Smoked Turkey & Cheese Croissants – Buttery, Melty & Easy Brunch Treat
There’s something about the smell of buttery croissants baking in the oven that instantly makes a home feel warm and welcoming. These Smoked Turkey & Cheese Croissants bring together the best of comfort and elegance — flaky golden pastry wrapped around savory smoked turkey and gooey melted cheese. They’re the kind of brunch treat that feels indulgent but couldn’t be easier to make. Whether it’s a cozy weekend morning, a quick lunch, or an afternoon snack, these croissants deliver bakery-level flavor with simple, familiar ingredients.
Why You’ll Love It
They’re golden, buttery, and irresistibly melty inside.
They take just minutes to assemble and bake — no special skills required.
Perfect for brunch, lunch, or even breakfast on the go.
Family-friendly and freezer-friendly too.
A wonderful way to use up leftover holiday turkey.
Completely customizable with different cheeses, herbs, or spreads.
Time Needed
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 croissants
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry or 6 refrigerated croissant dough triangles
6 slices smoked turkey
6 slices cheddar, Swiss, or provolone cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for flavor)
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon water
1 teaspoon sesame or poppy seeds (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If using puff pastry, cut the sheet into six equal triangles. Spread a little Dijon mustard on each piece for a subtle tang.
- Place a slice of smoked turkey and a slice of cheese at the wide end of each triangle.
- Roll the pastry toward the tip, gently tucking in the sides to seal.
- Arrange croissants on the baking sheet with the tip underneath so they don’t unravel.
- Whisk the egg and water together, then brush lightly over each croissant for a golden finish.
- Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until puffed and deep golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm when the cheese is perfectly melty.
Variations to Try
Mediterranean Twist – Add a few spinach leaves and a spoon of sun-dried tomato pesto before rolling.
Cheddar & Chive – Mix chopped chives into shredded cheddar for a savory, aromatic touch.
Turkey Club Style – Add a thin tomato slice and a bit of mayonnaise for a layered sandwich flavor.
Spicy Kick – Use pepper jack cheese and a touch of chipotle mayo inside.
Tips from Chef Emma
Use cold puff pastry so it bakes up flaky and crisp.
Don’t overfill the croissants — a little goes a long way once the cheese melts.
If you like extra golden tops, brush with egg wash twice: once before baking and once halfway through.
They freeze beautifully. Just bake, cool, wrap, and reheat in the oven for 5–7 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Info per Serving
Serving Size: 1 croissant
Calories: 310
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugars: 2g
Fat: 18g
Protein: 16g
Sodium: 410mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the croissants, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate up to 12 hours before baking.
Can I use leftover roast turkey instead of smoked?
Absolutely. Leftover roast turkey or even rotisserie chicken works beautifully.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar gives a sharp flavor, Swiss melts beautifully, and provolone is mild and creamy — any of these are perfect choices.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
These Smoked Turkey & Cheese Croissants are the kind of comfort food that makes ordinary mornings feel special. Buttery, flaky, and filled with savory warmth, they’re a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether served with coffee at brunch or alongside a simple salad for lunch, they bring just the right touch of cozy indulgence to any moment. Save this recipe to your brunch or comfort food board so it’s ready the next time you’re craving something warm, melty, and truly satisfying.
Print
Smoked Turkey & Cheese Croissants
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 croissants 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Buttery, flaky croissants filled with savory smoked turkey and gooey melted cheese, perfect for brunch or a quick snack.
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry or 6 refrigerated croissant dough triangles
- 6 slices smoked turkey
- 6 slices cheddar, Swiss, or provolone cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon water
- 1 teaspoon sesame or poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- If using puff pastry, cut the sheet into six equal triangles. Spread a little Dijon mustard on each piece.
- Place a slice of smoked turkey and a slice of cheese at the wide end of each triangle.
- Roll the pastry toward the tip, tucking in the sides to seal.
- Arrange croissants on the baking sheet with the tip underneath.
- Whisk the egg and water together, then brush over each croissant.
- Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Use cold puff pastry for the best flaky texture. Don’t overfill the croissants. They freeze beautifully; just bake, cool, and reheat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 croissant
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: croissants, turkey, cheese, brunch, easy recipe, comfort food