Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
Ham and cheese crescent rolls are popular because they are:
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
- Perfectly flaky and soft
- Great for make-ahead meals
- Loved by kids and adults alike
- Versatile – serve them warm or cold
They work just as well for a quick weekday breakfast as they do for a party platter or lunchbox snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough (Homemade Option)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon instant yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 egg
(You may also use ready-made crescent or pizza dough if preferred.)
For the Filling
- 200–250 g sliced ham (chicken or turkey ham works too)
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
- ½ cup cream cheese or thick white sauce (optional, but highly recommended)
For Brushing
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)
Choosing the Right Cheese
Cheese makes all the difference in this recipe. For best results:
- Mozzarella gives that perfect stretch
- Cheddar adds sharp flavor
- Emmental or Gruyère brings richness
- Cream cheese adds a soft, creamy center
You can mix cheeses for a deeper flavor profile.
Preparing the Dough
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, mix warm milk with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This ensures the yeast is active.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Add flour, salt, melted butter, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shaping the Crescent Rolls
Step 1: Roll Out the Dough
Punch down the dough and roll it into a large circle, about ½ cm thick.
Using a glass or cutter, cut the dough into small circles, as shown in the image.
Step 2: Add the Filling
On each dough circle, place:
- A square or slice of ham
- A small spoon of cream cheese or sauce
- A generous pinch of shredded cheese
Don’t overfill—this helps prevent leaks.
Step 3: Seal and Shape
Gently pull the dough edges up and around the filling, pinching to seal. Turn seam-side down and lightly roll into a crescent or mini roll shape.
Second Rise (Important!)
Place the shaped rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and let rise for 20–30 minutes. This step gives them that soft, bakery-style texture.
Baking the Crescent Rolls
Step 1: Egg Wash
Brush each roll with the egg yolk and milk mixture. This creates the glossy golden finish.
Optional: Brush lightly with melted butter for extra richness.
Step 2: Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 18–22 minutes, or until:
- Golden brown on top
- Puffy and flaky
- Cheese is bubbling inside
Texture and Flavor Experience
- Outside: Crisp, golden, flaky layers
- Inside: Soft, creamy, cheesy
- Flavor: Savory ham balanced with buttery dough
Every bite melts in your mouth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overfilling
Too much cheese will leak out and burn.
Skipping the Second Rise
This step makes the rolls light and airy.
Baking at Too High Temperature
High heat browns the outside before the inside cooks.
Delicious Variations
Chicken & Cheese Rolls
Replace ham with cooked shredded chicken.
Spinach & Cheese
Add sautéed spinach for a vegetarian option.
Pizza Style
Add tomato sauce and pepperoni with mozzarella.
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or jalapeños to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crescent rolls:
- Warm with tea or coffee
- As party appetizers
- With soup or salad
- In kids’ lunchboxes
They pair beautifully with a light garlic sauce or mustard dip.
Storage and Reheating
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Refrigerate for 5 days
- Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture
They also freeze well—just reheat straight from frozen.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Roll)
- Calories: 180–220
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
A satisfying treat that keeps you full.
Final Thoughts
Ham and cheese crescent rolls are one of those timeless recipes that never fail. They’re easy, comforting, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re baking for your family, guests, or just yourself, these rolls deliver bakery-quality results with minimal effort.