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Easy Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants

These Easy Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are the ultimate crowd-pleasing brunch dish. Flaky, buttery croissants are filled with savory ham and layers of melty Swiss cheese, then brushed with a flavorful Dijon-honey butter and baked until golden and irresistible. They come together fast, making them perfect for busy mornings, brunch parties, or feeding a hungry group without stress. Even better, they can be prepped ahead or frozen for grab-and-go breakfasts later. Warm, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, these croissants deliver bakery-style flavor at home with minimal effort—and they always disappear fast.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
Cuisine: American, French
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients You’ll Need
  • Unsalted butter ⅓ cup – Creates a rich, silky base that soaks into the croissants beautifully
  • Dijon mustard 2 tbsp – Adds a bold, tangy kick that cuts through the richness
  • Green onions 2, finely sliced – Bring freshness, light crunch, and a hint of sweetness
  • Honey 1 tbsp – Just enough sweetness to balance the savory flavors
  • Sea salt ½ tsp – Enhances every ingredient without overpowering
  • Ground black pepper ¼ tsp – Adds gentle warmth and depth
  • Mini croissants 12 – Buttery, flaky, and perfectly sized for filling
  • Ham 1 lb, thinly sliced – Savory and satisfying; choose your favorite style
  • Swiss cheese slices 12 – Melts smoothly with a mild, nutty flavor
  • Egg white 1 – Gives the tops a glossy, golden finish
  • Poppy seeds 2 tsp – Add light crunch and visual flair

Method
 

Step 1: Get the Oven Ready

Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.

    Step 2: Make the Flavor Spread

    In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, Dijon mustard, green onions, and honey until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

      Step 3: Prep the Croissants

      Slice each croissant horizontally, keeping one edge intact so it opens like a book. Spread the butter mixture generously on both sides.

        Step 4: Fill Them Up

        Layer Swiss cheese on the bottom half first, then add ham, followed by another slice of cheese if desired. Close gently and place each croissant snugly into the baking dish.

          Step 5: Add the Topping

          Whisk the egg white with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush over the tops of the croissants and sprinkle with poppy seeds.

            Step 6: Bake

            Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the croissants are golden and the cheese is fully melted. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving warm.

              Notes

              Helpful Tips for Best Results

              • Go for quality croissants – Flakier croissants hold fillings better and taste richer
              • Any croissant shape works – Straight or curved, both bake beautifully
              • Switch up the cheese – Gruyère or Emmental are great alternatives
              • Choose thin-sliced ham – It heats evenly and layers neatly
              • Cheese-first layering matters – It helps protect the bread from moisture
              • Foil = softer texture; uncovered = crispier tops
              • Keep an eye on baking time – Overbaking dries them out
              • Serve warm – That’s when they shine

              FAQs

              What kind of croissants work best?
               Fresh, buttery croissants that are sturdy enough to hold fillings without tearing.
              Can I use another cheese?
               Yes! Gruyère, cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella all melt well and taste great.
              How do I keep them from getting soggy?
               Layer cheese first, bake uncovered, and avoid overly thick fillings.
              Can I customize the filling?
               Absolutely—try caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or sliced tomatoes.
              What temperature and time are best?
               Bake at 350–375°F (175–190°C) for 10–18 minutes, depending on size and oven.
              Can I make them ahead?
               Yes. Assemble, refrigerate, then bring to room temperature before baking.

              Final Thoughts

              These baked ham and cheese croissants are everything a crowd-pleasing brunch dish should be—easy, indulgent, and impossible to resist. They’re perfect for busy mornings, relaxed brunches, or feeding a hungry group without stress. Whether you’re hosting guests or meal-prepping breakfasts for the week, this recipe delivers bakery-style flavor with minimal effort. Make extra—you’ll be glad you did.