This Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake is a warm, cheesy delight! Soft croissants soaked in a creamy egg mixture make for a perfect brunch treat that everyone will love.
You can’t go wrong with ham and gooey cheese! I often serve this dish at weekend brunches, and it’s always a hit—plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so I can sneak in some extra coffee time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Fresh croissants are best for this recipe because they provide a soft and flaky texture. If you can’t find them, feel free to use day-old croissants or even bakery-style bread like brioche or challah for a different twist.
Ham: I love using sliced ham for its flavor and ease. If you need a substitute, turkey or chicken slices work well too. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to cheese for richness. However, blending in Swiss cheese adds a lovely melting quality. You can also try mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese if you prefer something lighter or if you’re avoiding dairy.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives this bake a nice richness. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you could use half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for creaminess without all the calories.
Eggs: The eggs are key to the custard mixture. For a vegan option, try using a chickpea flour mix instead of eggs to achieve a similar texture. Just make sure to adjust the liquid in your recipe accordingly!
How Do I Ensure the Croissants Stay Soft and Flavorful?
To keep your croissants soft, it’s crucial to follow a few steps carefully. Start by allowing the croissants to soak in the egg mixture. This infusion of liquid helps them absorb flavors and remain tender once baked. Here’s how:
- After pouring the egg mixture over the croissants, let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This soaking time is essential!
- Make sure the egg mixture seeps through the layers of croissants by gently pressing down on them. This way, all layers get that delightful custard flavor.
Also, keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaking can dry them out, so look for that golden brown top and a custard that’s just set.
Ham And Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 6 large croissants, sliced in half horizontally
- 8 oz (225g) sliced ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Swiss)
For the Custard Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ham and cheese croissant brunch bake will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need an additional 35-40 minutes for baking, making a total of about 1 hour to enjoy this savory dish. It’s a great option for a weekend brunch or special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Croissants:
Carefully slice each croissant in half horizontally, being cautious not to cut all the way through. You want them to fan out and create little pockets for the delicious fillings!
3. Stuff the Croissants:
Now, take slices of ham and a nice handful of shredded cheese, and stuff them between the layers of each croissant. Get creative with this step—the more cheese, the better!
4. Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Place the stuffed croissants upright in the greased baking dish, packing them closely together. This helps them stay fluffy as they bake.
5. Make the Custard Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Mix until everything is well combined and frothy.
6. Pour the Mixture Over the Croissants:
Gently pour the egg mixture evenly over the stuffed croissants, ensuring that it seeps into all the layers. You want every bite to be flavorful!
7. Add More Cheese:
If you have any leftover shredded cheese, sprinkle it generously on top of the croissants for extra cheesiness and a lovely golden crust.
8. Let It Soak:
Allow the bake to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the croissants time to soak up all that rich custard mixture.
9. Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for the custard to be set and the tops of the croissants to turn a golden brown.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Before serving, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
11. Enjoy!
Serve warm and enjoy this hearty and comforting brunch dish. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy breakfast at home!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you can’t find croissants, day-old brioche or challah make great alternatives. Just slice them similarly to create pockets for the filling.
What If I Want to Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
No problem! You can substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option. Just be mindful of adjusting the seasoning to enhance the flavors.
Can I Prepare This Dish the Night Before?
Yes! You can assemble the croissants and pour the egg mixture over them the night before. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking the next day.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Enjoy!
