15 Make-Ahead, Tradition-Worthy Holiday Brunch Recipes

By Jenn Segal

Brunch is breakfast without an alarm; that’s why these make-ahead recipes are perfect for the holiday season. Coffee cake, quiche, scones, and more — whether you prefer sweet or savory, I’ve got you covered with recipes that are so delicious, you’ll make them an annual tradition.

Sour Cream Coffee Cake with Cinnamon-Walnut Swirl

From Zingerman’s Bakehouse, a rich and buttery sour cream coffee cake with a thick cinnamon-nut swirl.
Baked Apple French Toast

A lovely mash-up of French toast and apple pie, this prep-ahead baked apple French toast has all the makings of a special holiday brunch dish.
Double Chocolate Biscotti

These crisp double chocolate biscotti are tailor-made for dunking into into coffee, warm milk, or hot chocolate.
Granola

This homemade granola boasts huge crunchy clusters, perfect for snacking or spooning over lightly sweetened Greek yogurt.
Blueberry Coffee Cake (aka Boy Bait)

This tender blueberry coffee cake topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel is cleverly named for its habit-forming effect on boys.
Breakfast Casserole

A holiday favorite, this make-ahead breakfast casserole brimming with sausage and sharp cheddar is perfect for feeding a crowd.
Smoked Salmon Dip

This elegant smoked salmon dip is delicious on crackers — or serve it on a brunch buffet with bagels.
Butterscotch Pecan Scones

These butterscotch pecan scones are tender, sweet, and rich, almost like giant cookies.
Quiche Lorraine

With smoky bacon, nutty Gruyère, and shallots, this classic quiche Lorraine is ideal for brunch, dinner, or anytime in between.
Chai-Spiced Banana Bread

Infused with cardamom, cinnamon, ginger and allspice, this chai-spiced banana bread is a lovely twist on basic banana bread.
Pumpkin Muffins

With warm spices and a crunchy pecan streusel, these muffins are the quintessential pumpkin season breakfast treat.
Blueberry Baked Oatmeal

Made with wholesome oats, juicy berries, and pecans, this baked oatmeal makes a comforting breakfast casserole.
Spinach Quiche

Made with heavy cream and Gruyère, this rich spinach quiche is classic French.
Morning Glory Muffins

Morning glory muffins are good to eat and good for you. And, true to their name, they’re a glorious way to start the day.
Cinnamon Swirl Apple Bread

This lovely apple bread boasts a generous cinnamon swirl and crisp sugared top.