Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the warm aroma of freshly baked croissants wafts through your kitchen, you’re transported to a cozy café where each bite is pure bliss. My recipe for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants with Honey Butter Glaze is not just a breakfast option; it’s a delightful experience that turns any morning into a gourmet affair. With only five minutes of prep, these croissants are quick to make ahead and come out beautifully golden and flaky, stuffed with savory black forest ham and ooey-gooey cheese. Perfect for lazy weekends or festive brunches, they are guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Who knew breakfast could feel so luxurious? Are you ready to whip up this irresistible crowd-pleaser? Why You’ll Crave These Croissants? Effortless Preparation: With just five minutes of prep time, you can create a gourmet breakfast that impresses. Decadent Combination: The savory black forest ham paired with melty Swiss and mozzarella cheeses creates an unforgettable flavor explosion. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a lazy Sunday, these croissants adapt seamlessly to elevate any morning meal. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and bake them fresh when you need them—ideal for busy mornings! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves flaky croissants, and the honey butter glaze adds an irresistible touch that will keep family and friends coming back for more. Pair these delicious baked ham and cheese croissants with a light fruit salad for a balanced and delightful brunch experience! Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Ingredients For the Croissant Base Croissants – Use bakery-style or day-old croissants for the best flaky texture. Deli Ham (black forest preferred) – This adds savory depth; you can substitute with other deli meats like smoked turkey or chicken. For the Cheese Filling Swiss Cheese – Offers a nutty flavor and excellent melt; Gruyère or cheddar can be used as a substitute. Mozzarella Cheese – Adds that creamy stretch; feel free to use shredded mozzarella for easier filling. For the Honey Butter Glaze Butter – Unsalted is best for controlling the seasoning in the glaze. Honey – Provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors; maple syrup can replace it for a different twist. Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess to the glaze; yellow mustard works in a pinch. Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic can also be used for a bolder taste. Onion Powder – Adds subtle sweetness and complexity; fresh onions won’t achieve the same dissolved texture. Dried Parsley – Spruces up the glaze with fresh herb flavor; substitute with dried thyme or oregano as needed. Black Pepper – A mild heat to kick things up; adjust the quantity based on your spice preference. These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are perfect for impressing loved ones during breakfast or brunch! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will ensure that your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants bake evenly, achieving that perfect golden-brown finish. Step 2: Make the Honey Butter Glaze In a mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, and a pinch of black pepper. Whisk together until fully incorporated and smooth. This sweet and savory honey butter glaze will elevate the flavor of your croissants. Step 3: Prepare the Croissants Carefully slice each croissant horizontally, ensuring not to cut all the way through; leave a hinge. This method allows you to create a delightful pocket for the savory filling while keeping the croissants intact. Arrange the prepared croissants on your lined baking sheet, ready to be filled. Step 4: Apply the Glaze Inside Using a pastry brush, generously brush the inside of each opened croissant with the honey butter glaze. This step adds moisture and flavor to your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants, ensuring a delicious bite every time. Set aside the remaining glaze for the topping. Step 5: Fill the Croissants Now it’s time to fill each croissant with layers of black forest ham and a mix of Swiss and mozzarella cheese. Be generous! Tuck the ingredients inside, then gently press the tops back down to secure the fillings. The gooey melted cheese combined with savory ham will create a mouthwatering experience. Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet Place the stuffed croissants back onto the lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each. This spacing allows for even baking and gives the croissants room to puff up beautifully in the oven. You want them to breathe while they bake for that perfect flaky texture. Step 7: Top with Remaining Glaze Take the remaining honey butter glaze and brush it generously over the tops of each filled croissant. This adds shine and flavor to your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants, giving them a glossy, mouthwatering finish. You want them to look irresistible when they come out of the oven! Step 8: Bake Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the croissants are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling. The aroma of baked ham and cheese will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist! Step 9: Rest and Serve Once baked, remove the croissants from the oven and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. This brief resting period allows the cheese to set slightly and makes them easier to handle. Serve your warm Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants with a side of fruit or a drizzle of extra honey for dipping, and enjoy! Expert Tips for Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Preheat Perfectly: Ensure your oven reaches 375°F before baking. A properly preheated oven promotes even cooking and that lovely golden melt. Choose Quality Croissants: Opt for bakery-style or day-old croissants for the best texture. Fresh, airy croissants provide the perfect flakiness in your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants. Avoid Sogginess: If filling escapes while baking, place croissants on a wire rack as soon as they come out of the oven. This prevents steam from making them soggy. Fill Generously: Don’t skimp on the ham and cheese! A generous filling ensures each bite is packed with savory flavor, making your croissants irresistible. Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble your croissants the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a gourmet breakfast with ease! Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Variations Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own, bringing exciting twists to delightful favorites! Turkey Twist: Swap the black forest ham for smoked turkey for a lighter option. The subtle smokiness pairs beautifully with cheese. Cheesy Surprise: Experiment with cheese varieties, like sharp cheddar or creamy gouda, for a bolder flavor. Each choice adds a unique touch to the center. Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper inside for a hint of heat. Elevate your breakfast experience with this spicy twist! Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic flavor boost. This will bring a delightful earthy note that complements the richness of the dish. Smoky BBQ: Brush a little smoky BBQ sauce inside the croissants before adding the ham and cheese for a sweet and tangy surprise. It’s like a BBQ party in breakfast form! Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey on the ham before adding cheese for a delectable sweet-savory blend. This creates a delightful contrast that everyone will love. Crunchy Topping: Add poppy seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking for a subtle crunch. It’s an excellent way to elevate that buttery croissant experience! Breakfast Bagel Style: Replace croissants with bagels for a denser texture and more filling. A delicious alternative for bagel lovers craving a savory breakfast idea. Pair these variations with a light fruit salad or fresh juices for a delightful brunch! And for another amazing baked option, consider trying Baked Tiramisu Cheesecake for dessert to round out your meal. What to Serve with Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants? Elevate your brunch experience by pairing these delightful croissants with savory and refreshing sides that complement their rich flavors. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory croissants, enhancing the overall brunch experience. Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: Simple yet flavorful, this tangy sauce is perfect for drizzling or dunking. It accentuates the honey butter glaze beautifully. Mixed Green Salad: Lightly dressed greens provide an earthy balance, making each bite feel light and fresh against the rich croissants. Crushed Avocado Toast: Creamy, zesty avocado on toasted bread pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the croissants, introducing a delightful texture contrast. Tomato Basil Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of this soup complements the croissants beautifully and makes for a heartier meal. It’s perfect for a cozy brunch! Sparkling Citrus Beverage: Refreshing lemonade or a homemade citrus spritzer provides a zesty and bubbly contrast to the richness of the croissants, enhancing your meal’s overall brightness. Savory Quiche: Offering a delightful vegetarian option, a piece of quiche can add eggs and veggies, elevating your brunch with a creamy, flavorful side. These delectable pairings create a harmonious and satisfying brunch spread that encourages leisurely moments filled with joy and laughter. How to Store and Freeze Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Fridge: Store baked Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in the oven for best texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked croissants by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat the croissants in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 5-10 minutes. This keeps them crispy and delicious! Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble croissants up to 12 hours in advance, refrigerate, then pop them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy a cozy breakfast. Make Ahead Options These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the croissants up to 12 hours in advance. Simply prepare them fully, but instead of baking, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the croissants fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy them, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), uncover the croissants, brush with the remaining honey butter glaze, and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and delicious. This method ensures that you’ll experience the same flaky, gourmet results with minimal effort on busy mornings! Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best croissants for this recipe? Absolutely! I recommend using bakery-style or day-old croissants for this recipe. Fresh croissants should be airy and flaky, providing the perfect tender bite. Avoid using pre-packaged croissants, as they may not have the right texture or flavor. What is the best way to store leftover baked ham and cheese croissants? To maintain their freshness, store your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore their delicious crispiness. Can I freeze baked ham and cheese croissants? Yes, you can! For optimal taste, I suggest freezing unbaked croissants. Wrap each one in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking as directed. What should I do if the cheese leaks out while baking? Very good question! If your filling escapes during baking, don’t worry. Immediately transfer the croissants to a wire rack right after taking them out of the oven. This will prevent them from getting soggy, allowing some air circulation and maintaining that beautiful flaky texture. Are these croissants suitable for pets or individuals with allergies? Always check for allergies! This recipe contains dairy, gluten, and processed meats, which are not safe for pets. For individuals with allergies, consider using gluten-free bread options and lactose-free cheese. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you’re uncertain about specific dietary needs. How long can I make these croissants ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants up to 12 hours in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them in the morning—it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a special breakfast without the hassle! Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants That Will Wow Your Mornings Enjoy Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants, a breakfast delight that combines flaky croissants with savory ham and gooey cheese, perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 5 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsResting Time 3 minutes minsTotal Time 20 minutes mins Servings: 8 croissantsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: FrenchCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Croissant Base8 pieces Croissants Use bakery-style or day-old croissants12 ounces Deli Ham (black forest preferred)For the Cheese Filling8 ounces Swiss Cheese Can substitute with Gruyère or cheddar8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese Feel free to use shredded mozzarellaFor the Honey Butter Glaze1/4 cup Unsalted Butter Melted2 tablespoons Honey Can substitute with maple syrup1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard works as a substitute1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onions won't achieve the same texture1 teaspoon Dried Parsley Can substitute with dried thyme or oregano1 pinch Black Pepper Adjust quantity based on spice preference Equipment OvenMixing bowlBaking sheetParchment paperPastry Brush Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.Slice each croissant horizontally, leaving a hinge for filling.Brush the inside of each croissant with the honey butter glaze.Fill each croissant with layers of ham and a mix of Swiss and mozzarella cheese, then press the tops down.Arrange the stuffed croissants on the baking sheet, spacing them apart.Brush the tops of each filled croissant with the remaining honey butter glaze.Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted.Let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving with a side of fruit. Nutrition Serving: 1croissantCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 19gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 720mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 3mg NotesCroissants can be assembled the night before and refrigerated. Bake fresh in the morning for a gourmet breakfast experience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
