Cheesy Ham Croissants

Description

Cheesy Ham Croissants

Ingredients:

4 Croissants
4 slices Ham
4 slices Cheese (Mozzarella or Swiss)
1 Beaten Egg
Black Pepper (optional)

Preparation Steps:

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Layer ham and cheese inside sliced croissants.
Brush croissants with egg and sprinkle black pepper for flavor.
Bake for 12 minutes or until golden.

Flaky croissants stuffed with melty cheese and savory ham! Who’s trying this? #CroissantGoals

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect cheesy ham croissants every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice each croissant horizontally, but do not cut all the way through. Leave one edge intact to create a “pocket.”
3. Place one slice of ham inside each croissant pocket. Fold or tear the ham to fit neatly.
4. Add one slice of cheese on top of the ham. For extra cheesiness, you can add a second slice or use shredded cheese.
5. In a small bowl, beat one egg until smooth. This is your egg wash.
6. Use a pastry brush to gently coat the top and visible sides of each stuffed croissant with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden shine.
7. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of black pepper over the egg-washed tops for added flavor.
8. Place the prepared croissants on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the croissants are puffed, flaky, and a deep golden brown, and the cheese is visibly melted.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving, as the filling will be very hot.

Serving Suggestions

These croissants are versatile. Serve them warm for a quick breakfast or brunch alongside a fresh fruit salad. They make an excellent packed lunch with a side of soup or a simple green salad. For a party, slice them into smaller pieces for delightful, warm appetizers.

How-to Summary

Slice croissants into pockets, stuff with ham and cheese, brush with beaten egg, optionally add pepper, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes until golden and melty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
You can assemble them a few hours ahead, keep them covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving. Add 1-2 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

What are the best cheese substitutes?
Gruyère, cheddar, or gouda work wonderfully. For a stronger flavor, try pepper jack.

Can I use other meats?
Absolutely. Turkey, crispy bacon, or even sliced roast beef are excellent alternatives to ham.

My croissants are soggy. What happened?
Sogginess is often due to overstuffing or using ingredients with high moisture. Ensure your ham is well-drained and don’t overfill the croissant.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness. The microwave will make them soft.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Cutting the croissant all the way through: This makes it difficult to keep the filling inside. Always leave a hinge.
• Over-brushing with egg wash: A light, even coat is sufficient. Too much can make the pastry heavy.
• Overstuffing: Too much filling can cause leaks and prevent even heating. One slice of each is usually perfect.
• Using cold fillings straight from the fridge: Let cheese and ham sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before assembling for more even melting.

Conclusion

These cheesy ham croissants are the ultimate quick and satisfying treat, combining buttery, flaky pastry with savory, melted goodness. With this detailed guide, you can easily master the recipe, customize it to your taste, and avoid common pitfalls. Perfect for any time of day, they are sure to become a favorite in your home kitchen.