20 Festive Christmas Breakfast Recipes to Start Your Holiday Season Deliciously Easy
The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious and festive Christmas breakfast? Whether you’re hosting family and friends or enjoying a quiet morning at home, these 20 mouthwatering recipes are sure to start your day off right. From sweet treats like Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree and Peppermint Hot Chocolate Pancakes, to savory options like Sausage and Cheese Breakfast Strata and Egg and Cheese Breakfast Quesadillas, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll explore each of these tasty recipes in detail, including ingredients, instructions, and tips for making them extra special. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy by the tree, and let’s get started on planning the most wonderful Christmas breakfast ever!
Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree
Get ready to add a sweet touch to your holiday decor with this show-stopping Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree. This impressive dessert is surprisingly easy to make and is sure to be the star of any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (12-15 rolls)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– White or cream-colored frosting for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the cinnamon roll dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut out triangular shapes, about 2-3 inches wide at the base and tapering to a point.
4. Place the triangles on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each tree.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely before decorating with white or cream-colored frosting.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Eggnog French Toast
Start your day with a warm and cozy twist on classic French toast, infused with the rich flavors of eggnog. This recipe is perfect for the holiday season, or anytime you want to treat yourself.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or brioche work well)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup or honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, eggnog, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Repeat with remaining bread slices.
6. Serve warm French toast drizzled with maple syrup or honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Pancakes
Warm up with a stack of fluffy pancakes infused with the invigorating flavors of peppermint and hot chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 tablespoon hot chocolate mix
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, melted butter, peppermint extract, and hot chocolate mix.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
Cranberry Orange Scones
Brighten up your morning with these sweet and tangy scones infused with the flavors of cranberries and orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and orange zest. Pour into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in cranberries.
6. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and pat into a 1-inch thick circle.
7. Cut into wedges and place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Gingerbread Waffles
Start your holiday season off right with these warm and spicy gingerbread waffles, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch. With the aroma of fresh ginger and the sweetness of molasses, these treats are sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Molasses, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 3-5 minutes per waffle
Christmas Morning Casserole
Christmas Morning Casserole: A Warm and Welcoming Start to Your Holiday Celebrations
This festive casserole is a delightful twist on traditional breakfast dishes, combining the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweetness of brown sugar. Perfect for Christmas morning or any special occasion, this recipe serves 8-10 people.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 6 slices of white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and beaten egg. Pour the mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the bread cubes. Pour the casserole mixture evenly over the bread.
- Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. If using walnuts, sprinkle on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Snowman-Shaped Donuts
Bring winter wonderland magic to your table with these adorable Snowman-Shaped Donuts! Perfect for a festive holiday party or as a sweet treat for the kids.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
• White and black frosting or gel for snowman details (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, milk, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add melted butter and mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into a piping bag fitted with a round tip.
5. Pipe donut shapes onto parchment paper or a silicone mat.
6. Fry donuts for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
8. If desired, decorate with white and black frosting or gel to create snowman details.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (frying) + 30 seconds per donut (cooling)
Pumpkin Spice Crepes
These tender crepes filled with the warmth of pumpkin spice and a hint of sweetness are perfect for fall mornings or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Filling of your choice (e.g., whipped cream, maple syrup, or chopped nuts)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add the pumpkin pie spice and whisk until well combined.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl.
6. Loosen with a spatula and flip. Cook for an additional minute.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
8. Fill crepes with your desired filling and serve.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (depending on the number of crepes)
Red Velvet Pancakes
Start your day off right with these rich and velvety pancakes infused with the deep flavors of red velvet cake. The perfect blend of sweet and tangy, these pancakes are sure to become a weekend favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 2 tablespoons white granulated sugar
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, red food coloring, and sugar.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the melted butter.
5. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a deliciously moist and flavorful baked oatmeal, infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup diced apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, milk, apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a 6-inch baking dish or ramekin.
4. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the oatmeal.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and lightly golden brown.
6. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Festive Fruit Salad with Pomegranate
This vibrant fruit salad is a perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering, featuring juicy pomegranate seeds and a colorful medley of fruits. With its sweet and tangy flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your next festive occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup diced pineapple
– 1 cup diced peaches
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed berries, pineapple, and peaches.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and lime juice until well combined.
3. Pour the honey-lime mixture over the fruit and toss gently to coat.
4. Stir in the pomegranate seeds.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Just before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None required! This fruit salad is best served chilled, straight from the refrigerator.
Sausage and Cheese Breakfast Strata
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast strata filled with sausage, cheese, and bread.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 Italian sausages, casings removed and crumbled
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes in an even layer.
- Top with the cooked sausage, then sprinkle with the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining bread cubes.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (if using), salt, and pepper. Pour over the strata.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Chip Stuffed Croissants
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with these decadent chocolate chip stuffed croissants. Layers of flaky dough wrapped around a gooey chocolate surprise make for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (1/2 cup) active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out croissant dough according to package instructions.
3. Place a small spoonful of chocolate chips in the center of each dough triangle.
4. Fold and roll the dough into a croissant shape, making sure the filling is enclosed.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each croissant.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Maple Bacon Breakfast Cookies
These breakfast cookies combine the sweetness of maple syrup with the smokiness of crispy bacon, making them a unique and delicious morning treat. Perfect for a quick breakfast on-the-go or as a snack to start your day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bacon, and softened butter until well combined.
4. Add the egg to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Egg and Cheese Breakfast Quesadillas
Start your day with a delicious twist on the classic quesadilla, packed with scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 small flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: salsa, sour cream, or avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and scramble until just set (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, place one tortilla in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm it slightly.
4. Place the warmed tortilla on a flat surface, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese onto half of the tortilla.
5. Spoon the scrambled eggs over the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients to make the second quesadilla.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Christmas Star Bread with Jam
Add a touch of magic to your holiday celebrations with this show-stopping Christmas star bread, filled with sweet and tangy jam. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a festive gathering or as a special treat for loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup jam (strawberry or raspberry work well)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a star shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool before filling with jam. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns
Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns Recipe Summary:
These sweet treats combine gooey caramel with crunchy pecans and soft brioche dough, topped with a sticky brown sugar topping. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these buns are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Brown sugar topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead dough for 10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Punch down dough and roll out into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
6. Spread caramel sauce and pecans evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one of the long sides.
8. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each bun.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Brown Sugar Topping:
– Mix 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar.
– Sprinkle evenly over buns before baking.
Spiced Pear Muffins
Warm up with these delightful Spiced Pear Muffins, infused with the comfort of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 ripe pear, diced (about 1 cup)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the diced pear.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Almond Butter and Jelly Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a twist on a classic breakfast favorite by filling thick slices of French toast with creamy almond butter and sweet jelly for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 1/4 cup grape or strawberry jelly
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Spread 1/2 tbsp of almond butter on each toast slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Top with 1/4 cup of jelly.
7. Serve warm, dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Savory Spinach and Feta Breakfast Pie
Start your day with a twist on the classic breakfast pie, packed with nutrients from spinach and tanginess from feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, onion, and garlic.
4. Place the mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these deliciously easy Christmas breakfast recipes! From sweet treats like Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree and Peppermint Hot Chocolate Pancakes to savory dishes like Sausage and Cheese Breakfast Strata, there’s something for everyone. Impress your family and friends with festive options like Snowman-Shaped Donuts and Red Velvet Pancakes. Or, keep things cozy with comforting breakfasts like Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal and Spiced Pear Muffins. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to make your Christmas morning merry and bright!
