Air Fryer Ham & Cheese Croissant Bake

Can you make a croissant bake in an air fryer?

An air fryer is a great way to make a croissant bake. This air fryer croissant bake combines pieces of croissant with ham, mature cheddar and a savoury egg mixture, then cooks until golden, cheesy and set.

What is an air fryer croissant bake?

An air fryer croissant bake is a simple breakfast or brunch dish made by layering croissant pieces with fillings and soaking them in an egg and milk mixture before cooking in the air fryer. This version is made with ham, cheddar and Dijon mustard for a savoury twist.

Can I use leftover croissants for a croissant bake?

A croissant bake is a great way to use leftover croissants. In fact, slightly stale croissants work particularly well because they absorb the egg and milk mixture without becoming overly soggy.

Can I use fresh croissants for this recipe?

Yes. Fresh croissants work perfectly well, so there’s no need to wait for them to go stale. Simply cut them into pieces and arrange them in your air-fryer-safe baking dish before adding the ham, cheese and egg mixture.

What can I put in a croissant bake?

There are lots of ways to customise a croissant bake. Ham and cheese is a classic combination, but you could also add cooked bacon, mushrooms, spinach, spring onions, peppers or cooked sausage. Just avoid adding ingredients with lots of excess liquid.

What cheese is best for a ham and cheese croissant bake?

Mature cheddar works particularly well because it has plenty of flavour and melts beautifully. You could also try mozzarella, Gruyère, Red Leicester or a combination of cheeses.

Can I make a ham and cheese croissant bake without Dijon mustard?

Yes. Dijon mustard adds a little extra flavour to the egg mixture but isn’t essential. You can leave it out or replace it with a small amount of wholegrain mustard if you prefer.

Can I use different types of ham?

Yes. Thick-cut ham works well because it gives you plenty of flavour and texture, but you can use sliced ham, cooked ham leftovers or diced ham instead.

Can I make this croissant bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and keep the assembled dish covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook it. Because it contains eggs and milk, keep it refrigerated and don’t leave the uncooked mixture sitting at room temperature.

Can I reheat an air fryer croissant bake?

Yes. Leftover croissant bake can be reheated in the air fryer until piping hot. Keep the temperature moderate so the croissants and cheese don’t brown too quickly while the centre warms through.

Can I freeze ham and cheese croissant bake?

It can be frozen, although the texture may be slightly different after freezing because of the egg and milk mixture. Allow it to cool completely, portion it up and freeze in an airtight container. Defrost thoroughly in the fridge before reheating.

Is a ham and cheese croissant bake good for brunch?

Absolutely. This is an easy weekend brunch recipe that’s ideal when you want something warm and comforting without spending ages cooking. It’s particularly good for a lazy Saturday or Sunday breakfast when you’re feeding a few people.

What should I serve with a ham and cheese croissant bake?

Serve it warm with fresh fruit, tomatoes, avocado, a simple salad or roasted vegetables. For a bigger weekend brunch, you could serve it alongside scrambled eggs, fruit and coffee.

Can I make an individual croissant bake in the air fryer?

Yes. You can divide the ingredients between smaller ovenproof dishes to make individual portions. Cooking time may be shorter, so keep an eye on the centre and cook until the egg mixture is fully set.

Can I make this recipe without ham?

Yes. Simply leave out the ham for a vegetarian version, or replace it with vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, peppers or tomatoes. If using vegetables, cook off excess moisture first so the croissant bake doesn’t become watery.