Holiday Brunch Recipes: 15 Easy Family Favorites

Looking for ways to make holiday mornings extra special? We’ve gathered the most delightful brunch recipes that’ll bring the whole family together. From make-ahead casseroles to quick and easy pancakes these dishes will help create lasting memories around your breakfast table.

We know how hectic holiday mornings can be especially with excited kids and visiting relatives. That’s why we’ve focused on recipes that let you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying precious moments with loved ones. Whether you’re feeding a crowd of 4 or 14 these family-friendly recipes strike the perfect balance between festive and fuss-free.

Key Takeaways

• Make-ahead breakfast casseroles like Egg and Sausage Strata and French Toast Casserole can serve 8-10 people, perfect for holiday gatherings and minimizing morning prep time
• Sweet brunch options like Gingerbread Pancakes and Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding add festive flavors while savory dishes like Eggs Benedict and Ham & Cheese Quiche provide hearty protein options
• Balance the menu with fresh sides like Winter Fruit Salad and Roasted Breakfast Potatoes, which add color and nutrition to the spread
• Create interactive drink stations with a Holiday Mimosa Bar or Spiced Hot Chocolate station to add a festive touch and allow guests to customize their beverages
• Reduce hosting stress by prepping ingredients the night before, setting up logical buffet stations, and maintaining proper food temperatures throughout service

Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casseroles

Breakfast casseroles transform holiday mornings by letting you prep everything the night before. These hearty dishes feed 8-10 people with minimal morning effort.

Classic Egg and Sausage Strata

This protein-packed strata combines savory Italian sausage with fluffy eggs and sharp cheddar cheese. Layer day-old bread cubes with browned sausage crumbles, sautéed onions and red peppers in a 9×13 baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the layers, cover and refrigerate overnight. Pop it in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes the next morning for a golden-brown breakfast masterpiece.

French Toast Casserole With Berries

Sweet breakfast meets convenience in this berry-studded French toast bake. Cut a loaf of brioche or challah into 1-inch cubes and layer with fresh blueberries and raspberries. Mix eggs, milk, vanilla and cinnamon to create a rich custard base. Pour over the bread mixture and chill overnight. Before baking, sprinkle with brown sugar streusel topping for extra crunch. Serve with warm maple syrup and fresh whipped cream for a crowd-pleasing brunch centerpiece.

Key ingredients for each casserole:

• Egg and Sausage Strata:

• Italian sausage (1 pound)
• Eggs (12 large)
• Day-old bread (8 cups cubed)
• Sharp cheddar (2 cups)

• French Toast Casserole:

• Brioche/challah (1 loaf)
• Mixed berries (2 cups)
• Eggs (8 large)
• Whole milk (2 cups)

Both casseroles bake at 350°F and serve 8-10 guests, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.

Sweet Holiday Brunch Favorites

Our sweet holiday brunch recipes add a festive touch to any family gathering. These crowd-pleasing treats balance traditional holiday flavors with modern twists.

Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding

This decadent bread pudding transforms day-old cinnamon rolls into a luxurious brunch centerpiece. Tear 8 large cinnamon rolls into chunks, combine with 4 beaten eggs, 2 cups whole milk, and 1/4 cup maple syrup. Top with a cream cheese glaze made from 4 oz cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons milk. Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes until golden brown.

Gingerbread Pancakes

These aromatic pancakes capture holiday warmth in every bite. Mix 2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 2 teaspoons ginger, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/4 cup molasses. Combine with 2 eggs and 1-1/2 cups buttermilk for the perfect consistency. Top with maple syrup, whipped cream, and candied ginger pieces.

Prep Tip: Mix dry ingredients the night before to save time during busy holiday mornings.

Savory Brunch Main Dishes

Savory brunch dishes create the perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings. These protein-rich recipes offer hearty options that satisfy everyone at the table.

Ham and Cheese Quiche

A buttery pie crust filled with smoky ham, melted cheese and creamy eggs forms the foundation of this classic quiche. We combine 6 large eggs with 1½ cups heavy cream, then fold in 1 cup diced ham, 1½ cups shredded Gruyere cheese and sautéed onions. The quiche bakes at 375°F for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and slightly jiggly in the center.

Time-saving tip: Prepare the crust and filling separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble and bake fresh the morning of your brunch.

Eggs Benedict With Hollandaise

This elevated brunch staple features perfectly poached eggs atop Canadian bacon and toasted English muffins, crowned with rich hollandaise sauce. Our 3-minute hollandaise combines:

• 3 egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ cup melted butter
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For consistently poached eggs:

• Use fresh eggs at room temperature
• Add 1 tablespoon white vinegar to simmering water
• Create a gentle whirlpool before dropping in eggs
• Cook for 3 minutes for runny yolks

The recipe serves 6 people, with 2 eggs per serving. Garnish with fresh chives and paprika for a festive presentation.

Fresh and Healthy Sides

Balance your holiday brunch spread with vibrant sides that add color and nutrition to the table. These recipes incorporate seasonal ingredients while maintaining ease of preparation.

Winter Fruit Salad

A winter fruit salad brightens any holiday brunch table with its jewel-toned mix of seasonal fruits. Combine pomegranate seeds, orange segments, crisp apple slices, pears, and kiwi in a large bowl. Add a light honey-lime dressing made with:

• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

This salad serves 6-8 people and stays fresh for up to 4 hours when refrigerated. Garnish with fresh mint leaves just before serving for an extra pop of color.

Roasted Breakfast Potatoes

Crispy roasted breakfast potatoes deliver satisfying crunch and savory flavor to complement sweeter brunch dishes. Cut red potatoes into 1-inch cubes and toss with:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Spread potatoes on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Serve these potatoes hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The recipe yields 6 servings and takes 10 minutes to prep.

Festive Brunch Beverages

Holiday brunch calls for special drinks that bring extra cheer to the celebration. These crowd-pleasing beverages complement our savory and sweet brunch dishes while adding a festive touch to the table.

Holiday Mimosa Bar

Create a stunning self-serve mimosa station with an array of fresh juices (orange, cranberry, pomegranate), fruits for garnish (raspberries, orange slices, cranberries) and chilled prosecco or champagne. Here’s what to include:

• 3 clear glass dispensers for different juices
• Ice bucket with 2-3 bottles of sparkling wine
• Small bowls of fresh fruit garnishes
• Champagne flutes (1 per guest plus extras)
• Decorative holiday signs with mixing suggestions
• Serving ratio: 1 part juice to 2 parts sparkling wine

Spiced Hot Chocolate

Our rich hot chocolate recipe serves 8-10 guests and warms everyone from the inside out. Mix these ingredients in a slow cooker:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 12 oz high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 vanilla bean, split
• ¼ tsp nutmeg

Set up a hot chocolate toppings bar with:

• Homemade whipped cream
• Mini marshmallows
• Crushed candy canes
• Chocolate shavings
• Caramel sauce
• Cinnamon sticks for stirring

Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Keep warm throughout brunch service. Pair with festive holiday mugs and dessert spoons for the perfect presentation.

Tips for Hosting a Stress-Free Holiday Brunch

Plan and Prep Ahead

Create a detailed timeline 3 days before the brunch. Prep ingredients by washing produce, measuring dry items, and chopping vegetables the night before. Set the table, chill beverages, and organize serving dishes 24 hours in advance. Label each dish with its intended contents using sticky notes for quick setup.

Smart Buffet Setup

Arrange the buffet in logical stations: plates first, followed by hot foods, cold items, and beverages last. Place utensils at the end to prevent juggling. Position the buffet away from the kitchen to avoid traffic jams. Use varying heights for visual appeal and easy access – elevated platters for main dishes and lower stands for sides.

Temperature Control

Keep hot foods warm with chafing dishes set at 140°F. Place cold items in ice baths or on frozen serving platters. Use thermal carafes for coffee and tea. Monitor food temperatures every 2 hours for safety.

Self-Serve Stations

Create interactive stations where guests customize their meals:

• Waffle bar with fresh fruits, nuts, whipped cream
• Bagel station with spreads, lox, capers, onions
• Build-your-own mimosa bar with juices, fruits, herbs
• Coffee bar featuring syrups, spices, milk options

Time Management

Schedule dishes based on cooking times:

• 7 AM: Start ovens, brew coffee
• 7:30 AM: Begin baking casseroles
• 8 AM: Prepare fresh items
• 8:30 AM: Set up beverage stations
• 9 AM: Final temperature checks

Guest Count Management

Kitchen Organization

Designate specific zones for:

• Food prep
• Plating area
• Clean dish storage
• Dirty dish collection
• Beverage service

Clean-as-You-Go System

Place trash bins and recycling containers in accessible spots. Keep cleaning supplies ready. Wash prep tools immediately after use. Clear empty serving dishes promptly. Have extra storage containers ready for leftovers.

Dietary Accommodations

Label dishes with common allergens:

• Gluten
• Dairy
• Nuts
• Eggs
• Seafood

Include ingredient lists for each dish. Offer at least 2 options for different dietary needs. Keep serving utensils separate to prevent cross-contamination.

Conclusion

Hosting a memorable holiday brunch doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We’ve shared our favorite recipes and tips to help you create a festive spread that brings family and friends together without keeping you tied to the kitchen. From make-ahead casseroles to quick yet impressive sides these recipes let you focus on what matters most during the holidays – making memories with loved ones.

Remember to embrace the joy of hosting by planning ahead keeping things simple and most importantly enjoying the celebration alongside your guests. With these crowd-pleasing recipes and smart hosting strategies you’ll be well-equipped to start a delicious holiday tradition that your family will look forward to year after year.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I prepare breakfast casseroles?

Most breakfast casseroles can be assembled up to 24 hours before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to allow the dish to come to room temperature for even cooking.

What’s the ideal temperature for serving mimosas?

Serve prosecco or champagne chilled at 45-48°F (7-9°C). Keep bottles in an ice bucket and store juice mixers in the refrigerator until serving. Pre-chill glasses for the best experience.

How many people does a typical breakfast casserole serve?

A standard 9×13-inch breakfast casserole typically serves 8-10 people. For larger gatherings, consider making multiple casseroles or supplementing with additional side dishes.

Can I make Hollandaise sauce ahead of time?

While best served fresh, Hollandaise sauce can be kept warm for up to 1 hour in a thermos or over a double boiler. If it thickens, whisk in a few drops of warm water to restore the consistency.

What’s the best way to keep breakfast potatoes crispy?

Spread potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet, avoid overcrowding, and roast at 425°F. Don’t flip them too frequently during cooking. Keep warm in a 200°F oven until serving time.

How do I set up an efficient brunch buffet?

Arrange dishes in logical order: plates first, followed by hot foods, then cold items, and beverages last. Use elevated platters for visual appeal and space efficiency. Label dishes and provide separate serving utensils for each item.

What’s the best bread for French Toast Casserole?

Use slightly stale brioche, challah, or French bread. These enriched breads have the right texture and density to absorb the custard while maintaining their structure during baking.

How can I accommodate different dietary restrictions?

Label all dishes with common allergens, provide vegetarian and gluten-free options, and consider having dairy-free alternatives. Keep ingredients lists handy for guests with specific dietary concerns.