Savory Ham And Cheese Croissants

Name: Savory Ham And Cheese Croissants
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 croissants
Ingredients: 1 package of croissant dough (about 8-10 rolls); 200g of sliced ham; 200g of cheese (Gruyère or cheddar, shredded); 1 egg (for egg wash); Optional: Dijon mustard for spreading

Highlighted under: Quick Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love baking, and making these savory ham and cheese croissants has become one of my favorite weekend traditions. When the warm, flaky pastries emerge from the oven, the aroma is simply irresistible. Each bite is a delightful balance of rich ham and gooey cheese wrapped in buttery croissant dough. This recipe is perfect for brunch gatherings or just a treat for myself after a busy week. I can’t wait to share the tips that make these croissants a standout dish in my kitchen!

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-02-16T06:37:36.410Z

During one of my baking adventures, I decided to experiment with making savory pastries. After trying several combinations, I found that the pairing of ham and cheese was unbeatable. The key is to use a good quality ham and a cheese that melts beautifully, like Gruyère or cheddar. This combo creates a luxurious filling that elevates the croissant to a whole new level.

I've also learned that allowing your croissant dough to rest before rolling it out makes a significant difference. It creates a lighter, flakier texture that complements the savory filling perfectly. These croissants are not only delicious but also an impressive addition to any brunch table or picnic.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich layers of flaky pastry bursting with savory flavor
Gooey melted cheese that stretches beautifully with every bite
Perfect for brunch or as an easy appetizer at gatherings

Perfecting the Croissant Technique

When making these savory ham and cheese croissants, one key technique is to properly roll the dough. By starting from the wide end and rolling tightly towards the point, you create those lovely layers that are essential for the flakiness of the croissant. It's vital to tuck the tip underneath the croissant before baking, as this prevents it from unrolling in the oven. A little practice goes a long way, and you'll find that each croissant gets better as you gain confidence in your rolling technique.

Another important factor is ensuring your dough is cold before rolling. If the dough warms up too much, the butter in the layers can melt, resulting in less flakiness when baked. You can even place the cut triangles back in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before rolling to keep the butter at the right temperature. This simple step can significantly improve the texture of the final pastry.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The choice of cheese can make a noticeable difference in flavor. While Gruyère adds a nutty depth, sharp cheddar brings a bright bite that complements the ham beautifully. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or Havarti for varied flavors. Remember to shred your cheese instead of using slices; this ensures it melts evenly and integrates better with the ham, enhancing the gooeyness with every bite, which is what we're striving for in these croissants.

Don't hesitate to personalize the filling! Besides ham and cheese, you could add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra layer of flavor. Adjusting your ingredients isn't just about taste; it also allows for dietary adaptations. For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with roasted vegetables or a mix of your favorite cheeses, keeping an eye on the balance of moisture to ensure the pastry bakes up nicely.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you're not enjoying these croissants right away, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-7 minutes, which will restore their flakiness and warmth. Please avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make the pastry soggy instead of crisp.

These croissants are versatile enough to be served as a savory brunch item, but they also shine as appetizers at parties. You can pair them with a side salad for a light lunch or serve them alongside a selection of dips like a tangy mustard or a sweet chutney that complements the savory flavors. When entertaining, consider arranging them on a platter, making it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious croissants:

Ingredients for Savory Ham and Cheese Croissants

1 package of croissant dough (about 8-10 rolls)
200g of sliced ham
200g of cheese (Gruyère or cheddar, shredded)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional: Dijon mustard for spreading

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your savory ham and cheese croissants:

Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the croissant dough on a clean surface and separate it into triangles.

Load the Filling

Place a slice of ham and a generous sprinkle of cheese on the wide edge of each triangle. Optionally, add a thin layer of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.

Roll the Croissants

Starting from the wide end, roll each triangle tightly toward the point to form a croissant shape. Ensure the tip is tucked underneath to secure the shape.

Brush and Bake

Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the croissants for a golden finish. Arrange them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Once baked, let the croissants cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own!

Pro Tips

For an extra crispy texture, consider baking the croissants on a preheated baking stone. Also, feel free to experiment with different fillings such as spinach and feta or turkey and provolone.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your croissants don't rise as expected, check the freshness of your dough; expired dough can lead to poor results. Ensure the temperature is accurate during baking—ovens can vary widely, so keeping an eye on them for the last few minutes will help you catch that perfect golden brown finish. If you ever find the bottoms browning too fast, you can place a baking tray underneath to shield them from direct heat.

Another common pitfall is under-filling the croissants. To achieve that satisfying burst of flavor, don’t be shy with the ham and cheese. However, be mindful not to overfill, as it can lead to the filling leaking out during baking. A balanced approach will help create a delicious, cohesive pastry.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're hosting a gathering, scaling up this recipe is quite simple. You can use multiple packages of croissant dough, just double or triple the amounts of ham and cheese accordingly. Depending on your oven size, you might need to bake in batches to ensure even cooking. Remember to check the internal temperature of the melted cheese; around 70°C (160°F) will ensure it's safely heated through.

For smaller groups, you can easily halve the recipe without any special adjustments. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as fewer croissants may cook faster. Baking fewer at once can also give you that lovely desirable crunch and flakiness, especially if you enjoy a crispy exterior.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these croissants ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the croissants up to the point of baking, then wrap them tightly and refrigerate them overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can get creative! Try using different meats like turkey or chicken, or add veggies like spinach or roasted peppers along with the cheese.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover croissants in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I use store-bought croissant dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought croissant dough makes this recipe quick and easy while still delivering delicious results.