This Ham and Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake is like a cozy hug in a dish! Flaky croissants, savory ham, and gooey cheese come together for a delightful treat that’s perfect for brunch.
I love how easy this recipe is; just layer, mix, and bake! It’s a hit at gatherings, and honestly, who could resist that cheesy goodness? Pair it with coffee, and you’re all set! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Croissants: Using slightly stale or day-old croissants gives the best texture. Fresh ones might get too soggy. If you don’t have croissants, use other bread like brioche or even day-old bagels.
Ham: Diced ham is crucial for flavor. You can swap it for turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. Vegetarian? Try using sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead!
Cheeses: Sharp cheddar gives a great taste, while Swiss offers a lovely melt. You can mix the two for variety. Other great substitutes are Monterey Jack or Gouda if you want something different.
Eggs: They form the custard base, so use large eggs. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use egg whites only or a flaxseed mixture for a vegan option (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
Milk & Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream create a rich custard. You can use 2% milk or a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat) for a lighter dish, though it may change the texture slightly.
How Do I Ensure My Croissants Absorb the Custard Properly?
To make sure your croissants soak up the egg mixture well, here’s what to do:
- After pouring the egg mixture over the croissants, gently press them down with a spatula. This helps them soak up the liquid.
- Letting the dish sit for 10-15 minutes is key. This allows the croissants to absorb the custard before baking.
- Checking for doneness is essential. A knife inserted should come out clean, ensuring everything is properly set and cooked.
By taking these steps, your brunch bake will have a great texture and flavor combination!
How to Make Ham And Cheese Croissant Brunch Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bake:
- 6 large croissants, slightly stale or day-old
- 8 oz cooked ham, diced or chopped
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (optional for extra flavor)
For The Custard:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful brunch bake requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking. With an additional 10-15 minutes for the croissants to soak up the custard, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in roughly 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This will help prevent the bake from sticking.
2. Arrange the Croissants:
Next, cut the croissants into halves or quarters. Arrange them nicely in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. They can be slightly overlapping—this will help them soak up the custard nicely.
3. Add Ham and Cheese:
Now it’s time to layer on some flavor! Evenly distribute the diced ham over the croissants. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Swiss cheese (if using) all over the top. It’s okay if the cheese is piled high—more deliciousness!
4. Make the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is well combined and slightly frothy. This rich mixture will make your bake creamy and flavorful.
5. Combine and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants, ham, and cheese. With a spatula, gently press down on the croissants to help them absorb the liquid. This step is key for ensuring they soak up that delicious custard!
6. Let It Soak:
Let your dish sit for about 10-15 minutes. This waiting period allows the croissants to soak up all that yummy custard. You can start setting the table or preparing drinks while you wait!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Once soaked, place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the custard is set (stick a knife in the center, and it should come out clean).
8. Rest and Serve:
When it’s done, remove the bake from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This short pause makes it easier to serve. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor, and enjoy warm!
This savory brunch bake is perfect for family breakfasts or weekend gatherings, bringing together flaky croissants, melty cheese, and savory ham in a delectable custard. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread Instead of Croissants?
Yes! While croissants give a unique texture and flavor, you can use day-old brioche, French bread, or even bagels as substitutes. Just make sure they’re slightly stale to absorb the custard well.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate it overnight, but be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking the next day to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover brunch bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You might want to add a splash of milk to keep it moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for some added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to cut them small and precook them a bit to remove excess moisture.
