Ham and Cheese Croissant with Honey Mustard Glaze

If you are craving a snack that perfectly blends flaky, buttery pastry with savory ham, melted cheese, and a touch of sweet and tangy magic, then the Ham and Cheese Croissant with Honey Mustard Glaze is your new go-to recipe. This delightful treat combines the classic French croissant with heartwarming fillings and a luscious honey mustard glaze that elevates every bite. Whether you want a filling breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, this dish is sure to enchant your taste buds and bring smiles around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Flaky Texture: The croissant’s golden, buttery layers create the perfect flaky base that melts in your mouth.
• Savory and Sweet Harmony: The salty ham paired with creamy cheese and a honey mustard glaze balances every bite flawlessly.
• Quick and Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a gourmet snack ready in no time.
• Versatile for Any Meal: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack anytime during the day.
• Customizable to Your Taste: Swap cheeses or add herbs to make it uniquely yours with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward but powerful ingredients that each add a unique element to the Ham and Cheese Croissant with Honey Mustard Glaze. Every component is essential in creating a balanced and flavorful experience, from the buttery croissants to the tangy glaze.

• Butter Croissants: Fresh or store-bought croissants provide the flaky and buttery foundation essential for this dish.
• Sliced Ham: Opt for quality, thinly sliced deli ham to add savory richness without overpowering the other flavors.
• Swiss or Gruyere Cheese: These cheeses melt beautifully and offer a smooth, nutty taste that complements the ham perfectly.
• Honey Mustard Glaze: A simple mix of honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of lemon juice brings the sweet and tangy notes that tie it all together.
• Egg Wash: Beaten egg brushed on the croissant before baking gives a shiny, golden finish and locks in moisture.

Variations for Ham and Cheese Croissant with Honey Mustard Glaze

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily it adapts to your pantry or dietary preferences. Feel empowered to swap, add, or skip ingredients to make the dish truly yours!

• Vegetarian Swap: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies for a meat-free delight.
• Cheese Options: Try sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a different cheese profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or swap Dijon mustard for spicy brown mustard in the glaze.
• Whole Wheat Croissants: Use whole wheat or multigrain croissants to add fiber and a nuttier taste.
• Herb Infusion: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the glaze or filling for herbal freshness.

How to Make Ham and Cheese Croissant with Honey Mustard Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, a pinch of lemon juice, and a tiny bit of olive oil until smooth and glossy. This glaze will add a delicate sweetness and tang to your croissants.

Step 2: Slice and Prep the Croissants

Carefully slice each butter croissant horizontally to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. This will hold the delicious ham and cheese fillings.

Step 3: Assemble the Filling

Layer slices of savory ham inside each croissant, followed by generous pieces of Swiss or Gruyere cheese. Be sure to evenly distribute the filling for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Brush with Egg Wash and Glaze

Brush the outside of each croissant with beaten egg to achieve a shiny golden crust. Then, brush the honey mustard glaze on top to begin caramelizing during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the filled croissants on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese melts and the croissant is golden brown with a slightly sticky glaze.

Pro Tips for Making Ham and Cheese Croissant with Honey Mustard Glaze

• Use Fresh Croissants: For the best texture, use croissants baked the same day or completely thaw frozen fresh croissants overnight.
• Don’t Overfill: Keep the ham and cheese layers moderate to avoid stuffing the croissants which can cause leaks during baking.
• Glaze Glaze Glaze: Apply multiple thin layers of the honey mustard glaze before and after baking for a richer, sticky finish.
• Use a Wire Rack: Bake croissants on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow even heat circulation and prevent sogginess.
• Allow to Cool Slightly: Rest croissants for 3-5 minutes after baking to let the cheese set and prevent burning your mouth.

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Croissant with Honey Mustard Glaze

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of finely chopped chives adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich croissant and glaze. A dusting of cracked black pepper also complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with light vinaigrette or a bowl of seasonal fruit to balance the richness with fresh, bright elements. Roasted potatoes or a cup of tomato soup also pair wonderfully for a hearty meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the croissants in half diagonally and arrange them on a wooden board with small bowls of extra honey mustard glaze or Dijon mustard for dipping. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs and edible flowers for a charming brunch display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover croissants in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flakiness.

Freezing

Wrap individual filled croissants tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 7-10 minutes to restore crispiness and warm the cheese. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy croissants.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Swiss and Gruyere melt beautifully, but sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add delicious variations to the flavor and texture.

Is it better to make the croissants from scratch or use store-bought?

Using fresh store-bought croissants is convenient and works wonderfully for this recipe. Homemade croissants add an extra level of freshness but require more time and skill.

How spicy is the honey mustard glaze?

The glaze has a mild tang with gentle sweetness; you can adjust the mustard type or add a pinch of cayenne for more heat according to your preference.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or even plant-based deli slices to keep it delicious and meat-free.

What’s the best way to serve this recipe for a brunch party?

Cut croissants into bite-sized pieces and serve with extra honey mustard glaze for dipping, alongside fresh fruit, cheese platters, and refreshing drinks for a crowd-pleasing spread.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about biting into a warm, flaky croissant filled with savory ham and melting cheese, all topped with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze. This Ham and Cheese Croissant with Honey Mustard Glaze recipe brings smiles, comfort, and a touch of elegance to any meal. Give it a try—once you make it, it’s destined to become a favorite you’ll want to share with everyone you know!

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