These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are the perfect blend of savory flavors, melty cheese, and flaky croissants. They make a great snack, lunch, or party appetizer. Here’s a complete guide to preparing this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

• 8 mini croissants
• 4 slices smoked cheddar cheese (or regular cheddar), halved
• 3/4 pound deli-cut ham
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 large egg white
• Poppy seeds, for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for the croissants.

2. Prepare the Croissants

• Slice each mini croissant in half horizontally.
• On the bottom half of each croissant, place half a slice of cheddar cheese, followed by a slice of deli-cut ham, and then top with another half slice of cheese.
• Place the top half of the croissant over the fillings, making a croissant sandwich.

3. Make the Spread

• In a small bowl, combine:
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 to 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Mix until smooth to create the spread.

4. Assemble the Sandwiches

• Spread the butter mixture evenly on the inside of each croissant sandwich. This adds flavor and helps keep the croissants golden and crispy during baking.

5. Arrange in Baking Dish

• Place the assembled croissant sandwiches in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re snug but not overcrowded.

6. Egg Wash

• In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white with a splash of water.
• Brush the egg wash over the tops of the croissants to give them a beautiful golden-brown finish when baked.
• Sprinkle with poppy seeds for extra flavor and texture.

7. Bake

• Bake the croissants in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown and crispy.

8. Serve

• Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
• Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, cheesy deliciousness!

Tips for Best Results:

• Croissant Choice: Mini croissants are ideal for bite-sized portions, but you can use regular croissants if preferred. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if using larger croissants.
• Cheese Options: Smoked cheddar adds a deep, rich flavor, but regular cheddar or Swiss cheese also work well. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.
• Sweet and Savory Balance: The honey in the spread adds a slight sweetness that complements the savory ham and cheese. If you prefer more tanginess, you can reduce the honey or omit it.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions:

These Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants are perfect for:

• Breakfast: Serve them as a quick breakfast treat with coffee.
• Lunch: Pair with a side salad or soup for a light lunch.
• Party Snacks: Perfect for parties or gatherings—serve them warm with a dipping sauce on the side, like honey mustard or ranch.
• Picnic Food: Easy to pack for a picnic, and they taste just as good at room temperature.

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