A Few of Our Favorite Things: Christmas Breakfast and Brunch Recipe Ideas

Whether your Christmas morning tradition is a festive cinnamon roll enjoyed amid a riot of wrapping paper and joyful squeals or a leisurely brunch with loved ones, we have recipes fit for the merry occasion. We’ve put together a list of our favorite breads, rolls and pastries (including some make-ahead options) for this wonderful time of year. 

Sweet Rolls: A Christmas Classic

1. Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls

These caramel pecan cinnamon rolls are a fan favorite for good reason. They’re soft and gooey, with a satisfying pecan crunch. But in our opinion, it’s the salted caramel sauce that really sets them apart from other sticky rolls.

2. Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Is there anything more delightful than waking up to the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls? With this make-ahead recipe, you don’t have to be up at the crack of dawn to infuse your home with the heavenly smells. You’ll want these tender yeast cinnamon rolls on the menu Christmas morn.

3. White Chocolate – Peppermint Sweet Rolls

Fresh and festive, these peppermint and white-chocolate sweet rolls are destined to become a family tradition. They go all in on the holiday vibe, swapping the traditional cinnamon and sugar spread for a peppermint, white chocolate and almonds mix. A thick cream cheese frosting topped with sprinkles of peppermint makes them oh so delightful.

4. Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree

Oh, Christmas tree, oh, Christmas tree! Embrace the spirit of the season with a cinnamon roll Christmas tree. Constructing the tree is simple. From there, you can let your creativity flow, bedazzling its boughs with sprinkles, candies and nuts. More of a minimalist? Arrange the frosted cinnamon rolls in an evergreen shape and call it good.

Breads that Embrace the Season’s Flavors

5. Raspberry Danish Twist Bread

This fruity pastry is a study in the art of balance. The buttery Danish pastry along with the slight raspberry acidity is a wonderful counter to the sweet vanilla icing. Plus, the raspberry/icing combo gives this round bread a decidedly festive look. Enjoy this flaky pastry Christmas morning or serve it as a festive dessert.

6. Hazelnut Twist Bread

With a spiced hazelnut filling and a rich hazelnut glaze, this yeasty twist bread channels some serious Christmas vibes. The bread’s intricate twists are impressive to behold but easy to execute. Golden sprinkles give the hazelnut twist bread some added zhoosh that’s just right for holiday brunches. This one comes with make-ahead options that are so clutch during the busy holiday season.

7. Cranberry Orange Babka

With its cranberry orange filling, this braided sweet bread delivers a riot of flavor and color that’s perfect for the holidays. For added flavor and convenience, you can let the dough rise overnight in the fridge. Enjoy the rich loaf at your holiday brunch or spread some cheer by gifting your festive babka to friends, coworkers or family.

Festive Pastries and Cakes

8. Homemade Yeast Coffee Cake

This no-knead coffee cake is delicious in all its variations — chocolate nut, orange-sugar or streusel. The no-fuss recipe uses ingredients you likely have on hand, and the citrus rind used in the dough gives it a bright flavor. We’re all about things merry and bright in the short days of December.

9. Bear Claws and Bear Paws

Rich, tender dough wrapped around a sweet almond filling … these rich pastries are decadent. Bear claws are a hit with children and adults alike. Add them to your Christmas spread and watch how quickly they disappear.

10. Le Gibassier

Simple, elegant, refined. Anise, candied orange peel and orange blossom water give this French Christmas tradition an old-world flavor. The leaf shape and dusting of sugar make these soft, buttery treats oh so whimsical.

We hope these recipes, selected with care, add joy to your Christmas morning. Indulge in more Christmas baking recipes celebrating the many flavors and traditions of the season. Bake merrily!