A Ham & Cheese Croissant isn’t just a breakfast treat—it’s the perfect balance of buttery flakiness and savory indulgence. Whether you’re a busy professional, a brunch enthusiast, or just a croissant lover, this guide will take you through everything you need to know: from making the perfect dough to assembly, baking tips, variations, and even serving suggestions.
Why Ham & Cheese Croissants Are a Must-Try
There’s something magical about a Ham & Cheese Croissant. It’s crispy on the outside, soft and airy inside, with melty cheese and savory ham. This combination has universal appeal because it satisfies the craving for both comfort food and a gourmet touch.
Benefits of making them at home:
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Control ingredients: choose your favorite cheese and high-quality ham.
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Customize flavors: add herbs, spices, or mustard for extra taste.
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Freshness guaranteed: bakery-quality croissants without preservatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Croissant Dough:
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500g all-purpose flour
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10g salt
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50g sugar
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10g instant yeast
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300ml warm milk
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250g unsalted butter (cold, for laminating)
the Filling:
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200g ham slices
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150g grated cheese (Gruyère, Emmental, or Cheddar)
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Optional: Dijon mustard or fresh herbs
the Egg Wash:
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1 egg, beaten with 1 tsp water
Step-By-Step Ham & Cheese Croissant Recipe
1. Prepare the Dough
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In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
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Gradually add warm milk and knead until a soft dough forms.
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Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Laminate the Dough
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Roll out the dough into a rectangle.
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Place cold butter in the center and fold the dough over it.
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Roll and fold 3–4 times to create layers. Chill 30–60 minutes between folds.
3. Cut and Fill
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Roll the dough into a large rectangle (~½ cm thick).
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Cut into triangles.
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Place ham and cheese on each triangle.
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Roll from the base to tip to form a crescent shape.
4. Proofing
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Place croissants on a lined baking tray, leaving space for expansion.
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Cover lightly and let them rise for 45–60 minutes.
5. Egg Wash & Bake
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Brush croissants with egg wash for golden color.
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Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes until puffed and golden.
6. Serve & Enjoy
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Best served warm with coffee or a fresh salad.
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Optional: drizzle with a touch of honey or mustard for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Croissants
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Cold butter is key: Keep your butter cold to achieve flaky layers.
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Don’t overwork the dough: Over-kneading makes croissants dense.
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Proof properly: Croissants need time to rise for a light, airy texture.
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Use high-quality ham & cheese: It makes all the difference in taste.
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Bake on parchment: Prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
Variations to Try
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Spinach & Cheese Croissant: Add sautéed spinach with cheese for a vegetarian twist.
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Smoked Ham & Swiss: Use smoked ham for a richer, deeper flavor.
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Spicy Croissant: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the cheese filling.
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Sweet & Savory: A tiny drizzle of honey over ham & cheese before baking.
Storage & Reheating
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Store at room temperature: Up to 2 days in an airtight container.
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Freeze for later: Wrap in foil and freeze up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes.
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Reheat: Oven or air fryer preferred; avoid microwave to maintain flakiness.
Why Pinterest Users Love Ham & Cheese Croissants
On Pinterest, croissant recipes are trending because they’re visually stunning and universally loved. Keywords like “Ham & Cheese Croissant recipe,” “easy croissants,” and “homemade breakfast” drive high engagement. Beautiful golden croissants with gooey cheese create a perfect Pin image that attracts clicks and saves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare, assemble, and freeze croissants before baking. Bake fresh when needed.
Q: What cheese works best?
A: Gruyère, Emmental, or Cheddar melts well and pairs perfectly with ham.
Q: Can I use store-bought croissant dough?
A: Absolutely! Homemade dough is better, but pre-made dough saves time.
Q: How to make them extra flaky?
A: Chill the dough between folds and bake at the correct temperature.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with freshly brewed coffee or cappuccino for breakfast.
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Serve as a brunch centerpiece with fruit and salad.
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Perfect as a snack with a side of pickles or olives.
Conclusion
Making Ham & Cheese Croissants at home is easier than you think. With buttery layers, melty cheese, and savory ham, these croissants are a perfect treat for any meal. Whether for family breakfasts, brunch with friends, or a gourmet snack, this recipe guarantees flaky, golden perfection every time.
