Croissants With Ham And Cheese

Name: Croissants With Ham And Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 12 store-bought croissants; 200g sliced ham; 200g shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional); 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Soft Meals

I absolutely love making Croissants with Ham and Cheese, especially for brunch gatherings. There’s something delightful about the flaky pastry filled with savory ham and rich cheese that gets everyone excited. I find the combination not only satisfying but also incredibly simple to prepare. The buttery croissants elevate the flavors, making each bite a special treat. Whether you’re serving them warm or at room temperature, these croissants always impress and disappear quickly. I'm excited to share this mouthwatering recipe that never fails to bring smiles to the table.

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:53:34.434Z

When I was first introduced to Croissants with Ham and Cheese, it felt like a little culinary revelation. The first time I made them, I experimented with a blend of cheeses and found that Gruyère offers the perfect melt and flavor balance. It’s thick, gooey, and transforms each bite into a delicious experience. I also recommend using fresh herbs to elevate the flavor profile even further!

As I honed my technique, I realized that letting the croissants rise just enough before baking is crucial—it develops that lovely flakiness. I also learned to brush them with a little egg wash before baking, giving them the golden, glossy finish that makes them irresistible.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Flaky and buttery croissants filled with savory ham and cheese
Versatile enough for brunch, lunch, or a quick snack
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for entertaining

The Art of Layering Flavors

The key to an irresistible Croissant with Ham and Cheese lies in the layering of flavors. Begin with quality ingredients; for the ham, a slightly smoky variety complements the rich Gruyère beautifully. The Dijon mustard, while optional, adds a piquant note that balances the creaminess of the cheese. I recommend using fresh, flaky croissants—store-bought is convenient, but artisan ones can elevate the dish. Layering these key flavors within the croissant ensures each bite is as satisfying as the last.

Additionally, timing your layering is crucial. When you cut the croissants in half, don't rush the process—this allows for even spreading of mustard and even distribution of ham and cheese. A good rule of thumb is to add slightly more cheese than ham to enhance creaminess and richness without overpowering the savory aspect. Ensuring a generous yet balanced fill will guarantee mouthwatering results.

Perfectly Baking Croissants

Baking croissants requires keen attention to detail, especially when aiming for that golden, flaky finish. Preheating the oven to the correct temperature is vital; at 375°F (190°C), you're achieving a perfect rise and color. During baking, keep an eye on the croissants for visual cues—look for their edges to turn deep golden and the cheese to ooze slightly. This typically happens between 20 to 25 minutes, so set a timer to check at the 20-minute mark to prevent over-browning.

Using parchment paper on your baking sheet not only prevents sticking but also promotes even cooking, assuring that the bottoms achieve that delightful crispiness. If you're making multiple batches, consider baking them one at a time for optimal airflow around each croissant. Overcrowding the pan could lead to uneven baking, causing some croissants to remain doughy inside.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make delicious Croissants with Ham and Cheese:

Ingredients

12 store-bought croissants
200g sliced ham
200g shredded Gruyère cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh to enjoy the best flavors!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Croissants with Ham and Cheese:

Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If desired, cut the croissants in half and spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside.

Fill the Croissants

Layer the sliced ham and shredded Gruyère cheese inside each croissant. Close them up gently.

Egg Wash and Bake

In a small bowl, whisk the egg and brush it over the tops of the croissants. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade Croissants with Ham and Cheese!

Perfect for gatherings or as a cozy snack any time of day!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding fresh herbs like thyme or chives to the cheese filling.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a brunch, you can prepare the Croissants with Ham and Cheese ahead of time. Assemble the croissants the night before, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, all you need to do is brush them with the egg wash and pop them in the oven. This method enhances flavor and saves you precious time during busy brunches.

For storage, leftover croissants should be cooled to room temperature before being placed in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, which restores their delightful flakiness and warmth.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

While the classic ham and Gruyère combination is delightful, experimenting with different fillings can yield exciting results. For a vegetarian alternative, try substituting the ham with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions, and replace the Gruyère with a strong cheddar or a goat cheese for a tangy twist. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or chives can elevate the flavor even further.

Additionally, if you're looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat cheese or turkey slices. Both will maintain moisture while cutting down on calories. Gluten-free croissants are also available at many specialty stores if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While Gruyère is fantastic, you can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or sharp cheddar for different flavors.

→ How can I reheat leftover croissants?

Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that fresh, flaky texture.

→ Can I make these croissants in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the croissants and fill them a day ahead, then bake them just before serving for freshness.

→ What can I pair with these croissants?

They pair wonderfully with a light salad or soup, and are perfect alongside a fresh fruit platter.