1/49
From the Recipe Creator:
There's no question that this is the best French toast recipe ever. The caramelized exterior meets a soft custardlike center that practically melts in your mouth. Not only that, but it's quick and easy too! —Audrey Rompon, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 pieces: 546 calories, 24g fat (15g saturated fat), 263mg cholesterol, 786mg sodium, 64g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.
Does it get any more classic than French toast? This is our best French toast recipe, and when plated with fruit and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar, it makes a great centerpiece for the brunch table.
2/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Chilaquiles is a traditional Mexican breakfast with fried crispy corn tortilla chips. They're quickly tossed in a smoky red chile sauce made with dried guajillo chiles, arbol and pasilla chiles, tomatoes, onion, garlic and a few spices. Top them with queso fresco, chopped onions, carnitas meat or a fried egg! —Ericka Sanchez, La Habra, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 352 calories, 19g fat (5g saturated fat), 199mg cholesterol, 909mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 6g fiber), 16g protein.
Chilaquiles (pronounced chee-luh-kee-laiz) is one of my favorite brunch recipes. Corn tortillas are coated in homemade salsa, then topped with savory favorites like queso fresco, onions, refried beans, cilantro, sour cream or a sunny-side up egg.
3/49
From the Recipe Creator:
When I married my husband, I discovered that his family has the best cinnamon roll recipe! I asked his mom how to make the homemade cinnamon rolls, and I've been making them ever since. Serve them with scrambled eggs, and you have a filling breakfast. As a variation, you can replace the filling with a mixture of raisins and pecans. —Shenai Fisher, Topeka, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll: 364 calories, 15g fat (9g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 323mg sodium, 53g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
The best cinnamon rolls are what you’d expect: soft and plush, with just the right amount of cinnamon filling, cream cheese frosting and coveted cinnamon roll nucleus. We made sure our best cinnamon rolls recipe ticked every single box. Here it is!
4/49
From the Recipe Creator:
I love how impressive this frittata looks when it comes out of the oven. It makes people you've invited for lunch feel special! —Jessica Gerschitz, Jericho, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 slice: 221 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 298mg cholesterol, 814mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 14g protein.
This dressed-up frittata feels so much more special than one made with random leftovers found in the fridge. Wild mushrooms, thyme, Parmesan and a little lemon zest create a European-style breakfast that’s a knockout with a hot honey peach bellini.
5/49
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.
Is it a dessert or breakfast? It’s both, and it’s delicious! Setting up the French toast ahead of time gives the bread plenty of time to soak up the yummy spiced milk.
6/49
From the Recipe Creator:
After finishing basic training in the U.S. Army, my first meal back was brunch. In the mess hall, they had different stations with brunch items and I opted for the chef making crepes. I remember eating those crepes and knowing that I'd be able to adjust to my new life. I was so inspired that I tried my hand at my own sweet and crunchy version. —Sharyn LaPointe Hill, Las Cruces, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
2 crepes: 624 calories, 41g fat (21g saturated fat), 85mg cholesterol, 347mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (32g sugars, 6g fiber), 11g protein.
These contest-winning crepes are begging for a brunch debut. Make the crepes before guests arrive and keep them warm in a 200°F oven with pieces of parchment or waxed paper between each one to prevent sticking. That way, you’re not standing over the stove making, flipping and filling crepes one by one after guests arrive.
7/49
From the Recipe Creator:
You just can't beat a basic buttermilk pancake for a down-home country breakfast. Paired with sausage and fresh fruit, these pancakes are just like the ones you get at Cracker Barrel. —Betty Abrey, Imperial, Saskatchewan
Nutrition Facts:
3 pancakes: 270 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 89mg cholesterol, 913mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 11g protein.
Buttermilk pancakes are a classic, but why? It’s all due to the fact that buttermilk’s acidity breaks down the gluten so the pancake’s texture is super tender. Plus, the acidity kickstarts the baking soda for a better rise and a fluffier pancake.
8/49
From the Recipe Creator:
A local blueberry grower shared this recipe with me, and it's the best breakfast dish I've ever tasted. With the cream cheese and berry combination, this French toast casserole reminds me of dessert. —Patricia Axelsen, Aurora, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 621 calories, 31g fat (15g saturated fat), 350mg cholesterol, 569mg sodium, 68g carbohydrate (44g sugars, 2g fiber), 19g protein.
This easy make-ahead French toast casserole is well-loved for a reason. A sweet mix of cream cheese and blueberries gets tossed with cubed bread in a trusty 13×9 pan. Left in the fridge overnight, the bread absorbs some of the liquid, becoming almost melty and custardy. Then it needs to bake for only 30 minutes in the morning, and breakfast is served.
9/49
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.
These saucy, eggy enchiladas are filled with chorizo, cheese and veggies. Assemble the enchiladas the night before, and then they’re quick to bake in the morning.
10/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Pair a slice of this moist lemon-blueberry cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It's a staple at our family barbecues. —Rebecca Little, Park Ridge, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 434 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 78mg cholesterol, 281mg sodium, 80g carbohydrate (54g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
This stunning pound cake harmonizes blueberries and lemons together into such a pretty treat for breakfast time. Lemon yogurt, lemon zest and lemon juice ensure the zippy flavor is prominent.
11/49
From the Recipe Creator:
These breakfast sliders combine all your favorite morning foods—like eggs, bacon and bagels—into one tasty package. —Rashanda Cobbins, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 slider: 417 calories, 26g fat (14g saturated fat), 253mg cholesterol, 1072mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.
Breakfast sliders are so easy to put together. Best of all, they’re all done at once, so there’s no need to assemble and heat breakfast sandwiches one by one.
12/49
From the Recipe Creator:
I love the excellent texture of this easy cinnamon coffee cake recipe. Always a crowd-pleaser, its pleasing vanilla flavor enriched by sour cream may remind you of breakfast at Grandma's! Make it the night before a holiday to save time in the morning. —Eleanor Harris, Cape Coral, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 340 calories, 16g fat (9g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 299mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
Set this coffee cake, still a bit warm from the oven, on the breakfast table and let people serve themselves. This cake is stunning to behold. The cinnamon swirl ripple and cinnamon-pecan topping make this our very best coffee cake recipe.
13/49
From the Recipe Creator:
I love making this quick and fluffy pancake casserole for relaxing weekends with family and friends. It's so easy to prepare with pantry staples, and the apricot syrup really makes it stand out. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece plus 2 tablespoons syrup: 349 calories, 16g fat (4g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 540mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (28g sugars, 1g fiber), 8g protein.
Sausage pairs shockingly well with sweet ingredients—it’s why you’ll sometimes see maple breakfast sausages at the store. Here, we pair the pork with blueberries and a simple apricot sauce for that sweet-salty combo.
14/49
From the Recipe Creator:
If you love smoothies but sometimes want to linger over breakfast instead of sipping it on the go, this Jamba-inspired smoothie bowl is your answer. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 155 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 2mg cholesterol, 54mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
To make smoothie bowls for a crowd, blend one large batch of a single smoothie bowl flavor, then set up a topping station so everyone can decorate theirs as they please. Include fresh fruits, honey, nuts, seeds, shredded coconut and, my favorite, Nutella.
15/49
From the Recipe Creator:
I'm not joking when I say I make pancakes every weekend. I love them in any form and variation. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3 pancakes: 360 calories, 15g fat (8g saturated fat), 126mg cholesterol, 817mg sodium, 45g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 1g fiber), 10g protein.
Ready for a brilliant trick? You can make any pancake batter ahead of time: Simply stir it together and leave it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just preheat the skillet, give the batter a quick stir and fry up the ‘cakes.
16/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Huevos rancheros is the best breakfast to start your day on the right foot. Crispy corn tortillas and seasoned black beans make the perfect base for fried eggs, avocado, salsa, pico de gallo and fresh cilantro. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 tostada: 244 calories, 12g fat (2g saturated fat), 186mg cholesterol, 478mg sodium, 24g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 6g fiber), 11g protein.
Huevos rancheros start with a crispy corn tortilla base, then everything is built on top. Here, we add homemade refried black beans, fried eggs, salsa, avocado and pico de gallo.
17/49
From the Recipe Creator:
A standard offering at brunches, mimosas are as pretty as they are tasty. In this recipe, the champagne doesn't overpower the orange juice—especially if the champagne is extra dry. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 each: 119 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 13g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein.
You hardly need a recipe for mimosas, but we like to think ours is the perfect balance of the two ingredients. Serve each glass with an orange garnish for an elevated presentation.
18/49
From the Recipe Creator:
The first time I made these cups, my husband and his assistant coach came into the kitchen right as I pulled the pan from the oven. They devoured the biscuits! —Debra Carlson, Columbus Junction, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 biscuit cup: 303 calories, 18g fat (6g saturated fat), 72mg cholesterol, 774mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.
These savory biscuit cups are easy-peasy to set up ahead of time. Make sure you have enough room in the fridge to store the muffin tray, or just refrigerate the prepped biscuit mix in the bowl and scoop the mix into the tray the next morning. Leftovers freeze nicely.
19/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Shakshuka is a dish of poached eggs with tomatoes, onion and cumin. I learned about it while traveling through Southeast Asia, and it's been my favorite way to eat eggs since. —Ezra Weeks, Calgary, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 159 calories, 12g fat (3g saturated fat), 186mg cholesterol, 381mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1-1/2 fat, 1 medium-fat meat, 1 vegetable.
Shakshuka is such a fun, easy dish to serve at brunch. Pita makes the perfect vessel for the spicy tomato sauce and poached eggs. This dish feeds two, but you could stretch it to four with other sides on the table.
20/49
From the Recipe Creator:
This banana muffin recipe goes over so well with kids. Not only are these banana bread muffins like cupcakes, but they’re ready—start to finish—in just half an hour! —Lorna Greene, Harrington, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
1 muffin: 209 calories, 7g fat (1g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 209mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
These are our best-rated muffins for a reason. Three ripe bananas and simple pantry staples make one dozen tender, sweet muffins. I love adding streusel to mine.
21/49
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband was diagnosed with diabetes, so I began using turkey sausage in this recipe, and it turned out great. There are never any leftovers! —Marcia Snyder, Boonton, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 811 calories, 50g fat (21g saturated fat), 99mg cholesterol, 1929mg sodium, 64g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 0 fiber), 24g protein.
Ah, biscuits and gravy, the ultimate southern comfort food! A tube of refrigerated biscuits makes quick work of this brunch idea, but feel free to make homemade biscuits if you’re a purist.
22/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Between family and friends, we average 375 visitors a year! This casserole is super handy—you can put it together the night before and let the flavors blend, then bake it in the morning. —Nancy Schmidt, Center, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 239 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 170mg cholesterol, 532mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 18g protein.
Feeding a crowd for brunch? Serve this delicious hearty breakfast casserole—it’s one of our most popular breakfast recipes ever!
23/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Who says you can’t have it all for breakfast? This savory dish combines flaky croissants, eggs, sausage and Gruyere cheese for the ultimate breakfast (or brunch) casserole. —Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 353 calories, 23g fat (11g saturated fat), 188mg cholesterol, 686mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein.
Buttery croissants, pork sausage, Gruyere, Dijon mustard and eggs bake together in this French-inspired brunch casserole. It’s the perfect all-in-one dish that’s probably best served with a side of fruit salad for freshness.
24/49
From the Recipe Creator:
You can do all the prep work for this monkey bread the night before. I prepare the dough pieces and put all the sauce ingredients in the pan so it's ready for the morning. You can sprinkle chopped nuts in with the dough pieces before pouring on the sauce and baking. —Diana Kunselman, Rimersburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 247 calories, 9g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 339mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 2g fiber), 5g protein.
Prep this incredible pull-apart bread in advance—the dough will rise slowly in the fridge overnight, developing plenty of flavor. The cooked sauce is melty, sticky and fabulous. Add chopped nuts if you’d like.
25/49
From the Recipe Creator:
It's easy to make this ahead of time in a 13x9-inch pan. It is filling, is perfect for a crowd and helps out busy parents. —Trista Thinnes, Fort Worth, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 503 calories, 34g fat (16g saturated fat), 239mg cholesterol, 1052mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 24g protein.
Smoky green chiles are a delicious southwestern food that’s perfect for those who love chile flavor but not necessarily a wallop of heat. Leftovers are great any time of day.
26/49
From the Recipe Creator:
With the abundance of zucchini my family has in the fall, this is the perfect dish to use some of what we have. Cheesy and rich, the warm, classic breakfast dish is sure to please! —Colleen Doucette, Truro, Nova Scotia
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 349 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 154mg cholesterol, 642mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 medium-fat meat, 1 fat.
Want to eat up a surplus of zucchini? Try this veggie-packed strata. It’s a great way to get more vegetables onto the breakfast table.
27/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Any day is special when Mom makes one of her French toast recipes, like this do-ahead baked version. —Jill Baughman, New York, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 297 calories, 15g fat (8g saturated fat), 128mg cholesterol, 299mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 1g fiber), 9g protein.
This perfect French toast recipe is easy to tweak to the season and to what’s in your pantry. Try it with French bread, brioche, challah or even cinnamon raisin bread. Any fruit works, from summer stone fruits to winter citrus.
28/49
From the Recipe Creator:
In our house, we sprinkle these whole wheat pancakes with a little confectioners' sugar because the banana is so sweet that you don't need syrup. —Patricia Swart, Galloway, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
2 pancakes: 155 calories, 4g fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 293mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 7g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1/2 fat.
Want a delicious vegan brunch that will appeal to everyone at the table? Make these easy, hearty banana pancakes with wholesome whole grain wheat and oats.
29/49
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe combines two breakfast essentials—pancakes and bacon—for a sweet and savory bite. Take it on the go for an easy breakfast, or doll it up with maple syrup, mixed berries and whipped cream for a more elaborate meal. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
2 pancakes: 324 calories, 17g fat (9g saturated fat), 109mg cholesterol, 785mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 12g protein.
Sweet and savory come together in these fun, unexpected bacon pancakes. You’ll serve two brunch classics at once, and both are delicious with a big drizzle of maple syrup.
30/49
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe means that a delectable dinner is ready when I walk in the door from work. The meatless slow-cooker meal also makes an
elegant brunch for lazy weekends. —Connie Eaton, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 245 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 385mg cholesterol, 338mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
Channel the sun-baked fields of France with this slow-cooker brunch recipe. With notes of thyme, goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s like summer on a plate.
31/49
From the Recipe Creator:
These irresistible rolls are perfect as an
Easter brunch idea! —Louis Jacobsen, Dallas, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 roll: 533 calories, 22g fat (6g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 389mg sodium, 80g carbohydrate (46g sugars, 2g fiber), 6g protein.
The very definition of finger-lickin’ good, these caramel rolls are a true treat. The caramel scent of the baking rolls will make all the prep totally worth it.
32/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Our kids love waking up to these golden, fluffy pancakes. The buttermilk batter is refrigerated overnight, making the pancakes perfect for busy mornings and special occasion breakfasts alike. —Lisa Sammons, Cut Bank, Montana
Nutrition Facts:
3 pancakes: 319 calories, 10g fat (2g saturated fat), 116mg cholesterol, 862mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 2g fiber), 12g protein.
These yeasted pancakes are truly special. With an acidic bubbliness from buttermilk plus the lofty rise of yeast, they’re light, airy and absolutely delicious. Serve with syrup or a more creative pancake topping.
33/49
From the Recipe Creator:
These cinnamon rolls feature a homemade blueberry jam that brings a sweet and fruity essence to the already delicious breakfast bakery. And yes, the vibrant blue colors are all natural! —Molly Allen, Hood River, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 cinnamon roll: 672 calories, 27g fat (16g saturated fat), 93mg cholesterol, 524mg sodium, 99g carbohydrate (46g sugars, 4g fiber), 11g protein.
Homemade blueberry jam takes cinnamon rolls to a whole new level. They’re made, assembled, baked and finished exactly like the typical cinnamon rolls recipe, but a blueberry jam filling bakes with the cinnamon and some of the jam is reserved for the vibrant cream cheese glaze. They’re picture-perfect.
34/49
From the Recipe Creator:
I'd never tried prosciutto before this recipe, and it instantly made me a big-time fan! The layers of flavor in this dish are brilliant, making it well worth the time and a must for your recipe box. —Vicki Anderson, Farmington, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 440 calories, 26g fat (10g saturated fat), 138mg cholesterol, 1215mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
Looking for a fancy brunch recipe? This egg strata is packed with sophisticated flavors: salty prosciutto, smoky Gouda, dry white wine and garlicky pesto. Serve this strata with a mimosa.
35/49
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to use a second slow cooker to keep the tortillas warm and pliable when I serve these hearty burritos. Just place a clean wet cloth in the bottom, then cover it with foil and add your tortillas. —Beth Osburn, Levelland, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 burrito (calculated without optional toppings): 683 calories, 38g fat (15g saturated fat), 449mg cholesterol, 1650mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 7g fiber), 35g protein.
To make these meaty breakfast burritos, a melange of sausage, hash browns and eggs cooks low in the slow cooker overnight. In the morning, scoop the filling into tortillas and serve the burritos with chopped jalapenos and salsa.
36/49
From the Recipe Creator:
This must-try cinnamon roll is all about the pillowy texture, the sweet spices and the homemade caramel drizzle. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 416 calories, 21g fat (13g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 354mg sodium, 55g carbohydrate (30g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
Glorious is the first word that comes to mind when I see this giant cinnamon roll covered in a shiny caramel glaze. It’s such a fun alternative to individual cinnamon rolls, but with all the gluttony and then some.
37/49
From the Recipe Creator:
This fancy overnight egg bake is ideal for guests. In the morning, you can simply let it come to room temperature and whip up side dishes as it bakes. Then get ready for compliments! —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 359 calories, 21g fat (11g saturated fat), 194mg cholesterol, 845mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 22g protein.
Traditional brunch delicacies like smoked salmon or lox taste fabulous in this upscale strata. Serve each piece with a dollop of creme fraiche, sour cream or Greek yogurt; the sour tang of dairy is the perfect balance for the rich dish.
38/49
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is a great way to mix up your traditional breakfast sandwich! I use ground turkey for a leaner option and add Sriracha mayo for heat. To make your own maple bacon, brush one side of regular bacon with maple syrup prior to cooking. Halfway through the cook time, flip the bacon and brush it with additional maple syrup. —Gabriella DiSanto, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 831 calories, 54g fat (17g saturated fat), 325mg cholesterol, 1929mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 3g fiber), 50g protein.
Breakfast classics are served burger-style in this fun brunch recipe. English muffin “buns” sandwich sausage, bacon, eggs, avocado, cheese and Sriracha mayo.
39/49
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.
One of our most popular brunch recipes, this Benedict-inspired casserole calls for making homemade hollandaise sauce. One of the so-called mother sauces, hollandaise is a rich blend of egg yolks, cream and melted butter. It’s definitely worth mastering.
40/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Piping hot and puffy from the oven, this golden pancake made a pretty presentation for a skier's theme breakfast I hosted. Served with homemade buttermilk syrup, it's an eye-opening treat. Make several German pancakes if you're feeding a crowd, and keep in mind that the easy syrup tastes great on waffles and French toast too. —Renae Moncur, Burley, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece with 1/4 cup syrup: 428 calories, 19g fat (11g saturated fat), 203mg cholesterol, 543mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (42g sugars, 0 fiber), 8g protein.
If you’ve never made German pancakes (also known as Dutch babies) before, you’re in for such a fun brunch main! This eggy, custardy masterpiece puffs up in the oven, making tall peaks and shallow valleys that are perfect for holding pools of maple syrup, butter and fresh fruit.
41/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Make chocolate pancakes when you're craving a super sweet breakfast or brunch. They're especially decadent when served with whipped cream and chocolate syrup on top! —Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3 pancakes: 440 calories, 22g fat (12g saturated fat), 127mg cholesterol, 848mg sodium, 54g carbohydrate (22g sugars, 4g fiber), 12g protein.
This chocolaty take on classic buttermilk pancakes is a dream for chocolate lovers. Cocoa powder, chocolate chips and chocolate syrup all find their way into or on top of these pancakes. Definitely serve them with a side of bacon or sausages.
42/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Starting the day with an appealing, hearty breakfast is certainly a step in the right direction when you're trying to follow a healthy eating plan. These waffles are so good that I freeze them to have some handy for busy mornings. —Mary Balcomb, Florence, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
2 waffles: 220 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 74mg cholesterol, 366mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
Whip up this waffle batter and let it sit overnight. In the morning, just preheat your waffle maker and get cookin’. You can also freeze cooked waffles for an even easier morning.
43/49
From the Recipe Creator:
These spicy-sweet bacon strips aren't only delicious—with their maple syrup glaze, they're also pretty. Baking them in the oven in a foil-lined pan makes cleanup a breeze. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 101 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 253mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
Million-dollar recipes get their name because they taste like a million bucks! Here, bacon gets a full sweet-and-spicy treatment in the oven with brown sugar, crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper and maple syrup. It’s a nice elevation to the usual plate of bacon.
44/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Liege waffles are different from your average Belgian waffles. They're made with yeast, so they're a lot puffier and brioche-like, and the Belgian pearl sugar makes them extra-sweet. —Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 waffle: 380 calories, 16g fat (10g saturated fat), 76mg cholesterol, 136mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (18g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.
Liège (pronounced lee-edge) originated in its namesake city in Belgium, because where else? These yeasted waffles are made with pearl sugar that doesn’t completely dissolve during cooking, leaving little bites of crunch in the waffles with a super-caramelized outside.
45/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Recipes that don't tie me to the kitchen—that’s what I’m all about. I make this luscious dish the night before breakfast or brunch with guests. —Patricia Harmon, Baden, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 302 calories, 13g fat (6g saturated fat), 148mg cholesterol, 342mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (20g sugars, 4g fiber), 13g protein.
For those autumnal mornings, break out this pumpkin French toast casserole to soak in all the yummy pumpkin flavor and fall spices. Of course, serve it with pumpkin spice lattes.
46/49
From the Recipe Creator:
Bursting with berries and drizzled with a light lemony glaze, these muffins are moist, tender and truly something special. This is one recipe you simply must try for family and friends. —Kathy Harding, Richmond, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 muffin: 327 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 166mg sodium, 56g carbohydrate (37g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
Juicy blueberries and the zest and juice of a lemon bake together in these tender, cakey muffins. They’re finished with a homemade lemon glaze so they’re extra-pretty for the brunch table.
47/49
From the Recipe Creator:
I always wanted to make my own bagels, so I searched to find a bagel recipe I could try. For variation and flavor, I sometimes add cinnamon and raisins or honey and sesame seeds to the dough. —Rebecca Phillips, Burlington, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 bagel: 237 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 271mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 5g protein.
Everyone has their own personal bagel order. Appease the masses with a big batch of homemade bagels that can be toasted as requested, then set out a bagel topping bar to let guests finish their bagels exactly as they take ’em.
48/49
From the Recipe Creator:
This strawberry scones recipe is rich with cream and packed with berry goodness. If you are like me, you won't be able to eat just one! —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 scone: 233 calories, 8g fat (5g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 387mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
Our strawberry scones combine fresh strawberries with a bit of cozy cinnamon and lemon zest for brightness. They’re gorgeous stacked on a plate, where everyone can help themselves. Set out butter, strawberry jam and homemade whipped cream so guests can pick and choose toppings as they may.
49/49
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is a favorite in our home. My kids don’t even realize how healthy it is! —Kelly Reinicke, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
2 pancakes: 195 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 317mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 4g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 1-1/2 starch, 1 fruit.
Mashed bananas add both sweetness and heft to these I-can’t-believe-they’re-healthy pancakes. Cook them with fresh or frozen blueberries. Leftovers freeze well too.
Brunch Ideas FAQs
What’s a good menu for brunch?
A good menu for brunch includes both sweet and savory options. Try to have some sort of frittata, breakfast casserole or quiche, or at least a bowl of scrambled eggs and a plate of bacon. I love any excuse to whip up breakfast pastries from scratch, like cinnamon rolls, coffee cake or scones, for a sweet component. Offer fresh options, too, like fruit salad or yogurt parfaits. It’s nice to have some sort of carb, like a plate of bagels with cream cheese on the side or buttery croissants. I prefer serving breakfast family-style, so I make sure everything is done at once so guests can load up their plates with whatever they want.
What should I take to brunch?
You should take dishes to brunch that fill in gaps in the host’s menu. Ask the host what they need to complete the menu: drinks? pastries? fruit? If they don’t have anything in particular, offer to bake pastries or a casserole, assemble parfaits, get drinks, or pick up any breakfast condiments like maple syrup, butter or hot sauce. If the host insists you don’t need to bring anything, surprise them with a vase of fresh flowers or a bottle of wine as a thank-you for hosting.
What are the best brunch sides?
The best brunch sides include freshly cooked bacon, a mountain of breakfast sausages, pastries like croissants or Danishes (bakery-bought is fine!), a pretty fruit salad, yogurt parfaits, crispy roasted potatoes, hash browns, chia seed pudding, cheesy grits or a brunch salad. If there’s a certain theme to your brunch menu, try to match the brunch sides to it. If not, pair the brunch sides with the level of effort of the brunch. Casual brunches can have hash browns and fresh-cut fruit, while fancier brunches should have parfaits and croissants.
