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This flaky ham and cheese croissant recipe transforms store-bought puff pastry into an impressive breakfast treat that tastes like it came from a French bakery. The combination of savory ham, melty Swiss cheese, and creamy spread creates a perfect balance of flavors wrapped in buttery, crisp layers.
I first made these croissants for a Sunday brunch with friends, and they disappeared faster than anything else on the table. Now they've become my signature dish whenever we have overnight guests.
Ingredients
- Store bought puff pastry: Thawed according to package directions for the perfect flaky base
- Thinly sliced ham: Choose a good quality variety for the best flavor
- Swiss cheese: Freshly grated melts more evenly than pre shredded
- Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature for easy spreading
- Egg: For brushing creates that gorgeous golden crust
- Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy depth that complements the ham perfectly
- Fresh chives: Bring a mild onion flavor and beautiful color
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning every good recipe needs proper seasoning
- Flour: For dusting prevents sticking when rolling
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This high temperature is crucial for creating those signature flaky layers in the puff pastry. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, gently roll each puff pastry sheet just enough to smooth out any creases. Cut each sheet into 4 equal triangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Work quickly as the pastry becomes harder to handle as it warms.
- Make the Filling:
- Combine the softened cream cheese with Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl until completely smooth. If using chives, fold them in gently. This creamy base acts as both flavor enhancer and adhesive to hold your fillings in place.
- Assemble the Croissants:
- Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on each triangle, leaving a small border around the edges. Layer ham slices and a generous sprinkle of grated Swiss on top. Avoid overfilling which can lead to filling escaping during baking.
- Roll the Croissants:
- Starting from the widest end of each triangle, roll the pastry toward the point, creating that classic crescent shape. Tuck the tip underneath and gently curve the ends toward each other. Place on the baking sheet with the point side down to prevent unraveling.
- Brush with Egg Wash:
- Whisk the egg until completely smooth, then brush a thin, even layer over each croissant. This creates that professional bakery shine and golden color while helping seal the edges of the pastry.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven. Look for a deep golden color and visible flaky layers. The cheese may bubble out slightly which creates delicious crispy edges.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the croissants to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This brief cooling period allows the fillings to set slightly while keeping everything warm and delicious.
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The first time I made these croissants was for my daughter's birthday breakfast. I woke up early to surprise her, and the smell of buttery pastry and melting cheese brought her downstairs before I could even call her. Now she requests them for every special occasion.
Make Ahead Options
These croissants work wonderfully as a make ahead option. You can assemble them completely, place them on a parchment lined baking sheet, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply brush with egg wash right before baking, adding an extra 2 minutes to the cooking time since they will be cold. This makes them perfect for holiday mornings when you want to minimize kitchen time.
Flavor Variations
While the classic ham and Swiss combination is timeless, this recipe welcomes creativity. Try turkey and cheddar for a different twist, or go vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms and Gruyère. For a Mediterranean version, use feta cheese, spinach, and sun dried tomatoes. The cream cheese base works beautifully with all these variations, providing a creamy foundation for whatever flavors you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
These croissants make a wonderful centerpiece for a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and coffee. For a more substantial meal, pair them with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. They also work beautifully as part of a buffet, where guests can enjoy them at room temperature. If serving for dinner, add a cup of tomato soup for a comforting meal that feels both special and homey.
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Impress your guests and elevate any meal with this foolproof recipe for flaky croissants packed with heavenly ham and melty Swiss cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare these croissants ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the croissants up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, brush with egg wash and add a few extra minutes to the baking time since they'll be cold from the refrigerator.
- → What other cheeses work well in these croissants?
While Swiss cheese provides classic flavor, you can substitute Gruyère, Emmental, Havarti, or Cheddar based on your preference. For a more complex flavor, try using a combination of cheeses.
- → Can I freeze these croissants?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked croissants on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, baked croissants can be frozen, then reheated in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.
- → What can I use instead of ham?
Turkey, prosciutto, smoked salmon, or roast beef make excellent substitutions. For a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers instead of meat.
- → How do I know when the croissants are done baking?
The croissants should be golden brown with visible flaky layers. If using an instant-read thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 200°F (93°C). If the tops are browning too quickly but they're not cooked through, cover loosely with foil.
- → What can I serve with these ham and cheese croissants?
These croissants pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, fruit platter, or soup for a complete meal. For breakfast or brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. A honey mustard or hollandaise dipping sauce can also elevate the experience.