Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are the perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet, making them an ideal snack or meal for any occasion. The combination of buttery croissants, melted cheddar cheese, and tender deli ham creates a mouthwatering treat, while the special mustard-honey sauce adds a delicious, tangy twist. With a quick preparation time and minimal ingredients, you’ll have an elegant and flavorful dish ready in no time. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or as an appetizer, these croissants are a sure hit that will leave everyone coming back for more.

What sets this recipe apart is the addition of a sweet and savory glaze that is brushed over the croissants before baking. The buttery texture of the croissants combined with the richness of the cheese and ham, complemented by the unique mustard-honey sauce, creates a perfect bite every time. The poppy seeds add a nice crunch and visual appeal, making these croissants not only delicious but also beautiful to serve. If you’re looking for an easy, impressive dish that is both comforting and flavorful, this Baked Ham and Cheese Croissant recipe is for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are the ideal combination of comfort and flavor, offering the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and savory notes. The warm, flaky croissants are stuffed with a delightful mixture of deli ham and smoky cheddar cheese, while the special mustard-honey glaze adds an irresistible touch of tanginess and sweetness. This recipe is incredibly simple to make, yet feels indulgent enough to serve at a gathering or as a satisfying meal for yourself. The best part is that they’re perfect for any time of day—whether as a breakfast, snack, lunch, or appetizer. You can customize the fillings to your preference, making this an easy recipe to personalize.

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Ingredients

• Mini croissants
• Smoked cheddar cheese (or regular cheddar)
• Deli-cut ham
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Yellow mustard
• Honey
• Worcestershire sauce
• Large egg white
• Poppy seeds (for sprinkling)

Variations

1. Different Cheeses: Swap the smoked cheddar for other cheeses such as gouda, Swiss, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
2. Add Vegetables: For a veggie twist, add spinach, arugula, or caramelized onions inside the croissants for extra flavor.
3. Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mustard-honey sauce.
4. Use Regular Croissants: If you can’t find mini croissants, regular-sized croissants work just as well for this recipe, and you can cut them in half if needed.
5. Herb-Infused Butter: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the softened butter for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Croissants

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the mini croissants in half horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through so the croissants remain connected at the base.

Step 2: Make the Mustard-Honey Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the yellow mustard, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and softened butter until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Croissants

Place a slice of cheese (cut in half to fit) and a generous portion of deli ham inside each croissant. Be sure to fill them well but not overstuff to avoid spilling when baking.

Step 4: Brush with Sauce

Place the stuffed croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of each croissant with the prepared mustard-honey sauce using a pastry brush. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best flavor.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch

Brush the egg white over the tops of the croissants for a shiny finish. Sprinkle poppy seeds over the croissants to add texture and visual appeal.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the croissants in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the ham is heated through, and the croissants are golden brown and crispy on top.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the croissants from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These croissants are delicious when served warm and paired with a side of marinara sauce, salad, or simply enjoyed on their own.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Choosing the Cheese: If you prefer a less smoky flavor, regular cheddar or a mild cheese like Swiss can be a great alternative.
2. Serving Warm: These croissants are best served warm so the cheese is melty and the ham is juicy. If serving later, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes.
3. Cutting the Croissants: If you prefer an even filling distribution, you can slice the croissants all the way through before assembling them, then reassemble the halves after stuffing them.
4. Sauce Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or mustard depending on whether you prefer a sweeter or more tangy glaze.
5. Making Ahead: You can prepare these croissants ahead of time and store them in the fridge, then bake them just before serving.

How to Serve

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a quick lunch. Pair them with a fresh side salad, a bowl of soup, or simply serve them with some marinara sauce for dipping. They’re also great for party platters, picnics, or casual gatherings, as they are easy to make and convenient to serve.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover croissants in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to bring them back to their delicious, warm state.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled but unbaked croissants for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, place leftover croissants on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through and the croissants are crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular croissants instead of mini croissants?

Yes, you can use regular-sized croissants; just cut them in half before filling.

2. Can I make these croissants ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

3. Can I freeze these croissants?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked croissants for up to 2 months and bake them directly from the freezer.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Swiss, gouda, or mozzarella for variety.

5. How do I ensure the croissants are crispy?

To get a crispy texture, be sure to bake them until the croissants are golden brown, and try reheating in the oven if storing leftovers.

6. Can I make these croissants without honey?

Yes, you can omit the honey if you prefer a less sweet flavor, or use maple syrup or agave nectar as an alternative.

7. How do I prevent the croissants from getting soggy?

Avoid overstuffing the croissants, and make sure they’re fully baked to get a crisp exterior.

8. Can I use store-bought mustard for the sauce?

Yes, store-bought yellow mustard works just fine in this recipe.

9. How long should I bake these croissants?

Bake them for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

10. Can I add other fillings to the croissants?

Yes, you can add other ingredients like pickles, tomatoes, or olives for a more complex flavor.

Conclusion

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are the perfect comfort food, combining the richness of cheese, the savory flavor of deli ham, and the delicious crunch of a buttery croissant. With an easy-to-make mustard-honey glaze, these croissants are elevated into something truly special. Whether you’re preparing them for a quick family meal, a party, or a weekend brunch, they’re sure to impress. Simple, delicious, and versatile—this recipe is a must-try!

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