When Christmas morning comes around, all I can think about—after the presents, of course—is breakfast.
There’s just something magical about sitting around the table with family, sipping hot cocoa, smelling cinnamon in the air, and diving into something warm and cozy.
Over the years, I’ve tried so many Christmas breakfasts, and these 18 are my absolute favorites. They’re easy, festive, and just perfect for that merry morning glow.
Let’s jump right into it—I promise you’ll find more than one idea you’ll want to make this Christmas!
1. Cinnamon Roll Casserole
If you love the smell of fresh cinnamon rolls but don’t want to spend hours rolling dough, this is your best friend. You just cut up some ready-made cinnamon rolls, pour over a mix of eggs, milk, and vanilla, and bake. It comes out gooey, sweet, and smells like Christmas morning in a pan. Everyone will run to the kitchen once they smell it baking.
2. Fluffy Gingerbread Pancakes
These are your regular pancakes with a holiday twist—ginger, cinnamon, and a touch of molasses. I love making these because they fill the house with that cozy gingerbread smell. Stack them high, drizzle maple syrup or whipped cream, and you’ve got a plate that screams Christmas joy.
3. Christmas Tree Waffles
Turn breakfast into art! Make waffles and cut them into triangles to look like Christmas trees. Add strawberries, bananas, or whipped cream as decorations. It’s so fun for kids (and honestly, for adults too). It’s festive, creative, and super simple to make.
4. Egg & Cheese Breakfast Bake
For the savory lovers, this one’s perfect. It’s loaded with eggs, cheese, and your favorite add-ins—think bell peppers, sausage, or even spinach. I love this one because it’s hearty and can feed a crowd without much effort. Plus, you can make it ahead of time!
5. Peppermint Hot Chocolate Pancakes
These are pancakes that taste like hot chocolate, topped with crushed candy canes and whipped cream. I came up with this idea one year when I had leftover candy canes. It turned out amazing! A warm, chocolatey breakfast that feels like dessert—what could be better?
6. Cranberry Orange Muffins
If you like something light and fruity in the morning, these muffins are perfect. The tangy cranberries and sweet orange make a lovely combo. Plus, they look so pretty on the breakfast table. I like to bake these a night before, so they’re ready when everyone wakes up.
7. Sausage Breakfast Sliders
Soft rolls, scrambled eggs, sausage, and melted cheese all baked together—these sliders are bite-sized heaven. They’re so easy to grab and eat while unwrapping gifts. It’s the kind of breakfast everyone loves without needing a fork or knife.
8. Snowman Pancakes
If you’ve got kids, this one’s a hit every time. Make three pancakes in different sizes, stack them like a snowman, and decorate with fruit and chocolate chips. It’s simple but brings huge smiles. I remember my niece giggling as she “built” her pancake snowman.
9. Baked French Toast Casserole
This one’s my go-to when I want something comforting. Cubed bread soaked in a sweet cinnamon-vanilla mix, baked until golden, then topped with powdered sugar. It’s soft inside, crispy on top, and tastes like a warm hug. Perfect for lazy Christmas mornings.
10. Eggnog Waffles
If you love eggnog, this is a must-try. Replace milk with eggnog in your waffle mix—it adds a rich, creamy flavor that feels so festive. Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg. I made these once on a whim and now they’re a yearly tradition.
11. Ham & Cheese Breakfast Croissants
Flaky, buttery croissants stuffed with ham, scrambled eggs, and melty cheese. I love these because they look fancy but take no time to make. Just warm them in the oven and you’re done. It’s like bringing a little café magic to your Christmas table.
12. Berry Yogurt Parfaits
For a lighter option, layer Greek yogurt with red and green fruits—like strawberries and kiwis. Add granola on top for crunch. It’s fresh, healthy, and looks so festive with the Christmas colors. Plus, it balances out all the other sweet treats.
13. Breakfast Quesadillas
Eggs, cheese, and your favorite fillings inside a crispy tortilla. It’s quick, easy, and perfect if you want something savory. You can even cut them into triangles and serve with salsa or sour cream. I love how they disappear in minutes every time I make them.
14. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
This one is always a hit at my place. Warm, moist banana bread filled with melty chocolate chips—yes, please! It’s perfect with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. I usually bake two loaves because one is never enough.
15. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake
Warm oats baked with apples, cinnamon, and a little honey—it’s like eating apple pie for breakfast. This is one of those recipes that make the house smell amazing. It’s healthy, filling, and comforting—great for a slow Christmas morning.
16. Christmas Donuts
Use red and green sprinkles, powdered sugar, or crushed candy canes to decorate homemade or store-bought donuts. I started doing this one year when I didn’t have time to bake from scratch. It’s quick, festive, and makes the table look extra fun.
17. Breakfast Burritos
If your family loves a good hearty meal, breakfast burritos are the way to go. Fill them with scrambled eggs, bacon, cheese, and even hash browns. Wrap them in foil so they stay warm while everyone opens gifts.
18. Mini Quiches
Little bite-sized quiches with eggs, cheese, and veggies are so easy to make. I love how they look fancy but are totally simple. You can bake them in a muffin tin and even freeze extras. Perfect for feeding a crowd!
Final Thoughts
Christmas breakfast doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. It’s really about slowing down, sharing food, and enjoying the moment. Whether you go for something sweet like cinnamon roll casserole or something hearty like breakfast burritos, make it fun.
These 18 Christmas breakfast ideas are ones I truly love—simple, cozy, and perfect for creating those warm holiday memories. So this year, pour yourself some cocoa, put on your favorite Christmas music, and make something special. Trust me, it’s the best way to start the day.
