Ingredients
- 6 large store-bought croissants (day-old works great they’re less crumbly!)
- 8–10 slices of deli ham (Black Forest or honey-glazed add nice flavor)
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (I use Gruyère for richness, but cheddar or Swiss work too)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, but adds a tangy kick)
- 1 egg (for that golden glaze)
- 1 tbsp milk or cream
- Fresh herbs like thyme or chives (for garnish, if you’re feeling fancy)
Optional upgrades: Add a smear of fig jam for sweetness or a sprinkle of Everything Bagel seasoning for crunch.
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, slice the croissants horizontally like you’re splitting a sandwich roll. If they’re super fresh, pop them in the freezer for 10 minutes to make slicing easier.
2. Layer the Goodness
Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the bottom half of each croissant (skip this if you’re not into mustard). Next, fold 1–2 slices of ham into each croissant. Top with a generous handful of cheese don’t be shy! The cheese acts as glue, holding everything together.
3. Seal and Glaze
Place the top half of the croissant back on. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk until smooth. Gently brush this mixture over the croissants. This step gives them that beautiful golden shine.
4. Bake to Perfection
Arrange the croissants on the baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the tops are crisp. Keep an eye on them ovens can vary!
5. Cool (Just a Little!) and Serve
Let the croissants rest for 2–3 minutes. Trust me, biting into molten cheese too soon is a recipe for burned tongues. Sprinkle with herbs if using, and enjoy warm!
Notes
- Avoid sogginess: Pat ham slices dry with a paper towel before assembling.
- Cheese choices: Gruyère melts beautifully, but a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan adds texture.
- Go gourmet: Brush melted garlic butter on top after baking for extra flavor.
- Kid-friendly: Let little ones build their own croissants it’s fun and reduces picky eating!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 croissant
- Calories: 400-450 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg