Ham and Cheese Crescents are a simple, crowd-pleasing snack that come together in minutes and disappear even faster.

Why make this recipe

Ham and Cheese Crescents are perfect when you want something warm, savory, and satisfying without a lot of fuss. The combination of flaky crescent dough, salty-sweet ham, and melty sharp cheddar hits familiar comfort-food notes that work for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snack time. Because the recipe uses store-bought refrigerated crescent rolls, it’s accessible for cooks of any skill level and a reliable go-to for busy weeknights, potlucks, school lunches, or an impromptu appetizer when guests arrive.

This recipe is also flexible: swap fillings, add herbs, or change the cheese to suit your pantry and taste. It’s a small number of ingredients, quick bake time, and minimal cleanup — a triple win for home cooks who want tasty results with little effort.

How to make Ham and Cheese Crescents

Below you’ll find the ingredients and step-by-step directions to make classic Ham and Cheese Crescents. The recipe is straightforward, so you can have a batch in the oven in just a few minutes.

Ingredients :

1 can refrigerated crescent rolls (8 slices)
8 slices Honey Ham
8 slices Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Ingredient notes:

The ingredients above reflect the classic version of this recipe. If you avoid pork, substitute the honey ham with smoked turkey or thinly sliced roasted chicken; both keep a similar texture and pair well with cheddar.
For a vegetarian swap, replace ham with grilled or pan-seared mushrooms, marinated tofu, or thin slices of smoked tempeh.
If you need a lower-sodium option, look for low-sodium deli slices or rinse and pat the ham to reduce surface saltiness.
Use full slices of sharp cheddar for the best melting and flavor. If you prefer, shredded cheddar also works; use about 1 ounce per crescent.

Directions :

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place crescent roll dough triangles on a baking sheet unrolled.
Add 1 slice of ham and 1 slice of cheese to each crescent.
Roll crescents as directed on can (start with wide end of triangle and roll until it forms the crescent shape).
Bake in oven for about 9 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Success Ham and Cheese Crescents

Use room-temperature crescent dough. Letting the dough sit for 5–10 minutes after removing from the fridge makes it easier to unroll and reduces tearing when you roll the fillings inside.
Pat dry any moist fillings. If your ham or alternate filling is wet, blot it with a paper towel to avoid soggy dough.
Don’t overstuff. One slice of ham and one slice of cheese per triangle is ideal; packing too much can cause filling to leak or the dough to not cook through evenly.
Space crescents with breathing room. Place them a couple of inches apart on the baking sheet to ensure even browning and crispness on all sides.
Check early and often the first time you bake. Ovens vary; start checking at 7 minutes so you don’t overbake. Remove when they’re golden and the cheese is just starting to ooze.
For extra gloss, brush the tops with a bit of melted butter after baking, or before baking use an egg wash for a deeper golden color.

Flavor Variations Ham and Cheese Crescents

Ham and Swiss with Dijon: Swap sharp cheddar for Swiss cheese and add a thin swipe of Dijon mustard across the ham. The tangy mustard brightens the rich cheese.
Ham, Apple, and Cheddar: Add a very thin slice of apple for a fresh crunch and sweet-tart contrast. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp both work well.
Pesto and Ham: Spread a teaspoon of basil pesto on the dough before adding ham and cheese. This adds herbal brightness and a nutty depth.
Smoky BBQ Ham and Cheddar: Brush ham lightly with your favorite BBQ sauce and use a smoked cheddar for a sweet-smoky twist.
Veggie and Cheese Option: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms and spinach, and use a milder cheddar or provolone for a vegetarian crescent.

Serving Suggestions Ham and Cheese Crescents

Breakfast plate: Serve two crescents with a side of scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and a dollop of yogurt for a quick, balanced breakfast.
Brunch spread: Arrange on a board with fresh fruit, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a bowl of whole-grain mustard or honey mustard for dipping.
Party appetizer: Cut each crescent in half diagonally for bite-sized finger foods and pair with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or a sweet chile glaze.
Lunchbox idea: Pack with a crisp apple or carrot sticks and a small container of hummus for a portable midday meal.
Comfort dinner: Pair with a simple green salad and a cup of tomato soup for a cozy, low-effort dinner that feels homey.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Ham and Cheese Crescents

Refrigerator storage: Cool any leftover crescents to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container or wrap in aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dough will soften in the fridge but reheats well.
Reheating: To restore crispness, reheat in a 350°F oven for 6–8 minutes, or until warmed through. A toaster oven works well for single servings.
Freezing before baking: Arrange rolled crescents on a baking sheet and flash-freeze until firm, about 30–45 minutes. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, place frozen crescents on a baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the bake time; you can also thaw overnight in the fridge and bake per usual directions.
Freezing after baking: Fully baked crescents can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or until heated and crisp.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Estimated values per crescent (one serving = 1 crescent roll with ham and cheese):

Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fat: 15 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Sodium: 800 mg

Nutrition note:
These numbers are estimates and will vary based on the brand and size of crescent dough, the exact cut and sodium level of the ham, and the type of cheese used. If you use low-sodium deli meat, reduced-fat cheese, or whole-wheat crescent dough (if available), these values will change accordingly. For precise tracking, input your exact brands and weights into a nutrition calculator or app.

FAQ About Ham and Cheese Crescents

Can I make Ham and Cheese Crescents ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the crescents in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. If you need to prepare them a day ahead, assemble them, place on a lined baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge. For longer-term make-ahead, freeze assembled crescents on a sheet pan until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag; bake from frozen adding a few minutes to the bake time.

What is the best cheese to use in these crescents?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice because it melts well and provides a pleasant tang that balances the ham. Swiss, provolone, or Monterey Jack are good alternatives depending on the flavor direction you want. If you prefer a gooey melt, go for cheeses labeled for melting like Muenster or Fontina; for a nuttier finish, use Gruyère or Swiss.

How can I prevent the crescents from leaking cheese during baking?

To reduce leakage, avoid overfilling and ensure the dough seal is tight when you roll. Start rolling from the wide end and tuck the ends under slightly so the cheese stays inside. Using thin slices of cheese rather than thick slices or heaping shredded cheese also helps minimize overflow. Placing crescents on parchment or a silicone mat makes cleanup easier if any filling does escape.

Are these crescents suitable for kids’ lunches?

Definitely. Ham and Cheese Crescents are kid-friendly: they’re hand-held, not messy if sealed properly, and usually appeal to younger palates. Use low-sodium deli meat if you are packing them regularly. Pack with a cooling gel pack to keep the crescent fresh if it’s not eaten right away, or include a small container for reheating if your child has access to a microwave.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, with substitutions. Use a gluten-free crescent-dough alternative if you can find one or use gluten-free puff pastry sheets cut into triangles. Check all other ingredients to confirm they’re gluten-free, including deli meat and cheese. Baking time may vary for gluten-free doughs, so keep an eye on them as they bake.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers to keep them flaky?

The oven or toaster oven gives the best texture. Preheat to 350°F and warm for 6–8 minutes, or until heated through and the outside is crisp. Microwaving is faster but will make the dough soft rather than flaky. For a halfway approach, microwave briefly to warm, then pop into a hot oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.

My crescent dough is very thin. Can I still use it?

Yes — use thin dough, but be mindful of tearing. Work gently when unrolling and place fillings closer to the center. If the dough is exceptionally delicate, consider placing a piece of parchment under each triangle as you assemble to help lift and roll. Slightly overlapping or folding the wide end over after rolling can help secure very thin dough.

Is there a vegetarian version that still tastes satisfying?

Absolutely. Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or marinated tofu slices. Adding a smear of mustard or a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or oregano can give vegetarian versions the same depth of flavor you get from meat. Pair with a melting cheese like provolone or fontina for a rich, satisfying bite.

Final Thoughts

Ham and Cheese Crescents are a timeless quick-bake that fit many occasions. Their simplicity makes them accessible for beginner cooks, and their flavor invites endless customization for more adventurous home cooks. Whether you’re pulling together a quick snack, prepping a batch for a party, or packing lunches for busy days, these crescents are reliable, adaptable, and delicious.

Conclusion

If you want a reference version of this classic crescent roll recipe for ideas and variations, check the helpful recipe page for additional tips and pictures at Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls – The Country Cook.

Ham and Cheese Crescents

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Total Time: 19 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Gluten Free Option Available

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Description

A quick and easy snack made with flaky crescent rolls, honey ham, and sharp cheddar cheese.

Ingredients

1 can refrigerated crescent rolls (8 slices)
8 slices Honey Ham
8 slices Sharp Cheddar Cheese

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place crescent roll dough triangles on a baking sheet unrolled.
Add 1 slice of ham and 1 slice of cheese to each crescent.
Roll crescents as directed on can (start with wide end of triangle and roll until it forms the crescent shape).
Bake in oven for about 9 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Use room-temperature crescent dough and avoid overstuffing to prevent leakage during baking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American