Baked Ham and Cheese Delight

This baked ham and cheese croissant recipe transforms everyday ingredients into an irresistible treat that my family requests for weekend brunches. The combination of buttery, flaky pastry with savory fillings creates that perfect balance between comfort food and something special. Each bite delivers melty cheese and smoky ham wrapped in golden, crispy croissant layers.

I first made these croissants when hosting an impromptu brunch for unexpected guests. The dish was such a hit that it has become my signature offering whenever friends stay over, and my children now expect them as a special treat on holiday mornings.

Ingredients

• Mini croissants: These provide the perfect buttery base and their small size creates the ideal filling to pastry ratio
• Smoked cheddar cheese: The smokiness complements the ham beautifully try using a good quality aged cheddar for more depth
• Deli ham: Opt for a quality cut from the deli counter rather than prepackaged for better flavor and texture
• Unsalted butter: Creates the base for our savory spread look for European style butter for extra richness
• Yellow mustard: Adds tanginess to balance the rich elements choose a quality brand for best flavor
• Honey: Provides subtle sweetness that enhances the ham get local honey if possible for best results
• Worcestershire sauce: Just a touch adds umami depth and complexity to the spread
• Egg white: Creates that beautiful golden shine on top for bakery quality results
• Poppy seeds: Adds texture and visual appeal to the finished croissants

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F and take a moment to lightly grease your baking dish. This temperature is ideal for achieving that perfect balance of melted cheese inside and crispy exterior without burning the delicate croissants.

Prepare Croissants:

Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice each croissant horizontally. Layer each bottom half with half a slice of cheddar cheese, making sure it covers the entire surface. Follow with a generous layer of ham, folding it if necessary to fit within the boundaries of the croissant. Add the remaining half slice of cheese on top of the ham. The double cheese layer ensures melty goodness throughout.

Make Spread:

In a small bowl, combine softened butter with yellow mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly until completely smooth with no streaks of butter visible. This spread is the secret flavor booster that elevates these croissants above ordinary ham and cheese sandwiches.

Assemble Sandwiches:

Using a knife or small spatula, generously spread the butter mixture on both cut sides of each croissant. Be sure to reach all the way to the edges for maximum flavor in every bite. Place the top half of each croissant onto the filling, pressing gently to secure all layers together.

Arrange in Dish:

Place your assembled croissant sandwiches in the prepared baking dish, allowing a small amount of space between each for even heat circulation. If they touch slightly that is fine, as they will only be in the oven for a short time.

Egg Wash:

Whisk the egg white with a splash of water until frothy. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the top of each croissant with this mixture, taking care to cover the entire surface including the edges. Immediately sprinkle with poppy seeds before the wash begins to dry.

Bake:

Place the baking dish in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. Watch carefully during the final minutes. The croissants are done when the tops are beautifully golden brown and the cheese inside has completely melted.

Serve:

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for just 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the melted cheese to set slightly while keeping everything wonderfully warm.

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The Worcestershire sauce is my absolute favorite ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its magic by accident when I ran out of Dijon mustard one morning and needed to boost the flavor of the spread. That happy accident created what my husband now calls the secret weapon that makes these croissants so addictive. Even my pickiest nephew requests them whenever he visits.

Make-Ahead Options

These croissants are perfect for meal prep. You can assemble them completely up to 24 hours before baking, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply remove from the refrigerator while the oven preheats, add the egg wash and poppy seeds just before baking, and add about 3 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled ingredients. This has saved me countless mornings when hosting overnight guests.

Creative Variations

The basic ham and cheese croissant recipe serves as a wonderful template for endless variations. Try substituting turkey and Swiss for a lighter option, or go bold with prosciutto and fontina for an Italian twist. Vegetarians in your life will appreciate a version with roasted red peppers, spinach, and goat cheese. My family particularly loves a breakfast version that includes a thin layer of scrambled eggs between the ham and cheese. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility while maintaining that comforting, satisfying quality.

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Serving Suggestions

These croissants pair beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for a complete meal. If offering as part of a larger spread, consider including a selection of breakfast pastries, a fruit platter, and perhaps a light quiche. For beverages, these go wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a celebratory mimosa for special occasions. When serving to children, apple slices and yogurt make perfect accompaniments.

Storage and Reheating

While these croissants are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, avoid the microwave which will make the croissants soggy. Instead, place them in a preheated 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes until heated through. For best results, place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet to ensure they crisp up on all sides. Individual portions can also be wrapped in foil before reheating to prevent excessive browning.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with Swiss, gouda, or any cheese that melts well and complements ham.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the croissants, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ How can I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness and warmth.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can add sliced tomatoes, baby spinach, or even a spread of pesto for extra flavor.

→ Are these suitable for vegetarians?

If you omit the ham, you can create a vegetarian version using cheese and vegetable additions.