Can I make baked ham and cheese croissants ahead of time?

Yes, baked ham and cheese croissants are perfect for meal prep. Assemble the ham and cheese croissant sandwiches, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. When ready, bake the baked ham and cheese croissants in the oven at 350°F until golden and heated through. This makes them ideal for brunch, holidays, or busy weeknights.

How do I keep a ham and swiss croissant sandwich from getting soggy?

To prevent soggy baked ham and cheese croissants, lightly toast the croissants before adding ham and cheese. Use thin-sliced deli ham and avoid excess mustard. Baking instead of microwaving keeps the croissant ham and cheese crispy and flaky.

Can I make baked ham and cheese croissants in the air fryer?

Yes, easy baked ham and cheese croissants can be made in the air fryer at 325°F for 5–7 minutes. This method keeps the pastry crisp while fully melting the cheese.

What is the best cheese for a French ham and cheese croissant?

Gruyère is the best choice for authentic French ham and cheese croissant flavor, but Swiss, cheddar, or even mozzarella also work beautifully.

Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants – Easy Family Recipe 2026

Name: Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: French-Inspired
Ingredients: 6 large buttery croissants (store-bought bakery style); 12 slices deli ham (or ¾ lb sliced ham); 6 slices Swiss, Gruyère, or cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or honey mustard (optional); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional); ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Description

Flaky, buttery croissants stuffed with savory ham and melted cheese, brushed with a flavorful glaze, and baked until golden brown. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer. Crispy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside — simple yet irresistible!

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for 6 croissants):

For the Croissants:

6 large buttery croissants (store-bought bakery style)

12 slices deli ham (or ¾ lb sliced ham)

6 slices Swiss, Gruyère, or cheddar cheese

Optional: 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or honey mustard

For the Butter Glaze:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

½ teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)

½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Assemble Croissants
Slice croissants in half horizontally (do not cut all the way through if you prefer hinged).
Spread a thin layer of mustard if using.
Layer 2 slices of ham and 1 slice of cheese inside each croissant. Close gently.

Step 3: Prepare Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, poppy seeds, and parsley.

Step 4: Brush & Bake
Place croissants on the baking sheet. Brush tops generously with butter glaze.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.

Step 5: Serve
Let cool slightly and serve warm. The cheese should be perfectly melted and deliciously gooey.

Notes

• Make Ahead: Assemble up to 1 day in advance, refrigerate covered, and bake before serving.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook at 325°F for 5–7 minutes until heated through and crisp.
• Crispier Texture: Lightly toast croissants for 3–4 minutes before filling.
• Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella for stretch, Gruyère for French flavor, or cheddar for sharpness.
• Add-Ons: Thin tomato slices, caramelized onions, or a drizzle of honey add amazing flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Category: Breakfast / Brunch / Sandwich
Method: Baked
Cuisine: French-Inspired / American