Irresistible Air Fryer Ham Cheese Croissants Recipe

There is nothing quite like the warm, flaky goodness of freshly baked croissants filled with savory ham and melty cheese. This Irresistible Air Fryer Ham Cheese Croissants Recipe brings all those delightful flavors together in a breeze using an air fryer, making it a quick yet impressive treat for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying snack any time of day. Picture golden-brown, buttery croissants packed with smoky ham and oozy cheese, ready to enjoy without the fuss of traditional baking. You are going to love how effortless and delicious this recipe turns out!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but absolutely essential to the magic of this recipe. Each one contributes to the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and visual appeal, turning humble croissants into a mouthwatering delight.

• 1 package (8 oz) pre-made croissant dough: Using pre-made dough saves time and guarantees that flaky, buttery texture croissants are famous for.
• 4 oz sliced ham: Opt for a good-quality ham that’s neither too salty nor too bland to complement the cheese perfectly.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mix of cheddar and Swiss): The combination adds sharpness and creaminess that melts beautifully inside each croissant.
• 1 egg (for egg wash): This helps to give the croissants that irresistible golden-brown, shiny finish when cooked in the air fryer.

How to Make Irresistible Air Fryer Ham Cheese Croissants Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that the croissants cook evenly and become delightfully crispy on the outside while staying soft and warm on the inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Croissant Dough

Unroll the pre-made croissant dough on a clean surface. Carefully separate the dough into triangles; these are the perfect shapes to fold around your ham and cheese filling.

Step 3: Add Ham and Cheese

Place a slice or two of ham on each dough triangle, then sprinkle a generous handful of the shredded cheese on top. This layer of filling is what makes these croissants so mouthwateringly delicious.

Step 4: Roll and Seal the Croissants

Roll each triangle starting from the wider end up to the tip, gently tucking in the edges to keep the fillings from spilling out during cooking. This step creates the classic croissant shape and seals in all the melted goodness.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

Beat the egg lightly then brush it over each rolled croissant. This simple egg wash is key for achieving a shiny, golden crust that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection

Place the croissants in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook them for 8-10 minutes, checking at 8 minutes to ensure they are perfectly golden and crispy. Remove them once done and allow to cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Irresistible Air Fryer Ham Cheese Croissants Recipe

Garnishes

While these croissants are showstoppers on their own, adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of paprika can add a pop of color and a subtle extra layer of flavor to brighten up the plate.

Side Dishes

Pair these croissants with a fresh green salad or some sweet fruit slices like melon or strawberries. A yogurt parfait or a cup of tomato soup also complements the savory richness beautifully for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special gathering, arrange the croissants on a wooden board alongside small bowls of mustard or honey mustard dip, and perhaps some crunchy pickles. You could also slice them in half to make charming little sandwiches perfect for brunch buffets.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This will preserve their softness and flavor without making them soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze the prepared but uncooked croissants by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight before air frying.

Reheating

Reheat croissants in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 3-4 minutes to refresh their crispiness and melted cheese without drying them out. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar and Swiss give a great balance of flavor and meltiness, you can experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a little spice.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake these in a regular oven?

Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden and cooked through, though the air fryer gives a wonderfully crisp exterior more quickly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Just swap the ham for your favorite veggies such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers combined with the cheese for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I make larger or smaller croissants with this recipe?

You sure can. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly depending on size—smaller croissants will require less time, while larger ones will take a bit longer. Keep an eye on them as they cook.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking?

Use just enough cheese to fill but not overload the dough triangles, and be sure to tuck the edges in tightly when rolling. Brushing with egg wash also helps seal the edges well.

Final Thoughts

This Irresistible Air Fryer Ham Cheese Croissants Recipe truly is a game-changer for anyone craving a quick, delicious bite that feels special. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the magic of the air fryer creates a flaky, savory treat that is perfect for sharing with loved ones or just indulging yourself. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover your new favorite way to enjoy croissants!

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