Classic Ham and Cheese Croissant

Name: Classic Ham and Cheese Croissant
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup cold water; 8 ounces ham, thinly sliced; 8 ounces cheese, such as Gruyère or Swiss, thinly sliced; 1 egg (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

When I think of indulgence, nothing compares to the warm, flaky perfection of a Classic Ham and Cheese Croissant. The buttery aroma wafting through my kitchen brings back memories of cozy cafés in Paris. Each bite reveals layers of deliciousness: the rich ham perfectly complements the gooey melted cheese, all enveloped in a crunchy exterior that gives way to soft, airy bread inside. Whether enjoyed with a morning coffee or as a satisfying snack, this croissant recipe is a true delight that I can’t resist.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:34:27.572Z

Making these croissants was a joyful adventure for me. I spent a delightful afternoon perfecting the dough and figuring out the ideal time to take them out of the oven. The combination of ham and cheese was inspired by my travels, where I experienced how simple ingredients could create something extraordinary. I learned that letting the dough rest allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a flakier texture.

In my experience, the secret to achieving a golden crust is having a hot oven. I also recommend using high-quality cheese for that creamy, flavorful melt. As I savored my first bite, I knew this recipe was worth sharing, bringing a little taste of France into our homes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Buttery, flaky texture that crumbles beautifully
Savory ham and melted cheese combination
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack

Mastering the Dough

The foundation of a perfect croissant lies in its dough, which requires a balance of hydration and fat. The cold water helps to maintain the texture and prevent the butter from melting as you work. Ensure that your butter is thoroughly chilled before incorporating it into the dough for optimal layering. To test if your dough is ready, stretch a small piece between your fingers; it should form a smooth, elastic film without tearing easily, indicating good gluten development.

When rolling out the dough, be mindful of the thickness. If it’s too thick, your croissants will lack that airy, flaky texture. Aim for a 1/4 inch thickness, and take your time to ensure even rolling. A pasta roller can be a fantastic tool for achieving consistency. Remember to dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking, but avoid excessive flour, which can weigh down the dough.

Choosing the Right Fillings

Using quality ham and cheese is essential to elevating the taste of your croissant. For the ham, a savory, slightly sweet option like honey-baked ham pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheese. Gruyère offers a nutty flavor that complements the saltiness of ham, while Swiss is milder and allows the ham to shine. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella, but keep in mind that the melting properties will vary.

When assembling the croissants, it’s helpful to layer the ham and cheese in a way that ensures every bite is balanced. A piece of cheese placed at the center helps it melt evenly, creating a gooey, luscious filling. If you prefer a greener twist, add a few fresh herbs or thin slices of sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for the perfect ham and cheese croissant:

Dough Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup cold water

Filling Ingredients

8 ounces ham, thinly sliced
8 ounces cheese, such as Gruyère or Swiss, thinly sliced
1 egg (for egg wash)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready before starting the dough for a smooth baking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your croissants:

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Gradually mix in cold water until a dough forms. Knead until smooth. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Butter Layer

Roll the cold butter between two sheets of parchment into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Refrigerate until firm.

Incorporate Butter into Dough

Roll out the chilled dough into a larger rectangle, place the butter slab in the center, and fold the dough over the butter. Roll and fold several times to create layers.

Shape the Croissants

Roll the dough into triangles and place ham and cheese on each triangle's base. Roll them up tightly from the base to the tip.

Bake the Croissants

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the croissants with beaten egg. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Let the croissants cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.

Pro Tips

For best results, use high-quality, fresh ingredients, and enjoy these croissants warm for the ultimate flavor experience.

Perfecting the Bake

For the best results, preheat your oven thoroughly before baking the croissants. A temperature of 400°F (200°C) ensures the butter creates steam during baking, which is crucial for achieving that flaky texture. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking; they should turn a beautiful golden brown, and the edges may become slightly crispy, which is the hallmark of a well-baked croissant.

If your croissants don’t rise as expected, this could be due to several factors, including insufficient chilling between folding or not allowing them to proof long enough before baking. A good rule of thumb is to let them proof until they nearly double in size, which typically takes about 30-45 minutes at room temperature.

Storing and Reheating

Croissants are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them for later enjoyment. Wrap them in foil or place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to store them for longer, freeze unbaked croissants after shaping—just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. They can be baked straight from the freezer without thawing; simply add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

To reheat leftover croissants, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes. This method will help restore the flaky texture. Microwaving is not recommended, as it will make them soggy; however, if you're in a pinch, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave can work, followed by a brief stint in a hot pan for crisping the outside.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the croissants?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked rolled croissants. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What's a good substitute for ham?

You can use turkey, chicken, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

→ How do I know if my dough is ready?

The dough should be elastic and smooth. You can perform the windowpane test by stretching a small piece to see if it holds together without tearing.

→ Can I use puff pastry instead?

Absolutely! Puff pastry can be a great shortcut for this recipe, although the flavor and texture will differ slightly.