Ham and Cheese Croissant

The bakery downstairs from my first apartment made these every Saturday morning, and the smell would drift up through the window cracks around 7 AM. I started buying two every weekend—one for breakfast and one for lunch, until I realized I could make them at home for a fraction of the price. Now they're my go-to when friends stay over, because something about warm, melty cheese inside that flaky pastry makes everyone feel taken care of.

Last winter, my sister showed up unexpectedly during a snowstorm with nothing but a suitcase and a craving. I whipped these up while she thawed out by the radiator, and she told me later that the first bite made her feel like she was finally home. Now she texts me every time she makes them herself, usually with some variation she's invented.

Ingredients

• 4 large all-butter croissants: Day-old ones slice cleaner and hold up better in the oven without getting soggy
• 4 slices high-quality cooked ham: Skip the cheap deli stuff and get something with actual smoke flavor
• 4 slices Swiss cheese: Gruyère melts like a dream but Emmental has that nutty sweetness that cuts through the rich ham
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Just enough to wake up the flavors without overpowering the cheese
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted: Brushing the tops gives them that gorgeous golden finish that looks like you worked harder than you did

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so cleanup is nonexistent

Prep the croissants:

Slice each one horizontally but leave that back hinge intact, like you're opening a book

Add the secret layer:

Spread Dijon mustard inside both halves if you're using it—it's optional but I wouldn't skip it

Build the layers:

Nestle a slice of ham and cheese into each croissant, tucking in any overhanging bits so nothing burns

Brush and bake:

Close them gently, brush the tops with melted butter, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the pastry is deeply golden

Save

My friend's daughter calls these 'special breakfast sandwiches' and requests them every time she sleeps over. There's something about watching the cheese bubble through the flaky layers that makes even the most chaotic morning feel intentional and cared for.

Making Them Your Own

I've tried so many versions over the years. Turkey and sharp cheddar works beautifully, and smoked salmon with cream cheese transforms it into something almost elegant. Once I added fresh chives from the garden and that tiny hit of onion flavor made the whole thing sing.

The Art of Assembly

Here's something I learned the hard way: don't overstuff them. The cheese expands as it melts and if you stuff too much in, you end up with a beautiful mess all over your baking sheet. One thin slice of each is plenty—the quality matters more than quantity here.

Serving Ideas That Work

Sometimes I serve these with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, the acid cutting right through all that butter and cheese. Fresh berries on the side make the plate look intentional, like you planned a whole brunch instead of just throwing things together.

• A cup of strong coffee or tea alongside makes the whole experience feel complete
• If you're serving these for lunch, a bowl of tomato soup transforms them into a grown-up grilled cheese situation
• Leftovers reheat surprisingly well in a 160°C oven for about 8 minutes

Save

There's something deeply satisfying about taking something already delicious and making it even better. These croissants have saved many a hungover morning and turned regular Tuesdays into tiny celebrations.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the croissants up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Brush with melted butter just before baking for the crispiest results.

→ What cheese works best?

Swiss cheese like Gruyère or Emmental melts beautifully and adds nutty flavor. Provolone or aged cheddar are excellent alternatives.

→ Why use day-old croissants?

Slightly older croissants hold their shape better when sliced and filled. Fresh ones can be too delicate and may tear during preparation.

→ Can I freeze these?

Assemble unbaked croissants, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

→ What should I serve alongside?

A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness. Fresh fruit or mixed berries add brightness and complete the meal.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 180°C oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Microwaving makes them soggy, so avoid if you want that flaky texture.