Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Separate the Dough: If you’re using crescent roll dough, gently unroll it and separate it into triangles as per the packaging instructions. For puff pastry, roll it out to a 1/4-inch thickness and cut it into triangles.
Step 2: Assemble the Croissants
- Add Mustard (Optional): Spread a small amount of Dijon mustard on each triangle for an added kick of flavor. This is optional but adds a lovely depth to the croissants.
- Layer the Ham and Cheese: Place a slice of ham and cheese on the wide end of each dough triangle. You can fold the ham and cheese slightly to fit within the boundaries of the dough.
- Roll the Croissants: Starting from the wide end, carefully roll each triangle towards the narrow tip to create a crescent shape. Place each rolled croissant, tip-side down, on the prepared baking sheet to prevent unrolling while baking.
Step 3: Add Egg Wash and Garnishes
- Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg, then use a pastry brush to lightly coat the tops of each croissant with the egg wash. This will give them a golden, glossy finish.
- Sprinkle Seeds or Herbs: If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or fresh herbs over the top of each croissant. These add both flavor and a decorative touch.
Step 4: Bake the Croissants
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these ham and cheese croissants warm for the best texture and flavor. They pair wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit, a green salad, or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. For a breakfast twist, add scrambled eggs or a sprinkle of chives inside the croissant before rolling it up
Tips for the Perfect Croissants
- Choosing Cheese: Swiss cheese or Gruyere are ideal for a slightly nutty flavor, while cheddar provides a sharper contrast. For extra meltiness, try a combination of cheeses.
- Prevent Leaking: Make sure to roll the croissants tightly to keep the cheese from melting out. Also, placing the tip down on the baking sheet helps secure the roll.
- Add More Fillings: Customize these croissants with additional ingredients like sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, or even a slice of tomato for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These baked ham and cheese croissants are an easy yet impressive dish to make for any occasion. The combination of flaky pastry, savory ham, and melted cheese is irresistible and brings a taste of French café charm right to your kitchen. Enjoy!