Savory Ham And Cheese Croissants
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Corner
I absolutely love indulging in Savory Ham and Cheese Croissants, especially when they're freshly baked. The combination of flaky, buttery pastry with the rich flavors of ham and melted cheese is irresistible. Whenever I serve these at brunch or as a snack, they disappear within minutes! The best part is how simple they are to prepare yet they feel so gourmet. I can’t wait to share how I make them perfectly golden and delicious every time.
When I first tried making croissants at home, I was intimidated by the layers and technique. However, once I discovered the shortcuts, I was hooked! Using store-bought dough allows me to focus on the filling, which is where the flavor really comes alive. I experimented with different cheeses, but found that a sharp cheddar paired perfectly with the richness of the ham.
Another key tip is to brush the croissants with an egg wash before baking. This not only gives them a beautiful golden color but also enhances the savory aroma that fills the kitchen. I can promise that these croissants will impress anyone lucky enough to have one!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flaky, buttery pastry that melts in your mouth
- Savory ham and rich cheese complement perfectly
- A delightful treat for breakfast or any time snack
Mastering the Dough
The choice of crescent roll dough significantly affects the final texture of your croissants. I recommend using a high-quality refrigerated dough that is well-rolled to ensure the layers puff beautifully when baked. For the best results, make sure to keep the dough cold until you're ready to use it; this helps create that desirable flaky texture as it bakes.
When rolling out your dough, aim for an even thickness. Uneven dough can lead to irregular cooking times and inconsistent textures. If you notice any tears while handling the dough, don't panic! Simply patch them up with a bit of the dough; a little extra care goes a long way.
Choosing the Right Cheese
While cheddar cheese provides a fantastic flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Swiss for a different taste profile. Just remember that stronger cheeses may require adjusting other ingredients, such as salt. A good rule of thumb is to choose cheeses that melt well, contributing both creaminess and flavor.
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat cheese varieties, but be mindful of their moisture content, as too much moisture can make your croissants soggy. Alternatively, using a blend of cheeses can create a complex flavor, enhancing your croissant experience.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
To elevate your savory ham and cheese croissants, serve them with a side of tangy mustard or a zesty dipping sauce. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully, balancing the dish and providing a touch of freshness.
These croissants make a great appetizer or snack, but they can also shine at breakfast or brunch gatherings. To make them even more filling, consider adding sautéed vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers inside the croissant before baking, giving them an extra nutrition boost without compromising their delightful taste.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your Savory Ham and Cheese Croissants:
Ingredients
- 1 package of refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 oz deli ham, sliced
- 8 oz cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start assembling!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your delicious croissants:
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll Out Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
Add Filling
Place a slice of ham and a generous amount of cheddar cheese on the wider end of each triangle.
Roll Croissants
Starting from the wide end, roll the triangle towards the pointed end to form a croissant shape.
Brush With Egg Wash
Place the croissants on the baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
Serve
Allow to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy your savory delight!
These croissants are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling for added flavor.
Storing and Reheating
Once baked, let the croissants cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, but if you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to a month. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
When reheating, avoid microwaving as this can make the croissants chewy. Instead, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You'll regain that freshly baked crispiness around the flaky layers.
Common Troubleshooting
If your croissants are not rising as expected, check that your dough is fresh and hasn’t expired. Additionally, ensure your oven temperature is accurate; an oven thermometer can help maintain the correct baking temperature. Also, don’t skip the egg wash—this step not only adds color but also aids in achieving that lovely crispy exterior.
Should you find your croissants turning out too greasy, consider using slightly less cheese or ham. Sometimes, the fat content in certain ingredients can lead to excess grease. A little experimentation can help you discover the right balance that works for your preferred taste and texture.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Gruyere or Swiss cheese work wonderfully in this recipe as well.
→ How do I store leftover croissants?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze them?
Yes! Just freeze them unbaked, and when you're ready, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
→ What can I serve with croissants?
These croissants pair well with a variety of dips or a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
Savory Ham And Cheese Croissants
I absolutely love indulging in Savory Ham and Cheese Croissants, especially when they're freshly baked. The combination of flaky, buttery pastry with the rich flavors of ham and melted cheese is irresistible. Whenever I serve these at brunch or as a snack, they disappear within minutes! The best part is how simple they are to prepare yet they feel so gourmet. I can’t wait to share how I make them perfectly golden and delicious every time.
Created by: Isla Turner
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Corner
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 croissants
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 package of refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 8 oz deli ham, sliced
- 8 oz cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
Place a slice of ham and a generous amount of cheddar cheese on the wider end of each triangle.
Starting from the wide end, roll the triangle towards the pointed end to form a croissant shape.
Place the croissants on the baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
Allow to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy your savory delight!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling for added flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g