Delicious Ham and Cheese Sourdough Croissant Loaf

This ham and cheese sourdough croissant loaf is a rich, savoury bake with crisp golden layers and a soft, buttery centre. It combines flaky croissant dough with the gentle tang of sourdough, melted cheese, and savoury ham. The recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, yet impressive enough for sharing. Total time is around 1 hour 15 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

For the loaf

• 6 large sourdough croissants, day-old if possible
• 200g cooked ham, thinly sliced
• 180g mature Cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

For the custard

• 3 large eggs
• 250ml whole milk
• 100ml double cream
• ½ tsp fine salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the topping

• 30g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 1 tbsp melted butter

How to Make Delicious Ham and Cheese Sourdough Croissant Loaf

• Prepare the oven: Preheat the oven to 190°C or 170°C fan. Lightly butter a 900g loaf tin and line the base with baking parchment.
• Prepare the croissants: Slice each croissant lengthways into three pieces. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the cut sides.
• Layer the loaf: Arrange a layer of croissant pieces in the tin, followed by ham and a scattering of Cheddar. Repeat the layers, finishing with croissants on top.
• Make the custard: In a jug, whisk the eggs, milk, cream, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
• Pour and rest: Slowly pour the custard over the loaf, pressing gently so it seeps between the layers. Leave to stand for 10 minutes.
• Add the topping: Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle over the Parmesan cheese.
• Bake: Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until deeply golden, crisp on top, and set through the centre.
• Cool slightly: Leave the loaf to rest in the tin for 10 minutes, then lift out and slice to serve warm.

Tips

Why is my loaf soggy in the middle?

This usually means it needs a little longer in the oven. Cover loosely with foil and return to bake for 5 to 10 minutes.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the loaf, cover, and chill overnight. Bake fresh the next day for best texture.

Which cheese works best?

Mature Cheddar gives strong flavour, but Gruyère or Emmental also melt beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a crisp green salad
• Pair with tomato soup for a comforting lunch
• Add a fried egg on top for brunch

Storage

Room temperature

Best eaten fresh. Keep covered for up to 6 hours.

Refrigerator

Store slices in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Freezing

Freeze cooled slices for up to 1 month. Defrost overnight and reheat in the oven.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Sodium: 780mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary.

FAQs