Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants: A Flaky, Cheesy Brunch Favorite

There are few things more satisfying than biting into a buttery, flaky croissant. Add layers of savory ham and gooey melted cheese, bake it to golden perfection, and you’ve got one of the most comforting dishes ever: Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants.

This recipe takes a French classic and transforms it into a warm, cheesy bake that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, preparing a quick family meal, or packing something hearty for a picnic, these croissants are a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Assembled in minutes, baked in under 20.
• Crowd-Friendly: Perfect for brunch spreads, potlucks, or family breakfasts.
• Customizable: Use your favorite cheese, add sauces, or layer in extras like spinach or tomatoes.
• Kid-Approved: Familiar flavors that both kids and adults love.

Ingredients

• 6 large croissants (fresh or day-old)
• 6 slices ham (thinly sliced)
• 6 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar, Gruyère, or provolone)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Assemble Croissants:
   Slice croissants in half horizontally. Spread Dijon mustard on the bottom half (optional). Layer with ham and cheese slices. Top with the other half of the croissant.
3. Brush & Garnish:
   Brush the tops lightly with melted butter. Sprinkle with poppy seeds if desired.
4. Bake:
   Arrange croissants on the prepared baking sheet. Bake 12–15 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
5. Serve:
   Serve warm with fresh fruit, salad, or a cup of coffee for the perfect brunch pairing.

Tips for Perfect Croissants

• Use quality croissants for the best results — bakery-fresh or store-bought work fine.
• Try different cheeses like brie, Havarti, or mozzarella for variety.
• Add greens or tomato slices for freshness.
• For a make-ahead version, assemble the croissants the night before, cover, and bake in the morning.

Variations

• Ham & Brie Croissants: Swap Swiss for creamy brie.
• Breakfast Croissants: Add scrambled eggs before baking.
• Turkey & Cheddar Version: Use turkey slices and sharp cheddar for a new twist.
• Sweet & Savory: Add a thin spread of fig jam with ham and cheese for a gourmet touch.

Serving Suggestions

These croissants are perfect with:

• Fresh fruit salad
• Crispy roasted potatoes
• A side of mixed greens
• Hot coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Flaky golden croissants filled with ham and melted cheese, baked to perfection for a quick and delicious brunch or breakfast.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 croissants

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American, French

Calories: 340

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 6 croissants fresh or day-old
• 6 slices ham thinly sliced
• 6 slices Swiss cheese or cheddar, Gruyère
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard optional
• 2 tbsp butter melted
• 1 tsp poppy seeds optional garnish

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife
• Pastry brush

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice croissants in half. Spread Dijon mustard (optional) on bottoms. Layer with ham and cheese, then top with croissant halves.
3. Brush tops with melted butter. Sprinkle poppy seeds if desired.
4. Bake 12–15 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
5. Serve warm with fruit, salad, or coffee.

Notes

Try with turkey, brie, or cheddar for variations. Assemble ahead and bake before serving. Freeze unbaked croissants for up to 2 months.

Storage & Make-Ahead

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
• Freezer: Assemble croissants and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes.