Christmas Morning Menus

Think about Sunday morning breakfasts, lounging around in your pajamas, sipping coffee and reading the newspaper by the fire, or with your back washed in sunlight. These are quiet moments, lingering over breakfast, together with your significant other or family — and exactly the right kind of atmosphere you want to create for a special breakfast after awaking on Christmas morning.

We've collected some of our best breakfast recipes and created a menu to help inspire and guide you as you think about what you will be preparing on Sunday morning.

 

While you open presents:

It is hard work pulling off wrapping paper and opening big boxes. Quench your thirst with one of these beverage options.

 

Fruit-Flavored Water

Slice up a variety of oranges and other citrus fruits to transform a pitcher of plain water into a slightly-fruit flavored refreshment.

 

Fruit Lassi

From The Daily Meal

This smoothie-like drink comes from India, and is made of yogurt combined with other fruit flavors.

 

Christmas Citrus Soda

From The Daily Meal

The non-alcoholic version of this refreshing sparkler is a festive alternative to orange juice.

 

Cactus Pear Smoothie

From The Daily Meal

Mix up your morning smoothie with this new fruit flavor.

 

Breakfast Bread Basket:

Serve these sweet morning quick breads and pastries with a bright fruit salad and a large pot of scrambled eggs for a simple yet balanced breakfast.

 

Blueberry Scones

From The Daily Meal

A lighter version of a bakeshop classic from the chef at Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa.

 

Basic Rugelach

From The Daily Meal

An easy recipe for a sweet treat that is perfect alone, with coffee, or a part of a larger breakfast.

 

Banana Bread

From The Daily Meal

A great way to make use of over ripe bananas; you can also adapt the recipe for muffins, and add chocolate chips or dried fruit for a dressed-up version.

 

 

Pancakes:

New twists on a breakfast favorite.

 

Lemon-Ricotta Pancakes

From The Daily Meal

A lighter alternative to traditional pancakes; the addition of ricotta gives these cakes more staying power (and won't result in a blood sugar crash), thanks to its high protein content.

 

Bacon Chocolate Chip Pancakes

From The Daily Meal

A perfect salty-sweet pairing. There is no need to serve this breakfast with a side of bacon.

 

 

Egg Dishes:

For a more protein-packed breakfast, make one of these recipes the focus of the meal.

 

Sweet Potato Frittata

From The Daily Meal

A simple yet delicious egg dish that is perfect for serving a crowd. Not a fan of sweet potato? Try adapting the recipe to your liking, using fillings like sundried tomato and spinach; mushrooms and onions; or even just plain cheese and herbs.

 

California Omelette

From The Daily Meal

A simple omelette, filled with creamy avocado, is an unusual but delicious combination. If you don't like avocado, try filling your omelette with ham and cheese, or sautéed tomatoes, mushrooms, and onions.

 

Gravlax

From The Daily Meal

If you think ahead, you can make this delicious cured salmon yourself instead of buying it from the store. Serve with scrambled eggs, on bagels with cream cheese, or with plain pancakes and crème fraîche (just like blinis).

 

Sweet Finish:

Instead of dessert, set up a customize-your-own hot cocoa bar for a warm treat to either sip on during the meal, or afterwards.

 

Hot Cocoa

A recipe for a cup of the classic milk-based cocoa.

 

Dark Varietal Chocolate Drink

For chocolate lovers, this recipe from Michael Recchiuti makes a much more rich and dense cup of cocoa — like liquid chocolate.

 

Flavorings

Espresso shots; vanilla or hazelnut extracts, caramel sauce.

Booze (for adults, only).

Baileys, whiskey, rum, mint liqueur.

 

Garnishes

Whipped cream, homemade marshmallows, shaved chocolates, chocolate sauce, caramel sauce.