40 Christmas Brunch Ideas

These Christmas brunch ideas will be the best gift to give your family! With strawberry crepes, gingerbread waffles and even a blueberry crunch breakfast bake, making a special holiday meal doesn't have to be complicated.

After staying up late wrapping presents, watching Hallmark movies and waiting for Santa, you can go to bed dreaming of a bright and festive Christmas brunch. To save you the time and mental energy of planning your morning meal, we’ve rounded up the best Christmas brunch ideas all in one place.

These sweet and savory Christmas breakfast ideas will impress the whole family—and suit their different taste buds. The festive brunch recipes include fluffy gingerbread waffles and pumpkin pancakes, hearty ham sliders and corned beef hash, and, of course, ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls. For a more hands-off meal, we have several Christmas breakfast casseroles, from your standard egg-meat-and-veggie bakes to baked French toast. There are also many make-ahead and slow-cooker breakfast recipes you can prep and forget on Christmas Eve.

For a more formal holiday brunch menu, there are elegant options, including a leek tart, several crepes and cheddar clafoutis. We even have vegetarian and gluten-free breakfast ideas so everyone can dig in. Serve a few of these recipes with coffee and tea or festive cocktails if you’re in the mood to indulge!

1/40

Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Total Time:1 hour
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: After church on Christmas morning, our family enjoys this easy make-ahead casserole. I also recommend this Christmas morning breakfast casserole for a special brunch any time of the year. —Maryellen Hays, Wolcottville, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 291 calories, 17g fat (9g saturated fat), 202mg cholesterol, 677mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 18g protein.

In this case, Christmas doesn’t have to mean complicated. With eight ingredients you probably already have and only 10 minutes of prep time, this dish screams low-stress.

2/40

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Total Time:55 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I like to try different fun fillings in these soft rolls, and each one is packed with cinnamon flavor. They are definitely worth the overnight wait. —Chris O'Connell, San Antonio, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 roll: 278 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 262mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.

When you’re opening presents from Santa, who has time to cook breakfast? Opt for these homemade cinnamon rolls, which rise overnight so they’ll be ready to bake and serve immediately in the morning.

3/40

Eggs Benedict Casserole

Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:12 (1-2/3 cups sauce)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This eggs Benedict casserole is just as tasty as the classic but without all the hassle. Simply assemble the ingredients ahead, and bake it the next morning for an elegant breakfast or brunch. —Sandie Heindel, Liberty, Missouri
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece with about 2 tablespoons sauce: 286 calories, 19g fat (10g saturated fat), 256mg cholesterol, 535mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 14g protein.

You’ll get major bonus points if you whip up eggs Benedict on Christmas morning, but all that egg poaching and sauce stirring can be tricky to pull off. This low-fuss recipe has all the flavor and none of the hassle. If your hollandaise sauce is too thick, add an extra splash of water or a squeeze of lemon juice. If it’s too thin, add a bit of butter to help thicken the sauce.

4/40

Gingerbread Belgian Waffles

Total Time:30 min
Servings:6 waffles (1-1/2 cups icing)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I like to combine the sweet and spicy taste of gingerbread with the cool and dreamy taste of cream cheese frosting. It's a heavenly way to start the day! —Jannine Fisk, Malden, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts: 1 round waffle with 1/4 cup icing: 776 calories, 38g fat (23g saturated fat), 219mg cholesterol, 1188mg sodium, 97g carbohydrate (63g sugars, 1g fiber), 12g protein.

Transform your favorite cookie into a festive brunch showstopper. Top the waffles with homemade hazelnut whipped cream to really take things over the top.

5/40

Italian Brunch Torte

Total Time:1 hour 50 min
Servings:10
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: We always serve this impressive layered breakfast bake with a salad of mixed greens and tomato wedges. It is one of our most requested dishes and can be served warm or cold. —Danny Diamond, Farmington Hills, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 480 calories, 29g fat (13g saturated fat), 191mg cholesterol, 1674mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 0 fiber), 26g protein.

This dazzling layered pastry is a time investment, but with help from store-bought crescent roll dough, it’s simpler to put together than it looks. The result is a colorful treat that’s fit for Christmas brunch.

6/40

Pumpkin-Pecan Baked Oatmeal

Total Time:45 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Here’s a yummy wintertime treat. My husband rarely eats in the morning, but when I make my baked oatmeal, he digs right in. —Alex Muehl, Austin, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup (calculated without additional ingredients): 478 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 335mg sodium, 71g carbohydrate (39g sugars, 7g fiber), 10g protein.

If you’re looking for something a bit more nutritious on Christmas Day, this filling high-fiber breakfast with a hint of sweetness will hit the spot.

7/40

Smoked Salmon

Total Time:45 min
Servings:16
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A magazine featured this recipe years ago, and it's still my favorite way to serve salmon. Just add crackers for a super simple yet elegant appetizer. —Norma Fell, Boyne City, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1-1/2 ounces cooked salmon: 95 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 28mg cholesterol, 324mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 10g protein.

Serve this smoked salmon with a side of bagels, cream cheese and capers. It’ll be the ultimate bagel board!

8/40

Chocolate Crepes

Total Time:1 hour 15 min
Servings:10
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: If you think crepes are merely breakfast fare, our home economists insist you try these cream-filled chocolate crepes for dessert! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts: 2 crepes: 544 calories, 29g fat (18g saturated fat), 122mg cholesterol, 196mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (36g sugars, 2g fiber), 9g protein.

Your morning just got more magnifique with this sweet French-inspired treat. Top them with fresh berries, shredded coconut or whipped cream for an extra-festive touch.

9/40

Prosciutto, Egg and Spinach Strata

Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This is one of my favorite things to make for holidays and special celebrations! It's a wonderful, sweet and savory dish that incorporates elements of the cuisine that I enjoyed growing up. Plus, you can prepare it at night and just throw it in the oven the next morning. —Danielle Pfanstiehl, Andover, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 478 calories, 25g fat (12g saturated fat), 266mg cholesterol, 1430mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 3g fiber), 33g protein.

A strata is a layered casserole, often made for brunch with eggs, cheese and bread. This version includes prosciutto, Brie, spinach and thinly sliced apples.

10/40

Gingerbread Syrup

Total Time:50 min
Servings:2 cups
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Here’s a wonderful treat for the winter. Stir a tablespoon of this syrup into coffee, tea or cider. Drizzle it over pancakes, hot cereal or yogurt. Or, use it as a glaze for roast chicken or pork chops! —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon
Nutrition Facts: 2 tablespoons: 108 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 28g carbohydrate (27g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.

You’ll want to slather this spiced syrup on everything all winter long. Whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, fresh ginger, nutmeg, honey and whole peppercorns give this syrup that familiar gingerbread taste.

11/40

Pumpkin and Oat Pancakes

Total Time:25 min
Servings:12 pancakes
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: For the perfect fall breakfast, these pancakes are amazing. The pumpkin and cinnamon go together wonderfully. —Nancy Horsburgh, Everett, Ontario
Nutrition Facts: 2 pancakes: 274 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 435mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 9g protein.

Host an unforgettable brunch by inviting your guests to customize their own pancakes. Here, festive fall toppings like sugared cranberries and pepitas adorn vibrant pumpkin pancakes.

12/40

Leek Tart

Total Time:1 hour
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This tart has a flaky pastry crust and tasty filling of leeks, bacon, eggs and cream. Satisfying and delicious, it makes a nice brunch dish, but you can serve it for any meal. —Anneliese Deising Plymouth, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 352 calories, 18g fat (9g saturated fat), 112mg cholesterol, 482mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 11g protein.

Take advantage of the in-season leeks you found at the farmers market. Here’s an easier-than-it-looks leek tart, featuring a quick homemade crust and lots of salty bacon. If you have extra leeks, make leek soup.

13/40

French Toast Casserole

Total Time:1 hour
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Topped with cinnamon and sugar, this overnight French toast casserole is my favorite way to make this breakfast favorite. Since you assemble this baked French toast the night before, you save time in the morning, and if you have an extra-hungry crowd, it's easy to bake up a few batches. —Sharyn Adams, Crawfordsville, Indiana
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 223 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 151mg cholesterol, 484mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.

Thanks to our handy air fryer, brunch will be ready and plated in 40 minutes. Oh, and if you don’t have an air fryer, here’s the oven-baked version.

14/40

Blueberry Turnovers

Total Time:40 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Growing up, I loved to heat up a Pepperidge Farm blueberry tart for an after-school treat. I decided I'd try my hand at making them for my kids. I think they are really close and my kids love them. —Christine Hair, Tampa, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 turnover: 400 calories, 20g fat (6g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 235mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 5g fiber), 6g protein.

You don’t even need to thaw the frozen berries before starting this low-maintenance pastry. To prevent the filling from leaking out of the crust, limit each turnover to 3 tablespoons of filling.

15/40

Breakfast Enchiladas

Total Time:50 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Draped in gooey cheese and a savory sauce, these enchiladas are a popular option at any holiday brunch. Chorizo gives the hearty filling a southwestern kick. —Tahnia Fox, Trenton, Michigan
Nutrition Facts: 1 enchilada: 369 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 189mg cholesterol, 1028mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.

Warm, saucy and cheesy is always a win on a cold winter’s morning. Even better, you can make these egg-and-sausage enchiladas the night before, then cover the baking dish and store them in the refrigerator overnight. The next morning, just pop them in the oven. Check out more make-ahead breakfast recipes if you’re serving a bigger crowd.

16/40

Apple Butter Bread Pudding

Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This is one of my mother's best recipes! I'm sure your family will be delighted with it too. Serve it as a dessert or a very special breakfast treat. —Jerri Gradert, Lincoln, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 433 calories, 14g fat (7g saturated fat), 175mg cholesterol, 422mg sodium, 68g carbohydrate (51g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.

Thanks to store-bought croissants, this impressive-looking breakfast (or dessert) couldn’t be easier to pull off. Your family won’t be able to get enough of the addictive streusel topping.

17/40

Pretty Pumpkin Cinnamon Buns

Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:2 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I make sticky buns and cinnamon rolls quite often because my husband loves them. One day I had some fresh pumpkin on hand and decided to try pumpkin cinnamon buns. We loved the results! —Glenda Joseph, Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts: 1 bun: 399 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 40mg cholesterol, 188mg sodium, 65g carbohydrate (31g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
18/40

Sheet-Pan Eggs and Bacon Breakfast

Total Time:1 hour
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I saw this sheet-pan eggs and bacon recipe on social media and decided to re-create it. It was a huge hit! Use any cheeses and spices you like—you can even try seasoned potatoes. —Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 446 calories, 30g fat (13g saturated fat), 246mg cholesterol, 695mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein.

If you thought sheet pans were just for cookies, think again. Bacon, frozen shredded hash browns, eggs, onions, cheese and spices combine forces to become a hearty dish. The whole table will be eating seconds and thirds.

19/40

Sunshine Crepes

Contest Winner
Total Time:30 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My family wanted just a light brunch and coffee this year for Christmas morning, so I whipped up these sweet and fruity crepes that were a big hit with everyone! To save even more time, use premade crepes. —Mary Hobbs, Campbell, Missouri
Nutrition Facts: 2 crepes: 299 calories, 11g fat (7g saturated fat), 64mg cholesterol, 139mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (31g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.

While it’s a nice touch to make crepes from scratch, you can also try this recipe with ready-to-eat crepes if there’s no time on Christmas morning. The filling is homemade, so your guests will be none the wiser.

20/40

Pressure-Cooker French Toast

Contest Winner
Total Time:45 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A delicious morning treat, this French toast is made quickly in the Instant Pot pressure cooker, and it's definitely worth waking up for. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 334 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 111mg cholesterol, 333mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 5g fiber), 14g protein.

This ooey-gooey masterpiece is almost as if French toast and monkey bread had a baby. If you need any more convincing, there’s also bacon.

21/40

Creamy Baked Eggs

Total Time:25 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My husband loves eggs prepared in any way. This recipe is simple but special, and every time the eggs come out just as he likes them. If you like soft yolks, cook the eggs for 9 minutes; for firmer yolks, cook for about 11 minutes. —Macey Allen, Green Forest, Arkansas
Nutrition Facts: 1 baked egg: 135 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 200mg cholesterol, 237mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 11g protein.

For the most part, there are two types of people in the world: People who like their eggs hard and people who want their eggs soft and creamy. If the latter is you and your family, give this cheesy soft egg dish a try. It serves eight and is ready in just 25 minutes.

22/40

Buttermilk Waffles

Total Time:25 min
Servings:16 waffles (4 inch)
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: You won't get any complaints from family or friends when you stack up these golden waffles for breakfast! —Kim Branges, Grand Canyon, Arizona
Nutrition Facts: 2 waffles: 223 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 435mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
23/40

Winter Fruit Salad

Total Time:25 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: The brightly colored fruits in this salad will perk up your morning. This is such a wonderful and easy dish to make for get-togethers. —Laura Brodine, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nutrition Facts: 3/4 cup: 126 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 4mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 3g fiber), 1g protein.

Prep the kiwi, bananas, pears, pineapples, tangerines, apples and pomegranate seeds the night before, then store the fruit salad in an airtight container overnight. The sugar, fruit juice and zest will marinate the fruit overnight, making it extra-juicy and sweet the next morning.

24/40

Sausage and Pancake Casserole

Total Time:45 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Trial and error have made this recipe one that my family asks for time and time again. It's so easy and incredibly good. —Ethel Sanders, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 379 calories, 24g fat (6g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 692mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.

Your family loves sausage. Your family loves pancakes. Get the best of both worlds with this sweet-and-savory casserole that’s bound to be a hit. Apples, maple syrup and cinnamon give this casserole a seasonal appeal.

25/40

Shakshuka Breakfast Pizza

Contest Winner
Total Time:50 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I turned traditional shakshuka into a fun morning pizza. Its sweet, spicy and crunchy ingredients make it perfect for morning, noon or night. —Phillipe Sobon, Harwood Heights, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 336 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 191mg cholesterol, 654mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 16g protein.

Shakshuka is a Middle Eastern breakfast dish that features eggs poached in tomatoes, olive oil, peppers and spices. This twist takes things up a notch by using the ingredients as delicious toppings for a pizza.

26/40

Ham and Cheese Sliders

Total Time:55 min
Servings:1 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My next-door neighbor shared this recipe with me and I simply cannot improve it! You can make it ahead and cook it quickly when company arrives. The combo of flavors makes these sandwiches so delicious. —Iris Weihemuller, Baxter, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 1 sandwich: 315 calories, 17g fat (9g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 555mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.
27/40

Blueberry Crunch Breakfast Bake

Total Time:45 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Blueberries in season make this a very special breakfast, but I find that frozen berries can work just as well. My grandmother used to make this with strawberries and I always loved to eat it at her house. —Marsha Ketaner, Henderson, Nevada
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 427 calories, 21g fat (8g saturated fat), 154mg cholesterol, 351mg sodium, 50g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 3g fiber), 12g protein.

Repurpose the French bread from yesterday’s charcuterie board to create a brunch masterpiece. Old-fashioned oats and chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch, while frozen blueberries and brown sugar provide the sweetness.

28/40

Country Brunch Skillet

Total Time:35 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Using frozen hash browns and packaged shredded cheese shaves minutes off the prep time of this skillet egg dish, making it an appealing meal you can put together quickly. —Elvira Brunnquell, Port Washington, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 304 calories, 21g fat (8g saturated fat), 238mg cholesterol, 689mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.

If quick, hearty and filling is the ticket, look no further. With only eight ingredients and one skillet, you can whip up breakfast for six in about half an hour.

29/40

Bananas Foster French Toast

Total Time:55 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Mmm … bananas Foster for breakfast! This yummy baked French toast serves up all the taste of the spectacular dessert in fine fashion. —Laurence Nasson, Hingham Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 658 calories, 31g fat (17g saturated fat), 218mg cholesterol, 584mg sodium, 84g carbohydrate (39g sugars, 4g fiber), 14g protein.

We’ve never met a French toast recipe we didn’t like, but it doesn’t get more over-the-top than this version made with challah bread, bananas, brown sugar, spices and chopped pecans. Top it with homemade whipped cream (or ice cream!) to transform it into dessert.

30/40

Hash Brown Egg Brunch

Total Time:4 hours 20 min
Servings:10
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Slow cookers aren't just for making dinner. I make this often if we're having company overnight. With just a little planning and not much work, I can prep it the night before and have a lovely breakfast waiting in the morning. —Barb Keith, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 cup: 315 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 289mg cholesterol, 589mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein.

If you’re short on time, let your trusty slow cooker do most of the work. Layer in potatoes, bacon, onions, green pepper and cheese, then pour eggs on top. Cook on high for 30 minutes, then turn it to low for four hours. That’s it!

31/40

Sunny-Side Up Herbed Tart

Contest Winner
Total Time:50 min
Servings:4
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Feel free to be creative with this versatile egg tart. Try Canadian bacon or ham as the meat ingredient, and add toppings such as thyme, chopped spinach or goat cheese. —Diana Neves, Lafayette, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 each: 585 calories, 40g fat (13g saturated fat), 305mg cholesterol, 893mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 5g fiber), 21g protein.

Transform your kitchen into a French bakery with this easier-than-it-looks savory tart. Thanks to a sheet of store-bought puff pastry, the finished product will be ready to eat in less than an hour. Our readers suggest customizing the ingredients based on what you have on hand, such as goat cheese, chopped spinach and thyme.

32/40

Sweet Ham Steak

Total Time:15 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I need just three ingredients to fix this sweetly seasoned ham steak. It's a quick and easy main dish for brunch or any meal. —Nancy Smits, Markesan, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 3 ounces cooked ham: 269 calories, 17g fat (8g saturated fat), 84mg cholesterol, 1157mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 0 fiber), 18g protein.

Serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs, toast and hash browns. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making sure to include the pan juices to keep the meat tender and moist.

33/40

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Contest Winner
Total Time:50 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I keep frozen spuds on hand for meals like this Tater Tot breakfast casserole. It’s a super brunch, breakfast or side dish for kids of all ages. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 443 calories, 29g fat (12g saturated fat), 243mg cholesterol, 917mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.

Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it until it’s ready to bake. Have fun adding whatever veggies you have on hand, like broccoli, mushrooms or tomatoes, into the egg mixture.

34/40

Pecan Coffee Cake

Total Time:45 min
Servings:15
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: My mom serves this nutty coffee cake for Christmas breakfast each year. The simple recipe is a big timesaver on such an event-filled morning. Everyone loves the crunchy topping. —Becky Wax, Tuscola, Illinois
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 335 calories, 16g fat (4g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 332mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (29g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.

Thanks to store-bought cake mix and a package of vanilla pudding mix, this quick recipe is ready in a flash, which is exactly what you need on a busy Christmas morning. A bit of orange juice adds extra flavor and sweetness.

35/40

Vegetable Strata

Total Time:1 hour 55 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: We always serve food at our Bunco games, and since one of us is a vegetarian, we like to make fun meatless dishes we all can enjoy. This strata can easily be doubled and tastes fantastic hot or at room temperature. —Doris Mancini, Port Orchard, Washington
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 677 calories, 36g fat (15g saturated fat), 244mg cholesterol, 940mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 5g fiber), 35g protein.

When you’re cooking for a crowd, keep a few recipes on hand for guests with dietary restrictions. This veggie-packed strata serves 12 and is fantastic for vegetarians and meat eaters alike.

36/40

Cheddar-Butternut Squash Clafoutis

Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour 10 min
Servings:6
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: I came up with this savory version of the classic French dessert clafoutis and shared it for dinner with a salad. My friends loved it, but in the end I could have eaten the whole pan myself while dreaming of being in Paris with every scrumptious bite. —Joseph A. Sciascia, San Mateo, California
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 357 calories, 22g fat (11g saturated fat), 176mg cholesterol, 586mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.

A clafoutis is a baked French dessert that typically includes fruit, but we’re mixing things up with a savory version that tastes as fantastic as it looks. Serve it alongside one of our favorite French recipes.

37/40

Colorful Vegetable Frittata

Total Time:1 hour 5 min
Servings:12
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: A friend called and asked me for a special recipe that he could serve at his daughter's wedding brunch. I created this recipe for the special day. —Kristin Arnett, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 270 calories, 19g fat (10g saturated fat), 256mg cholesterol, 377mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 16g protein.
38/40

Corned Beef Hash and Eggs

Total Time:35 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: Sunday breakfasts have always been special in our house. It's fun to get in the kitchen and cook with the kids. No matter how many new recipes we try, the kids always rate this No. 1! —Rick Skildum, Maple Grove, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts: 1 serving: 442 calories, 30g fat (6g saturated fat), 242mg cholesterol, 895mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 20g protein.

Even if you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, you can still make this recipe. Instead of transferring the pan to the oven and cracking the eggs into the hash, keep it on the stovetop. Put on the lid and cook until the egg whites set and the yolk is cooked to your liking.

39/40

Broccoli Ham Quiche

Contest Winner
Total Time:1 hour 15 min
Servings:8
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: This rich ham and broccoli quiche is featured in a family cookbook I put together. My husband is proof that quiche can satisfy even a very healthy appetite. —Marilyn Day, North Fort Myers, Florida
Nutrition Facts: 1 piece: 269 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 124mg cholesterol, 436mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 15g protein.

It’s a fact: Quiche makes everything more fancy, and this winning recipe is a must-try. Use an unbaked deep-dish pie crust to make things quick and easy.

40/40

Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes

Total Time:30 min
Servings:2
Test Kitchen Approved
From the Recipe Creator: These pumpkin pancakes are also delicious served with butter or whipped topping and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Freeze any extras in a single layer on a cookie sheet, then store in a freezer bag. They're great fresh out of the toaster! —Mindy Bauknecht, Two Rivers, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts: 3 pancakes: 361 calories, 11g fat (2g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 600mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (23g sugars, 4g fiber), 12g protein.

Note that this recipe calls for canned pumpkin instead of fresh. While it might be tempting to use fresh pumpkin, the flavor is actually more balanced when you use the canned stuff!

Christmas Brunch Ideas FAQ

What do you serve at a Christmas brunch?

A simple but hearty Christmas brunch includes cheesy scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, toast, and some fruit like grapes, apples or a fruit salad. If your family has more of a sweet tooth in the morning, pancakes, waffles and French toast are all great additions to a spread or served on their own.

Whichever Christmas breakfast ideas you go with, don’t forget the drinks! Orange or apple juice are perfect for little ones, while the grown-ups can indulge in a banana bread latte or a holiday mimosa.

What is a good menu for Christmas brunch?

A good holiday brunch menu contains sweet and savory dishes likes eggs, a breakfast meat, pancakes or waffles, hash browns, cinnamon rolls, and fresh fruit and veggies. If you’re hosting your whole family for Christmas brunch, your chic menu could consist of quiches, a green salad, yogurt parfaits and a few pastries.

Those who are having a more casual Christmas morning can serve sheet-pan pancakes, some sunny-side up eggs, bacon and stuffed hash browns.

What can I make ahead for Christmas brunch?

There are a ton of easy brunch recipes you can make ahead for Christmas, like overnight breakfast casseroles, baked goods and slow-cooker recipes. Some of my favorite make-ahead Christmas breakfast ideas include baked French toast, muffins, mini egg cups, chia pudding, and baked oatmeal topped with berries and maple syrup.

Pancakes, waffles and slices of French toast can also be cooked a few days in advance, then warmed on Christmas morning for a minimal-effort meal that’s still homemade. You could even make ahead some gingerbread or butter pecan syrup for an extra-special touch.