Croissants With Ham And Cheese

Name: Croissants With Ham And Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes; 1/4 cup water, cold; 1/4 cup milk, cold; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 packet active dry yeast; 8 slices of ham; 8 slices of cheese (Gruyère or Swiss); 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Classic Inspiration

I absolutely love making croissants with ham and cheese for breakfast or brunch. The flaky, buttery croissant paired with savory ham and melted cheese is a match made in heaven. I enjoy experimenting with different types of cheese, which adds a unique twist to this classic recipe. In just under an hour, you can create a delectable treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. This dish not only pleases the palate but also works beautifully for gatherings when served fresh from the oven.

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:21:35.224Z

When I first made croissants with ham and cheese, I was astonished by how easy it was to achieve such bakery-quality results at home. I started with high-quality ingredients, and the pastry dough was buttery and flaky, precisely as it should be. I made sure to keep everything chilled, which helped in maintaining the layers of pastry during baking.

This recipe is versatile—and I learned the importance of allowing the croissants to rise adequately before baking. I also discovered that the combination of Gruyère and smoked ham gives a delightful flavor and aroma that fills my kitchen, making it irresistible. Try adding some herbs for an extra kick!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
The combination of layers creates a delightful texture that you can't resist.
The savory ham perfectly complements the creamy cheese, making each bite a delight.
They are perfect for brunch, snacks, or meals on the go.

Understanding the Dough

Creating the perfect croissant dough is critical for achieving that signature flaky texture. The magic lies in the layers formed by rolling and folding the dough with cold butter. This technique, known as lamination, not only adds to the buttery flavor but creates that sought-after flaky structure. Be sure to keep your ingredients cold throughout the process, as warm butter can lead to a melted mess instead of distinct layers. I like to chill my utensils and even the surface when working to maintain the right temperature.

When mixing your dough, ensure the yeast is fresh and bubbly, which indicates a healthy fermentation process. This not only helps with rise but also contributes to the dough’s flavor complexity. After kneading, if the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour, but avoid overdoing it—the goal is to maintain a slightly tacky but smooth consistency. Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigeration stage helps develop the gluten and flavor.

Perfecting the Shape

Shaping croissants requires a bit of practice but is quite rewarding. When cutting the triangles, aim for even sizes so they bake uniformly. The wider base should be about 4-5 inches; this ensures enough room for the filling and that they roll up without spilling the ham and cheese. Remember, the tighter you roll from the base to the tip, the more crescent shape you’ll achieve. Once rolled, gently curve the ends toward each other for that classic crescent appearance.

As you prepare to bake, the final egg wash is essential for achieving that deep golden color and shiny finish. A well-brushed surface not only enhances appearance but also helps achieve a beautiful crust. If you're concerned about achieving the right gloss, consider brushing them nearing the end of the baking time for a final shine before they cool. Watch closely in the oven; they’re ready when the tops are deep golden brown and you can smell that enticing aroma filling your kitchen.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, these croissants can be served immediately for the best texture, but they can also be stored. If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, individually wrap and freeze them. They can be reheated at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes straight from frozen to regain their crispness. Just remember, soggy croissants are the enemy, so avoid microwaving if you can.

These croissants are not just standalone treats. They can be paired with a simple green salad for a light meal or served alongside breakfast items like scrambled eggs for a hearty brunch. Adding sautéed spinach or roasted peppers inside the filling can elevate these croissants to new flavor dimensions. It’s all about experimenting with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack, which can add a delightful kick, too. Don't hesitate to get creative with your fillings!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these mouthwatering croissants:

For the Croissants

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
1/4 cup water, cold
1/4 cup milk, cold
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 packet active dry yeast

For the Filling

8 slices of ham
8 slices of cheese (Gruyère or Swiss)
1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your croissants:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and cold milk. Mix until combined and form a dough. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth, then wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Roll and Fold the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle. Place the cold butter in the center and fold the dough over the butter. Roll out again and fold into thirds. Repeat this process two more times to create the layers.

Shape the Croissants

Roll the dough into a long rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into triangles, placing a slice of ham and cheese at the wide base. Roll from the base to the tip, creating a crescent shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Egg Wash and Bake

Beat the egg and brush the tops of the croissants. Let them rise for 30 minutes in a warm place. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors, and always ensure your ingredients are cold for the best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make these croissants a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour. While this may slightly alter the texture, it adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrients. For those with dairy restrictions, plant-based butter can work in place of regular butter. Just ensure it remains cold for optimal lamination results and adjust your baking times as needed since dairy-free options may behave differently in the oven.

If you don’t have ham or cheese on hand, a variety of other fillings can make this recipe adaptable. Try using turkey for a leaner option or adding sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for a vegetarian twist. Different cheeses, such as mozzarella or feta, can create a completely different taste profile while still remaining rich and cheesy. This flexibility allows for personalization based on what you enjoy or have available.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before shaping and baking. This allows for great flavor development. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to avoid any drying out. When you’re ready to make the croissants, remove the dough, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling out, as this will make it easier to handle.

Alternatively, you can shape the croissants and have them ready to bake. Just cover them well with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply let them rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This makes it convenient for busy mornings if you want fresh croissants to enjoy without having to start from scratch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought croissant dough?

Absolutely! Just fill the purchased dough with ham and cheese and follow the baking instructions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I freeze these croissants?

Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Just wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or even different meats for varied flavors.