Ham & Cheese Croissants (Baked Croque Croissants)

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 18–20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

For the Croissants

• 4 large all-butter croissants

• 8 oz (225 g) smoked ham, thinly sliced

• 8 oz (225 g) Swiss cheese or Gruyère cheese, sliced

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For the Cheese Sauce (Optional but Recommended)

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk

• ½ cup (50 g) grated Gruyère cheese

• ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• Pinch of nutmeg

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Egg Wash

• 1 large egg

• 1 tbsp milk

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Fresh thyme leaves

• Cracked black pepper

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Cheese Sauce (Optional)

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.

3. Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously.

4. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.

5. Stir in the Gruyère, Parmesan, garlic powder, and nutmeg.

6. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2 – Prepare the Croissants

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

3. Slice each croissant in half horizontally without cutting all the way through.

4. Spread softened butter and Dijon mustard inside each croissant.

Step 3 – Fill the Croissants

1. Layer the smoked ham evenly inside each croissant.

2. Add generous slices of Swiss or Gruyère cheese.

3. Spoon a little cheese sauce over the filling if using.

4. Close the croissants gently.

Step 4 – Apply the Egg Wash

1. Whisk together the egg and milk.

2. Brush the tops of the croissants evenly.

3. Sprinkle with a little extra grated Gruyère for a beautifully golden crust.

Step 5 – Bake

1. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until:

   • The croissants are crisp and golden brown.

   • The cheese is melted and bubbling.

2. If needed, broil for 1–2 minutes for extra color.

Step 6 – Garnish & Serve

1. Remove from the oven.

2. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and fresh thyme.

3. Add freshly cracked black pepper.

4. Serve immediately while warm and the cheese is still gooey.

Chef's Tips

• Use all-butter bakery croissants for the flakiest texture.

• Gruyère melts beautifully and provides a rich, nutty flavor, but Swiss, Emmental, or mozzarella also work well.

• Avoid overfilling the croissants to keep the pastry crisp.

• Toast the croissants lightly before filling if they are a day old.

• Add sliced tomatoes or baby spinach inside for extra freshness.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Croissant)

• Calories: ~620 kcal

• Protein: 28 g

• Fat: 41 g

• Carbohydrates: 34 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 5 g

• Sodium: 980 mg

Serving Suggestion

These Ham & Cheese Croissants (Baked Croque Croissants) feature buttery, flaky pastry filled with savory smoked ham and melted Gruyère cheese, creating a rich and comforting café-style meal. Serve them fresh from the oven with a crisp green salad, tomato soup, or fresh fruit for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Pair with a cappuccino, café au lait, freshly squeezed orange juice, or sparkling lemonade for a delicious French-inspired dining experience.