Description
Learn how to make the perfect ham and cheese croissant with buttery pastry, melted cheese, and savory ham. Great for any meal!
Ingredients
For Homemade Dough (optional):
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp active dry yeast
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 ½ tsp salt
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1 cup warm milk
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1/4 cup warm water
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3/4 cup unsalted butter (cold, for laminating)
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1 egg (for egg wash)
For Filling:
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6 slices deli ham (or prosciutto, Black Forest, or honey ham)
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1 cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese
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Optional: 2 tbsp Dijon mustard or béchamel sauce
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Optional: fresh herbs, caramelized onions, or tomato slices
Instructions
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(If using homemade dough): Prepare croissant dough by mixing warm milk, water, sugar, and yeast. Combine with flour and salt. Knead, rest, and laminate with cold butter. Perform 3–4 folds with chilling time between.
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Roll and cut the dough into triangles.
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Add filling: Spread a small amount of Dijon (optional), then place a slice of ham and a sprinkle of cheese at the base of each triangle.
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Roll tightly into a crescent shape, tucking the ends underneath.
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Proof for 1–2 hours, covered, until puffy (skip this if using puff pastry).
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush croissants with egg wash.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
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Serve warm with your favorite sides or dips.
Notes
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Shortcut: Use store-bought croissant dough or puff pastry for quicker results.
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Don’t overfill: Too much cheese or ham can cause leaks during baking.
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Choose quality ham and cheese: Gruyère or Swiss melts beautifully.
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Add herbs or mustard to enhance flavor.
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Bake on parchment for easy cleanup.
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Reheat in the oven, not microwave, to keep croissants crisp.
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Freeze unbaked or baked croissants for future meals—just thaw and reheat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rise time if using homemade dough)
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes