Description of this recipe
Indulge in warm, flaky croissants filled with savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a tangy-sweet honey mustard glaze. This baked croissant recipe is an easy yet elevated dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or a casual dinner. The delightful combination of flavors and textures makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why you will love this recipe
- Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend brunches.
- Flavorful: The combination of salty ham, nutty Swiss, and the sweet-tangy honey mustard glaze creates a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Versatile: Adapt the recipe to your liking by experimenting with different cheeses, meats, or adding vegetables.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These baked croissants are sure to impress your family and friends, making them a perfect dish for gatherings or potlucks.
- Comfort Food: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying, these croissants are the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 6 large croissants
- 1/2 pound thinly sliced deli ham
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 large egg, beaten
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or sheet pan.
Step 2: Slice each croissant horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open like a book.
Step 3: Spread a generous layer of butter on the top half of each croissant, then drizzle with honey.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. This will be our secret sauce that really brings the sandwiches to the next level.
Step 5: Divide the ham evenly among the bottom halves of the croissants. You can fold the ham to fit neatly inside, or lay it flat.
Step 6: Top the ham with one slice of Swiss cheese per croissant.
Step 7: Drizzle the prepared mustard mixture over the ham and cheese. Be sure to not oversaturate the croissant.
Step 8: Close the croissants, bringing the top halves over the ham and cheese filling.
Step 9: Brush the tops of the croissants with the beaten egg. This will give them a nice golden color and a slightly crispy texture.
Step 10: Sprinkle the poppy seeds evenly over the tops of the croissants.
Step 11: Arrange the croissants in the prepared baking dish.
Step 12: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 13: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as a main course for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.
- Pair with a side salad or soup for a complete meal.
- Serve with fresh fruit for a balanced and refreshing brunch.
- Cut the croissants into smaller pieces and serve as appetizers at a party.
- Add a side of potato chips, or macaroni salad for a complete meal.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a thin layer of cream cheese or flavored cream cheese (such as chive or garlic) to the croissants before adding the ham and cheese.
- Substitute the Swiss cheese with cheddar, provolone, or Gruyere cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add sliced tomatoes, lettuce, or spinach for added freshness and nutrients.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the ham with sliced avocado, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables.
- Prepare the croissants ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- If the tops of the croissants are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking.
- Use croissants that are a day old. Fresh baked might be too soft for this recipe.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per croissant, approximate)
Calories: 450
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
This Honey Mustard Ham & Swiss Croissant Bake is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that will become a favorite in your kitchen. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors, it is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Get ready to enjoy warm, flaky croissants filled with deliciousness! Don’t be afraid to experiment with ingredients to make the best and most personalized sandwich. Bon Appétit!
Write 5 questions and answers about this recipe
Q1: Can I make these croissants ahead of time?
A1: Absolutely! You can assemble the croissants up to the point of baking, then cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed. You might need to add a few minutes to the baking time if the croissants are very cold.
Q2: I don’t have Swiss cheese. What other cheese can I use?
A2: Swiss cheese is a classic choice, but you can easily substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, Gruyere, or even Monterey Jack. Each cheese will impart a slightly different flavor, so choose one that you enjoy and that complements the other ingredients.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to these croissants?
A3: Yes, you can! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and add some freshness to the croissants. Sliced tomatoes, lettuce, spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms are all great options. Just add them after the cheese and before closing the croissants.
Q4: What can I serve with these croissants to make a complete meal?
A4: These croissants pair well with a variety of side dishes. A fresh green salad, a bowl of soup, or a side of potato chips are all great choices. You can also serve them with fresh fruit for a balanced and refreshing brunch.
Q5: I don’t have Worcestershire sauce, can I use something else?
A5: Worcestershire sauce adds a unique umami flavor to the glaze, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can try substituting it with a dash of soy sauce or a small amount of balsamic vinegar. These will provide a similar depth of flavor. You can also use a BBQ sauce that does not have a sweet profile.
