Easter is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious feast filled with traditional and innovative dishes? Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large party, these 20 Easter recipes are sure to impress your guests. From sweet treats like Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, to savory delights like Roast Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary and Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken, there’s something for everyone.
Start planning your Easter menu today with our collection of recipes that are sure to become new family traditions. From classic hot cross buns to decadent chocolate truffles, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Easter one to remember!
Classic Hot Cross Buns
Classic Hot Cross Buns: A Traditional Treat for Easter
These sweet buns are a staple of Easter celebrations, filled with spices and dried fruit. With their distinctive cross-shaped topping, they’re perfect for serving at breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as currants or raisins)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Cross topping: 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the mixture; stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
6. Place balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
7. Mix cross topping ingredients; spoon a small amount onto top of each bun.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Roast Leg of Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary
A classic combination that’s perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner, this roast leg of lamb is infused with the flavors of garlic and rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 leg of lamb (about 2 pounds)
– 4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the leg of lamb, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the lamb and place it in a roasting pan.
5. Roast the lamb for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the lamb rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time:
– 2-pound leg of lamb: 40-50 minutes
– 3-pound leg of lamb: 60-75 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your deviled egg game with the addition of fresh herbs! This recipe adds a bright and refreshing flavor to the traditional filling, perfect for springtime gatherings or summer barbecues.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chopped chive for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and mash them with a fork until smooth.
3. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and horseradish until well combined.
4. Add the chopped herbs to the yolk mixture and stir until they’re evenly distributed.
5. Spoon the filling into the egg white halves, mounding slightly in the center.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with paprika or chopped chive if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (hard-boiling eggs) + assembly time
Easter Ham with Honey Glaze
Celebrate Easter with a sweet and savory ham that’s sure to impress your family and friends! This recipe combines the classic flavors of honey and mustard with a crispy, caramelized glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, mustard, brown sugar, vinegar, and cloves.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scores.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and a hint of cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create an overlapping layer of potato slices.
3. Dot the top of each potato slice with butter.
4. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the potatoes, followed by half of the cream.
5. Repeat the layers: potatoes, butter, cheese, and cream.
6. Top with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spring Vegetable Tart
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this colorful tart, featuring a medley of fresh vegetables and a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mixed spring vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Roll out pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Top with vegetable mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Fold edges of pastry up over filling to form a crust.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist and flavorful carrot cake pairs perfectly with a tangy cream cheese frosting, making this recipe a timeless favorite. Perfect for any occasion or as a sweet treat to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Carrot Cake:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with carrots, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Beat all ingredients together until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed.
Braided Easter Bread
Celebrate Easter with this traditional Braided Easter Bread recipe, perfect for family gatherings or springtime celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes to activate the yeast.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into three equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope.
5. Braid the ropes together, tucking ends under the braid. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush egg wash over the braided bread.
7. Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes: A Bright and Airy Breakfast Treat
These fluffy pancakes are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, making them a delightful breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
– Zest of 1 lemon, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, ricotta cheese, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in melted butter.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 8-10 pancakes
Herb-Roasted Baby Potatoes
A simple yet flavorful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of baby potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered depending on size
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange potato mixture in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and lightly browned, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easter Bunny Cupcakes
These adorable Easter Bunny Cupcakes are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. Moist vanilla cupcakes, topped with creamy buttercream frosting and decorated with cute bunny ears and whiskers, are sure to bring joy to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Pink and white frosting for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with buttercream and decorating with bunny ears and whiskers.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the creaminess of cheese with the nutritional punch of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Glazed Carrots with Thyme
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of carrots and the earthy flavor of thyme, all wrapped up in a sticky glaze. Perfect as a side dish or added to a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick coins
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Add the sliced carrots and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Sprinkle chopped thyme over the carrots and toss again to combine.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot slices in a single layer.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Easter Egg Truffles
Create these bite-sized chocolate truffles as a fun and tasty treat for your loved ones this Easter. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious dessert to share with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
– Easter egg-shaped sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the cream mixture into the melted chocolate and stir until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form the truffle mixture into egg shapes.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and decorate with Easter egg-shaped sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Simnel Cake with Marzipan
Simnel cake, a traditional British dessert, is a sweet bread filled with dried fruit and topped with a layer of marzipan. This recipe serves 8-10 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup butter, softened
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, currants)
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Marzipan for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dried fruit.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool before topping with marzipan.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spring Pea and Mint Soup
This refreshing soup captures the essence of spring with the sweetness of peas and the brightness of mint. Perfect as a light lunch or as a starter for a spring-inspired dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spring peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the peas and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the peas are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped mint leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Lavender Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with the sunny flavor combination of lemon and lavender in these buttery shortbread cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and lavender buds. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Parmesan Roasted Asparagus
Elevate your springtime meals with this simple yet flavorful Parmesan Roasted Asparagus recipe. This side dish is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, fish, or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly shredded is best)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Rinse asparagus spears under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
4. Place asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the asparagus, sprinkling Parmesan cheese evenly across the top.
6. Squeeze lemon juice over the asparagus and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easter Nest Chocolate Bark
Celebrate Easter with this adorable and delicious treat that combines creamy white chocolate, sweet candy melts, and crunchy chopped nuts. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a fun Easter activity to do with kids!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 bag of yellow candy melts (about 10 oz)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon shortening (like Crisco)
– Easter-themed sprinkles or edible decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the milk chocolate chips until melted and combined.
4. Pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Immediately sprinkle chopped nuts and candy melts on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
7. Break into pieces and decorate with Easter-themed sprinkles or edible decorations, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just melt, pour, and chill.
Raspberry Almond Coffee Cake
Start your day off right with this scrumptious raspberry almond coffee cake, featuring a sweet and tangy filling topped with a crunchy streusel topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Streusel topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in eggs, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract.
5. Fold in fresh raspberries.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
7. Top with streusel topping (see below).
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Mix dry ingredients together. Cut in butter until crumbly. Add sliced almonds.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a festive feast with these 20 delicious Easter recipes! From classic hot cross buns and roast leg of lamb to deviled eggs and carrot cake, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with braided Easter bread or Easter bunny cupcakes, while kids will love the chocolate Easter egg truffles. Don’t miss out on other tasty treats like creamy scalloped potatoes, spring vegetable tart, and glazed carrots with thyme. Whether you’re looking for a sweet or savory option, this collection has it all!
