Melting Croque Cubes: A Bite-Sized Comfort Food Delight

Discover these irresistible mini sandwiches that combine crispy bread, melted cheese, and ham in a perfect bite-sized treat that’s both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients

For the Croque Cubes

  • 8 slices white bread (crusts removed optional)
  • 4 slices white ham
  • 8 cheese slices (emmental, comté, or similar)
  • 100 ml heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • 20 g melted butter
  • Salt and pepper
  • Optional: Grated cheese or chopped parsley for garnish

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare Ingredients

  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
  • Cut bread into squares
  • Layer ham and cheese between bread squares
  • Create mini sandwiches

2. Make Cream Sauce

  • Mix in a bowl:
    • Heavy cream
    • Mustard
    • Salt and pepper

3. Assemble

  • Brush cubes with melted butter
  • Spread cream mixture on top
  • Optional: Sprinkle grated cheese

4. Bake

  • Bake 10-12 minutes
  • Until golden and cheese melts

Nutritional Information

Per Serving

  • Calories: 280-320
  • Protein: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g

Cooking Details

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Expert Cooking Tips

  • Watch carefully to prevent burning
  • Use high-quality cheese
  • Remove bread crusts for neat appearance

Variations and Substitutions

  • Add tomato slices
  • Use different meats
  • Incorporate mushrooms
  • Vegetarian option with grilled vegetables

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I prepare ahead? Best served fresh and hot.

Q2: What cheese works best? Emmental, comté, gruyère recommended.

Q3: How to keep crispy? Serve immediately after baking.

Q4: Can I make these mini? Yes, use smaller bread pieces.

Q5: Gluten-free option? Use gluten-free bread.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Not ideal for long storage
  • Best enjoyed immediately
  • Can be assembled and baked just before serving

A delightful, miniature twist on the classic croque monsieur!