Ham and Cheese Croissant Rolls: A Buttery, Cheesy Delight

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough (if making from scratch)

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
  • ½ cup warm milk
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 egg

For the Filling

  • 8 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyère work best)
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, but adds great flavor)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough (Skip if Using Store-Bought Crescent Dough)

  1. In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add flour, salt, softened butter, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined.
  3. Knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Shortcut: If using store-bought crescent dough, simply unroll it and proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough and Add Filling

  1. Roll the dough into a large rectangle (about ¼-inch thick).
  2. Cut into 8 triangles, similar to crescent roll shapes.
  3. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each triangle (optional).
  4. Place a slice of ham and shredded cheese on the wider end of each triangle.

Step 3: Roll and Shape the Croissants

  1. Starting from the wide end, roll each triangle tightly into a croissant shape.
  2. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
  3. Cover lightly with a towel and let them rest for 15–20 minutes for a second rise.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Brush the croissants with a beaten egg for a golden, shiny crust.
  3. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with a side of honey mustard or garlic butter.
  • Pair with a fresh salad or a warm bowl of soup for a complete meal.
  • For breakfast, enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To Store: Keep leftover croissants in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
To Reheat: Warm them in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.

Variations to Try

🌿 Spinach & Feta: Swap ham for spinach and feta cheese.
🍗 Chicken & Pesto: Use shredded chicken with basil pesto.
🧄 Garlic & Herb: Add a garlic butter spread before rolling.
🍫 Sweet Version: Swap ham and cheese for Nutella and bananas!

Final Thoughts

These Ham and Cheese Croissant Rolls are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves warm, buttery pastries filled with gooey cheese and savory ham. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, or a party snack, they’re sure to disappear fast!

Let me know how yours turn out! What fillings would you try? 😊