14 FAIL-PROOF CHRISTMAS BRUNCH IDEAS FOR A PERFECT HOLIDAY MORNING

Christmas brunch ideas are something I get super excited and look forward to every year—it’s honestly one of my favorite holiday traditions.

Gathering around the table with family, enjoying cozy holiday dishes, and just soaking up the festive vibes together makes it so special.

I’ve put together some of my top brunch ideas to make your Christmas morning feel magical, whether you’re going all out or keeping it simple. Let’s dive in to bring that holiday magic right to your table!

This post is all about Christmas brunch ideas.

---

Best Christmas Brunch Ideas

Christmas brunch invitations FREE template | Download here

(Free Template Tip: Be sure to save a copy of the original Canva template before customizing! This way, you’ll always have the original version on hand.)

 

1 | Christmas Brunch Decor

My first tip for a perfect Christmas brunch? Set the scene with festive decor! Start by decorating the area where you’ll be serving brunch, like the kitchen, kitchen island, or dining room.

Add Christmas-themed touches like table runners or placemats, and place a few cozy holiday signs around for that festive charm.

A vase with flowers in holiday reds, whites, and greens or a sprinkle of greenery can bring in some natural warmth. Finish with a few scented candles for a cozy ambiance, and you’ve got the perfect setup for a magical Christmas brunch!

2 | Christmas Brunch Table Decor

One of my favorite parts of planning a Christmas brunch is setting up the table. I love mixing and matching pieces I’ve collected over the years to create a unique, cozy style.

I usually start by choosing a color palette that feels festive and warm, and then I figure out what new items I need to buy to complete the look.

There’s just something so special about seeing my guests’ faces light up when they first see the tablescape—it’s truly priceless!

3 | Mocktail Bar

Setting up a mocktail bar is one of my favorite ways to add a holiday vibe to Christmas brunch! I usually pick a spot like a side table, kitchen counter, or even a little bar cart to create the setup.

Then, I’ll lay out some pretty glassware, fun garnishes like cranberries, mint, fresh rosemary leaves, orange slices, and add in festive straws or stir sticks.

I always go for holiday-inspired mocktails, like an orange-cranberry mimosa or a spiced apple fizz, so everyone can mix their own drink and feel that festive vibe.

4 | Christmas Themed Charcuterie Board

A Christmas-themed charcuterie board is such a hit for brunch! I love putting together a mix of holiday-colored treats like red and green grapes, cranberry-studded cheeses, and even some rosemary sprigs for a pop of greenery.

Adding festive items like star-shaped crackers, dried fruits, and maybe even a few holiday candies brings that seasonal charm. I arrange everything on a large wooden board, layering textures and colors to make it look extra inviting. It’s the perfect mix of savory and sweet, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

{If you’re enjoying this, you might also like reading: 9 BRILLIANT CHRISTMAS PARTY DECORATION IDEAS: DREAMY PINK AND RED THEME}

{and 12 CREATIVE CHRISTMAS PARTY DECOR TIPS FOR A MAGICAL CELEBRATION}

5 | Fruit Platter

A fruit platter is a must-have for any Christmas brunch! To keep it festive, I love incorporating seasonal fruits like pomegranates, red and green apples, grapes, watermelon and berries.

Adding a few sprigs of mint or rosemary gives it an extra holiday touch. Not only does it look beautiful, but it’s also a refreshing option that guests love. Plus, it adds a perfect pop of color to the table!

6 | Coffee, Tea and Hot Cocoa Station

A tea, coffee, and hot cocoa bar is a fun and cozy addition to your Christmas brunch. It gives guests the option to enjoy their favorite warm drinks and add personal touches.

Set up a few stations with different types of tea, coffee, and hot cocoa. You can include a variety of toppings, like whipped cream, marshmallows, candy canes, cinnamon sticks, vanilla powder and chocolate shavings, to make the drinks feel special.

7 | Christmas Brunch Casseroles

One of my favorite Christmas brunch menu ideas is breakfast casseroles—they are such a lifesaver! I love how you can prepare them the night before, saving you time and stress on the big day. The best part is that once you pop them in the oven, they cook up perfectly, leaving you with more time to enjoy the holiday.

Another bonus is how versatile they are. You can make them to suit everyone’s dietary needs, whether that’s gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, or keto-friendly. That way, everyone at your brunch can enjoy a delicious, hearty dish without worry. Whether it’s a savory egg casserole or a sweet breakfast bake, these casseroles are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Check out this Christmas breakfast casserole recipe from The Pioneer Woman!

8 | Pancake Station

Another very popular idea that’s always a crowd-pleaser is a pancake or waffle station. You can make them ahead of time in a pancake griddle and keep them warm in a chafing dish.

Some sides that pair perfectly with it include scrambled eggs, country potatoes, bacon strips, breakfast sausages, and, of course, the essentials— butter, maple syrup, whipped cream, and even chocolate drizzle or nuts for an extra touch! It’s a fun, interactive way for guests to customize their breakfast just the way they like it.

9 | Devil Eggs

Another classic for a brunch gathering is deviled eggs. They’re super easy to make ahead, and you can keep them in the fridge until your guests arrive.

Not only are they delicious, but they’re also a crowd favorite! You can get creative with the toppings, like adding paprika, chives, or even a little bacon for extra flavor. They’re simple to prepare, yet always impressive!

10 | Mini Empanadas or Mini Quiches

Another easy dish idea for a Christmas brunch is mini empanadas or mini quiches. There are plenty of great recipes out there, but you can often find delicious pre-made options in the frozen section of the grocery store, making it a convenient choice.

Personally, I love spending time in the kitchen, so finding a recipe and prepping a couple of days before is part of the excitement for me. Whether you make them from scratch or opt for store-bought, these mini dishes are always a hit at brunch!

11 | Bagel Sliders

Who doesn’t love bagel sliders?! You can make them the star of the show, either in a full-size version or mini-sized so everyone can enjoy a little bit of everything.

From classic fillings like eggs, hashbrowns, avocado, bacon, cheese, and sausage to more gourmet options like smoked salmon, cream cheese, and capers, the possibilities are endless.

These sliders are not only delicious but also fun to customize, making them a perfect addition to your Christmas brunch spread!

12 | Christmas Brunch Dessert Table

A dessert bar is a sweet way to wrap up your Christmas brunch! It’s an easy, fun option that lets guests indulge in a variety of treats.

You can offer a mix of cookies, pastries, mini cakes, and even festive candies. Consider including classic Christmas desserts like gingerbread cookies, sugar cookies decorated with icing, mini fruit tarts, and chocolate truffles.

13 | Christmas Brunch Ambiance

For the perfect ambiance, I love burning a seasonal-scented candle, lighting the fireplace, and playing Christmas music in the background.

It creates such a cozy, festive atmosphere that really sets the mood for a beautiful morning with my favorite people.

14 | Thoughtful Takeaways for Your Guests

I also love giving my guests something to take home. It could be something simple like homemade jam, a mini honey jar, a small candle, or even a baked treat. These little gifts are a thoughtful way to show appreciation and leave them with a sweet memory of the day.

Here are some additional tips to help you stay organized and stress-free while preparing for your Christmas brunch:

Two Weeks Before:

• Create a shopping list: Make sure to list everything you need, from food items to decor, so you can shop early.
• RSVP reminder: Send a quick reminder to your guests about the brunch details and confirm who’s attending.
• Prep your kitchen: Take out any kitchen tools, platters, and utensils you’ll be using for the day. This helps you avoid scrambling last-minute.

The Night Before:

• Set up platters and decor: Lay out your platters, napkins, and any decor you’ll be using, so you’re ready to go.
• Prep casseroles and make-ahead dishes: Prepare any dishes that can be made ahead, like casseroles or breakfast bakes. Store them in the fridge overnight for easy baking the next morning.
• Chill drinks: Get any drinks that need to be cold (like juices or sodas) in the fridge to ensure they’re chilled and ready.

The Morning Of:

• Put things in the oven: Preheat your oven and pop in casseroles or baked goods that need to be heated. Don’t forget to time them properly!
• Cook the rest of the food: Prepare the last-minute dishes, like scrambled eggs, bacon, or pancakes, while your casseroles are cooking.
• Set up the drink station: Put out coffee, tea, and hot cocoa, and get your toppings ready for guests to enjoy.

Clean-Up Plan:

• Set a designated clean-up area: Have trash bags, recycling bins, and containers ready for leftovers. Enlist the help of a couple of guests if needed, so cleaning up after the brunch is quick and easy.
• Clear up as you go: During brunch, tidy up when you can to keep the space looking neat, so you’re not overwhelmed later.

Bonus Tip:

• Don’t forget to take pictures! It’s easy to forget in the hustle and bustle, but be sure to capture the special moments, the food, and the fun! Sharing those photos with your guests afterward is a great way to remember the day and show appreciation.

These 14 fail-proof Christmas brunch ideas guarantee a smooth, stress-free holiday gathering. From make-ahead recipes to customizable stations, you’ll be able to create a meal everyone will love without the last-minute rush. Enjoy a relaxed, memorable Christmas brunch with your loved ones!

This post was all about Christmas brunch ideas.