Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe

If you could pick one breakfast or brunch dish that never fails to impress—whether it’s a lazy weekend with family or you’re hosting a crowd—it might just be these Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants. Flaky, buttery pastry wraps around layers of smoky ham and gooey, melted cheese, all brought together with a creamy chive-mustard spread that takes every bite to the next level. This dish celebrates comfort food at its finest, delivers crowd-pleasing flavors with almost zero fuss, and is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep handy for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants is how they combine the familiar with the special: each ingredient is simple to find but completely essential for superb texture and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, and why it matters:

• Croissants: The classic French pastry gives this dish its signature crisp and buttery layers; day-old croissants work especially well!
• Deli Ham: Thinly sliced ham (Black Forest is especially flavorful) brings savory richness and depth.
• Muenster Cheese: Mellow, creamy, and perfectly meltable—though you can swap for Havarti, Cheddar, or Swiss to suit your taste.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and moisture, ensuring your croissants stay decadent and never dry.
• Stoneground Mustard: Lends gentle heat and tang that cuts through the richness; use just as much as you love.
• Fresh Chives (optional): Brings a pop of color and subtle fresh flavor for that final, special touch.

How to Make Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

To get started, set your oven to 350°F. This moderate heat is perfect—it gently warms the croissants inside and out, melting the cheese thoroughly without drying anything out. Take this moment to line your baking sheet with parchment or foil for easy clean-up later.

Step 2: Make the Chive-Mustard Spread

In a small bowl, combine a generous spoonful of mayonnaise with a good squeeze of stoneground mustard. If you have fresh chives, chop them finely and stir them in; they make the spread even more delicious and vibrant. Give it a taste—add more mustard if you like some extra zing! This luscious mix is the secret weapon that keeps your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants ultra-moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Assemble the Croissants

Slice your croissants in half horizontally. Spread a bit of the chive-mustard mayo on the bottom half of each one—don’t be shy! Lay down a slice of cheese first (this helps form a gooey barrier), then pile on the deli ham. Top with another slice of cheese and finish with the croissant lid. Each layer ensures you get perfection in every bite.

Step 4: Bake to Melted Perfection

Arrange your assembled croissants on the prepared baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil; this keeps them soft while the cheese melts. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake a few minutes more so the tops get golden and irresistibly crisp. You’ll know they’re done when you catch that warm, savory aroma and peek at the melty cheese oozing from the edges!

Step 5: Serve While Hot

As soon as your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are out of the oven, transfer them to a serving platter and enjoy them warm. The cheese is at its gooey best, the croissants are crisped just right, and nobody will be able to resist diving in for seconds.

How to Serve Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh chives across the tops just before serving looks beautiful and adds a burst of herby brightness. You can also try a light dusting of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of honey if you like a sweet-savory twist. Even a few baby greens on the side add color and personality to the plate.

Side Dishes

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants pair beautifully with a crisp, simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. If you want something heartier, serve alongside roasted potatoes or a fresh fruit salad to round out your brunch spread. A steaming cup of coffee or fresh orange juice also makes every bite taste just a little more special.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a crowd, slice each croissant in half or even thirds and arrange them on a big platter for easy grabbing. Try mini croissants for a fun, appetizer-sized take at parties or potlucks. For a brunch bar, set out bowls of extra spread, pickles, or hot sauce so everyone can customize their own Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants just the way they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with extras (lucky you!), let them cool to room temperature. Wrap each croissant in foil or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days and make an unbeatable grab-and-go snack or lunch.

Freezing

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants freeze wonderfully. Once cooled, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month—just thaw individually in the fridge for several hours or overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For the best flavor and texture, reheat croissants in a 325°F oven, wrapped loosely in foil, for about 10–15 minutes, until warmed through. Remove the foil for the last couple of minutes to crisp the tops. This method keeps the croissants flaky and the cheese perfectly gooey rather than rubbery (which can happen in the microwave).

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! While Muenster melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor, you can substitute Havarti, Swiss, sharp Cheddar, or a combination for a twist on the classic Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants.

What kind of ham works best?

Thinly sliced deli ham works perfectly here, and Black Forest ham is our favorite for its smokiness. But honey ham, smoked ham, or even leftover holiday ham all make delicious fillings for these croissants.

Can I make these croissants in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the croissants (including the spread and fillings) the night before, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Simply bake as directed when you’re ready to serve—just add an extra few minutes to heat through.

Are Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants good for kids?

Absolutely! Kids love the gooey cheese and savory ham tucked inside flaky croissants. You can even go light on the mustard or leave it out for a milder version little ones will adore.

What if I don’t have fresh chives?

No problem at all. The chives are optional for extra flavor and color, but your Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants will still turn out wonderful without them. You could swap for a pinch of dried herbs, scallions, or simply skip them.

Final Thoughts

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are pure comfort and joy in pastry form—warm, cheesy, with just the right touch of tang from the mustard spread. If you’re looking for an easy way to delight your family or wow your friends, give this recipe a try and watch these golden beauties disappear in no time!

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