Have you ever woken up on a chilly morning and craved a warm, flaky croissant filled with gooey melted cheese and savory ham? If you’re like me, then the answer is probably yes. The joy of a ham and cheese croissant is that it’s akin to a snug blanket of comfort for your taste buds, enveloping them in a delightful blend of rich, buttery pastry and hearty filling.
Be it a relaxed Sunday morning breakfast, a speedy weekday grab-and-go, or a special addition for the kids’ lunchbox, these ham and cheese croissants are a versatile delicacy that can instantly brighten up anyone’s day. After all, who wouldn’t be tempted by a freshly baked croissant?
The Quest for the Perfect Croissant
Finding the perfect croissant could be equated to hunting for the correct key for a particular lock. The croissant needs to be airy, flaky, and buttery. Ideally, it should have a delicate crust that shatters into a myriad of tiny fragments with the faintest touch, while the inside remains soft and fluffy.
If making your own croissants appears daunting, simply head to your local bakery and pick up a few. The crucial thing is to get the freshest croissants possible, as they are the best suited for stuffing.
Picking the Right Ham and Cheese
Not every type of ham or cheese is suitable for this recipe. You need a ham that is savory and slightly sweet. I would recommend a quality smoked ham that is thinly sliced. A slice too thick will make your croissant hefty and may overpower the delicate pastry.
As it comes to cheese, a good melting cheese is absolutely necessary. Swiss cheese, Gruyere or even a mild cheddar would be ideal. You need a cheese that melts well and complements the ham without overbearing it.
Assembling Your Delightful Ham and Cheese Croissants
Assembling your ham and cheese croissants is as uncomplicated as layering ingredients. Start by slicing your croissant in half, but not all the way through. It’s akin to opening a book. Then you’ll layer on your ham and cheese, ensuring it’s spread evenly.
After layering your ingredients, it’s time for some heat. You could use the oven or even a sandwich press if you’re in a rush. I personally prefer the oven as it lets the cheese melt slowly and the croissant to heat uniformly.
Ingredients
- 4 fresh croissants
- 8 slices of smoked ham
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Slice each croissant in half, but don’t cut all the way through.
- Layer each croissant with 2 slices of ham and 2 slices of cheese.
- Place the prepared croissants on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the croissants are golden brown.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450