If you’re looking for a breakfast or brunch idea that feels a little fancy but is secretly simple, these Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are exactly what you need. Golden, flaky croissants filled with savory deli ham and smoky cheddar cheese, finished with a tangy-sweet butter glaze and baked to melty perfection—every bite is comforting, flavorful, and just indulgent enough.
Perfect for holidays, weekend brunches, or quick weekday meals, this recipe turns everyday ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re serving a crowd or preparing a cozy meal for two, these croissants are guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
- Quick and Easy: Assembled in minutes and baked in under 20.
- Crowd-Friendly: Great for gatherings, potlucks, or family breakfasts.
- Delicious Contrast: The buttery croissant, salty ham, smoky cheddar, and sweet honey-mustard glaze are a perfect match.
- Customizable: Use your favorite deli meats or cheeses for endless variations.
- Perfect Year-Round: Light enough for summer brunch, hearty enough for a winter breakfast.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 8 mini croissants
- 4 slices smoked cheddar cheese (or regular cheddar), halved
- ¾ pound deli-cut ham
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ to 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg white
- Poppy seeds, for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Assemble the Croissants
Slice each croissant in half horizontally. On the bottom half of each croissant, layer a half-slice of cheddar, followed by a generous slice of ham, then another half-slice of cheese. Cap with the top half of the croissant to create a sandwich.
Step 3: Make the Honey Mustard Butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, yellow mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and creamy. This spread is the secret weapon—it adds richness and flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Fill and Brush
Gently open each sandwich and spread a small amount of the butter mixture on the inside before closing it again. This ensures every bite is infused with flavor.
Step 5: Arrange and Top
Place all the sandwiches snugly in the prepared baking dish. In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg white with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush it over the tops of the croissants and sprinkle generously with poppy seeds.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the croissants in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown. The glaze will give the tops a beautiful sheen and slightly crisp texture.
Step 7: Serve
Let cool for a couple of minutes, then serve warm. These are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the cheese is gooey and the croissants are perfectly crisp.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Good-Quality Croissants: The better the pastry, the better the end result. Fresh bakery croissants work best.
- Try Different Cheeses: Smoked gouda, Swiss, or gruyère all work beautifully here.
- Don’t Skip the Spread: The honey-mustard-butter adds flavor, moisture, and that delicious glossy top.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the croissants up to 4 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the egg wash just before baking.
Serving Ideas
These baked croissants are incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to serve them:
- As part of a brunch buffet with fruit salad and mimosas
- With a simple green salad for lunch
- Alongside scrambled eggs and roasted potatoes for a full breakfast
- On their own as a satisfying snack or mini meal
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, need something quick for a weekday breakfast, or just want a delicious meal with minimal effort, these Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants check all the boxes. Their buttery crunch, savory filling, and hint of sweetness make them a guaranteed favorite for kids and adults alike.
Join the Conversation
Tried this recipe? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your variations in the comments—did you add Dijon? Use turkey or Swiss instead? Your creativity might inspire another home cook!
Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
Ingredients
- 8 mini croissants
- 4 slices smoked cheddar cheese or regular cheddar, halved
- ¾ pound deli-cut ham
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ to 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg white
- Poppy seeds for sprinkling
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Assemble the Croissants
- Slice each croissant in half horizontally. On the bottom half of each croissant, layer a half-slice of cheddar, followed by a generous slice of ham, then another half-slice of cheese. Cap with the top half of the croissant to create a sandwich.
Step 3: Make the Honey Mustard Butter
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, yellow mustard, honey, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and creamy. This spread is the secret weapon—it adds richness and flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Fill and Brush
- Gently open each sandwich and spread a small amount of the butter mixture on the inside before closing it again. This ensures every bite is infused with flavor.
Step 5: Arrange and Top
- Place all the sandwiches snugly in the prepared baking dish. In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg white with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush it over the tops of the croissants and sprinkle generously with poppy seeds.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake the croissants in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown. The glaze will give the tops a beautiful sheen and slightly crisp texture.
Step 7: Serve
- Let cool for a couple of minutes, then serve warm. These are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the cheese is gooey and the croissants are perfectly crisp.
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