Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are the epitome of comfort food elegance—flaky, buttery croissants filled with savory ham and gooey melted cheese, then brushed with a flavorful Dijon-honey butter and baked until golden and crisp. This recipe transforms a few simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying dish that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or even a cozy dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these croissants are a guaranteed hit. The contrast between the crisp exterior and the melty, savory interior makes every bite irresistible. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to prepare and can be assembled ahead of time.
Ingredients:
For the croissants:
- 12 mini croissants (day-old works best for structure)
- ¾ pound smoked deli ham, thinly sliced
- 6 slices Swiss cheese, halved diagonally
For the Dijon-honey butter:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the topping:
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds (optional, for crunch and visual appeal)
Instructions:
- Preheat and prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This ensures the croissants bake evenly and don’t stick. - Make the Dijon-honey butter:
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, Dijon mustard, honey, and chopped green onions. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended. This spread adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the ham and cheese beautifully. - Assemble the croissants:
Slice each croissant in half horizontally. Spread a generous layer of the Dijon-honey butter on both the top and bottom halves. Layer each bottom half with a few slices of ham and a piece of Swiss cheese. Top with the other half of the croissant to form a sandwich. Repeat with all 12 croissants. - Arrange in baking dish:
Place the assembled croissants in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. They can be snug, but avoid overlapping too much to ensure even baking. - Prepare the egg wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the croissants with this mixture to help them brown beautifully. Sprinkle with poppy seeds if using. - Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The tops should be crisp, and the filling warm and gooey. - Cool slightly and serve:
Let the croissants rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm, perhaps with a side salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations:
- Cheese options: Swiss cheese is classic, but Gruyère, cheddar, or provolone also work wonderfully.
- Add herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary inside the croissants adds a fragrant twist.
- Make ahead: Assemble the croissants and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving for a stress-free brunch.
- Mini party bites: Use cocktail croissants for bite-sized versions—perfect for parties or potlucks.
These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are more than just a sandwich—they’re a warm, flaky hug in food form. If you’re feeling adventurous, I can help you create a tropical twist with pineapple chutney or a spicy version with jalapeño and pepper jack. Just say the word!