Description
Ham and Cheese Croissants
Ingredients:
1 pack of puff pastry sheets
4 slices of ham
4 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp dried parsley
1 tsp garlic powder
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Instructions:
Prepare the Pastry
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Roll out the puff pastry and cut into triangles.
Assemble the Croissants
Place a slice of ham and cheese on the wider end of each triangle.
Roll the pastry starting from the wide end to form a croissant shape.
Add the Topping
Brush the croissants with the beaten egg.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic powder.
Bake
Arrange the croissants on a lined baking sheet.
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden and puffy.
Serve Warm
Serve your croissants fresh out of the oven for a buttery, cheesy delight!
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparation: Thaw puff pastry according to package instructions. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cutting: On a lightly floured surface, roll the pastry sheet into a large rectangle. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut it into 4-6 equal-sized triangles.
3. Filling: Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese on the wider end of each triangle, ensuring the filling does not touch the very edges.
4. Rolling: Starting from the wide end, gently but firmly roll each triangle towards the pointed tip. Tuck the point underneath the croissant to secure it.
5. Topping: Place croissants on the baking sheet. Brush each generously with beaten egg. In a small bowl, mix grated Parmesan, dried parsley, and garlic powder, then sprinkle over the croissants.
6. Baking: Bake for 15-18 minutes until deeply golden brown and puffed. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These croissants are incredibly versatile. For a complete breakfast, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad with a vinaigrette. They make a fantastic brunch item paired with a creamy soup like tomato bisque. For a party, cut the pastry into smaller triangles to create delightful, bite-sized appetizers.
How-to Summary
Thaw and cut puff pastry into triangles. Layer ham and cheese on the wide end, then roll to the point. Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with a Parmesan-herb mix, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15-18 minutes until golden. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the croissants, place them on the baking sheet, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Brush with egg wash and bake directly from the fridge, adding 1-2 extra minutes.
Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely. Gruyère, Gouda, or even pepper jack for a kick work wonderfully. Ensure the cheese is sliced thinly so it melts evenly.
My pastry didn’t puff much. What happened? This is often due to overhandling, which warms the butter in the pastry. Work quickly with cold pastry and ensure your oven is fully preheated.
Can I add other ingredients? Definitely. Consider adding a thin layer of Dijon mustard before the ham, or incorporating ingredients like sautéed spinach or caramelized onions.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 175°C (350°F) oven for 5-8 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave, which makes them soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm pastry: This causes the butter to melt before baking, preventing a proper puff. Keep it cool until the moment you assemble.
- Overfilling: Using too much ham or cheese can cause the croissants to burst open during baking and leak filling.
- Skipping the egg wash: The egg wash is crucial for achieving that beautiful, shiny, golden-brown finish.
- Under-baking: Remove them only when they are a deep, consistent golden brown. A pale color means the pastry layers inside may be undercooked.
Conclusion
These Ham and Cheese Croissants are the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create an impressive, flaky, and savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Mastering this recipe opens the door to endless customizations, making it a reliable and delicious staple in your baking repertoire.