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10 Best Easter Brunch Ideas for a Crowd
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Did you know that over 70% of people consider brunch the best meal to celebrate special occasions? As Easter approaches, it’s the perfect time to gather with friends and family over delightful dishes that everyone can enjoy. In this collection of the 10 best Easter brunch ideas for a crowd, you’ll discover everything from a Spring Vegetable Frittata to Sparkling Lavender Lemonade, ensuring your celebration is both delicious and unforgettable!
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1. Spring Vegetable Frittata
Experience the vibrant flavors of spring with this delightful Spring Vegetable Frittata. Perfect for brunch, this dish combines fresh seasonal vegetables and fluffy eggs to create a satisfying and light meal that’s bursting with color and nutrition.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Additional Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as feta or cheddar)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley) for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the asparagus, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sautéed vegetables, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Cook on the stovetop for about 3-4 minutes until the edges begin setting.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with your favorites, such as mushrooms, broccoli, or peas for a personal touch.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 220 per serving
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
2. Honey-Glazed Ham and Cheese Quiche
The Honey-Glazed Ham and Cheese Quiche is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any special brunch. With its creamy filling and sweet glaze, it’s sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Additional Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup honey-glazed ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Swiss)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, and lightly prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme until well combined.
- Stir in the diced honey-glazed ham, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions.
- Pour the egg mixture into the prepared pie crust, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the quiche is set and lightly golden on top.
- Once cooked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips:
For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the egg mixture. Pair the quiche with a light mixed green salad dressed in a honey vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for added variety!
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
3. Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes with Berry Compote
Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes with Berry Compote are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, perfect for your Easter brunch. With their light, zesty flavor and a sweet berry topping, these pancakes will elevate your breakfast experience.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Additional Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
For the Berry Compote:
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
- In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, eggs, sugar, melted butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- For the berry compote, in a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat until the berries have softened and released their juices, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- To serve, stack the pancakes on a plate and top with the warm berry compote.
Tips:
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pancake batter. You can also substitute some of the berries in the compote with fresh orange slices for a refreshing twist.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
4. Savory Spinach and Mushroom Strata
Savory Spinach and Mushroom Strata is a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for brunch gatherings. With layers of bread, sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a creamy egg mixture, this strata will surely impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Additional Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of day-old bread, cubed
- 2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup of mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (such as Gruyère or Cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft, around 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Remove from heat.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs and 2 cups of milk until well combined.
- In the greased baking dish, layer half of the cubed bread, followed by the sautéed spinach and mushroom mixture, and half of the shredded cheese. Top with the remaining cubed bread, the egg mixture, and the rest of the cheese.
- Press down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the egg mixture. Cover with foil and let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips:
For added flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs such as basil or parsley. You can also mix in some cooked sausage or bacon for a meatier version. For a touch of luxury, drizzle with a little truffle oil before serving.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
5. Classic Egg Benedicts with Hollandaise Sauce
Classic Egg Benedicts with Hollandaise Sauce is a delightful dish perfect for brunch gatherings. With buttery English muffins, perfectly poached eggs, and rich Hollandaise sauce, this recipe will impress your family and friends.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 2 English muffins, split
- 4 large eggs
- 4 slices of Canadian bacon or ham
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- Fresh chives, for garnish
For the Hollandaise Sauce:
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and warm
- Salt and cayenne pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Start by making the Hollandaise Sauce. In a blender, combine 3 egg yolks and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Blend for about 30 seconds until frothy.
- While the blender is running, gradually pour in the 1/2 cup melted butter. Continue blending until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and cayenne pepper to taste. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, bring water to a simmer and add 2 tablespoons of white vinegar.
- Crack each egg into a small bowl, then gently slide them one at a time into the simmering water. Poach for about 3-4 minutes until the whites are set but the yolks remain runny.
- While the eggs are poaching, toast the English muffins and warm the Canadian bacon on another skillet.
- To assemble, place each half of the toasted English muffin on a plate, top with a slice of Canadian bacon, and then gently place a poached egg on top.
- Drizzle with the prepared Hollandaise Sauce and garnish with freshly chopped chives.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce to the Hollandaise Sauce for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with toppings like smoked salmon or sautéed spinach for a delicious twist on this classic dish.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 24g
- Cholesterol: 370mg
- Sodium: 800mg
6. Fresh Fruit Tart with Cream Cheese Filling
Indulge in the beauty of spring with this delightful Fresh Fruit Tart with Cream Cheese Filling. This tart not only looks stunning but also offers a fantastic balance of sweetness and richness, making it perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Additional Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made tart shell (9-inch)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup kiwi, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/4 cup pineapple, diced
- Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly into the pre-made tart shell.
- Arrange the sliced strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, mandarin oranges, and pineapple beautifully on top of the filling.
- Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours to allow it to set before serving.
- Garnish with mint leaves if desired, and slice to serve.
Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to the cream cheese filling. You can also brush the fresh fruit with a light glaze made from apricot preserves to enhance its shine and flavor!
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 300
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 4g
7. Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites
Delight your guests with these Mini Chicken and Waffle Bites — bite-sized treats that combine crispy chicken and sweet, fluffy waffles. Perfect for brunch, they offer a delightful mix of flavors that are sure to please.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Additional Time: 10 minutes (for cooling)
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 20 bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 lb chicken tenders, cooked and diced
- 2 cups waffle mix (plus ingredients needed for the mix)
- Maple syrup, for drizzling
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
- In another bowl, combine the milk, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract, then stir until smooth.
- Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- In each muffin cup, pour about 1 tablespoon of the batter.
- Top each with a small piece of diced chicken.
- Prepare the waffle mix according to package instructions. Then, spoon a little waffle batter over the chicken in each muffin cup until it’s about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before gently releasing them.
- Drizzle with maple syrup before serving and enjoy!
Tips:
For extra flavor, season your chicken with garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite spices before cooking. You can also add some chopped herbs or cooked bacon into the waffle batter for an extra twist.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 160 per bite
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 5g
- Sugar: 1g
8. Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting
Delightfully moist and flavorful, these Carrot Cake Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect treat for any occasion, especially during springtime. Packed with fresh carrots and warm spices, they make for a deliciously satisfying snack topped with luscious cream cheese frosting.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups grated carrots
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts (if using).
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the muffins cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Once the muffins are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting.
Tips:
To enhance the flavor, consider adding 1 teaspoon of grated orange zest to the muffin batter for a citrusy twist. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon on top of the cream cheese frosting for extra warmth. For added texture, try folding in raisins along with the carrots.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 215
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
9. Herb and Cheese Savory Scones
Indulge in the delightful flavor of these Herb and Cheese Savory Scones that are perfect for a brunch gathering or a cozy afternoon tea. The combination of warm, flaky scones with fresh herbs and rich cheese will impress your guests and leave them wanting more!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Additional Time: 10 minutes (cooling)
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8 scones
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, or thyme)
- 3/4 cup milk
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cold butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs until evenly distributed.
- Pour in the milk gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
- Pat the dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into 8 wedges or use a biscuit cutter for round scones.
- Place the scones on the prepared baking sheet, spaced apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on top.
- Allow the scones to cool for about 10 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
Tips:
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the dough.
- Serve warm, drizzled with a little honey or alongside a dollop of creamy butter for a delicious treat.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 200 per scone
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 5g
10. Sparkling Lavender Lemonade
Sparkling Lavender Lemonade is a delightful and refreshing drink perfect for any spring occasion. The subtle floral notes of lavender combined with the zesty kick of lemon create a wonderfully balanced beverage that sparkles with effervescence.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
- 4 cups sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and lavender sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved to create a simple syrup.
- Add the dried lavender to the simple syrup. Remove from heat, cover, and let it steep for 30 minutes to infuse the lavender flavor.
- After steeping, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the lavender buds.
- In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice and the lavender syrup. Stir well until fully combined.
- Add ice cubes to the pitcher and pour in the sparkling water. Stir gently to mix the flavors without losing the fizz.
- Serve in glasses garnished with lemon slices and lavender sprigs for a beautiful presentation.
Tips:
For a sweeter lemonade, adjust the sugar to your taste. You can also experiment with adding a splash of violet liqueur for an adult version of this drink. Consider using fresh lavender if available, for an even more intense flavor.
Nutrition Facts:
- Calories: 120 per serving
- Total Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 0g
