Heavenly Ham & Cheese Croissant Rolls

1. Introduction to Heavenly Ham & Cheese Croissant Rolls

Heavenly Ham & Cheese Croissant Rolls are a delightful fusion of savory ham and creamy cheese, encased in the flaky, buttery layers of a croissant. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.

The croissant itself is a testament to French culinary expertise. It is made from a special dough that is repeatedly folded and chilled, creating the signature layers. When baked, it puffs up beautifully, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior. The addition of ham and cheese elevates this already impressive pastry to new heights.

This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate gourmet food without needing extensive kitchen experience. It can be enjoyed as a breakfast item, a light lunch, or even as an elegant appetizer at a dinner party. With its versatility and delicious taste, Heavenly Ham & Cheese Croissant Rolls are sure to become a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110 degrees F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped cooked ham
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped cooked ham
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a small bowl, whisk together the warm milk and yeast until the yeast dissolves. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, and heavy cream. Mix everything together with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling:

In a medium bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, chopped ham, chopped basil, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and black pepper. Set aside.

3. Roll Out the Dough:

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough. Brush the edges of the dough with the whole milk.

4. Assemble the Rolls:

Spread the olive oil over the buttered surface of the dough. Sprinkle the prepared cheese and ham mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife.

5. Bake:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the croissant rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Brush the tops of the rolls with the remaining egg wash and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Heavenly Ham & Cheese Croissant Rolls!

Serving Suggestions:

These rolls can be served as a standalone snack or paired with a variety of sides. They pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or a hearty tomato soup. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside a simple side dish like roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Additionally, these rolls can be enjoyed as part of a brunch spread. Pair them with fresh fruit, pastries, and a selection of cheeses and cured meats for a truly indulgent experience. Their rich, savory flavor makes them a perfect complement to a wide range of beverages, from a robust red wine to a refreshing glass of white wine or a crisp sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftover croissant rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy. Alternatively, you can microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds, but this may not achieve the same level of crispiness as oven reheating.

Conclusion:

Heavenly Ham & Cheese Croissant Rolls are a delightful and versatile dish that combines the richness of cheese and the savory goodness of ham within the flaky layers of a croissant. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast, a light lunch, or an elegant appetizer, these rolls are sure to impress. By following this detailed recipe, you can recreate this gourmet delight in the comfort of your own kitchen, sharing the joy of this exquisite pastry with friends and family.