Croissants With Ham And Cheese

Name: Croissants With Ham And Cheese
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cold butter, unsalted; 1 cup milk, warm; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 packet active dry yeast; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash); 8 slices of ham; 8 slices of cheese (Swiss or cheddar works well)

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I absolutely love making croissants with ham and cheese, especially when I'm in the mood for a delicious, flaky treat. The combination of buttery layers and savory filling never fails to impress my family and friends. In just over an hour, I can create these delightful pastries that are perfect for breakfast or brunch. Whether you're serving them warm from the oven or packing them for a picnic, they're sure to be a hit. Let me share my favorite way to make these irresistible croissants!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:17:34.989Z

When I first attempted making croissants, I was amazed by how the layers come together to create that perfect texture. The trick lies in using cold butter and rolling the dough out quickly to maintain that flakiness. I remember the first batch came out a bit dense, but adjusting the butter ratio made a world of difference in achieving that light, airy feel.

During my last baking session, I decided to experiment by adding a sharp cheddar cheese along with the ham. The result was a delightful depth of flavor that paired beautifully with the buttery pastry. This twist not only enhanced the taste but also made the croissants distinctly mine.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Flaky, buttery layers that melt in your mouth
Savory ham paired with gooey cheese for a perfect bite
Great for brunch, afternoon snacks, or on-the-go meals

      

Understanding the Dough

The croissant dough is the star of this recipe, and its success hinges on using cold butter. Incorporating cold butter into the flour creates those signature flaky layers. I recommend cutting the butter into small cubes and working it in until it resembles coarse crumbs, being careful not to overwork it. This process helps maintain the butter's temperature and ensures that it doesn’t melt into the dough too soon, which could result in a denser pastry.

After forming the initial dough, chilling it is crucial. While resting in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, the gluten relaxes, making the dough easier to roll out later. This step not only enhances the texture but also contributes to the croissants' ability to puff up beautifully during baking, resulting in that airy, flaky consistency we all crave.

Perfecting the Rolling Technique

When rolling out the dough, aim for a consistent thickness, about 1/4 inch is ideal. An even thickness ensures that the croissants bake uniformly, with no overly dense parts. Don't skip the folding process; this is where the layers begin to form. Each time you roll and fold, you're developing those delicate layers that are key to a successful croissant.

It’s important to keep your work surface floured to prevent sticking, but be cautious not to incorporate too much extra flour into the dough. If your dough becomes too sticky, a light dusting is fine, but excess flour can make the croissants tough instead of tender. I find that using a French rolling pin gives me more control during this step, helping to achieve that perfect rectangle for cutting.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful croissants:

Croissant Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cold butter, unsalted
1 cup milk, warm
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 packet active dry yeast
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Filling

8 slices of ham
8 slices of cheese (Swiss or cheddar works well)

Make sure to always use cold ingredients while preparing the dough for the best texture!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your delicious croissants:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the yeast mixture and combine until a dough forms. Knead gently and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Roll Out the Dough

After chilling, roll the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Fold in thirds like a letter to create layers. Refrigerate for another 20 minutes and repeat the rolling process two more times.

Cut and Fill the Croissants

Roll the dough into a large rectangle, then cut into triangles. Place a slice of ham and cheese on each triangle. Roll from the base to the tip to form a croissant shape.

Bake the Croissants

Place the croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and let them rise for 15 minutes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the croissants cool slightly before serving for the best texture!

Pro Tips

Make sure to keep your butter cold during the entire process for flaky layers. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add herbs to the filling for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These croissants are incredibly versatile and can be served warm with a side of fruit or a light salad for brunch. I love adding a small dish of honey or homemade mustard for dipping, complementing the savory ham and cheese. You can also layer additional flavors by adding fresh herbs like chives or basil into the filling for an extra kick.

If you're preparing these croissants for a gathering, consider making a variety by substituting different cheeses or meats. Smoked turkey with pepper jack offers a spicy twist, while adding spinach or roasted red peppers can elevate the flavor profile further. Serve them alongside a quiche or a fruit platter to balance the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover croissants, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them after cooling completely. Wrap each croissant in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be kept frozen for up to a month, retaining their flaky texture when reheated properly.

To reheat, I recommend placing the croissants in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This restores their crispiness and warms them through without making them tough or chewy. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for about 5 minutes at the same temperature for an even quicker option, allowing them to crisp up beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought croissant dough?

Yes, you can use store-bought dough for a quicker option, but the homemade version delivers exceptional flavor.

→ How can I store leftover croissants?

Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! You can shape the croissants and freeze them before baking. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute if I don't have ham?

Try turkey, chicken, or even vegetables for a delicious alternative!