Hi friend! If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s warm, filling, and full of flavor—this ham and cheese croissant recipe is exactly what you need. These croissants are soft and buttery on the inside, crispy on the outside, and loaded with melted cheese and savory ham. I make them when I want something comforting that feels a little fancy, but doesn’t take much time.
And oh, the smell while they bake? It’s heavenly. Seriously, it feels like a warm hug from the oven.
Why You’ll Love These Croissants
These are one of my favorite things to make when I want to impress someone—or just treat myself! Here’s why they’re so great:
- Quick & easy: You only need 10 minutes to prep and 20 to bake.
- Warm and gooey: The cheese melts beautifully, and the ham gives it that savory flavor.
- Perfect for any time: Great for breakfast, brunch, or even a snack.
- Customizable: You can switch up the fillings based on what you like.
Once you make these, you’ll be hooked.
Simple Ingredient Swaps That Work
This recipe is super flexible, so you can make changes based on what you have in the kitchen:
- No croissants? Use puff pastry or even thick sandwich bread in a pinch.
- No ham? Swap for turkey, roasted veggies, or mushrooms for a veggie version.
- No cheese? Try mozzarella, cheddar, pepper jack, or even a dairy-free cheese.
- Want it sweeter? Use honey mustard instead of Dijon for a bit of sweetness.
- No egg? Brush with plant-based milk mixed with a little oil for shine.
You can truly make these your own!
How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissants
Let’s get into the fun part. These croissants come together fast and bake up golden and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 large croissants (fresh or frozen & baked)
- 8 slices of ham (smoked or honey ham work great)
- 8 slices of cheese (Swiss, Gruyère, or cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional: sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps everything cook evenly and makes the tops golden and crisp. - Slice the Croissants
Cut each croissant in half lengthwise, but leave a little hinge at the back. This keeps the top and bottom connected so it’s easier to fill and bake. - Add Mustard (If Using)
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the inside of each croissant. It adds a nice little kick of flavor, but you can skip it if you want to keep things mild. - Layer the Ham and Cheese
Place 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of cheese inside each croissant. Press them down gently so the fillings stay in place. - Brush with Egg Wash
Beat the egg in a small bowl, then use a brush to lightly coat the tops of the croissants. This gives them a shiny, golden finish once baked. - Season and Add Toppings
Sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper over the tops. You can also add sesame or poppy seeds if you want a little crunch and extra flair. - Bake Until Golden
Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15–20 minutes until they’re golden brown and the cheese is melty. - Cool and Serve
Let them cool for a few minutes so they’re easier to handle. Then serve them warm and enjoy every bite!
Tips for the Best Croissants
- Use buttery croissants: The better the croissant, the better the final dish.
- Watch the oven near the end: They brown quickly in the last few minutes!
- Reheat leftovers in the oven: This keeps the outside crispy.
Can I use different cheese?
Yes! Try mozzarella, pepper jack for spice, or even goat cheese for something fancy. Just choose one that melts well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat frozen croissants in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I make them ahead?
Totally! Assemble them a few hours ahead and keep in the fridge. Just brush with egg wash right before baking. You can also freeze them (unbaked) and bake straight from frozen—just add a few more minutes.
No croissants on hand?
Use puff pastry or thick sandwich bread instead. Just adjust your baking time and keep an eye on them!
Let’s Make Mornings Extra Special!
I hope you try these warm, cheesy ham and cheese croissants! They’re one of those easy recipes that make any morning feel like a weekend brunch. If you make them, let me know how they turn out! You can also find more quick breakfast ideas and cozy recipes on my Pinterest.
