Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe

If you’re searching for a snack that combines buttery, flaky pastry with savory ham and melted cheese, look no further than these delightful Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants. Perfectly golden and irresistibly warm, they offer a little bite of French-inspired comfort that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re whipping them up for a casual get-together, an afternoon treat, or a fancy brunch spread, these Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants bring a burst of flavor wrapped in a perfectly crispy, tender croissant shell.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect taste and texture of the Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants. From the flaky puff pastry to the savory ham and the rich Swiss cheese, every component is essential for that perfect balance.

• Puff pastry sheet: This is the foundation of your croissants, providing that iconic flaky, buttery texture.
• Ham slices: Adds a savory, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
• Cheese slices: Swiss cheese is ideal for its nutty, creamy melt that complements the ham perfectly.
• Egg for brushing: Creates a glossy, golden finish on your croissants when baked.

How to Make Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Start by thawing the puff pastry sheet if it’s frozen. Once soft enough to handle, roll it out gently on a floured surface to smooth the texture and get ready for the next step.

Step 2: Cut the Pastry into Triangles

Divide the puff pastry into equal-sized triangles. These will be the perfect shape to roll around your ham and cheese, allowing the croissants to bake evenly and puff up beautifully.

Step 3: Add Ham and Cheese

Place a slice of ham and a slice of cheese at the widest end of each triangle. Don’t overfill to ensure an easy roll and that the filling stays inside during baking.

Step 4: Roll the Croissants

Starting from the wide end, carefully roll each triangle toward the point, creating that familiar crescent shape. Tuck in the ends slightly to keep them secure.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

Beat the egg and gently brush it over each croissant. This step is what gives the croissants that irresistible shiny, golden finish as they bake.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the croissants onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until puffed and beautifully golden brown.

How to Serve Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants

Garnishes

To elevate your Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants even more, sprinkle them with freshly cracked black pepper or some finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives after baking. A light dusting of paprika can add just a touch of warmth and color.

Side Dishes

These croissants pair wonderfully with simple sides such as a crisp green salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or even a tangy fruit chutney to balance the richness of the ham and cheese filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your croissants on a wooden board with a few small bowls of mustard and honey mustard for dipping. For a brunch party, stack them around a centerpiece of fresh fruit or cheese for a visually appealing spread everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They remain delicious and flaky.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked croissants by preparing them through the rolling step, wrapping tightly in plastic wrap, and placing in a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake directly from frozen but add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To bring leftover croissants back to life, warm them in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants?

Absolutely! While Swiss cheese melts beautifully and offers a classic flavor, you can swap it out for cheddar, Gruyère, or even mozzarella depending on your taste preferences.

Is puff pastry necessary, or can I use croissant dough?

Puff pastry is a quick and easy shortcut that yields fantastic flaky results, but if you have the time, using croissant dough will give you an authentic texture and a slightly richer flavor.

Can I make these croissants vegetarian?

Definitely. You can omit the ham and add fillings like spinach and feta, mushrooms with cheese, or a mix of roasted vegetables for a tasty vegetarian alternative.

How do I avoid the croissants leaking cheese during baking?

Make sure to place the filling slightly inward from the edge of the pastry triangle and roll tightly. Brushing the edges with a little water before rolling can also help seal the dough better.

Can these be made gluten-free?

While traditional puff pastry contains gluten, you can find gluten-free puff pastry options in many stores. Just follow the same instructions, and these Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants will be gluten-free friendly!

Final Thoughts

If you want a snack that’s quick to prepare yet impressively delicious, you must give these Mini Ham and Cheese Croissants a try. They’re buttery, flaky, and filled with savory goodness that feels a little like a warm hug. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee, they are one of my absolute favorite finger foods to make again and again.