10 Magical Christmas Breakfast Recipes to Spark Joy
Christmas morning: a time for family, presents, and of course, a delicious and memorable breakfast! Forget the usual rush; this Christmas, savor the moment with a special breakfast that sets the tone for a joyful day. These ten recipes range from sweet and decadent to savory and comforting, ensuring there’s something for everyone at your Christmas table.
## 1. Gingerbread Pancakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze
These aren’t your average pancakes. Infused with the warm spices of gingerbread and topped with a tangy lemon cream cheese glaze, they are a festive delight.
**Ingredients:**
**For the Pancakes:**
* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ½ teaspoon ground cloves
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 1 ½ cups milk
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Molasses for drizzling (optional)
**For the Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze:**
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 2 cups powdered sugar
* 2 tablespoons milk
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* ½ teaspoon lemon zest
**Instructions:**
**Pancakes:**
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
4. Heat a lightly greased griddle or frying pan over medium heat.
5. Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately with a drizzle of molasses (optional) and the lemon cream cheese glaze.
**Lemon Cream Cheese Glaze:**
1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
3. Add the milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest and beat until light and fluffy.
4. Drizzle over the gingerbread pancakes.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add chopped crystallized ginger to the batter for an extra kick.
* Substitute maple syrup for molasses.
* Top with whipped cream and cranberries for a festive touch.
## 2. Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
A decadent and easy casserole that combines the best of both worlds: cinnamon rolls and French toast. Perfect for feeding a crowd!
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (12.4 ounce) can refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
* 6 large eggs
* 1 cup milk
* 1/4 cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* Pinch of salt
* Butter, for greasing the baking dish
**Instructions:**
1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
2. Open the can of cinnamon rolls and separate each roll. Cut each roll into quarters. Arrange the cinnamon roll pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls. Gently press down on the rolls to ensure they are submerged in the egg mixture.
5. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the egg mixture is set.
8. While the casserole is baking, prepare the icing that came with the cinnamon rolls.
9. Drizzle the icing over the warm casserole before serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the casserole for extra crunch.
* Substitute brioche bread for the cinnamon rolls for a more traditional French toast casserole.
* Serve with fresh berries and whipped cream.
## 3. Eggs Benedict with Smoked Salmon
Elevate your Christmas breakfast with this classic dish featuring flaky smoked salmon, perfectly poached eggs, and a rich hollandaise sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 English muffins, split and toasted
* 8 slices smoked salmon
* 4 large eggs
* 2 tablespoons white vinegar
**For the Hollandaise Sauce:**
* 3 large egg yolks
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* Pinch of cayenne pepper
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and hot
**Instructions:**
**Hollandaise Sauce:**
1. In a heatproof bowl set over a simmering pot of water (double boiler), whisk together the egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne pepper until light and frothy.
2. Gradually whisk in the hot melted butter, a little at a time, until the sauce is thick and emulsified. Be careful not to overheat the sauce, or the eggs will scramble.
3. Remove from heat and set aside, keeping warm.
**Poached Eggs:**
1. Fill a large saucepan with about 3 inches of water and bring to a simmer. Add the white vinegar.
2. Crack each egg into a separate small bowl.
3. Create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water with a spoon. Gently slide one egg at a time into the center of the whirlpool.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny.
5. Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
**Assembly:**
1. Place two toasted English muffin halves on each plate.
2. Top each muffin half with two slices of smoked salmon.
3. Carefully place a poached egg on top of the smoked salmon.
4. Spoon hollandaise sauce over the egg.
5. Serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use Canadian bacon instead of smoked salmon.
* Add a sprinkle of chopped chives or paprika for garnish.
* Make the hollandaise sauce ahead of time and keep it warm in a thermos.
## 4. Cranberry Orange Scones
These scones are bursting with festive flavors, making them a perfect accompaniment to your Christmas morning coffee or tea.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/3 cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
* 1/2 cup dried cranberries
* 1/4 cup orange zest
* 3/4 cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing
* 2 tablespoons coarse sugar, for sprinkling
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the dried cranberries and orange zest.
5. Gradually add the heavy cream, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick circle.
7. Cut the circle into 8 wedges.
8. Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
9. Brush the tops of the scones with heavy cream and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
10. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Let cool slightly before serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries, but chop them finely.
* Add a drizzle of orange glaze after baking.
* Serve with clotted cream and jam.
## 5. Reindeer Pancakes
A fun and festive breakfast for the kids (and the young at heart!). These reindeer pancakes are easy to make and sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
**Ingredients:**
* Your favorite pancake batter (homemade or store-bought)
* Strawberries, sliced
* Blueberries
* Chocolate chips or mini chocolate chips
* Pretzel sticks
* Whipped cream (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare your pancake batter according to the instructions.
2. Pour the batter onto a hot, lightly greased griddle or frying pan to form round pancakes.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Decorate the pancakes to resemble reindeer:
* Use sliced strawberries for the antlers.
* Use blueberries for the eyes.
* Use a chocolate chip (or mini chocolate chips) for the nose.
* Use pretzel sticks for additional antlers.
* Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra festive fun.
5. Serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use a squeeze bottle to create the pancake shapes more precisely.
* Let the kids help decorate the pancakes for a fun activity.
* Add sprinkles for extra Christmas cheer.
## 6. Breakfast Burrito Bar
This is a great option for a casual and customizable Christmas breakfast. Set out all the ingredients and let everyone build their own perfect burrito.
**Ingredients:**
* Flour tortillas
* Scrambled eggs
* Cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, crumbled
* Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
* Diced tomatoes
* Diced onions
* Avocado, sliced or mashed
* Salsa
* Sour cream
* Hot sauce (optional)
* Cooked potatoes (optional)
* Black beans (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare all the ingredients and arrange them in separate bowls or containers.
2. Warm the tortillas slightly.
3. Let everyone assemble their own burritos with their favorite fillings.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Offer vegetarian options like tofu scramble or sautéed vegetables.
* Make a batch of homemade salsa for an extra special touch.
* Set out a slow cooker with pulled pork or shredded chicken for a heartier option.
## 7. Christmas Morning Coffee Cake
This festive coffee cake is studded with cranberries and topped with a crunchy streusel topping, making it a perfect treat to enjoy with your morning coffee.
**Ingredients:**
**For the Cake:**
* 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* ½ teaspoon baking soda
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup sour cream
* 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
**For the Streusel Topping:**
* ½ cup all-purpose flour
* ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
* ¼ cup rolled oats
* ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ¼ cup (½ stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
**Instructions:**
**Streusel Topping:**
1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Set aside.
**Cake:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Gently fold in the cranberries.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
8. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping.
* Substitute other berries for the cranberries.
* Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze after baking.
## 8. Sausage and Cheese Strata
This make-ahead breakfast casserole is perfect for a stress-free Christmas morning. It’s packed with savory sausage, cheese, and bread, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage
* 1 loaf (1 pound) Italian bread, cubed
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 6 large eggs
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Spread half of the cubed bread in the bottom of the baking dish. Top with half of the cooked sausage and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat layers with the remaining bread, sausage, and cheese. If using, sprinkle chopped vegetables over the cheese layer
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese.
6. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and the egg mixture is set.
9. Let cool slightly before serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
* Add a sprinkle of paprika for color.
* Use croissants or brioche bread instead of Italian bread.
## 9. Peppermint Mocha Oatmeal
A warm and comforting breakfast that tastes like a decadent holiday treat. This peppermint mocha oatmeal is a delicious and healthy way to start your Christmas morning.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup rolled oats
* 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or maple syrup
* ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
* Pinch of salt
* Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
* Chocolate shavings, for topping (optional)
* Crushed peppermint candy, for topping (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, cocoa powder, sugar or maple syrup, peppermint extract, and salt.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the oatmeal is thick and creamy, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour the oatmeal into bowls and top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and crushed peppermint candy, if desired.
4. Serve immediately.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use steel-cut oats for a chewier texture.
* Add a shot of espresso for a stronger coffee flavor.
* Stir in a tablespoon of chocolate chips for extra decadence.
## 10. Christmas Tree Waffles
Make breakfast extra festive with these adorable Christmas tree waffles! A simple and fun way to celebrate the holiday season.
**Ingredients:**
* Your favorite waffle batter (homemade or store-bought)
* Green food coloring
* Sprinkles
* Powdered sugar
* Fresh berries
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare your waffle batter according to the instructions.
2. Add a few drops of green food coloring to the batter and mix well.
3. Pour the green batter into a waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Cut the waffles into triangle shapes to resemble Christmas trees.
5. Decorate the waffles with sprinkles to look like ornaments.
6. Dust with powdered sugar to resemble snow.
7. Serve with fresh berries.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out a star for the top of the tree.
* Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra flavor.
* Serve with whipped cream and a cherry on top.
No matter which recipe you choose, a special Christmas breakfast is sure to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Happy Holidays!