Oh my, I can hardly contain my excitement when it comes to sharing this recipe for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants! There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into a flaky croissant that’s warm and stuffed with gooey cheese and savory ham. Trust me, your kitchen is going to smell like a cozy little café, and you’ll be wishing you made more than just the six croissants this recipe yields.
Every time I make these, I’m transported back to lazy weekends spent brunching with friends, where we would linger over coffee and warm pastries. This easy recipe is perfect for those days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can whip these up and enjoy them in no time—ideal for a special breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner with a side of fresh fruit or salad!
## What’s in Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?
Let’s break down what we need to create this delightful dish:
Croissants: The star of the show! I love using large, buttery croissants for that perfect flakiness. You can either buy them from the bakery or pick some up from the grocery store.
Ham: A classic pairing with cheese, I recommend using sliced deli ham for convenience. You can absolutely switch it out for turkey or roast beef if you’re feeling adventurous!
Swiss Cheese: This is my go-to cheese for a nutty flavor, but feel free to swap in your favorite cheese varieties—cheddar, gouda, or even mozzarella can be fantastic here!
Unsalted Butter: We’re using melted butter to brush on top and to flavor the inside. Unsalted allows us to control the saltiness.
Dijon Mustard: Just a touch adds a nice depth of flavor! If you’re not a mustard lover, a little mayonnaise works too.
Poppy Seeds: These add a nice crunch and a touch of elegance on top! If you don’t have them, don’t worry—they’re optional.
Garlic Powder: Because let’s be real, garlic makes everything better! Feel free to use fresh minced garlic if you prefer.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance all those fabulous flavors.
## Is Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Good for You?
While we can’t exactly call these health food, they do contain some benefits!
Ham: This protein can help keep you feeling full, which makes it a great choice for breakfast or brunch.
Cheese: Packed with calcium and protein, cheese can contribute to a balanced diet, but as with everything, moderation is key.
Do keep in mind, these croissants are rich and buttery, which means they’re more of a treat than an everyday meal. Perfect for special occasions or when you need a cozy pick-me-up!
## Ingredients List
– 6 large croissants
– 6 slices of ham
– 6 slices of Swiss cheese (or cheese of your choice)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
*This recipe serves 6, making it perfect for small gatherings or a family breakfast!*
## How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?
Getting these delicious croissants in your mouth is easier than you might think! Here’s how to make them:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until it’s all combined and looking fabulous.
3. Slice each croissant in half horizontally, but don’t cut all the way through! We want to create a little pocket for all that goodness.
4. Generously spread that luscious butter mixture inside each croissant, because we want flavor in every bite!
5. Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss cheese into each croissant pocket. Feel free to get creative with how much you stuff in there!
6. Close them back up and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
7. Brush the remaining butter mixture over the tops of the croissants and follow it up with a sprinkle of poppy seeds.
8. Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the croissants are crispy and the cheese is bubbly.
9. When you pull them out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. (I know, it’s hard to wait!)
## Croissant Perfection Tips and Serving Suggestions
Here are some of my favorite tips to kick your croissant-making game up a notch:
– If you’re short on time, you can prepare these the night before and stick them in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
– Feeling fanatical about flavors? Add some sliced tomatoes or a sprinkle of fresh herbs inside for an extra lift!
– These croissants are best enjoyed warm, so serve them fresh out of the oven with fresh fruit or a light salad for a touch of balance.
I can’t wait for you to give these Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants a try! They’re a fantastic way to treat yourself and your loved ones, and I promise they’ll disappear quickly. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences—I love hearing how your baking adventures go! Happy cooking!
