Reasons to choose filled croissant
This simple method ensures you get a warm and crispy filled croissant every time. It is a great way to upgrade store bought pastries into a more substantial meal. Using a few quality ingredients makes a big difference to the final result. Most people already have these items in their fridge which makes it a convenient choice for busy days.
How to make filled croissant
Prepare the pastry: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Use a sharp bread knife to slice each croissant horizontally through the middle but do not cut all the way through. This creates a pocket that will hold your ingredients securely while baking. Place the opened pastries on a baking tray lined with baking paper.
Add the base: Spread a small amount of butter or Dijon mustard on the inside of each pastry. This adds extra moisture and a bit of a kick to the flavour profile. Lay a slice of ham inside each one so it fits neatly within the edges. Make sure the ham is spread out evenly for the best bite.
Fill with cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese generously over the ham inside each pastry. Close the tops and press down gently to keep everything in place. You can add a little extra cheese on top if you prefer a melted crust. The cheese will melt and bind the filling together as it heats.
Bake and serve: Place the tray in the middle of the oven and bake for about ten minutes. The cheese should be completely melted and the pastry should feel light and crisp. Remove the tray carefully and let them cool for just a minute before eating. Enjoy your warm filled croissant while the texture is at its best.
My best tips for filled croissant
For the best experience, try using croissants that are a day old as they hold their shape better when being sliced and filled. You can experiment with different types of cheese like swiss or brie to change the flavour of your filled croissant. If you prefer a sweet version, swap the ham and cheese for chocolate spread or almond paste.
Adding a handful of fresh spinach or some sliced tomatoes inside can provide a nice crunch and some extra nutrients. Be careful not to overfill the pastry as the contents might spill out during the baking process. Using baking paper on your tray prevents any escaped cheese from sticking and makes cleaning up much easier. Always keep an eye on the oven during the last few minutes to ensure the pastry does not burn.
Find more ideas here:
cod ceviche,
duck soup or
green salad with prawns.