This Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake is the ultimate weekend treat! Flaky croissants add a lovely touch, while ham and cheese make each bite deliciously hearty.
It’s so simple to prepare, just layer the croissants, add the yummy filling, and pour in a creamy egg mixture. Trust me, it’s a hit every time!
Whenever I make this bake, I love serving it with fresh fruit. It’s a fun and tasty way to start the day, and you’ll feel like a brunch pro in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Use large, buttery croissants for the best flavor. If you don’t have croissants, try brioche or even day-old baguettes as a substitute. They will still soak up the custard well!
Cooked Ham: If you’re not a fan of ham, cooked bacon or diced sausage works well. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed spinach or mushrooms in place of the meat.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but you can mix in Swiss or Gruyère for a different taste. Always choose cheeses that melt nicely!
Milk and Cream: Whole milk or 2% is great, but you can use half-and-half or non-dairy milk (like almond or oat) for a lighter version. Just be aware that taste and creaminess may vary.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a lovely tanginess, but if you’re not sure about mustard, you can use a pinch of hot sauce or skip it entirely!
How Do You Ensure Evenly Soaked Croissants?
Letting the croissants absorb the egg mixture is crucial for a creamy texture. After pouring the custard over the layers, gently press down on the croissant pieces. This helps them soak up the mixture evenly.
- Prepare the egg mixture in a large bowl, whisking the eggs and liquids well.
- After pouring over the croissants, wait 10-15 minutes before baking. This allows the croissants to soak up the liquid.
- If you notice they’re not soaking up well, gently press them down a bit more.
How to Make Ham And Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 6 large croissants, cut into chunks
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Swiss)
For the Custard Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional for a tangy flavor)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Baking:
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish)
- Maple syrup or mustard sauce for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to bake. Be sure to let it sit for 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure the croissants soak up the custard well. In total, you’re looking at about an hour for a delicious brunch treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter. This will prevent the bake from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Layer the Croissants
Cut your croissants into chunks that are around 2 inches in size. Place half of the croissant pieces evenly in the greased baking dish. This creates a nice base for your bake!
3. Add the Ham and Cheese
Sprinkle half of the diced ham and half of the shredded cheese over the croissant layer. This will help create delicious layers of flavor in every bite!
4. Finish Layering
Now, add the remaining croissant pieces on top. Then, sprinkle the rest of the ham and cheese over these chunks. It’s all about building those tasty layers!
5. Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined; this custard is what brings the dish to life!
6. Pour and Press
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese layers. Press down slightly on the croissant pieces to help them soak up the liquid. This step is key for a rich, delicious texture!
7. Let it Soak
Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the croissant chunks time to absorb the custard mix, ensuring a moist and flavorful bake.
8. Bake It Up
Pop the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool and Garnish
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with extra fresh thyme for a lovely touch. It adds color and flavor!
10. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your warm Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake with a drizzle of maple syrup or a mustard-based sauce for dipping if desired. It’s the perfect dish for any brunch gathering or cozy morning at home!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can use a blend of cheddar and Swiss, or even try Gruyère for a gourmet twist. Just make sure to choose cheeses that melt well for the best texture!
What If I Don’t Have Croissants?
No problem! You can substitute croissants with brioche, challah, or even day-old baguettes. They will absorb the custard well and still yield a deliciously fluffy bake.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at a low temperature or microwave until heated through. It’s still delicious the next day!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Certainly! You can easily make this brunch bake vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding in sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
