65 Christmas Breakfast Ideas to Start Your Day Right

Christmas morning deserves something a little more special than the usual bowl of cereal. Whether you’re feeding a full house or enjoying a quiet holiday for two, these dishes are festive, comforting, and easy to pull off while presents are being unwrapped. Mix-and-match sweet and savory options, prep a few items the night before, and pour yourself a mug of something warm while the kitchen fills with seasonal aromas.

1. Gingerbread Pancakes

Molasses, cinnamon, and a hint of cloves turn ordinary pancakes into a yuletide treat. The batter can be whisked together in minutes, and you’ll know they’re ready to flip when tiny bubbles form on top. Serve with real maple syrup or a dollop of cinnamon-vanilla butter for extra holiday cheer.

2. Cranberry Orange Scones

Tart cranberries balance sweet citrus in these tender, crumbly scones. Use cold butter and avoid over-mixing to keep the texture light. A quick drizzle of orange juice glaze brings a bright sparkle to every bite.

3. Eggnog French Toast

Swap regular milk for eggnog in the custard and you instantly have a Christmas classic. Challah or brioche slices soak up the spiced mixture without falling apart. Finish with freshly grated nutmeg and a pat of butter for a rich, custardy center and crispy edges.

4. Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Frozen hashbrowns, eggs, cheese, and crumbled breakfast sausage join forces in a single pan. Assemble everything the night before, refrigerate, and slide it into the oven while coffee brews. The result is a hearty square that stays warm even through a long gift-opening session.

5. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Steel-cut oats simmered with diced apples, brown sugar, and a stick of cinnamon create a comforting aroma. Cook on the stovetop or in a slow cooker overnight for minimal effort. Top with toasted walnuts for a pleasant crunch.

6. Smoked Salmon Bagel Platter

Fresh bagels pair beautifully with silky smoked salmon for a no-cook option. Offer cream cheese, dill, and a squeeze of lemon so guests can build their own. The vivid colors feel as festive as ribbon on a present.

7. Chocolate Peppermint Waffles

Cocoa powder turns batter a deep chocolate while peppermint extract adds seasonal zing. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the finished waffles just before serving so they stay crunchy. Kids and adults alike will ask for seconds.

8. Sausage & Cheese Strata

Day-old bread cubes soak overnight in an egg mixture studded with breakfast sausage and sharp cheddar. Bake until the top puffs and turns golden. The savory flavors make an ideal counterpoint to sweet treats on the menu.

9. Holiday Fruit Salad with Pomegranate

A mix of jewel-toned fruit adds freshness to a rich morning spread. Toss everything in a light honey-lime dressing just before serving. The pop of pomegranate seeds feels like edible confetti.

10. Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Cut pre-made cinnamon rolls into quarters, coat with an egg custard, and bake until puffed and golden. The casserole delivers the taste of rolls without individual shaping. Spoon extra icing over the top while it’s hot for maximum melt.

11. Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns

Buttery dough spirals bake over a pool of brown-sugar caramel and toasted pecans. Flip the pan just after baking so the glaze coats every bun. The nutty crunch plays nicely with rich caramel swirls.

12. Spinach & Red Pepper Frittata

Frittatas offer big flavor with little fuss. Sauté peppers and spinach, pour beaten eggs over, and cook until almost set before finishing under the broiler. Slice into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.

13. Cranberry Walnut Granola Parfaits

Homemade granola scented with cinnamon and orange zest provides a crunchy layer. Alternate with thick yogurt and a spoonful of cranberry sauce for color. Assemble right before serving so the granola stays crisp.

14. Maple-Glazed Bacon Twists

Twisting bacon strips helps them cook evenly and look festive. Brush with pure maple syrup halfway through baking for a sweet-savory glaze. A pinch of cracked black pepper adds gentle heat.

15. Stollen Bread Pudding

Turn leftover German Christmas bread into a luxurious pudding. The marzipan and dried fruit pieces melt into the custard, adding bursts of flavor. Serve warm with vanilla sauce or a splash of brandy cream.

16. Breakfast Tamale Pie

Layers of seasoned eggs, peppers, and cheese bake beneath a fluffy cornbread crust. Green chiles provide gentle warmth without overpowering the dish. Garnish with cilantro and a spoonful of salsa.

17. Overnight Chai-Spiced Chia Pudding

Combine chia seeds with milk, maple syrup, and chai spices, then refrigerate overnight. By morning, you’ll have a creamy, dairy-free pudding. Top with nuts or pomegranate for texture and color.

18. Cherry Almond Danish

Store-bought puff pastry shortcuts the process, while sweet cherry preserves and almond filling create a classic flavor duo. Bake until the layers puff and turn golden. A light drizzle of almond icing completes the picture.

19. Turkey & Swiss Breakfast Croissant

Layer deli turkey and cheese inside halved croissants, then warm in the oven until the cheese melts. A smear of cranberry mustard offers a nod to leftover holiday flavors. They’re handheld and ready in minutes.

20. Sweet Potato & Kale Hash

Roast sweet potato cubes ahead of time for quicker morning prep. Toss them with leafy kale and onions until everything is crisp around the edges. Crown each serving with a runny egg for built-in sauce.

21. Classic Mimosa Pitcher

Equal parts chilled bubbly and orange juice spell effortless celebration. Garnish glasses with a twist of orange peel for a fragrant touch. Offer a non-alcoholic sparkling cider version for kids or teetotalers.

22. Hot Cocoa Pancakes

Cocoa powder and a handful of chocolate chips make these pancakes taste like a mug of hot cocoa. Serve with marshmallows that soften on contact. A dusting of powdered sugar mimics freshly fallen snow.

23. Pistachio Cardamom Muffins

Ground cardamom lends warm, citrusy notes that pair nicely with earthy pistachios. Sour cream keeps the crumb tender. Bake the night before; they stay moist for days.

24. Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Crêpes

Ricotta cheese whipped with lemon zest feels light yet indulgent. Spoon the mixture into delicate crêpes and top with warm blueberries. A dusting of powdered sugar brings snowy vibes to the plate.

25. Brie & Cranberry Puff Pastry Bites

Puff pastry cups cradle creamy brie that melts into gooey perfection. Spoon a dab of cranberry sauce on top for color and tang. They disappear quickly, so consider a double batch.

26. Maple Pecan Overnight Oats

Combine rolled oats, milk, and a splash of maple syrup, then chill overnight. In the morning, add toasted pecans for crunch. It’s a make-ahead breakfast that tastes like pie filling.

27. Cheddar Chive Biscuits with Ham

Sharp cheddar and fresh chives dot these tender biscuits. Split while warm and fill with thin ham slices for a savory sandwich. They reheat well, making them ideal for second helpings later in the day.

28. Apple Cranberry Baked Oatmeal Cups

Think of them as portable oatmeal bowls. Eggs bind oats, fruit, and a hint of cinnamon into handheld portions. Freeze extras and thaw as needed for easy breakfasts all week.

29. Sausage-Filled Yorkshire Puddings

The batter for these classic British popovers puffs dramatically in a hot oven. Place a cooked sausage link in each hollow for a festive twist. Serve with a dollop of mustard or onion gravy.

30. Citrus Salad with Honey Vanilla Yogurt

Segmented winter citrus brings brightness to rich holiday fare. Stir vanilla bean seeds into yogurt and drizzle with honey for a quick dressing. A few mint leaves make the colors pop.

31. Panettone French Toast Bake

Italian sweet bread full of dried fruit becomes the star of this easy bake. The airy texture soaks up egg custard without turning soggy. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with espresso.

32. Gingerbread Smoothie Bowl

Frozen bananas, almond milk, and gingerbread spices blend into a thick, spoonable smoothie. Top with crunchy granola for texture. It’s a lighter choice that still feels seasonal.

33. Christmas Quiche Lorraine

Crisp bacon, sautéed onion, and nutty Gruyère anchor this French classic. Bake until the center barely wobbles for a silky texture. Serve warm or room temperature with a simple green salad.

34. Cinnamon Sugar Popovers

These hollow rolls puff dramatically thanks to a thin batter and hot pan. Brush with melted butter and toss in cinnamon sugar while warm. They’re delicious plain or filled with fruit preserves.

35. Coconut Cranberry Breakfast Bars

Oats, shredded coconut, and dried cranberries bake into portable bars sweetened with honey. Let them cool completely before slicing for clean edges. Store in an airtight tin for up to a week.

36. Spiced Pear Dutch Baby

The batter climbs the sides of the pan, creating crisp edges and a custardy center. Cinnamon-sautéed pear slices nestle into the middle. Bring it to the table quickly—Dutch babies deflate as they cool.

37. Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls

Cocoa powder and a hint of red food coloring transform traditional buns into a festive showstopper. The tangy frosting balances the sweet filling. They look striking on a holiday platter.

38. Herbed Goat Cheese & Roasted Veggie Tart

Puff pastry provides a flaky base for creamy goat cheese and colorful vegetables. Roast the veggies ahead to concentrate flavor. Slice into squares for easy serving.

39. Banana Nutmeg Mini Loaves

Mashed bananas keep these petite loaves tender and naturally sweet. Freshly grated nutmeg adds a cozy aroma. Wrap a few in ribbon for an edible stocking stuffer.

40. White Chocolate Raspberry Scones

Frozen raspberries help the dough stay cold and tender. Bits of white chocolate melt into creamy pockets. Serve slightly warm so both flavors shine.

41. Corned Beef Hash with Poached Eggs

Cubes of corned beef and potatoes crisp in a single pan. Make shallow wells to nestle poached eggs on top for a built-in sauce. A sprinkle of chives finishes the dish.

42. Pecan Pie Granola

Toast oats with butter, brown sugar, and chopped pecans until crunchy and fragrant. Let it cool completely so clusters form. Sprinkle over yogurt or nibble by the handful.

43. Cranberry Orange Blintzes

Thin crêpe wrappers hold a lightly sweetened cheese filling. After a quick pan-sear, spoon tangy cranberry orange sauce over the top. They freeze well before the final sear for advance prep.

44. Maple Sausage Breakfast Skewers

Thread pre-cooked sausage pieces and quick-roasted veggies on skewers, then brush with maple syrup. A brief broil caramelizes everything. They’re both fun to eat and easy to serve.

45. Snowman Buttermilk Pancakes

Pour small, medium, and large circles of batter to build each snowman. Chocolate chips, blueberries, or berries become buttons and eyes. Kids will happily decorate their own plates.

46. Caprese Breakfast Strata

Classic Caprese flavors translate beautifully to breakfast. Use day-old baguette cubes to absorb the tomato-rich custard. Fresh basil added after baking keeps the colors vibrant.

47. Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Swirl

Rich brioche dough is rolled with chocolate hazelnut spread and chopped hazelnuts. Twisting the loaf exposes dramatic layers. Toast slices lightly to highlight the filling.

48. Cranberry Apple Compote over Greek Yogurt

Simmer apples and cranberries with a touch of orange juice until they soften but keep their shape. Spoon the warm mixture over cool yogurt for a contrast of temperatures. A sprinkling of granola adds crunch.

49. Prosciutto & Fig Breakfast Flatbread

Pre-baked naan or pizza dough serves as a quick crust. Spread with mascarpone, then layer sweet figs and salty prosciutto. A handful of arugula and drizzle of balsamic glaze brighten the flavors.

50. Cherry Chocolate Chunk Baked Oatmeal

Oats, milk, and eggs bake into a sliceable cake dotted with juicy cherries. Dark chocolate chunks create pockets of decadence. Rewarm pieces in the microwave for quick seconds.

51. Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins with Strawberry Santa Hats

Bright lemon zest and poppy seeds provide classic flavor. Once cooled, pipe a small swirl of whipped cream and perch a strawberry half on top. They look festive without extra decorating skills.

52. Savory Herb & Cheese French Toast

Swap sugar and cinnamon for rosemary, thyme, and grated parmesan in the custard. The result is a savory twist perfect alongside bacon or salad. Leftovers make excellent sandwich slices later.

53. Orange Cardamom Sticky Buns

Fragrant cardamom seeds pair wonderfully with bright citrus. Roll the dough tightly so the filling spirals show clearly once baked. A quick orange glaze keeps them glossy and moist.

54. Holiday Breakfast Burritos with Chorizo

Spicy chorizo brings smoky depth to classic breakfast burritos. Roll them in foil to keep warm until everyone is ready to eat. They freeze and reheat well—ideal for the busy week between holidays.

55. Peppermint Mocha Overnight Oats

Combine oats, cocoa, brewed coffee, and milk for a jolt of flavor. Stir in peppermint extract to evoke the famous coffeehouse drink. Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes before serving.

56. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Sausage Patties

Ground chicken keeps these patties lean, while dried cranberries and chopped pecans add festive flair. A touch of maple syrup aids browning. Serve beside eggs or tuck into breakfast sandwiches.

57. Pumpkin Cream Cheese Rolls

Pumpkin purée and pie spice flavor a soft sponge cake that bakes in minutes. Roll it around a tangy cream cheese filling while still warm to avoid cracks. Chill, slice, and display the tidy pinwheels.

58. Ricotta Toast with Honey & Pistachio

Creamy ricotta spreads effortlessly over toasted sourdough. Honey adds sweetness, while pistachios give crunch and holiday color. A pinch of sea salt sharpens every bite.

59. Crab Benedict with Old Bay Hollandaise

Swap Canadian bacon for lump crab to elevate eggs Benedict. Season the hollandaise with Old Bay for a coastal twist. Serve immediately so the yolks stay perfectly runny.

60. Almond Cranberry Steel-Cut Oats

Steel-cut oats simmer to a hearty texture that holds toppings well. Almond extract in the base amplifies nutty notes. A swirl of cranberry sauce provides tart contrast.

61. Mushroom & Gruyère Bread Pudding

Sautéed mushrooms lend umami depth to custard-soaked bread cubes. Gruyère melts into silky strands throughout the bake. It pairs beautifully with roast ham or turkey leftovers.

62. Caramel Apple Crêpes

Thin crêpes wrap around sautéed apples glazed in caramel. A quick reheat in the skillet keeps them pliable. Dust with cinnamon sugar for extra sparkle.

63. Gingerbread Doughnut Holes

Spice-laden batter fries up light and airy. Roll the hot doughnut holes in spiced sugar so the coating sticks well. They taste best warm, ideally alongside a mug of coffee.

64. Cranberry Cheese Blintzes

Soft cheese filling balances the tart cranberry topping. Sear each rolled blintz in butter until crisp. They reheat gently in a covered skillet for seconds.

65. Sparkling Pomegranate Mocktail

Combine chilled pomegranate juice with sparkling water for a ruby-red drink everyone can enjoy. A squeeze of lime brightens the flavor. Rosemary sprigs add a fragrant festive touch.