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This decadent maple-dijon breakfast croissant sandwich transforms ordinary morning meals into something extraordinary. The combination of buttery croissants, savory breakfast sausage, and the sweet-tangy maple-dijon spread creates a breakfast sandwich that feels indulgent yet comes together quickly enough for special weekend mornings.
I first made these sandwiches when hosting a brunch for my in-laws, and they've become our go-to impressive breakfast. Even my pickiest nephew asks for them whenever he stays over!
Ingredients
- Fresh croissants: Preferably from a local bakery for that authentic buttery flavor and flaky texture
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy mustard
- Dijon mustard: Provides a sophisticated tang that elevates the entire sandwich
- Sharp cheddar cheese: The aged variety melts beautifully while maintaining distinct flavor
- Amylu Breakfast Time Mini Links: These lean protein sausages have hints of maple and apple
- Large eggs: Use pasture-raised for the brightest yellow yolks and best flavor
- Whole milk: Creates the creamiest scrambled eggs with rich mouthfeel
- Olive oil: A light variety works best for cooking without overwhelming other flavors
- Salt and black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper makes a noticeable difference
- Cooked bacon: Thick-cut provides the best texture and flavor contrast
- Fresh chives: Their mild onion flavor brightens the rich sandwich components
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This temperature will create perfectly crisp croissants while melting the cheese to ideal consistency.
- Cook the sausage links:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Amylu Breakfast Time Mini Links and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through with light browning on all sides. Their pre-cooked nature means you're just heating and adding some caramelization.
- Prepare the eggs:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until completely combined with no streaks of white visible. The milk adds richness and creates fluffier eggs. Season with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Fresh-cracked pepper adds noticeable depth.
- Scramble the eggs:
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet used for sausage, reducing heat to medium. Pour in the egg mixture and cook gently, using a spatula to pull the eggs from the edges toward the center as they set. Remove from heat when slightly underdone as they'll continue cooking from residual heat.
- Make the maple-dijon spread:
- In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the honey and Dijon mustard until smooth and fully integrated. This simple combination creates a complex flavor that elevates the entire sandwich beyond ordinary breakfast fare.
- Assemble the base:
- Slice croissants horizontally and spread the maple-dijon mixture generously on the bottom halves. The spread serves as both flavor enhancer and moisture barrier, preventing the croissant from becoming soggy.
- Add eggs and cheese:
- Divide the scrambled eggs evenly among the prepared croissant bottoms, then top each with a slice of sharp cheddar. Place in the preheated oven for 4-5 minutes, just until the cheese begins to melt but isn't completely liquid.
- Complete the sandwiches:
- Remove from oven and layer each sandwich with bacon strips and several mini breakfast sausage links. Sprinkle with fresh chives for color and flavor. Add the croissant tops and return to the oven for 8-10 minutes until the croissants turn golden and crisp with edges beginning to darken.
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The honey-dijon mixture is what truly makes these sandwiches special. I discovered this combination years ago when trying to recreate a sandwich from a café in Paris. My daughter now insists we keep a jar of the mixed spread in the refrigerator at all times for everything from these sandwiches to salad dressings.
Make-Ahead Options
These croissant sandwiches can be fully assembled through the first baking stage, then wrapped individually in foil and refrigerated overnight. In the morning, simply finish the final baking step, adding about 3-4 minutes to the time to ensure everything heats through properly. This makes them perfect for holiday mornings when you want something special but need to minimize kitchen time.
Serving Suggestions
While these sandwiches are hearty enough to stand alone, they pair beautifully with fresh fruit for brightness or a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a truly decadent brunch, serve alongside a spicy Bloody Mary or mimosa. During winter months, a mug of hot chocolate with these sandwiches creates an incredibly comforting meal.
Ingredient Substitutions
If croissants aren't available, brioche buns make an excellent alternative with similar buttery richness. For a lighter option, English muffins work surprisingly well. The Amylu sausage links can be replaced with any breakfast sausage you prefer, though the maple notes in the original recipe complement the honey-dijon spread beautifully. Vegetarians can substitute avocado slices and roasted mushrooms for the meat components without losing the satisfying texture contrast.
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These indulgent breakfast croissant sandwiches are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite of their decadent, well-balanced flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare these breakfast sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components (scrambled eggs, cooked bacon, and sausage links) a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, assemble the sandwiches and bake as directed, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
- → What can I substitute for the breakfast sausage links?
You can substitute with vegetarian sausage, sliced ham, smoked turkey, or even avocado slices for a meat-free option. The sandwich works well with many protein alternatives while maintaining its delicious flavor profile.
- → How do I prevent my croissants from becoming too soggy?
To prevent sogginess, don't assemble the sandwiches until you're ready to bake them. You can also lightly toast the cut sides of the croissants before adding the fillings, creating a barrier that helps maintain their texture.
- → What cheese alternatives work well in these sandwiches?
While sharp cheddar provides excellent flavor, you can substitute with Swiss, Gruyère, pepper jack for some heat, or even brie for a creamier texture. Any good melting cheese will work beautifully.
- → Can I freeze these breakfast sandwiches?
Yes, these sandwiches freeze well. Prepare and bake as directed, then allow to cool completely. Wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, unwrap and microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- → What sides pair well with these croissant sandwiches?
These hearty sandwiches pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, breakfast potatoes, or a cup of yogurt with granola. For brunch, consider serving with mimosas or a Bloody Mary.