Flaky crescent rolls stuffed with savory ham and gooey cheese, finished with a brown butter honey mustard glaze—these Brown Butter Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls are the ultimate quick comfort food. Perfect for game days, gatherings, or a simple weeknight win.

A Simple But Flavor-Packed Appetizer

The secret to making these rolls extraordinary is browning the butter before whisking it with honey and Dijon. That nutty, caramelized flavor adds depth and transforms an already tasty snack into something unforgettable. Best of all? They’re ready in under 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I brown butter without burning it?

Use a light-colored skillet so you can clearly see the butter changing. Stir constantly over medium heat until it turns golden and smells nutty—usually 5 to 7 minutes. Remove it immediately to prevent burning.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes! You can assemble them up to 4 hours in advance. Keep them chilled, and brush with the glaze just before baking for best results.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is a favorite for its bold flavor. Gruyère adds sophistication, while Havarti brings a creamy, mild balance. Any good melting cheese will work here.

Ingredients Needed

• 2 tubes (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls
• 12 slices quality deli ham
• 12 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp local honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp fresh thyme leaves
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• Fresh cracked black pepper

How to Make Brown Butter Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brown butter in a skillet until nutty and golden. Whisk in honey, Dijon, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Unroll crescents and separate into triangles. Place ham and cheese on each triangle.
4. Roll tightly from the wide end and place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush generously with the brown butter glaze.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and bubbly. Cool slightly before serving.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Use all the glaze—it caramelizes beautifully for crisp, flavorful exteriors.
• Let them cool 5 minutes before serving—the cheese inside will be molten.
• Fresh thyme adds an herby lift you won’t want to skip.

Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls Recipe Card

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Servings: 12 rolls

Ingredients

• 2 tubes (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls
• 12 slices deli ham
• 12 slices sharp cheddar (or your favorite melting cheese)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp fresh thyme
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet.
2. Brown butter, then whisk in honey, Dijon, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Lay out crescent dough. Add ham and cheese to each piece.
4. Roll from wide end, arrange on sheet, and brush with glaze.
5. Bake 12–15 minutes until golden. Let rest before serving.

Nutrition (per roll)

Calories: 320 | Protein: 12g | Carbohydrates: 24g | Fat: 18g | Sugar: 6g

Nutrition is estimated; values may vary based on ingredients used.