Photography: Greg Dupree, Prop Styling: Chelsea Zimmer, Food Styling: Claire SpollenChristmas Day often brings families together for a festive brunch, but preparing an impressive meal can feel daunting amidst the holiday chaos. To ease the pressure, we’ve curated a selection of delightful Christmas brunch recipes that will leave your guests amazed without requiring excessive effort. For more intricate dishes like cinnamon rolls, consider enlisting help from family members or preparing them in advance!
1. Savory French Toast Bake
Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Food Stylist: Claire SpollenFrench toast is incredibly adaptable, offering both sweet and savory variations. If you plan to enjoy sugary treats during Christmas dinner, opt for a savory version earlier in the day. This Bombay-inspired recipe involves soaking stale bread in a flavorful blend of spiced and herbed eggs, then baking it to a golden, fluffy perfection.
2. Simple Green Shakshuka
Greg DuPree Eggs are a brunch staple with countless preparation methods, and this shakshuka recipe offers a fresh take. A green twist on a North African classic, traditionally tomato-based, this version features spinach, cilantro, and artichokes for a vibrant and flavorful dish.
3. Garlic Herb Butter Layered Potatoes
Victor ProtasioThis hearty potato dish is a perfect addition to any holiday brunch, combining the best of crispy hash browns and rich scalloped potatoes. Start by slicing Yukon Gold and sweet potatoes into uniform pieces, layering them in a cast iron skillet, and baking with a garlic-infused butter. Pair it with a ham and egg omelet and a festive Christmas beverage for a complete meal.
4. Blackberry and Pear Breakfast Crisp
Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Food Stylist: Claire SpollenThis breakfast crisp is like a deconstructed pie, replacing the traditional crust with a crunchy topping of sweet, buttery baked oats. Enhanced with pecans and seeds for added flavor, texture, and healthy fats, it’s a wholesome treat. Serve with a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess and a protein boost.
5. Chorizo Chilaquiles Verdes
Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Claire SpollenChristmas is the perfect occasion to enjoy these zesty chilaquiles. Inspired by the classic Mexican recipe, this version features corn tortilla chips simmered in tangy green salsa, layered with crispy chorizo and crowned with fried eggs.
6. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Breakfast Tacos
Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Food Stylist: Claire SpollenFor large families hosting holiday brunches, these hearty egg, potato, and bean tacos are a perfect choice. Begin by preparing a flavorful sweet potato hash seasoned with chili powder and mixed with black beans. Scramble eggs separately, then combine everything for a quick, budget-friendly breakfast that’s ideal for feeding a crowd on a bustling December morning.
7. Protein-Packed Skillet Baked Eggs with White Beans and Mushrooms
Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Food Stylist: Claire SpollenProtein-rich meals help you stay satisfied longer, making them ideal if you’re saving space for a larger feast later. This skillet dish packs a protein punch with six eggs and two cans of beans, complemented by kale and mushrooms for added fiber and nutrients.
8. Lemon Poppyseed Sheet Pan Pancakes
Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Food Stylist: Claire SpollenWhat’s the secret to elevating pancakes? Experiment with mix-ins. These pancakes are enhanced with lemon zest, juice, poppyseeds, and blueberry syrup, and baked in a sheet pan for hassle-free cooking—no flipping required, ensuring perfectly even results every time.
9. Apple Cinnamon Chia Pudding
Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Food Stylist: Claire SpollenPudding for brunch? Absolutely, when it’s made with chia seeds. This recipe involves soaking chia seeds in a spiced milk mixture infused with maple syrup, vanilla, and orange zest, then topping it with fresh apple slices and figs for a delightful autumn-inspired treat.
10. Big-Batch Steamed Egg and Sausage Breakfast Sandwiches
Photographer: Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Food Stylist: Claire SpollenChristmas mornings are packed with gift-giving and family time, so save yourself precious minutes by preparing these hearty breakfast sandwiches ahead. Featuring eggs, sausage, cheese, and English muffins, they can be made up to five days in advance.
11. Cherry Berry Breakfast Custard
Photographer: Greg DuPreeThis breakfast dish draws inspiration from clafoutis, a French dessert featuring fruit baked in a custard-like batter. Feel free to use your favorite frozen fruit, though we recommend dark cherries and mixed berries for a vibrant, lightly sweetened custard that’s perfect as the centerpiece of your Christmas brunch.
12. Use-It-Up Quiche
Photographer: Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Julia BaylessBetween Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, leftovers are inevitable. Here’s a smart way to use them: Assess your fridge, chop up the remaining produce, and incorporate it into this versatile quiche. It’s a great way to serve six people while ensuring no meat or veggies go to waste.
13. Herbed Ham and Cheese Baked Eggs
Victor ProtasioQuiches, frittatas, and egg bites are brunch staples for good reason—they’re simple to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. This frittata recipe, loaded with a dozen protein-rich eggs, serves up to eight people effortlessly.
14. Pepper and Chive Biscuits
Victor ProtasioNo brunch table is complete without a basket of warm, flaky biscuits. While classic buttermilk is always a hit, these savory biscuits might steal the show. With flavors reminiscent of sour cream and onion chips, they’re sure to have your guests asking for the recipe.
15. Winter Citrus with Nut and Honey Crunch
Victor ProtasioHoliday meals often lean toward indulgence, so balance things out with a refreshing winter fruit salad. This dish fills your home with the aroma of oranges and warm spices, while providing a healthy dose of antioxidants and fiber to kick off the festivities.
16. Jelly Sufganiyot
Photographer: Jen CauseyJelly-filled donuts are a delightful treat for breakfast or brunch, perfect for special occasions. Known as sufganiyot in Hebrew, they’re a staple during Hanukkah. If your Christmas celebration is multicultural, these donuts will be a hit with everyone before the festivities kick off.
17. Big Breakfast Salad
Victor ProtasioIf you’re looking to incorporate more greens into your diet, why not start on Christmas morning? This hearty breakfast salad features a mix of leafy greens, roasted potatoes, bagels, boiled eggs, and more for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
18. Sweet Potato Buttermilk Pancakes
Heami LeeWhile buttermilk pancakes are a classic, sweet potato lovers will adore this unique twist. Sweet potatoes, known for their caramelized texture and natural sweetness when baked, add both flavor and nutrients to the pancake batter, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
19. Carrot Hummingbird Breakfast Bundt
Photographer: Greg DuPree, Food Stylist: Emily Hall, Prop Stylist: Claire SpollenBundt cakes have a special festive charm, and this recipe lets you enjoy carrot cake for brunch. Since it requires a few hours to bake, it’s best prepared the night before your celebration.
20. Sunny Side Up Sheet Pan Breakfast
Photographer: Greg DuPreeThis effortless breakfast recipe is a game-changer—on just one sheet pan, you can prepare potatoes, sunny-side-up eggs, spinach, and crispy prosciutto. Pair it with toast for dipping into the runny yolks or creating delicious open-faced sandwiches.
21. Apple Spice Donut Pudding
Photographer: Fred HardyThis cozy dish captures the magic of Christmas by simmering chopped apples in butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Serve the warm, spiced apples over baked donuts, and top with a scoop of ice cream for a breakfast treat your family will love.
22. Italian Baked Eggs
Jen CauseyThis baked egg dish is a quick and easy brunch option, ready in just 25 minutes—perfect for Christmas morning. The rich tomato sauce is flavored with sausage, onion, garlic, and oregano, while crispy, cheesy baguette slices are ideal for soaking up every last drop.
23. Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies
Photographer: Caitlin BenselWarm cookies are a holiday essential, even at brunch. For a festive twist, try these carrot cake cookies packed with breakfast staples like oats, eggs, almonds, and walnuts. With carrots adding antioxidants and fiber, they’re a wholesome treat for the season.
24. Pumpkin Spice Bread
Photographer: Victor ProtasioWhile banana bread is a Christmas morning favorite, this pumpkin spice bread offers a delicious alternative. Featuring fruit, spices, and a crumbly streusel topping, it’s a standout choice for your holiday table.
25. Potato Tot Breakfast Casserole
Photographer: Greg DuPreeThis hearty breakfast casserole starts with a base of frozen potato tots, layered with sausage, onion, and bell pepper for a burst of flavor. Eggs hold everything together, while thinly sliced jalapeños and chives add a touch of spice and freshness.
26. Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Photographer: Jennifer CauseyThese homemade cinnamon rolls demand a bit of planning and effort, but the result is worth it. Your home will be filled with the aroma of cinnamon, and you’ll have soft, fluffy buns ready for brunch. Make it a family activity by involving everyone in the baking process.
27. Classic French Toast
JMichl/GettyClassic French toast is a holiday morning favorite. Thick slices of white Pullman bread, drizzled with pure maple syrup, create the ultimate French toast experience. Pair it with fresh fruit for a delightful touch.
28. Croissant and Chocolate Bread Pudding
Photographer: Con PoulosA warm, sweet dish is a brunch favorite, especially on Christmas Day, and this recipe is no exception. To make it even better, the bread pudding is incredibly simple to prepare: just mix the ingredients and bake for 30 minutes.
29. German Pancakes
Photographer: Christopher BakerUnlike traditional pancakes served with maple syrup, this thick German pancake is topped with lemon juice, jam, and a dusting of powdered sugar. For the best results, use a cast iron skillet to create this impressive, oversized pancake.
30. Joanna Gaines' Jojo's Biscuits From Magnolia Table
Photographer: Amy NeunsingerThese fluffy biscuits, also called "magnolia biscuits," are a signature dish at Waco's Magnolia Table restaurant. With this recipe, you can recreate them at home effortlessly. Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
31. Zucchini and Mozzarella Frittata
Photographer: Jen CauseyThis frittata combines asparagus, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and goat cheese for a dish that’s ideal for feeding a group. Pair it with sliced bread, and use any leftovers to create a delicious breakfast sandwich the next day.
