Easter Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups

Every Easter brunch at our house is a bustling affair, filled with laughter, colorful decorations, and of course, a table groaning under the weight of delicious food. While we love the traditional Easter ham and all the classic sides, there’s always room for something a little extra special, something that’s both incredibly easy to make and utterly devoured by everyone from the youngest niece to the most discerning uncle. This year, that star of the show was undoubtedly the Easter Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups. Honestly, they were gone in minutes! The flaky, buttery crescent rolls, enveloping savory ham and melted cheese, were an absolute hit. What I loved most, besides the minimal effort involved, was seeing everyone – kids and adults alike – reaching for seconds, and even thirds! They’re the perfect balance of savory and comforting, making them an ideal addition to any Easter celebration, or really, any gathering where you need a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s guaranteed to be a home run, look no further. These Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups are your answer. They are simple enough for a beginner cook, yet delicious enough to impress even the most seasoned foodies in your family. Get ready to experience the joy of effortless cooking and the satisfaction of empty plates – because these little bites of heaven are truly irresistible. Let’s dive into how you can make these delightful treats yourself!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Easter Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups. We’ve kept the ingredient list simple and straightforward, focusing on quality components that deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: (2 cans, 8 ounces each) – The foundation of our roll-ups, these pre-made crescent rolls provide that signature flaky and buttery texture that everyone loves. Look for the seamless dough sheets for even easier rolling and a more uniform final product, though the regular triangle-cut crescent rolls work just as well and are more readily available. Using refrigerated dough cuts down on prep time significantly, making this recipe a breeze.
Deli Ham: (8 ounces, thinly sliced) – Choose your favorite type of deli ham! Honey ham, Black Forest ham, or smoked ham all work beautifully. Thinly sliced ham is key for easy rolling and ensures that the ham cooks perfectly inside the crescent roll without overpowering the other flavors. Consider asking your deli counter for “shaved” ham for an even more delicate texture.
Cheese: (4 ounces, shredded) – Cheddar cheese is a classic choice and pairs wonderfully with ham, offering a sharp and tangy flavor. However, feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack, provolone, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses would all be delicious. Pre-shredded cheese saves time, but freshly grated cheese often melts more smoothly and has a richer flavor due to the absence of anti-caking agents.
Dijon Mustard: (2 tablespoons) – Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor that complements the ham and cheese perfectly. Its slightly sharp and complex taste elevates the simple ingredients. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute with yellow mustard, but Dijon truly provides the best flavor profile here.
Egg: (1 large, beaten) – An egg wash is used to brush the tops of the crescent roll-ups before baking. This creates a beautiful golden-brown color and adds a slight sheen to the finished product. It also helps to seal the edges of the roll-ups and gives them a slightly crispier texture.
Optional: Everything Bagel Seasoning: (1-2 teaspoons) – For an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the egg-washed roll-ups before baking. The combination of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion adds a savory, slightly crunchy topping that’s incredibly addictive. This is completely optional, but highly recommended for a gourmet touch.
Optional: Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Chives): (1 tablespoon, chopped) – Freshly chopped parsley or chives can be sprinkled over the finished roll-ups for a pop of color and freshness. These herbs add a subtle herbaceous note that brightens up the savory flavors and makes the presentation even more appealing.

Instructions

Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to create perfect Easter Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups every time. This recipe is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow, even for novice bakers.

Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, while a silicone mat provides even heat distribution and is reusable. Having your oven preheated and baking sheet ready ensures a smooth and efficient baking process.
Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough: Gently unroll the crescent roll dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface. If using seamless dough sheets, lightly press the perforations together to create a solid sheet. If using pre-cut triangles, you can either leave them as triangles or gently press the seams to form rectangles, depending on your preference and how you want to roll them up. Rectangles generally make for easier and neater roll-ups.
Spread Mustard: Evenly spread Dijon mustard over the surface of the crescent roll dough. Use a small spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure an even layer. Don’t overdo it with the mustard; a thin layer is all you need to impart flavor without making the dough soggy. The mustard acts as a flavorful base for the ham and cheese.
Layer Ham and Cheese: Arrange the thinly sliced deli ham evenly over the mustard-covered dough. Make sure to cover as much of the surface as possible, leaving a little space at the very edges for easier rolling. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the ham. Distribute the cheese uniformly to ensure that each roll-up gets a good amount of cheesy goodness.
Roll Up the Crescent Roll-Ups: Starting from one long edge of the dough, carefully roll it up tightly, jelly-roll style. Pinch the seam to seal it closed. If you’re using pre-cut triangles, start rolling from the wide base of each triangle towards the tip. Ensure a tight roll to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking and to create a neat, compact roll-up.
Slice into Roll-Ups: Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough log into approximately 1-inch thick roll-ups. You should get about 12-16 roll-ups from two cans of dough, depending on the thickness of your slices. Slicing them evenly ensures consistent baking and serving sizes.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the sliced roll-ups onto the prepared baking sheet, cut-side up. Space them out slightly to allow for even baking and browning. They don’t need to be too far apart, but avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat one large egg. Brush the tops of each roll-up with the beaten egg wash. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly crispy top. Ensure you brush evenly for a uniform finish.
Sprinkle with Everything Bagel Seasoning (Optional): If using, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the egg-washed roll-ups. Apply a generous but even sprinkling for maximum flavor and visual appeal. Press the seasoning lightly into the egg wash to help it adhere during baking.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Cool Slightly and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the roll-ups cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. This allows them to firm up a bit and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm for the best cheesy, melty experience. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Nutrition Facts

These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. They are based on a serving size of 2 roll-ups.

Serving Size: 2 roll-ups
Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 kcal
Fat: 15-20g

Note: These values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, refer to the nutritional labels of the specific ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

This recipe is incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes – This includes gathering your ingredients, unrolling the dough, spreading mustard, layering ham and cheese, rolling up, and slicing. The pre-made crescent roll dough significantly cuts down on preparation time.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes – Baking in the oven until golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly. The relatively short baking time ensures that these roll-ups are ready in under half an hour from start to finish.
Total Time: Approximately 27-30 minutes – From start to finish, you can have these delicious Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups ready to serve in about half an hour. This makes them an ideal choice for a quick appetizer, snack, or brunch dish.

How to Serve

These Easter Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways for different occasions.

Brunch Centerpiece: Arrange them beautifully on a platter as part of your Easter brunch spread. Surround them with fresh fruit, deviled eggs, and other brunch favorites for a stunning and satisfying meal.
Appetizer for Gatherings: Serve them warm as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. They are easy to eat with your hands and always disappear quickly.
Kid-Friendly Snack: Kids absolutely love these roll-ups! They make a perfect after-school snack, lunchbox addition, or fun finger food for children’s parties. Their simple flavors and fun shape appeal to even picky eaters.
Game Day Treat: These savory bites are ideal for game day gatherings. Serve them alongside other game day snacks like wings, nachos, and dips for a winning spread.
Serve with Dipping Sauces: Enhance the flavor experience by offering a variety of dipping sauces. Consider:
- Honey Mustard: Complements the ham and Dijon mustard beautifully.
- Ranch Dressing: A classic and creamy dipping sauce that’s always a hit.
- Marinara Sauce: Adds a tangy and Italian-inspired twist.
- Spicy Mayo: For those who like a little heat, spicy mayonnaise provides a creamy and zesty kick.
- Cheese Sauce: Take the cheesiness to the next level with a warm cheese sauce for dipping.
Garnish for Elegance: For a more refined presentation, garnish the serving platter with:
- Fresh Parsley or Chives: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Adds visual appeal and a fresh, juicy element.
Serve Warm or at Room Temperature: While best served warm for that melty cheese experience, these roll-ups are also delicious at room temperature. This makes them convenient for picnics or potlucks where reheating might not be an option.

Additional Tips

Elevate your Easter Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups to the next level with these helpful tips and variations.

Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor profile. Try using:
- Provolone: For a mild and slightly nutty flavor.
- Monterey Jack: For a creamy and melty texture.
- Pepper Jack: For a spicy kick.
- Swiss Cheese: For a classic deli-style flavor.
- Smoked Gouda: For a rich and smoky depth.
  You can also use a blend of your favorite cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Ham Upgrades: Explore different types of ham to enhance the savory element:
- Black Forest Ham: Offers a bolder, smoky flavor.
- Prosciutto: Adds a salty and delicate Italian touch. Use thinly sliced prosciutto and consider layering it with a milder ham for a balanced flavor.
- Smoked Turkey: For a lighter and leaner option.
- Leftover Easter Ham: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover Easter ham! Dice or shred the ham into small pieces before layering.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Sneak in some extra veggies for added nutrition and flavor:
- Sautéed Onions and Peppers: Adds sweetness and a savory depth. Sauté diced onions and bell peppers until softened before layering them into the roll-ups.
- Spinach: Fresh or frozen (thawed and squeezed dry) spinach adds a healthy boost and subtle flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped, add a chewy texture and intense flavor.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms, like cremini or button mushrooms, add an earthy and umami-rich element.
Spice it Up: Add a touch of spice for those who like a little heat:
- Jalapeños: Finely diced fresh or pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick. Remove seeds and membranes for less heat.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the cheese before rolling up.
- Spicy Mustard: Use a spicy Dijon or hot mustard instead of regular Dijon.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs into the filling for a more aromatic and flavorful roll-up:
- Chopped Rosemary: Adds a piney and earthy aroma, pairs well with ham.
- Fresh Thyme: Offers a subtle and earthy flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary, for a classic Italian flavor profile. Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the mustard before adding ham and cheese.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the roll-ups ahead of time to save time on the day of serving:
- Assemble Ahead: Assemble the roll-ups completely, up to the point of baking. Place them on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
- Freeze for Later: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked roll-ups. Place sliced roll-ups on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown, adding extra baking time as needed.
Crispier Crust: For an extra crispy crust, try these techniques:
- Brush with Butter: Instead of egg wash, brush the roll-ups with melted butter before baking. Butter adds richness and promotes browning and crispness.
- Cornmeal Coating: Lightly sprinkle the baking sheet with cornmeal before placing the roll-ups on it. This adds a subtle crunch to the bottom crust.
- Bake at a Slightly Higher Temperature: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last few minutes of baking to encourage extra browning and crisping, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
Creative Toppings: Beyond everything bagel seasoning, explore other toppings to add flavor and visual appeal:
- Sesame Seeds: White or black sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and delicate crunch.
- Poppy Seeds: Offer a slightly nutty and earthy flavor.
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and savory cheesy crust.
- Dried Onion Flakes: For a savory and slightly sweet onion flavor.
- Coarse Salt: A sprinkle of coarse salt, like sea salt or kosher salt, enhances the savory flavors.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Easter Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups to help you achieve perfect results every time.

Q1: Can I use different types of crescent roll dough?
A: Yes, absolutely! You can use regular crescent roll dough, seamless crescent dough sheets, or even puff pastry dough for a richer, flakier roll-up. Seamless dough sheets are often easiest to work with for uniform roll-ups.

Q2: What’s the best way to prevent the filling from leaking out?
A: Ensure you roll the dough tightly and pinch the seam firmly to seal it closed. Don’t overfill the roll-ups with ham and cheese. Slicing the roll-ups into even thicknesses also helps prevent filling from spilling out during baking.

Q3: Can I make these roll-ups vegetarian?
A: Certainly! Simply omit the ham and add more cheese or substitute with vegetarian alternatives like roasted vegetables (peppers, zucchini, mushrooms), spinach and artichoke dip, or plant-based deli slices.

Q4: How do I store leftover Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups?
A: Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven, microwave, or air fryer until warmed through. They are best reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispy texture.

Q5: Can I freeze baked Ham and Cheese Crescent Roll-Ups?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked roll-ups. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Q6: My crescent rolls are browning too quickly. What should I do?
A: If your crescent rolls are browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (15°C) or tent the baking sheet loosely with aluminum foil to shield the tops from direct heat.

Q7: Can I use yellow mustard instead of Dijon mustard?
A: Yes, you can substitute yellow mustard, but Dijon mustard provides a more complex and tangy flavor that complements the ham and cheese better. If using yellow mustard, you might want to add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor depth.

Q8: What dipping sauces go well with these roll-ups?
A: Honey mustard, ranch dressing, marinara sauce, spicy mayo, and cheese sauce are all excellent dipping options. Choose your favorite or offer a variety to suit different tastes. You can also experiment with other sauces like BBQ sauce, sriracha mayo, or aioli.