Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Croissants

A Quick and Indulgent Treat

Air Fryer Croissants are the ultimate blend of buttery, flaky pastry goodness and savory filling, offering a quick and indulgent treat for breakfast, brunch, or even as a light dinner. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a golden, crispy exterior with perfectly melted cheese and warm ham inside in a fraction of the time compared to traditional baking.

Whether you’re a busy professional seeking a hassle-free meal or hosting a brunch gathering, these croissants are a crowd-pleaser. They require minimal effort yet deliver maximum flavor. Best of all, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences by experimenting with different fillings, cheeses, and seasonings.

This recipe demonstrates how to make ham and cheese croissants in an air fryer, taking them from ordinary to extraordinary in just minutes. Say goodbye to boring breakfasts and hello to a flaky, cheesy masterpiece!

Basic Recipe: How to Make Air Fryer Ham and Cheese Croissants

Air Fryer Croissants with Ham and Cheese

Author: Jennifer Mitchell
Total Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 4 croissants (1 per serving) 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Air Fryer Croissants with Ham and Cheese are the perfect quick and delicious breakfast, snack, or lunch! Flaky, buttery croissants are filled with savory ham and melted cheese, then air fried to golden perfection. This simple yet satisfying recipe is an easy way to elevate your croissant game and make a comforting meal in no time.

Ingredients

Scale

4 croissants (preferably fresh or day-old)
8 slices of ham (thinly sliced)
4 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your choice)

Instructions

Prepare the Croissants:
- Slice each croissant in half lengthwise, creating a top and bottom half. Be careful not to cut all the way through, leaving a hinge at the back of the croissant.
Assemble the Croissants:
- Place two slices of ham inside each croissant, layering them evenly.
- Top the ham with a slice of cheese, folding it slightly if necessary to fit inside the croissant.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Air Fry the Croissants:
- Place the filled croissants in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spaced apart so air can circulate evenly.
- Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown, the cheese is melted, and the ham is heated through.
Serve:
- Carefully remove the croissants from the air fryer.
- Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

Notes

Croissant Type: Fresh croissants work best for this recipe as they have the ideal flaky texture. If using day-old croissants, lightly toast them before filling for extra crispiness.
Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère, depending on your preference.
Extra Flavors: You can add a dash of Dijon mustard or a few slices of tomato for added flavor before air frying.
For Crispy Croissants: If you prefer a crispier top, lightly butter the top of each croissant before air frying.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack, Lunch
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American, French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 croissant
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 860mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 16g

Keywords: Air Fryer Croissants with Ham and Cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Croissants:
Slice each croissant in half horizontally, but avoid cutting all the way through to keep the top and bottom attached. This helps hold the filling securely.
Layer the Ham and Cheese:
Open each croissant gently and layer two slices of ham, followed by a slice of cheese. Fold the ham to fit neatly inside the croissant and place the cheese on top.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Arrange the Croissants in the Basket:
Place the filled croissants in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure they don’t touch each other for even airflow and crisping.
Air Fry the Croissants:
Cook the croissants for 4-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the croissants are golden and crispy. Check them halfway through to prevent over-browning.
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the croissants from the air fryer carefully using tongs. Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and the croissant is warm.

Advanced Techniques: Elevating Your Air Fryer Croissants

Mastering the Perfect Air Fryer Croissant

Choose the Right Croissants:
Use fresh croissants for the best results. Avoid using pre-packaged croissants that are too dry or overly soft, as they may not crisp up well in the air fryer.
Layering the Fillings:
To prevent the cheese from oozing out during cooking, place it between two slices of ham. The ham acts as a barrier, keeping the cheese neatly contained.
Avoid Overcrowding the Basket:
Leave enough space between the croissants in the air fryer basket to allow for proper airflow. This ensures that each croissant gets evenly crispy.
Adjusting Cook Time:
Depending on your air fryer model and the size of your croissants, cooking time may vary slightly. Start with 4 minutes and check frequently to avoid burning.

Flavor Variations

Turkey and Brie Croissants:
Replace ham with thinly sliced turkey and use brie cheese for a creamy, indulgent twist.
Vegetarian Option:
Swap the ham for sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers and use a slice of your favorite cheese, like gouda or provolone.
Sweet and Savory:
Add a layer of fruit preserves (such as raspberry or apricot) along with the ham and cheese for a sweet-savory combination.
Spicy Kick:
Add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle of red chili flakes inside the croissant for a touch of heat.
Herb-Infused Butter Glaze:
Brush the croissants with melted butter mixed with garlic powder, parsley, or Italian seasoning before air frying for an extra layer of flavor.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover air-fried croissants, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating Tips

Reheat the croissants in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore their crispiness and re-melt the cheese. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the croissants soggy.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes, you can freeze assembled croissants before air frying. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then air fry as directed.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Low-Carb or Keto Option

To make this recipe keto-friendly, use low-carb or almond flour-based croissants. Substitute regular ham with sugar-free options and choose a keto-friendly cheese.

Dairy-Free Alternative

Use dairy-free cheese slices and vegan butter to make this recipe suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

Look for gluten-free croissants at your local bakery or grocery store. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

High-Protein Version

Choose high-protein croissants or add an extra layer of sliced turkey breast alongside the ham for an additional protein boost.

FAQs About Air Fryer Croissants

Can I Use Frozen Croissants?

Yes, frozen croissants can be used. Let them thaw completely before slicing and assembling with the filling.

What Other Fillings Can I Use?

The possibilities are endless! Try fillings like scrambled eggs and bacon for a breakfast version, or smoked salmon and cream cheese for a gourmet touch.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Assemble the croissants ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and air fry them just before serving.

What if I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?

You can bake the croissants in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. The result won’t be as crispy as in an air fryer but will still taste delicious.

Can I Add Vegetables?

Yes, sliced tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or baby spinach can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Croissants are the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and versatility. With their flaky exterior, gooey cheese, and savory ham filling, they’re a treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or an impressive snack to serve guests, this recipe delivers every time. Try these croissants today and experience the magic of air frying!

Easy and Delicious Air Fryer Croissants with Ham and Cheese