11 Make-Ahead Christmas Breakfast Recipes That Save You Time

With the holiday season just around the corner, I’m excited to share my favorite make-ahead Christmas breakfast recipes that will make your morning so much easier. Picture waking up to the warm aroma of an Overnight Cinnamon Roll Casserole or enjoying the savory comfort of a Sausage and Cheese Strata. These recipes are perfect for transforming a busy morning into a cozy, festive time. Plus, there’s something for everyone, no matter your taste or dietary needs. Let’s get started with these delicious ideas!

Overnight Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Overnight Cinnamon Roll Casserole is the perfect make-ahead breakfast dish to guarantee a stress-free Christmas morning. This delightful casserole captures all the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls, but with the convenience of preparing everything the night before.

Imagine waking up to the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your home, all without the hustle and bustle of morning preparation. This dish comes together effortlessly, allowing you to focus on enjoying your holiday with loved ones.

The magic of this casserole lies in its ability to transform simple ingredients into a decadent, yet comforting breakfast treat. Soft, pillowy bread cubes are soaked in a rich cinnamon-infused custard overnight, allowing each piece to absorb the sweet flavors and bake to perfection the next day.

Topped with a drizzle of icing, this casserole becomes an irresistible centerpiece for your Christmas breakfast table. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or celebrating with a more intimate group, this recipe serves 4-6 people, guaranteeing everyone starts their day with a smile.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, cubed (about 8 cups)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• For the icing:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread Base: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, guaranteeing an even mix of any crust and soft parts. If using, mix in the chopped pecans and raisins for added texture and flavor.
2. Create the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined. This mixture will be your custard base, which will soak into the bread overnight.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Spread the bread mixture evenly in the dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, guaranteeing all pieces are well soaked. Gently press down with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
4. Chill Overnight: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to absorb the custard flavors fully.
5. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole for added richness. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
6. Prepare the Icing: While the casserole bakes, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the prepared icing over the top before serving warm. This dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a side of crispy bacon for a complete breakfast experience.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider using day-old bread, as it tends to soak up the custard better without becoming mushy. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the custard or the icing.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different add-ins, such as walnuts or dried cranberries, to suit your family’s taste preferences. Remember to allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting to allow the custard to set further, guaranteeing clean slices and a deliciously satisfying breakfast.

Make-Ahead Breakfast Burritos

There’s nothing quite like waking up to a delicious breakfast on Christmas morning, but the last thing you want is to spend too much time in the kitchen when you could be enjoying time with your loved ones. That’s where these Make-Ahead Breakfast Burritos come in handy. Packed with protein and flavor, these burritos can be prepared in advance and simply reheated when you’re ready to eat.

They’re perfect for a busy holiday morning, providing a satisfying meal that will keep everyone energized for the festivities ahead.

These breakfast burritos are filled with fluffy scrambled eggs, savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. They’re customizable, so you can easily swap in your favorite ingredients or accommodate dietary needs. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just your family, this recipe yields enough for 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a holiday breakfast.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 8 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 1 cup frozen hash browns
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large flour tortillas
• Salsa, for serving (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and drain any excess grease.
2. Cook the Hash Browns: In the same skillet, add the frozen hash browns. Cook according to package instructions until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Scramble the Eggs: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Melt butter in the skillet over medium-low heat, then pour in the egg mixture. Gently stir with a spatula until the eggs are cooked through but still soft. Remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Burritos: Lay out the flour tortillas. Evenly distribute the scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, hash browns, and shredded cheese among them. Fold in the sides of each tortilla, then roll them up tightly to form burritos.
5. Wrap and Store: Wrap each burrito individually in foil or plastic wrap. Place them in a large resealable plastic bag or container, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
6. Reheat Before Serving: To reheat, remove the foil or plastic wrap and place the burritos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes if refrigerated, or 3-4 minutes if frozen, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.

Extra Tips:

For an added flavor boost, consider adding ingredients such as sautéed bell peppers, onions, or diced tomatoes to the egg mixture. If you prefer a spicier burrito, include jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

To guarantee the tortillas remain soft and pliable, warm them briefly in the microwave before assembling the burritos. If you freeze the burritos, label them with the date to keep track of freshness. Enjoy these convenient and delicious breakfast burritos with a side of salsa for an extra kick!

Savory Sausage and Cheese Strata

Savory Sausage and Cheese Strata is the perfect make-ahead breakfast dish for Christmas morning. This delightful casserole combines layers of crusty bread, savory sausage, and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a rich custard base.

The beauty of this recipe is that it can be prepared the night before, allowing the flavors to meld together overnight. On Christmas morning, simply pop it in the oven and enjoy a stress-free breakfast that feels celebratory yet comforting.

Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or enjoying a cozy breakfast with loved ones, this strata is sure to please. The combination of savory sausage and cheese with the soft, custardy bread is a crowd-pleaser, and its preparation ahead of time means you can relax and join in the festivities without spending the morning in the kitchen.

Serve this dish with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance out its richness.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 6 cups cubed crusty bread (such as French or sourdough)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and cook the sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Remove the sausage from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
2. Sauté the Onion: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Bread: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the dish.
4. Add Sausage and Cheese: Layer the cooked sausage and sautéed onion over the bread. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
5. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
6. Assemble the Strata: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese in the baking dish. Press down gently with a spatula to guarantee the bread absorbs the custard.
7. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Bake, uncovered, for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips

For the best texture, use day-old or slightly stale bread, as it will absorb the custard better.

Feel free to customize the strata by adding other ingredients such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. If you’re preparing this dish for a larger crowd, simply double the recipe and use a larger baking dish.

For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add more vegetables or a meat substitute. Enjoy this delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to become a holiday favorite!

Classic French Toast Bake

Start your Christmas morning with a delightful Classic French Toast Bake. This make-ahead breakfast dish combines the rich flavors of traditional French toast with the convenience of a casserole.

With its golden, crispy top and custardy interior, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The beauty of this recipe is that you can prepare it the night before, allowing you to relax and enjoy your holiday morning without worry.

The Classic French Toast Bake is perfect for serving a group of 4-6 people. It features layers of sliced bread soaked in a sweet and creamy egg mixture, then baked to perfection.

Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup, it’s a festive treat that everyone will love. Pair it with fresh fruit or sausage links for a complete holiday breakfast experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch slices
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Powdered sugar, for serving
• Maple syrup, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Arrange the slices of French bread in the dish, slightly overlapping them to fit snugly.

2. Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

3. Assemble the Bake: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread, helping it absorb the custard.

Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top, if using.

4. Chill Overnight: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, ensuring a creamy texture.

5. Preheat the Oven: On Christmas morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

6. Bake the French Toast: Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Drizzle melted butter over the top, then bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm with maple syrup on the side.

Extra Tips:

For a more decadent version, try adding a layer of cream cheese or mascarpone between the bread slices before pouring the custard.

If you prefer a crispier top, consider turning on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

This dish can also be customized with different spices or extracts, such as almond or rum, to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Veggie-Packed Frittata Muffins

Start your Christmas morning with a delightful and nutritious breakfast that requires minimal effort on the big day. These Veggie-Packed Frittata Muffins are perfect for making ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free holiday breakfast with your loved ones.

Loaded with colorful vegetables and savory cheese, these muffins aren’t only visually appealing but bursting with flavor. They’re a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet and are perfect for a crowd, serving 4-6 people.

These frittata muffins are versatile and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add some cooked bacon or sausage for a meatier version.

Prepare them the night before, and simply reheat them on Christmas morning for a warm and delicious start to your holiday festivities. Pair them with fresh fruit and a hot cup of coffee for a complete breakfast experience.

Ingredients:

• 8 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by spraying it generously with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the muffins from sticking.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they’re slightly softened. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Mix the Egg Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the sautéed vegetables, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Fill the Muffin Tin: Pour the egg mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Make sure that the vegetables and cheese are evenly distributed among the cups.
5. Bake the Muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are set and lightly golden on top. A toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin should come out clean.
6. Cool and Store: Allow the frittata muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Extra Tips:

To make these Veggie-Packed Frittata Muffins even more flavorful, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley. If you prefer a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.

When reheating, cover the muffins with a damp paper towel and microwave on medium power to make sure they remain moist. These muffins can also be frozen for up to a month, making them a convenient option for busy holiday mornings.

Cranberry Orange Scones

Start your Christmas morning with the delightful aroma of freshly baked Cranberry Orange Scones. These scones are the perfect blend of tangy cranberries and zesty orange, offering a revitalizing burst of flavor to kickstart your holiday festivities. Not only are they delicious, but they can also be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free morning with your loved ones.

Whether you’re serving them as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, these scones are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s faces. This recipe for Cranberry Orange Scones is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people, guaranteeing there’s enough to go around. The scones are light, flaky, and incredibly easy to make. Plus, with the make-ahead option, you can simply bake them fresh in the morning without the hassle of preparation.

Let’s plunge into the ingredients and steps to create these festive delights.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 2/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)
• 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir well to confirm the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will create the flaky texture desired in scones.
4. Add Cranberries and Orange Zest: Stir in the dried cranberries and orange zest, making sure they’re well distributed throughout the flour mixture.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until the dough begins to come together. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the scones tough.
7. Shape the Scones: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently a few times to bring it together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut the circle into 8 wedges, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Prepare for Baking: Brush the tops of the scones with milk and sprinkle with turbinado sugar for a sweet, crunchy topping.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow the scones to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Extra Tips:

For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the scone dough and cut it into wedges the night before. Store the unbaked scones in the refrigerator, covered, and bake them fresh in the morning. This will guarantee you have warm, freshly baked scones without the morning rush.

Additionally, if you prefer a glaze, you can mix powdered sugar with a little orange juice and drizzle it over the cooled scones for added sweetness.

Easy Quiche Lorraine

Celebrate Christmas morning with a delectable Easy Quiche Lorraine that’s bound to impress your family and guests. This classic French dish combines a buttery, flaky crust with a rich, savory filling of eggs, cream, cheese, and bacon.

Preparing this quiche ahead of time allows you to enjoy a stress-free morning, so you can focus on the joy of the holiday. Simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve!

Designed to serve 4-6 people, this recipe guarantees that everyone gets a generous slice. The combination of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and creamy custard encased in a golden crust makes this quiche a perfect centerpiece for your breakfast table.

Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will be remembered long after the decorations come down.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the pie crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pre-made pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.

Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling.

2. Cook the bacon: In a medium skillet over medium heat, Cook the bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

Once cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

3. Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined and smooth.

4. Assemble the quiche: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the chilled pie crust. Add the shredded Gruyère cheese on top.

Pour the egg mixture over the bacon and cheese, making sure it’s evenly distributed.

5. Bake the quiche: Place the quiche in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.

A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

6. Cool and serve: Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh chives, if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Extra Tips:

For a make-ahead option, prepare the quiche the day before and store it in the refrigerator.

When ready to serve, reheat the quiche in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

You can also experiment with different fillings such as sautéed onions, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor.

Using a pre-made pie crust saves time, but if you prefer homemade, prepare the dough a day in advance for convenience.

Enjoy your festive breakfast with minimal effort!

Blueberry Almond Overnight Oats

Start your Christmas morning with a delightful and nutritious breakfast that’s as easy to prepare as it’s delicious. Blueberry Almond Overnight Oats are the perfect make-ahead dish that allows you to enjoy a stress-free holiday morning with your loved ones. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of blueberries with the rich, nutty flavor of almonds, all nestled in a creamy blend of oats and milk.

It’s a meal that feels indulgent but is packed full of nutritional benefits, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the capacity to customize it to your taste. With just a few ingredients, you can prepare this dish the night before and let the refrigerator do the work while you sleep.

On Christmas morning, you’ll wake up to a ready-to-eat breakfast that will fuel your day of festivities. Whether you’re serving a small family gathering or a larger group, this recipe can be easily scaled up or down according to your needs.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 3 cups almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: extra blueberries and almonds for topping

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, blueberries, sliced almonds, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to guarantee all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Transfer to Containers: Divide the oat mixture evenly into mason jars or airtight containers. Make sure each container is sealed properly to keep the oats fresh.
3. Refrigerate Overnight: Place the jars or containers in the refrigerator and let the oats soak for at least 6-8 hours, or overnight. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and soften, creating a creamy texture.
4. Serve and Enjoy: In the morning, give each jar a good stir and top with additional blueberries and sliced almonds if desired. Serve chilled or, if preferred, microwave for a minute to enjoy warm.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use fresh blueberries when in season, but frozen blueberries work just as well and save time on preparation.

Customize this dish by adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of chia seeds for added protein and fiber. If you’re catering to different dietary preferences, feel free to substitute the almond milk with any plant-based milk or regular milk of your choice.

This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different nuts, fruits, or sweeteners to suit your family’s taste buds.

Sweet Potato and Spinach Breakfast Casserole

Sweet Potato and Spinach Breakfast Casserole is a delightful and nutritious dish perfect for a make-ahead Christmas morning breakfast.

Combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory goodness of spinach and cheese, this casserole offers a hearty start to your holiday festivities. It’s easy to prepare in advance, meaning you can spend more time enjoying the holiday morning with family and friends rather than in the kitchen.

This dish isn’t only satisfying but also customizable, allowing you to add your favorite breakfast ingredients. Whether you prefer the classic combination of eggs and cheese or want to mix in some additional vegetables or meats, this casserole can be adapted to suit your taste.

Serve it alongside fresh fruit or a green salad for a complete breakfast that will keep everyone full and happy.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in an even layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
2. Sauté Onions and Spinach: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cheddar cheese, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the roasted sweet potatoes in an even layer on the bottom. Top with the sautéed onion and spinach mixture. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
5. Bake: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Extra Tips: For a more protein-rich version, consider adding cooked sausage or bacon to the casserole before baking.

You can also substitute other types of cheese such as feta or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator, making it an effortless morning meal. Just pop it in the oven when you wake up, and enjoy a warm, delicious breakfast with minimal fuss.

Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake

Make your Christmas morning extra special with a delicious Ham and Cheese Croissant Bake. This delightful dish combines the buttery richness of croissants with savory ham and melted cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will impress your family and friends. The best part? It’s a make-ahead recipe, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free morning by preparing most of the work the night before.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or simply want to treat your loved ones to a hearty breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite. The combination of flaky croissants, smoky ham, and gooey cheese creates a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it a practical yet indulgent choice for any festive occasion.

Ingredients for 4-6 people:

• 6 large croissants
• 8 ounces of sliced ham
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Begin by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This will also make cleanup easier after baking.
2. Layer the Croissants: Slice the croissants in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in the prepared dish. Distribute the sliced ham evenly over the croissants, followed by half of the shredded cheese. Place the top halves of the croissants back on top.
3. Make the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will hold the bake together and add a creamy texture.
4. Assemble the Bake: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered croissants, ensuring all pieces are well soaked. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top for extra cheesiness.
5. Chill and Set: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, or overnight if preparing ahead. This allows the croissants to absorb the egg mixture fully, resulting in a richer flavor.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the dish in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set.
7. Serve: Let the bake cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired, and serve warm to enjoy the full flavors.

Extra Tips:

For a more decadent version, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyere or sharp cheddar. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.

Confirm the croissants are day-old or slightly stale, as they’ll absorb the egg mixture better, resulting in a firmer bake. Finally, if you’re in a rush, you can reduce the soaking time, but the flavors will be more pronounced with overnight refrigeration.

Gingerbread Pancake Mix

Gingerbread Pancake Mix is a delightful and festive twist on the classic breakfast favorite, perfect for Christmas morning. This aromatic blend of spices and molasses will fill your kitchen with the warm scents of the holiday season, making it an ideal make-ahead option for a stress-free holiday breakfast.

Not only is this pancake mix easy to assemble, but it also allows you to enjoy a leisurely morning with friends and family, as everything can be prepared in advance. By preparing the dry mix ahead of time, you can simply add a few wet ingredients when you’re ready to cook, guaranteeing a quick and delicious breakfast.

The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates a cozy and comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. Whether you’re serving a small family or a larger group, this Gingerbread Pancake Mix recipe is sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday festivities.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dry Mix: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt until well combined. Store in an airtight container if preparing in advance.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, molasses, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Make sure the butter has cooled slightly to prevent cooking the eggs.
3. Mix Together: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mix, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are okay.
4. Preheat the Griddle: Heat a non-stick griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
5. Cook Pancakes: Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to look set, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve: Serve warm with your choice of toppings such as maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee your pancakes are fluffy and light, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can result in dense pancakes. If preparing the dry mix ahead of time, label the container with the date and any additional instructions needed for adding the wet ingredients.

For an added touch of holiday cheer, consider serving the pancakes with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Enjoy the festive flavors and the joy of a relaxed Christmas morning breakfast!