ham and cheese croissant

Amanda Recipes January 25, 2025January 25, 2025

Ham and Cheese Croissant

Imagine the first bite of a ham and cheese croissant, where the flaky layers unfurl like the petals of a well-crafted flower, revealing a savory heart. You might think it’s just another breakfast item, but there’s more to these pastries than meets the eye. The combination of textures and flavors can evoke memories of leisurely mornings or quick lunches on the go. What makes this dish so appealing, and how did it become a staple in cafes worldwide? Understanding its history could change the way you approach your next bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, you’ll love this ham and cheese croissant recipe. It’s incredibly convenient, using store-bought puff pastry that saves you time. You can prepare it in about 10-20 minutes, and it bakes in under 30 minutes. This dish is versatile, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or lunch. The flaky texture of all-butter puff pastry, combined with savory Black Forest ham and your choice of cheese, creates a delightful flavor. Adding Dijon mustard and optional herbs like herbes de Provence enhances the taste. It’s easy to reheat, and leftovers stay fresh in the fridge for a day. Plus, it’s an excellent option for feeding families or large groups. You can make up to 8 servings with just 2 sheets of frozen puff pastry and a few fillings!

History

Though the croissant is often associated with French cuisine, its history is steeped in myth and debate. Some legends claim it originated in Budapest, Hungary, in 1686, celebrating the defeat of the Turks. This story was later modified to Vienna, Austria, but lacks historical evidence.

Instead, the croissant likely emerged in France, with the earliest reference appearing in a dictionary in 1863. The first recipe was published in 1891, evolving into the flaky pastry we’re familiar with today. Notably, the actual croissant origins show that the pastry did not appear in France before 1850.

While some suggest Austrian pastries inspired the French version, records show similar treats existed in France since the 18th century. Regardless of its origins, the croissant has become a symbol of French culture, enjoyed globally in various delightful forms.

Recipe

Ham and Cheese Croissant Recipe

Indulging in the deliciousness of ham and cheese croissants can be a delightful experience, especially when you make them fresh at home. These savory pastries are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack. With crispy layers enveloping tender ham and melted cheese, every bite promises a burst of flavor. The combination of buttery croissants with tangy Dijon mustard adds an extra layer of richness that elevates this dish to a gourmet treat. This recipe isn’t only simple but also versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences. You can choose different types of ham and cheese, and even play around with additional toppings or spices.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving a comforting meal, these ham and cheese croissants are sure to impress. Fresh baked croissants are recommended for the best flavor and texture. Let’s get started on creating this delightful dish!

Ingredients:
– 12 mini croissants
– 12 slices of ham (Black Forest, French, or your choice)
– 12 slices of cheese (Swiss, Provolone, Gruyère, or Emmental)
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 egg white (for egg wash)
– Poppy seeds or sesame seeds (for sprinkling)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Prepare a 9 x 13 baking dish by lightly oiling it or using nonstick spray.
Take each mini croissant and split them in half horizontally. On the bottom half, layer 1-2 slices of ham and 1 slice of cheese.
Place the top half of the croissant on the ham and cheese to form a complete sandwich.
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder to create the sauce.
Brush the butter mixture generously on each side of the croissant sandwiches.
In another bowl, whisk the egg white and brush it on the tops of the croissants. Sprinkle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds for added texture.
Arrange the filled croissants in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and toasted. Alternatively, you can bake at 350 degrees F for 10-12 minutes until the cheese starts to melt.
If using puff pastry, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until deeply golden brown and crisp.

For best results, make sure your ingredients are fresh, as this will enhance the overall flavor of your croissants. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of ham and cheese combinations to suit your palate.

You can also prepare the croissants ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking; just allow them to come to room temperature before placing them in the oven. Enjoy your homemade ham and cheese croissants!

Final Thoughts

While enjoying your homemade ham and cheese croissants, you can appreciate not only their delicious flavor but also the joy of creating them from scratch.

These croissants make for a satisfying breakfast, but it’s crucial to take into account their nutritional content. With around 320-350 calories per serving, they contain a notable amount of fat and sodium. Additionally, they provide a balanced macronutrient profile for energy and satiety, which can help fuel your day.

Understanding that they can contribute considerably to your daily intake of saturated fat and cholesterol helps you make informed choices. Balance your meal by pairing them with fruits or vegetables to enhance nutrition.

Also, be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoying these tasty treats occasionally, rather than daily, can fit better into a healthy diet while still satisfying your cravings.

FAQ

Have questions about making ham and cheese croissants? First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.

For assembly, spread a butter mixture on each side of the halved croissants, then layer three slices of ham and a slice of cheese. You can use Swiss and Provolone cheeses for great flavor. To ensure a balanced meal, consider adding 1 serving of grains to your side dish options.

Bake them for about 15-18 minutes, until they’re golden brown. If you want a different twist, try using puff pastry or Black Forest ham.

Serve them as mini sandwiches, perfect for parties or game days. Remember, you can freeze them until you’re ready to bake.

For a tasty finish, brush the tops with an egg white mixture and sprinkle poppy seeds before baking!