Classic Ham and Cheese Croissant

Name: Classic Ham and Cheese Croissant
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1 tablespoon of sugar; 1/2 cup of cold water; 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast; 8 slices of ham; 8 slices of cheese (Swiss or cheddar); 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making classic ham and cheese croissants at home! There’s something truly satisfying about taking flaky, golden pastry and filling it with savory ham and melted cheese. I often whip these up for brunch or a quick lunch, and they never fail to impress. The aroma fills the kitchen, and each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Once you try making these yourself, you’ll never settle for store-bought again, and I can’t wait to share the secret to perfecting this delicious treat!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:17:28.213Z

I remember the first time I made these ham and cheese croissants; I was captivated by how simple ingredients could create such a gourmet experience. After trying out store-bought versions and being slightly disappointed, I realized that making them from scratch allowed me to choose the best quality ham and cheese. This made a huge difference in flavor!

While shaping the croissants, I learned that rolling them tightly is key to achieving that iconic crescent shape while ensuring the filling doesn’t spill out during baking. Taking the time to let them rise gives them the perfect puffiness, allowing the outer layer to become crispy and golden while the insides melt beautifully. Trust me, it's worth it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Buttery, flaky pastry that melts in your mouth
Savory ham and gooey cheese combination
Perfect for brunch, snack, or quick lunch

      

Understanding Dough Lamination

Creating the lamination technique is crucial for achieving those signature flaky layers in your croissants. This process involves encasing cold butter within the dough and folding it multiple times. Each fold multiplies the layers of dough and butter, which gets released as steam during baking, resulting in a beautifully airy texture. Remember, the key is to keep everything cold; if the butter starts to soften, it can seep out rather than create those distinct layers.

When rolling out your dough, aim for a consistent thickness of about 1/4 inch. This uniformity ensures even baking and helps each layer rise properly. If you're fortunate enough to have a marble countertop or a pastry board, it can help keep the dough cool as you work. Flour your surface adequately, but try not to overdo it; excess flour can weigh down the layers and reduce that desired flakiness.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The choice of cheese plays a significant role in the flavor profile of your ham and cheese croissants. Swiss cheese melts beautifully and has a mild nutty flavor, while cheddar provides a sharper counterpoint. Experimenting with different cheeses can lead to delightful variations; for instance, Gruyère adds a touch of sophistication with its rich, slightly sweet taste. Just ensure whatever cheese you choose melts well to create that gooey texture.

For the ham, I recommend using high-quality deli meats with a good balance of flavor and moisture. Black forest ham or honey ham can enhance the flavors, while using thinner slices helps them meld seamlessly into the croissant. If you're looking for a lighter option, smoked turkey or even a vegetarian alternative like roasted vegetables can provide a delicious twist without sacrificing texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

For the Croissants

2 cups of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1 teaspoon of salt
1 tablespoon of sugar
1/2 cup of cold water
1 tablespoon of active dry yeast

For the Filling

8 slices of ham
8 slices of cheese (Swiss or cheddar)
1 egg (for egg wash)

Make sure to have everything prepped for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious homemade croissants:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Gradually mix in cold water until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Incorporate the Butter

Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface. Place cubed butter in the center and fold the dough over it. Roll out into a rectangle, then fold it into thirds, refrigerate for another 20 minutes, and repeat this process two more times.

Shape the Croissants

Roll the dough into a large rectangle and cut it into triangles. Place a slice of ham and cheese on each triangle, then roll them from the base to the tip to form a croissant. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake and Enjoy

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the croissants with egg wash. Bake for 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and fluffy.

Let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked croissants!

Pro Tips

Make sure to keep your butter cold to ensure a flaky texture. You can experiment with different meats and cheeses as fillings based on your preference.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover croissants, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. However, for longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each croissant individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer without losing too much of their flaky charm when reheated properly.

To reheat frozen croissants, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps restore the crispy exterior while warming the inside. For a quick fix, you can microwave them for 30 seconds; however, be cautious as this may result in slightly soggy layers.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative with the filling of your croissants! Adding sautéed spinach or caramelized onions can elevate the savory profile. If you're feeling adventurous, incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary into the filling or even a thin spread of Dijon mustard can add an extra layer of flavor. Consider also a mixture of different cheeses for a complex taste.

You can also try infusing the croissant dough with flavors by adding a bit of grated lemon zest or a dash of smoked paprika, which would give a unique twist. Just remember to balance any add-ins with the amount of ham and cheese to maintain the integrity of the croissant's flaky structure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the uncooked croissants?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight and allow them to rise before baking.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Swiss and cheddar are both great options, but feel free to use your favorite cheese!

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to shape and bake.

→ What do I serve with these croissants?

These croissants are perfect as is, but you can serve them with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal.