Are you looking for a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? These ham and cheese crescent rolls are the answer! Perfect for any occasion, these rolls are filled with layers of savory Black Forest ham and Swiss cheese, all wrapped in flaky crescent dough and baked to golden perfection. Topped with a buttery poppy seed glaze, they’re sure to disappear fast at your next gathering.
Ingredients :
- 1 tube crescent dough sheet
- 20-22 slices Black Forest Ham, thinly sliced
- 12 slices Swiss cheese, thinly sliced
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 Tbsp. poppy seeds
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
Directions :
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent dough sheet onto a clean surface, making sure the longest side is at the bottom to form a rectangle. Pinch any seams closed and gently press the dough to make it slightly thinner, about 10 x 13 inches.
- Layering: Evenly layer 6 slices of Swiss cheese on the dough, leaving a 1/4 inch margin at the edges. Arrange the Black Forest ham slices on top of the cheese, overlapping if needed. Place the remaining Swiss cheese slices over the ham.
- Rolling Up: Starting with the longest side, tightly roll up the dough to enclose the filling. Pinch the ends and seams to seal.
- Cutting and Arranging: Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 18 equal pieces. Arrange these roll-ups in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Bake: Pour the butter mixture evenly over the roll-ups in the baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted to perfection.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These ham and cheese crescent rolls are best enjoyed warm, making them a delightful treat for any time of day.
Serving and Storage Tips :
Once you’ve baked these delectable ham and cheese crescent rolls to golden perfection, here are some helpful tips for serving and storing them:
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these rolls warm for the best flavor and texture. They are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a brunch spread.
- Pair them with a side of mustard or a dipping sauce of your choice for added flavor.
- Storage Instructions:
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- These rolls can be reheated in the oven to maintain their crispiness. Place them on a baking sheet and warm them at 350ºF (175ºC) for a few minutes until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can microwave them briefly, but be aware that this method may result in a slightly softer texture.
- Freezing Tips:
- You can freeze unbaked rolls for later use. After assembling them, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
- When ready to bake, thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight. Then, proceed with baking as per the recipe instructions.
- Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat frozen baked rolls, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Then, warm them in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) until heated through.
- For frozen unbaked rolls, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Enjoying Leftovers:
- Leftover rolls can make a quick and satisfying meal or snack. They are great for lunches or on-the-go meals when warmed up and paired with a fresh salad or soup.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your ham and cheese crescent rolls remain delicious and enjoyable, whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated later. Happy baking and bon appétit!
Variations :
Looking to add a twist to your classic ham and cheese crescent rolls? Here are some creative variations to try:
- Bacon Lover’s Delight:
- Substitute the Black Forest ham with crispy cooked bacon strips for a smoky and savory flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese along with the Swiss cheese for an extra cheesy kick.
- Spinach and Feta Roll-Ups:
- Instead of ham, layer the crescent dough with fresh spinach leaves and crumbled feta cheese. Add a dash of garlic powder or Italian seasoning for added zest.
- Turkey and Cheddar Rolls:
- Replace the ham with thinly sliced deli turkey and use cheddar cheese slices instead of Swiss. Brush the tops of the rolls with honey mustard before baking for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Mushroom and Gruyère Rolls:
- Sauté sliced mushrooms until tender and layer them over the Swiss cheese before rolling up the crescent dough. Use Gruyère cheese instead of Swiss for a rich and nutty flavor.
- Jalapeño Popper Rolls:
- Mix softened cream cheese with diced pickled jalapeños and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Spread this mixture over the crescent dough before layering with ham slices. Top with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits for an indulgent treat.
- Italian-Inspired Rolls:
- Layer the crescent dough with slices of pepperoni, provolone cheese, and a smear of marinara sauce. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese before rolling up.
- Vegetarian Option – Mediterranean Rolls:
- Spread a layer of hummus on the crescent dough and top with roasted red bell peppers, artichoke hearts, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and sprinkle with oregano before rolling.
- Sweet and Savory Combo – Apple and Brie Rolls:
- Thinly slice apples and layer them with slices of brie cheese on the crescent dough. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey before rolling up. Serve with a side of honey mustard dipping sauce.
These variations offer a range of flavors and ingredients to suit different tastes and occasions. Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your own unique spin on these delicious ham and cheese crescent rolls. Whether served as appetizers, snacks, or part of a meal, these variations are sure to impress!
FAQs :
- Can I use different types of cheese in the rolls?
- Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, or even pepper jack for varying flavors.
- Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. This is especially convenient for parties or gatherings.
- How do I prevent the rolls from becoming soggy?
- Ensure the dough is tightly rolled and sealed to prevent any fillings from leaking out during baking. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking dish so that the rolls bake evenly.
- Can I freeze the baked rolls?
- Yes, you can freeze baked rolls in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven until warmed through for best results.
- What can I serve with ham and cheese crescent rolls?
- These rolls pair well with a variety of sides such as a green salad, soup, fresh fruit, or even a side of roasted vegetables.
- Can I use homemade crescent dough instead of store-bought?
- Yes, you can use homemade crescent dough if preferred. Roll it out to a similar thickness as store-bought dough for consistent results.
- How long do leftovers stay fresh?
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
- Yes, you can use gluten-free crescent dough and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
- What should I do if I don’t have poppy seeds for the glaze?
- You can omit the poppy seeds or substitute them with sesame seeds or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- How can I adjust the recipe for a larger crowd?
- Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or prepare the rolls in batches to accommodate more guests.
These frequently asked questions provide additional guidance and tips to help you successfully prepare and enjoy your ham and cheese crescent rolls.
With just a few simple steps, you can create these irresistible ham and cheese crescent rolls that are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, a party, or simply craving a savory snack, these rolls are guaranteed to satisfy. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake up some deliciousness!