Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Croissants Recipe
These Air Fryer Ham Cheese Croissants are a delightful homemade treat featuring flaky croissant dough filled with savory ham and melting cheese, all cooked to golden perfection in an air fryer. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack, these croissants combine the ease of air frying with classic flavors enhanced by optional mustard and fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 croissants 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Ingredients
Scale
Croissant Dough
- Store-bought or homemade croissant dough, enough for 4 croissants
- All-purpose flour, 2 cups (if making dough from scratch)
- Active dry yeast, 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet)
- Warm water, 3/4 cup
- Sugar, 1 tablespoon
- Salt, 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil, 3 tablespoons (2 Tbsp for dough, 1 Tbsp for garlic mixture)
Filling
- Ham, thinly sliced, 8 slices (about 4 ounces)
- Cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or preferred melting cheese), 4-6 ounces sliced or shredded
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Optional Add-ins
- Dijon mustard, 1-2 teaspoons
- Fresh herbs (thyme or chives), 1 tablespoon chopped
- Minced garlic, 2 teaspoons
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active and ready.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, combining all ingredients thoroughly.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour if too sticky, ensuring the dough is workable but soft.
- Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle about 1/4 inch thick, preparing for filling.
- Prepare the Garlic Mixture: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Brush this mixture evenly over the top of each rolled-out dough circle for added flavor.
- Assemble the Croissants: Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (optional) on each dough circle. Layer slices of ham and cheese evenly. Sprinkle fresh herbs if using. Roll the dough tightly into a croissant shape, sealing the edges gently.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg with water to make an egg wash. Brush over the croissants to help them turn golden and glossy during cooking.
- Air Fry the Croissants: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the croissants in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway, until they’re golden brown and cheese is melted inside.
- Serve: Remove croissants carefully from the air fryer. Optionally brush with extra olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs before serving warm.
Notes
- You can use store-bought croissant dough to save time or make your own for a fresher taste.
- If you don’t have Dijon mustard or fresh herbs, the croissants will still be delicious without them.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and browning.
- These croissants are best served fresh but can be reheated gently in the air fryer or oven.
- Adjust cooking time slightly based on the size of your croissants and your air fryer model.
Keywords: Air Fryer Croissants, Ham and Cheese Croissants, Easy Breakfast, Quick Snack, Air Fryer Recipe
