standard puff pastry contains gluten. To make gluten-free, substitute with a certified gluten-free puff pastry.
Conclusion: Simple Yet Sophisticated Pastries
With just a handful of easily accessible ingredients and minimal prep time, ham and cheese croissants are a fantastic addition to your home baking repertoire. Whether you want an elevated breakfast, a quick lunch, or an irresistible snack, these pastries deliver indulgence and convenience. As you gain confidence, experiment with flavors and fillings to make each batch your own, and enjoy the golden, flaky results in every bite.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a62158764/ham-and-cheese-croissants-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyn_89Sftj0
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjHoYsvldo0
- https://www.aubonpain.com/(GetProductDetails)/menu?id=768
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g62653845/ham-and-cheese-recipes/
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