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Let’s be honest, my favorite part of ANY holiday is the food. Eating season, baby! Specially after Lent, if you gave up any specific food item. But Easter is more than just a day for egg hunts and chocolate bunnies; it’s also a time to gather with family and friends around the table for a delicious feast.
This year, why not shake things up by celebrating Easter brunch instead of the traditional dinner? Brunch offers a fresh, vibrant feel to the holiday, and it’s the perfect opportunity to try new dishes while keeping your favorite traditions alive. Plus, it’s a chance to honor Jesus and reflect on the true meaning of Easter as you break bread together.
Table of Contents
The Essence of Easter
Why Choose Brunch?
The Brunch Buffet
Fluffy French Toast Casserole
Breakfast Burrito Bar
Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Savory Spinach and Feta Quiche
Fried Chicken and Waffles
Berry Medley with Honey-Lime Drizzle
Savory Sides
Baked Parmesan Asparagus
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
Easter Themed Sweet Treats
Easter Egg Cookies
Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Chocolate Easter Egg Nest Cookies
Beverage Options
Setting the Scene
The Essence of Easter
Before diving into the delicious dishes, let’s take a moment to remember the significance of Easter. It’s the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. As you gather around your brunch table, consider incorporating a few elements to honor this profound occasion. You might start the day with a family prayer or share a meaningful scripture that reflects the spirit of resurrection, such as John 11:25-26, where Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” Or Matthew 28:5-6, which highlights the joy and hope that Easter represents.
Brunch is a delightful blend of breakfast and lunch, allowing for a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. It’s an opportunity to break away from the traditional heavy Easter dinners that can sometimes feel overwhelming. With brunch, you can enjoy lighter fare, sweet treats, and, of course, a splash of bubbly (if you choose)—because let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to sip on mimosas or a Bloody Mary at brunch? Plus, brunch gives you more time to enjoy the beautiful spring weather and engage in fun activities with the family.
The Brunch Buffet
The best way to serve any brunch is buffet style! In my family, we also do brunch buffet as a potluck because it takes most of the load off the host and allows everyone to get in on the fun! Feel free to share this post with them and let them pick which dish they want to bring!
Fluffy French Toast Casserole
A sweet and satisfying dish that can be prepared the night before, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.
Ingredients:
1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, cut into cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp cinnamon
Maple syrup for serving
Directions:
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon.
Grease a baking dish and layer the bread cubes inside. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, pressing down gently.
Cover and refrigerate overnight. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and set. Serve warm with maple syrup.
Breakfast Burrito Bar
Set up a DIY breakfast burrito bar with all the fixings!
Ingredients:
Large flour tortillas
Scrambled eggs
Chorizo or sausage, cooked
Shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack)
Sautéed peppers and onions
Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for toppings
Directions:
Prepare all ingredients in separate bowls.
Let guests build their burritos with their choice of fillings and toppings.
Fluffy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Start your brunch with light and airy pancakes that burst with citrus flavor. These pancakes are a delightful twist on the traditional flapjack.
Ingredients:
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk
Zest of one lemon
Juice of one lemon
2 tbsp sugar
2 tsp baking powder
A pinch of salt
Directions:
In a bowl, whisk together the ricotta, eggs, milk, lemon zest, and juice.
In another bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined (don’t overmix!).
Cook on a buttered griddle over medium heat until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup or fresh berries.
Savory Spinach and Feta Quiche
This quiche is a crowd-pleaser and can be made ahead of time. It’s perfect for those who prefer a heartier dish.
Ingredients:
1 pre-made pie crust
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
4 eggs
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Whisk together eggs and cream in a bowl, season with salt and pepper.
Layer the spinach and feta in the pie crust and pour the egg mixture over the top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set and lightly golden. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Fried Chicken and Waffles
This sweet and savory dish is a showstopper at any brunch. It’s indulgent and sure to impress your guests! Best of all, if you plan ahead, it’s the simplest dish you’ll serve!
Fried Chicken Ingredients:
4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying
Waffles Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups milk
1/2 cup melted butter
Directions:
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
Easy route: Plan ahead and get Chic-Fil-A chicken nuggets on Saturday before Easter.
Pro tip: Do NOT EAT all the chicken nuggies before brunch! May the odds be ever in your favor!
Prepare the Waffles: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Preheat your waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Easy Route: If you have a Costco or Sams, they usually have premade Belgian waffles ready to go that are sweet and fluffy!
Pro Tip: If they don’t, just make them from this recipe (wink)!
Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Dredge the marinated chicken in flour and fry until golden brown and cooked through (about 12-15 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
Serve: Stack the fried chicken on top of the waffles (Same for the easy route) for a delightful brunch experience! Serve maple syrup in a small serving dish on the side.
Fresh and Fruity Options
Berry Medley with Honey-Lime Drizzle
A refreshing fruit salad that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
2 cups strawberries, sliced
2 cups blueberries
2 cups raspberries
2 cups kiwi, sliced
Juice of 1 lime
2 tbsp honey
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine all the berries and kiwi.
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and honey. Drizzle over the fruit and toss gently to coat.
Mini Fruit Tarts
Individual fruit tarts that are both beautiful and delicious.
Ingredients:
1 package of pre-made pastry shells
1 cup vanilla pudding or pastry cream
Assorted fresh fruit (kiwi, strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Directions:
Fill each pastry shell with vanilla pudding.
Top with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Easter Fruit Salad
Bring a burst of color to your table with a vibrant fruit salad that looks as good as it tastes! You can serve the fruit in an egg-shaped dish for a fun Easter twist.
Ingredients:
2 cups strawberries, sliced
2 cups blueberries
2 cups kiwi, sliced
1 cup pineapple, diced
1 cup grapes
Juice of one orange
Mint leaves for garnish
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine all the fruits.
Drizzle with orange juice and toss gently to combine.
Garnish with mint leaves and serve chilled.
Savory Sides
Baked Parmesan Asparagus
A light, savory side that’s easy to make and adds a pop of color.
Ingredients:
1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then place on a baking sheet.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and roast for 15-20 minutes until tender.
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
This vibrant salad brings a fresh crunch to your table and is a delightful contrast to the richness of other brunch dishes.
Ingredients:
1 lb Brussels sprouts, thinly sliced
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
1/4 cup almonds, slivered
1/4 cup dried cranberries
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large bowl, toss the shaved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Add the shaved Parmesan, almonds, and cranberries, mixing well.
Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
If you want it warm, crisp the Brussels in the oven on Broil before combining the ingredients. But watch them like a hawk, they WILL burn if you let your guard down for pequeño momento!
Easter Themed Sweet Treats
No brunch is complete without a few sweet bites! Try making these adorable Easter Egg Cookies or Carrot Cake Cupcakes topped with cream cheese frosting.
Easter Egg Cookies Ingredients:
Sugar cookie dough (homemade or store-bought)
Colorful frosting
Edible decorations like sprinkles
Directions:
Roll out the sugar cookie dough and cut into egg shapes.
Bake according to the package or recipe instructions.
Once cooled, let the kids decorate with frosting and sprinkles for fun!
Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
A classic Easter dessert that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
2 cups grated carrots
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with liners.
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together oil, eggs, carrots, and pineapple. Combine with dry ingredients until just mixed.
Fill muffin cups and bake for 18-20 minutes. Let cool.
For the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter, then add powdered sugar and vanilla. Frost the cooled cupcakes.
Chocolate Easter Egg Nest Cookies
Fun and festive cookies that kids will love to help make!
Ingredients:
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup sugar
1 egg
2 cups chow mein noodles
1/2 cup chocolate eggs (mini chocolate eggs for decoration)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix peanut butter, sugar, and egg in a bowl until well combined.
Fold in chow mein noodles to create the “nest.”
Spoon the mixture onto a baking sheet and make a small indentation in the center.
Bake for 10 minutes and let cool before placing chocolate eggs in the center.
Beverage Options
A great brunch isn’t complete without refreshing beverages! Here are some drink ideas that will complement your spread perfectly:
Mimosas
A classic brunch cocktail made with equal parts champagne and orange juice. For a twist, try using different juices like mango, peach, or pomegranate!
Bloody Marys
This savory drink can be customized with various garnishes such as celery, olives, and even bacon. It’s the perfect drink for those who enjoy a little spice!
Freshly Brewed Coffee
A must-have for any brunch! Offer a variety of creamers, flavored syrups, and toppings like whipped cream or cinnamon to allow guests to customize their coffee.
Iced Tea or Lemonade
For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, provide iced tea (sweetened or unsweetened) or fresh lemonade. You can even add mint or berries for a fun twist!
Setting the Scene
Create a beautiful table setting that reflects the joy of the season. Use pastel colors, fresh flowers, and decorative napkins to evoke a springtime feel. Don’t forget the little touches, like bunny figurines or decorative eggs, to enhance your Easter theme.
Simple Table Decoration Ideas:
Fresh Flowers: Use daffodils, tulips, or lilies as centerpieces.
Colorful Tableware: Choose plates and napkins in spring colors.
Easter Accents: Scatter decorative eggs or mini bunnies on the table for a festive touch.
Extra (like me) table decor:
The Serving Tables: Adorn the serving tables with serving platters of varying heights and absolutely stuff the empty spaces and nooks with flowers, baby’s breath and eucalyptus. Place rechargeable candles throughout the display for a charming and elevated touch.
Dining Table: Display a long table runner of white linen down the center, using the same flowers, and candles as the serving tables throughout the center. Place the fresh fruit and smaller esthetic servings in convenient to reach places down the table and paint a true visual feast for the guests.
The moment: for that truly stunning moment that will generate all the ooo’s and awe’s, create a hanging bouquet of flowers above the dining table. You can make it as elegantly minimalistic or as grandiose as you would like. You can even use fake flowers (for bulk) and then sprinkle real ones throughout for that floral aroma to waft gently over your table like a beautiful dream! And of course, a plethora of fairy lights in and around the bouquet.
I can’t be the only extravagant one here! Where are my extra peeps?! Shout out in the comments!
No easter would be complete without a proper easter egg hunt!
I wrote “Easter Egg Hunt Ideas to Delight Kids of All Ages”to get your creative mind working on ways to refresh the traditional easter egg hunt! I hope you have as much fun reading it as I had writing it! Enjoy!
This Easter brunch is not just about delicious food, though it’s one of my favorite things; it’s an opportunity to gather with loved ones, create new memories, and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.
So roll up your sleeves, and resurrect those taste buds with a brunch that’s colorful, light and refreshing, like the promise of eternal life!
What is your go-to Easter recipes that you love to make year-after-year?! And which one are you excited to try for the first time this year? Let me know in the comments!