Honey Glazed Ham and Egg Croissant Bake

After a long week, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a warm, comforting breakfast wafting through the house on a weekend morning. Recently, I stumbled upon a recipe that has completely revolutionized our brunch game: the Honey Glazed Ham and Egg Croissant Bake. Let me tell you, this isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience. The flaky, buttery croissants, layered with savory ham, creamy eggs, and a touch of sweetness from the honey glaze, create a symphony of flavors and textures that are simply irresistible. Even my pickiest eater, my son, who usually turns his nose up at anything beyond cereal, devoured a generous slice and asked for seconds! This bake is not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to put together, making it perfect for both casual family breakfasts and more festive brunch gatherings. It’s become a staple in our home, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you, so you too can bring a little bit of weekend magic to your table.

Ingredients

• Croissants: 6 large croissants, preferably day-old, for a slightly firmer texture that holds up well in the bake.
• Cooked Ham: 8 ounces, diced – choose a good quality ham, as it’s a star ingredient. Black Forest, honey ham, or even leftover holiday ham works beautifully.
• Eggs: 6 large eggs, the foundation of our creamy filling and protein powerhouse.
• Milk: 1 cup, whole milk is recommended for richness, but 2% or even almond milk can be substituted for dietary preferences.
• Heavy Cream: ½ cup, adds a luxurious creaminess and depth of flavor to the egg mixture.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon, provides a subtle tang that cuts through the richness and complements the ham perfectly.
• Shredded Cheese: 1 ½ cups, Gruyere, Swiss, cheddar, or a blend – choose your favorite melting cheese for a gooey, cheesy delight. Gruyere is particularly fantastic for its nutty and slightly sweet notes.
• Green Onions: 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced, for a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Honey: 2 tablespoons, the key to our signature glaze, adding sweetness and a beautiful shine.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, unsalted, melted – used for both greasing the baking dish and creating a rich base for the glaze.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste, enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground, adds a touch of spice and depth.
• Optional: Fresh Thyme or Parsley: 1 tablespoon, chopped, for garnish and an extra layer of herbaceous flavor.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with some of the melted butter. This prevents the bake from sticking and ensures easy serving.
2. Prepare the Croissants: If using whole croissants, slice them in half horizontally. Then, cut each half into roughly 1-inch cubes. Day-old croissants are ideal because they are slightly drier and will absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy. If your croissants are very fresh and soft, you might consider lightly toasting them in the oven for a few minutes to dry them out slightly.
3. Arrange Croissants and Ham in Baking Dish: Spread the cubed croissants evenly in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the diced ham over the croissants, distributing it as uniformly as possible. Try to get some ham pieces nestled amongst the croissant cubes to ensure every bite is flavorful.
4. Whisk Together Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth. Make sure the Dijon mustard is fully incorporated to avoid any clumps. Taste the mixture and adjust salt and pepper if needed, keeping in mind the ham and cheese will also add salt.
5. Pour Egg Mixture Over Croissants and Ham: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissants and ham in the baking dish. Gently press down on the croissants with a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure they are submerged in the egg mixture. This helps them soak up the liquid and become deliciously custardy.
6. Sprinkle Cheese and Green Onions: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the egg mixture. Follow with the thinly sliced green onions, distributing them across the cheese layer. The cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly crust, while the green onions will add a fresh bite.
7. Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown and bubbly. A knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean, with just a bit of moisture – this indicates it’s cooked through but still moist and not dry.
8. Prepare the Honey Glaze: While the casserole is baking, prepare the honey glaze. In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine the remaining melted butter and honey. If using a saucepan, heat over low heat until the butter is melted and the honey is warmed through and easily pourable, about 1-2 minutes. If using a microwave, heat in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and combined.
9. Glaze and Finish: Once the casserole is out of the oven, immediately drizzle the honey glaze evenly over the top. The heat from the bake will help the glaze spread and become beautifully glossy. If desired, sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley for garnish.
10. Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the Honey Glazed Ham and Egg Croissant Bake cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the bake to set slightly and makes it easier to cut and serve without falling apart. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, based on 6 servings – approximate values)

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the bake
• Calories: Approximately 550-650 kcal
• Protein: 25-30g

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients used, particularly the type of ham and cheese, and the size of the croissants.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes chopping ingredients and assembling the casserole)
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes (baking in the oven)
• Total Time: Approximately 50-55 minutes

This recipe is relatively quick to assemble, making it a great option for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

This Honey Glazed Ham and Egg Croissant Bake is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some suggestions:

• As a Standalone Brunch Dish:
  • Serve warm slices straight from the baking dish as the main event for brunch.
  • Pair it with a simple side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and balance the richness of the bake.
  • Offer a fruit platter with seasonal fruits like berries, melon, and grapes for a sweet and refreshing contrast.
• Part of a Larger Brunch Spread:
  • Include alongside other breakfast favorites like crispy bacon or sausage for a heartier meal.
  • Add a side of breakfast potatoes or hash browns to complement the croissant bake.
  • Offer a selection of jams, jellies, and preserves for those who enjoy a sweeter touch.
• For a Special Occasion or Holiday Brunch:
  • Elevate the presentation by garnishing each slice with a sprig of fresh thyme or parsley.
  • Serve with sparkling beverages like mimosas or bellinis for a festive touch.
  • Consider offering a dessert course after the brunch, such as mini pastries or fruit tarts.
• Make-Ahead Breakfast or Brunch:
  • Prepare the casserole the night before, assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate.
  • In the morning, preheat the oven and bake as directed, adding about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
  • The honey glaze can also be made ahead and stored at room temperature, then gently warmed before drizzling.
• Serving Temperature:
  • Best served warm, but still delicious at room temperature.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Additional Tips

1. Use Day-Old Croissants: Day-old or slightly stale croissants are ideal for this bake because they absorb the egg mixture better without becoming overly soggy. If you only have fresh croissants, you can lightly toast them in a low oven (around 250°F/120°C) for about 5-7 minutes to dry them out slightly before using.
2. Customize Your Cheese: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere and Swiss are classic choices that melt beautifully and offer great flavor, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would work wonderfully. For a sharper flavor, try adding a bit of Parmesan cheese.
3. Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables. Sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus can be incorporated with the ham. Sauté the vegetables until tender-crisp before adding them to the casserole.
4. Spice it Up: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture or a dash of hot sauce. You could also use a spicy sausage instead of ham for a bolder flavor profile.
5. Herb Infusions: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor of this bake. Besides thyme and parsley, consider adding chopped chives, oregano, or basil. Stir fresh herbs into the egg mixture or sprinkle them over the top before baking.
6. Make it Vegetarian: To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add more vegetables, such as roasted red peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. You can also add sautéed mushrooms and onions for a savory vegetarian option. Consider adding a layer of caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.
7. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of honey in the glaze or add a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the sweetness. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar as alternatives to honey, although honey provides a unique flavor that complements the ham and croissants beautifully.
8. Ensure Even Baking: To ensure even baking, make sure the croissants and ham are distributed evenly in the baking dish and that the egg mixture is poured uniformly over them. If your oven tends to bake unevenly, rotate the baking dish halfway through the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this Honey Glazed Ham and Egg Croissant Bake ahead of time?

A: Yes, absolutely! This bake is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble the entire casserole (without the honey glaze) and refrigerate it, covered, overnight. In the morning, preheat your oven and bake as directed, adding about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. Prepare the honey glaze just before baking or while the casserole is in the oven, and drizzle it on after baking. This make-ahead option is fantastic for holiday mornings or when you want to get ahead on brunch preparations.

Q2: Can I use different types of bread instead of croissants?

A: While croissants provide a uniquely buttery and flaky texture, you can substitute other types of bread. Brioche, challah, or even crusty sourdough bread would work well. If using denser breads, you might need to cube them smaller and let them soak in the egg mixture a bit longer to ensure they are fully saturated. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be different from the croissant version, but still delicious in its own way.

Q3: How do I store leftovers and reheat them?

A: Store leftover Honey Glazed Ham and Egg Croissant Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat them, as they can become dry. Reheating in the oven is recommended for maintaining the best texture.

Q4: Can I freeze this croissant bake?

A: While you can technically freeze this bake, the texture of the croissants may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. If you do freeze it, allow it to cool completely after baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven as described above. For best results, it’s generally recommended to enjoy this bake fresh or make it a day ahead and refrigerate.

Q5: What if I don’t have heavy cream? Can I substitute it?

A: If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or even more whole milk. However, using heavy cream contributes significantly to the richness and creaminess of the egg mixture. If using half-and-half or milk, the bake might be slightly less rich but still delicious. You could also try using crème fraîche or sour cream for a tangier flavor and similar richness.

Q6: Can I add other meats besides ham?

A: Absolutely! You can get creative with the meat in this bake. Cooked sausage (Italian sausage, breakfast sausage), bacon (cooked and crumbled), or even shredded cooked chicken or turkey would be great alternatives or additions to ham. Consider using a combination of meats for a heartier and more flavorful bake. Just ensure any meat you use is pre-cooked before adding it to the casserole.

Q7: Is it necessary to use Dijon mustard? Can I use another type of mustard?

A: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor that complements the ham and eggs beautifully. However, if you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use other types of mustard. Yellow mustard will work but will be milder. Stone-ground mustard would also be a good choice, adding a bit more texture and flavor. If you’re not a fan of mustard at all, you can omit it, but it does contribute a nice savory element to the dish.

Q8: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

A: Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled to serve a larger crowd. Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, such as a 9×18 inch pan or two 9×13 inch pans. Baking time may need to be increased slightly, so check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center – it should come out mostly clean. Doubling the recipe makes this bake perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or feeding a big family.

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