Savory Ham, Cranberry and Camembert French Toasts Delight

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

When the last of the holiday festivities fade and leftovers linger in the fridge, I find myself dreaming up delicious new ways to enjoy them. One magical morning, I transformed remnants of Christmas ham, a jar of cranberry jelly, and creamy camembert into something utterly delightful: Ham, Cranberry, and Camembert French Toasts.

As the savory aroma fills the kitchen, the sizzle of golden-brown toasts cooking in the pan beckons everyone to the table. This recipe is a celebration of flavors, artfully balancing the richness of cheese with the sweet tang of cranberry, creating a brunch dish that s as elegant as it is comforting. Whether it s a leisurely weekend breakfast or a special Boxing Day treat, these French toasts promise to elevate your home-cooked experience and delight your family and friends. Let s dive into this simple yet gourmet delight that will soon become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!

Why love Ham, Cranberry and Camembert French Toasts?

Indulgent and savory: This dish transforms everyday leftovers into gourmet bites.
Quick preparation: Whip up a breakfast masterpiece in just 30 minutes!
Flavor harmony: The sweetness of cranberry jelly perfectly complements the creaminess of camembert.
Versatile: Ideal for brunch, a festive gathering, or using up holiday ham.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for sharing with family and friends; everyone will ask for seconds!
Dive into this recipe and experience a delightful twist on traditional French toast!

Ingredients for Ham, Cranberry and Camembert French Toasts

For the Egg Mixture
Eggs Essential for binding and moisture; medium-sized eggs work best.
Milk Adds creaminess; swap with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Parmesan Cheese Enhances flavor and creates a crispy crust; Grana Padano is a suitable alternative.
Salt and Pepper Key seasonings; adjust according to taste.

For the Toasts
Sourdough Bread Strong enough to hold the filling; gluten-free bread can be a great substitute.
Cranberry Jelly Provides a sweet-tart contrast; feel free to use homemade or store-bought options.
Ham Adds a savory punch; leftover Christmas ham is perfect for this dish.
Camembert Cheese Rich and creamy; brie is an excellent substitute if needed.
Seeded Mustard Infuses a zesty note; Dijon mustard can be used for a different flavor profile.
Butter Greases the pan and adds flavor; olive oil can work if you re looking for a lighter option.

How to Make Ham, Cranberry, and Camembert French Toasts

1. Preheat your oven to 120 °C (fan forced) to keep the toasts warm after cooking. This step ensures you serve them at just the right temperature for that cozy experience.
2. Whisk together eggs, milk, parmesan, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. This egg mixture creates a delightful custard-like base for the French toasts.
3. Spread cranberry jelly on one side of half the sourdough bread slices. Layer with slices of ham and camembert for a luscious filling.
4. Top with the remaining bread slices by spreading seeded mustard on one side. Press these together to create delicious sandwiches.
5. Grease a non-stick frying pan with butter and melt it over medium heat. It s important to warm the pan to ensure even cooking without burning.
6. Dip two sandwiches in the egg mixture for about 15 seconds on each side. This allows the bread to soak up just the right amount of the mixture without becoming too soggy.
7. Cook the sandwiches in the pan for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. The visuals will make your mouth water!
8. Transfer the cooked toasts to an oven tray to keep warm while you repeat with the remaining sandwiches. This step prevents any toasts from cooling down too quickly.
9. Slice the toast in half and serve with extra mustard and cornichons on the side for that perfect finishing touch!

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Ham, Cranberry and Camembert French Toasts

Customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

• Vegetarian: Swap ham for sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies for a hearty and satisfying option.
• Non-Dairy: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk for a creamy dairy-free version.
• Cheese Change: Try goat cheese or smoked cheddar instead of camembert for a completely different flavor profile.
• Sweeten Up: Drizzle with maple syrup or agave nectar to enhance the sweetness alongside the cranberry jelly.
• Texture Twist: Add a crunchy topping of panko breadcrumbs mixed with herbs before cooking for a deliciously crispy finish.
• Herbed Delight: Infuse the egg mixture with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
• Extra Greens: Incorporate spinach or arugula into the filling for added nutrition and a pop of color.
• Spicy Option: Spread a spicy mustard or add pepper flakes for a zing that takes these toasts to another level.

Feel free to mix and match these substitutions to create your perfect French toast!

Make Ahead Options

These Ham, Cranberry, and Camembert French Toasts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance; simply spread the cranberry jelly and layer with ham and camembert, then cover tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The egg mixture can also be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to cook, dip the chilled sandwiches in the egg mixture for 15 seconds and follow the recipe instructions for frying. This way, you ll have a gourmet breakfast ready in no time, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Ham, Cranberry and Camembert French Toasts

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if left uncovered, consume within 1-2 hours to maintain quality and safety.

Fridge: Store leftover French toasts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for optimal crispiness.

Freezer: Freeze French toasts separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat directly in a pan or toaster for best results.

Reheating: For a quick reheat, simply warm in a skillet or toaster oven until heated through and golden. Enjoy your Ham, Cranberry, and Camembert French toasts like they were freshly made!

Tips for the Best Ham, Cranberry and Camembert French Toasts

• Sturdy Bread Choice: Use day-old sourdough for more resilience; fresh bread may get too soggy and fall apart when dipped.
• Perfect Egg Soak: Don t dunk the bread for too long around 15 seconds is perfect to ensure it s moist but not overly soaked.
• Consistent Heat: Maintain medium heat on your pan. Too high, and you ll char the outside; too low, and the inside won t cook through.
• Balance the Sweetness: Adjust cranberry jelly quantity based on preference. Too much can overwhelm, so start with a thin layer for a balanced flavor.
• Cook in Batches: If making several servings, keep cooked French toasts in the preheated oven while you finish cooking the rest to keep them warm.

What to Serve with Ham, Cranberry, and Camembert French Toasts?

To create a balanced and memorable meal, consider these delightful pairings that perfectly complement the richness of your French toasts.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits brightens the palate and adds a sweet counterpoint to the savory flavors.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light, zesty salad dressed with a vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast and keeps the meal feeling light and bright.
• Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese and sweet cranberry, creating a savory indulgence that s hard to resist.
• Herb-Infused Yoghurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt enhanced with fresh herbs provides a tangy, creamy element that enhances the overall dish.
• Roasted Garlic Potatoes: These buttery potatoes add a satisfying texture and hold up well against the richness of the toasts, making them a comforting side option.
• Sparkling Apple Cider: This bubbly, non-alcoholic drink brings a festive touch to your meal, echoing the sweetness of the cranberry jelly in your toasts.
• Chocolate Croissants: For a decadent ending, serve warm chocolate croissants alongside your French toasts, offering a sweet twist that even the most discerning will love.
• Coffee or Espresso: The strong, bold flavors of a good brew contrast beautifully with the dish, rounding out your brunch experience with warmth.

Ham, Cranberry and Camembert French Toasts Recipe FAQs

What type of bread should I use for the Ham, Cranberry and Camembert French Toasts?
Sourdough bread is ideal for this recipe due to its sturdy texture, which holds up well when soaked in the egg mixture. If you prefer, gluten-free bread is a great alternative for those avoiding gluten.

How can I store leftover Ham, Cranberry and Camembert French Toasts?
After enjoying your toasts, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to bring back that delicious crispy texture.

Can I freeze these French toasts?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the French toasts separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet or toaster for that fresh-out-of-the-pan taste.

What should I do if my French toasts are too soggy?
If you find your toasts are soggy, there are a couple of things to check. Ensure you re using day-old bread, which absorbs the egg mixture better without falling apart. Also, avoid soaking the bread for too long; around 15 seconds on each side is perfect.

Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Yes! If you have allergies or dietary preferences, you can swap the ham for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a tasty vegetarian option. Additionally, use dairy-free milk alternatives and gluten-free bread if required.

What are the signs that my ingredients are fresh and ready to use?
For eggs, look for smooth, uncracked shells and a sell-by date within a week. Milk should be free of any sour smell and within its expiration date. Sourdough bread should be fresh with no mold, while cranberry jelly should be vibrant in color and not past its expiration.