There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm, flaky croissant filled with savory ham and melted Swiss cheese. This Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe brings that classic combination to life in the easiest, most delicious way.
In just 15 minutes, you can turn everyday ingredients into a café-style meal. Whether it’s for a cozy brunch, a grab-and-go breakfast, or a quick lunch, this Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe fits right in. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
What sets this Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe apart is the perfect balance of crisp croissant layers and gooey, cheesy filling—no soggy bottoms, no burnt edges, just pure comfort food. Use quality ham, real Swiss, and a quick bake to get that golden finish every time.
Perfect for any day, this Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor. Give it a try!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe brings together classic flavors in the most satisfying way. The salty ham, nutty Swiss, and buttery croissant are a combo you’ll crave again and again.
What makes this Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe stand out is how easy it is; no fancy tools, just simple steps anyone can follow. Yet the results taste like something you'd buy at a high-end café.
It’s incredibly versatile too. This Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe works great for quick lunches, cozy brunches, or even as a picnic treat.
Pair it with coffee, fruit, or eggs—it fits every occasion. Once you try this Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe, you’ll want to make it part of your regular meal rotation.
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Ingredients
- Large croissants (day-old croissants work perfectly and won't fall apart)
- Deli ham slices (honey glazed ham adds extra sweetness, smoked ham brings depth)
- Swiss cheese slices (Gruyère cheese alternative works beautifully for a nuttier flavor)
- Dijon mustard (adds tangy kick that cuts through the richness)
- Butter (for brushing, creates that golden exterior)
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prep and Slice
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Carefully slice each croissant in half horizontally using a sharp serrated knife, leaving about an inch connected so the croissant acts like a hinge. This technique keeps all the filling inside while allowing even heating.
Pro tip: If your croissants are very fresh and soft, pop them in the freezer for 10 minutes before slicing to prevent tearing.
Assemble the Sandwiches
- Open each croissant and spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the bottom half. The mustard acts as a barrier that prevents the bread from getting soggy while adding flavor. Layer 2 slices of deli ham on each croissant, folding the slices to create height and texture variation. Place one slice of Swiss cheese on top of the ham, then gently close the croissant. The cheese should peek out slightly for crispy edges when baked.
Brush and Bake
- Melt butter in the microwave for 20 seconds, then brush the top of each croissant lightly. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown color. Place the prepared ham and cheese croissants on your lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Bake for 8-10 minutes, watching carefully during the last few minutes. You want the tops golden brown and the cheese fully melted.
Expert timing tip: The croissants are done when you can see the cheese has melted through the gaps and the exterior feels crispy when tapped gently.
Rest and Serve
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2 minutes before serving. This brief rest allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing it from all running out when you take the first bite. Serve immediately while the exterior is still crispy and the cheese is perfectly melted.
- Step 1: Prep and Slice
Slice each croissant and prepare your baking setup.
- Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Layer mustard, ham, and Swiss inside each croissant.
- Step 3: Brush and Bake
Brush with butter and bake until golden and crisp.
- Step 4: Rest and Serve
Let cool slightly before serving while still crisp.
Hints & Expert Cooking Tips
- Temperature control is everything. Too high heat will burn the outside before the inside warms through. Too low won't create the crispy texture you want.
- Choose the right ham thickness. Deli ham sliced medium-thick (about ⅛ inch) provides the best texture. Too thin disappears, too thick makes the sandwich hard to bite.
- Cheese placement matters. Put cheese directly on the ham, not touching the bread. This prevents the bottom from getting soggy while ensuring even melting.
- Day-old croissants actually work better than fresh ones because they hold their shape better and won't compress under the weight of fillings.
Recipe Variations & Dietary Modifications
Make-Ahead Breakfast Version
- Prepare these the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, bake straight from the fridge, adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time. Perfect for busy weekday mornings or when hosting overnight guests.
Holiday Brunch Upgrade
- Add a thin layer of cranberry sauce along with the mustard for a festive twist. The sweet-tart flavor complements the ham beautifully and adds gorgeous color.
Egg Addition
- Create a more substantial breakfast by adding a thin omelet or scrambled eggs to each sandwich. Cook the eggs separately, then layer them in with the ham and cheese.
Spicy Version
- Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mustard for heat lovers. The coolness of the Swiss cheese balances the spice perfectly.
French Onion Style
- Sauté thin onion slices until caramelized, then add them to the sandwich. This creates a sophisticated flavor profile reminiscent of French onion soup.
Equipment Recommendations
Essential tools for success:
- Sharp serrated knife – crucial for clean cuts without crushing delicate croissant layers
- Pastry brush – for even butter application (a paper towel works in a pinch)
- Rimmed baking sheet – prevents any cheese drips from hitting your oven floor
- Parchment paper – makes removal easy and cleanup quick
Nice-to-have extras:
- Kitchen scale – for consistent ham portions if making multiple batches
- Wire cooling rack – prevents bottom from getting soggy if you need to hold them
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerator Storage
- Assembled but unbaked croissants keep well in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Bake directly from cold, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
Freezing Instructions
- These croissant breakfast sandwiches freeze beautifully for up to 1 month. Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
Reheating Leftover Baked Croissants
- The best method is a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. This re-crisps the exterior while warming the interior. Microwaving works for speed but results in softer texture.
Make-Ahead Brunch Strategy
- For large groups, assemble all croissants the night before. On serving day, bake in batches, keeping finished ones warm in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.weeks/months.
The Secret Behind My Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe
This Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe was born on a rainy Sunday morning when I needed something quick but special for brunch. I grabbed some deli ham, Swiss cheese, and buttery croissants—and what came out of the oven was pure magic. Crispy, melty, and packed with flavor, it instantly became a family favorite.
Since then, this Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe has been my go-to for everything from lazy weekends to last-minute guests. The secret? Quality ingredients and just the right bake time. Once you try it, this Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe will become your secret weapon too.
FAQ
How to make the best ham and cheese croissant?
Use buttery croissants, quality deli ham, and real Swiss cheese. Slice the croissants, layer in the ham and cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden and melty. A touch of Dijon mustard adds extra flavor.
What cheese is in a Starbucks ham and cheese croissant?
Starbucks uses a blend of Swiss cheese and béchamel sauce in their ham and cheese croissant, giving it a creamy, slightly nutty flavor with a soft, melty texture.
What is the best cheese for a croissant?
Swiss cheese is a top choice for its mild, nutty flavor and excellent melt. Gruyère, cheddar, or provolone also work well depending on your taste and texture preference.
Is a ham and Swiss croissant healthy?
A ham and Swiss croissant recipe offers protein and calcium but is also high in fat and carbs. It can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation or paired with fruit or salad.
Final Thoughts on the Perfect Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe
This Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can turn into something truly special. The buttery croissant, savory ham, and melty Swiss cheese come together for a meal that’s perfect any time of day.
One reason to love this Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe is how flexible it is. Make it ahead, switch up the cheese, or add a fried egg for extra flavor. It’s easy to customize and always satisfying.
Whether you're planning brunch or need something quick, this Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe never disappoints. Once you try it, you’ll want it on repeat.
Give this Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe a go this weekend and share your twist in the comments. Did you add an egg? Use spicy mustard? We’d love to hear!
Craving more breakfast ideas? Try our Strawberry Cream Cheese French Toast Recipe or this easy Waffles Recipe next!
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe
Ham and Swiss Croissant Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Sharp serrated knife For slicing croissants cleanly without crushing the layers
- 1 Pastry brush To evenly brush melted butter over the croissants
- 1 Baking sheet Use a rimmed one to catch melted cheese or butter
- 1 Parchment paper Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy
- 2–3 Glass bowls For holding mustard, melted butter, and optional ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 croissants large, preferably day-old
- 8 slices deli ham honey glazed or smoked
- 4 slices Swiss cheese Gruyère works well too
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard adds tang and prevents sogginess
- 2 tablespoons butter melted, for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice croissants, leaving a hinge.
- Spread Dijon mustard on bottom half of each croissant.
- Layer ham and cheese, then close the croissants.
- Brush tops with melted butter. Place on baking sheet.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
- Rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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