Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants: A Quick & Delicious Breakfast

If you’re looking for quick easy breakfast ideas for a group or a simple, satisfying meal for two, these Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are the perfect choice. Buttery, flaky croissants filled with savory ham and melty cheese, then baked to golden perfection—these homemade breakfast baked goods are sure to impress!

Whether you need picky breakfast ideas for the family, finger food for breakfast at a brunch gathering, or a husband breakfast idea to work, these croissants are easy to make and absolutely delicious. They also work well for March brunch ideas or as a last-minute easy brunch idea for two.

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What Are Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants?

These ham and cheese breakfast croissants are a savory take on the classic French pastry. They feature buttery croissants stuffed with slices of ham and cheese, then brushed with a flavorful honey-mustard glaze before being baked until crispy and golden. The result? A crispy, melty, and irresistible breakfast or brunch dish!

Unlike regular croissants, which take hours to make from scratch, this recipe uses store-bought croissants to save time while still delivering that delicious homemade taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans.
• Great for a Group: A fantastic finger food for breakfast when hosting guests.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the croissants ahead of time and bake when ready.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to match your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Work Lunches: A husband breakfast idea to work that doubles as a tasty lunch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Croissants:

• 6 large croissants (store-bought or homemade)
• 12 slices of ham (honey ham, smoked ham, or black forest ham)
• 6 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese

For the Honey-Mustard Glaze:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
• Pinch of salt & black pepper

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Small mixing bowl for the glaze
• Pastry brush for applying the glaze
• Knife & cutting board for slicing croissants
• Aluminum foil (if needed to prevent over-browning)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Croissants

1. Slice each croissant in half horizontally, but don’t cut all the way through.
2. Layer 2 slices of ham and 1 slice of cheese inside each croissant.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

1. Place the stuffed croissants on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Brush the tops of the croissants generously with the honey-mustard glaze.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the croissants are golden brown.
4. Let cool slightly before serving.

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Tips for the Best Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

• Use quality croissants: The flakier and more buttery, the better!
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Experiment with cheese: Try Swiss, gouda, brie, or even mozzarella.
• Make them extra crispy: Bake uncovered for the last few minutes.
• Brush the glaze evenly: This enhances flavor and creates a deliciously glossy finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the glaze: It adds flavor and prevents dryness.
• Using cold croissants: Let them sit at room temperature for even baking.
• Overloading with cheese: Too much can make them soggy.

Variations & Flavor Twists

• Sweet & Savory Croissants: Add a layer of raspberry or fig jam inside for contrast.
• Breakfast Croissants: Add a scrambled or fried egg for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap ham for roasted veggies like spinach and mushrooms.
• Spicy Croissants: Add a dash of hot sauce or jalapeño slices for a kick.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to keep them crispy.
• Freeze for later: Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These baked ham and cheese croissants pair well with:

• Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Greek yogurt with honey and granola for added protein.
• Scrambled eggs for a complete breakfast.
• Tomato soup for a comforting lunch option.

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FAQs

Can I make these croissants ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.

Can I use different meats?

Absolutely! Turkey, roast beef, or prosciutto work well.

Can I use puff pastry instead of croissants?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time to ensure the pastry is fully cooked.

Are these croissants good for meal prep?

Yes! They can be stored and reheated easily, making them great for quick breakfasts.

Conclusion

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are the perfect solution for quick easy breakfast ideas for a group, picky breakfast ideas, or even a cozy easy brunch idea for two. With their crispy, buttery texture and melty, savory filling, they’re an absolute must-try for any breakfast lover.

Try this ham and cheese breakfast croissant recipe today, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends! If you loved this recipe, subscribe for more homemade breakfast baked goods and brunch inspiration.

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