Camilla – Page 17 – Family Feast

About 65% of people say they want easier holiday mornings, so you can plan ahead and save time. You’ll find 13 simple recipes that let you prep overnight, bake ahead, or assemble quickly, from casseroles and strata to scones and waffles. Each option includes clear steps, make‑ahead tips, and pantry swaps, so you can pick what fits your schedule and feed a crowd while keeping stress low. Want the list? Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole Creamy, spiced pumpkin French toast that you can assemble the night before and bake into a cozy holiday breakfast. Ingredients: 8 cups day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed (about 1 lb) 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or milk of choice) 1 cup heavy cream (or additional milk for lighter version) 4 large eggs 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed 1/4 cup granulated sugar 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional) 1/2 tsp salt 2 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for greasing) 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream for serving How to Make: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter and spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, milk, cream, eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and melted butter until smooth. Pour the pumpkin-egg mixture evenly over the bread, pressing gently so the bread soaks up the custard. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top if using. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours) to let the bread absorb the custard. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and remove the casserole from the fridge while the oven heats. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is puffed and golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Let the casserole rest 10 minutes before serving to set. Serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy a slice of autumn in every bite! Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Strata A hearty, savory breakfast casserole that turns simple ingredients into a cozy morning feast. Ingredients: 1 pound breakfast sausage, casings removed 8 cups cubed day-old bread (about 1 loaf), crusts on or off 10 large eggs 2 1/2 cups whole milk (or 2% milk) 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional) 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) Butter or cooking spray for greasing the dish How to Make: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook with the sausage until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more. Remove from heat. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage-onion mixture over the bread, then scatter the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan evenly on top. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard (if using), dried thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently so the bread soaks up the custard. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set (a knife inserted should come out mostly clean). Let the strata rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Slice and serve warm — a comforting, crowd-pleasing breakfast that tastes like a holiday hug. Cranberry Orange Scones Bright, zesty cranberry orange scones — perfect for a festive morning. Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes 3/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped Zest of 1 orange 2/3 cup heavy cream (plus extra for brushing) 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 tablespoons orange juice 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze) 1–2 tablespoons additional orange juice (for glaze) How to Make: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture with a pastry cutter or fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped cranberries and orange zest so they’re evenly distributed. In a small bowl, whisk the heavy cream, egg, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons orange juice. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until the dough just comes together; don’t overwork it. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, pat into a 7–8 inch circle about 1 inch thick. Use a sharp knife to cut the circle into 8 wedges and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Brush the tops lightly with a little extra cream for a golden finish. Bake 15–18 minutes until the scones are puffed and lightly golden around the edges. Cool on a rack while you whisk powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons orange juice to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle or brush the glaze over warm scones and let it set briefly. Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea — enjoy the bright, festive flavors! Apple-Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Perfect — here’s the full recipe for Apple‑Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal in the format you requested. A cozy, warm-baked breakfast that tastes like apple pie for your morning. Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned) 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste) 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based) 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan: 1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water, set 5 min) 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 medium apple, peeled, cored and diced (about 1 to 1 1/2 cups) 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional) How to Make: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch (or similar) baking dish. In a large bowl, mix the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and brown sugar (if using). In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until combined. Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until evenly moistened. Fold in the diced apple, nuts, and dried fruit if using. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing — it firms up as it cools. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a splash of milk, or a dollop of yogurt. Enjoy a slice of cozy mornings with this apple-cinnamon baked oatmeal! Ham and Gruyère Breakfast Quiche Ham and Gruyère Breakfast Quiche — savory, cheesy, and perfect for a festive morning. Ingredients: 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade), chilled 1 cup diced cooked ham 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese 4 large eggs 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or 1 cup milk + 1/2 cup half-and-half for richer custard) 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth) 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional, for brightness) 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a subtle tang) Butter or cooking spray (to grease the pie dish if using homemade crust) How to Make: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Fit the chilled pie crust into a 9-inch quiche or pie dish; trim and crimp the edges. If using a homemade crust, lightly grease the dish first. If you like a crisper bottom, blind-bake the crust: line with parchment and fill with pie weights or dried beans, bake 10 minutes, remove weights and parchment, then bake 5 more minutes until just set. Otherwise, you can use the crust as-is. Scatter the diced ham evenly across the bottom of the prepared crust. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère over the ham in an even layer. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (and/or half-and-half), salt, pepper, nutmeg (if using), and Dijon mustard until smooth. Stir in the chopped chives or green onions, reserving a few for garnish if desired. Pour the egg mixture slowly into the crust over the ham and cheese, allowing it to settle and fill evenly. Place the quiche on a baking sheet and bake for 35–45 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden; a knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean with a slight custardy cling. Let the quiche rest on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes before slicing to finish setting. Garnish with the reserved chives or a light sprinkle of extra Gruyère, slice, and serve warm. Enjoy a slice of this rich, gooey Ham and Gruyère quiche — great for holiday mornings or anytime you want an easy, elegant breakfast. Blueberry Lemon Dutch Baby Light, tangy, and fluffy—this Blueberry Lemon Dutch Baby is a showstopper for any holiday breakfast. Ingredients: 3 large eggs 2/3 cup whole milk (or your preferred milk) 2/3 cup all-purpose flour 2 tbsp granulated sugar 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract Zest of 1 lemon (about 1 tbsp) 1/4 tsp kosher salt 3 tbsp unsalted butter 1 cup fresh blueberries (plus extra for serving) 1–2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (to taste) Powdered sugar, for dusting Maple syrup or honey (optional, for serving) How to Make: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10–12 inch ovenproof skillet or cast-iron pan in the oven to heat. In a blender or bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, sugar, vanilla, lemon zest, and salt until smooth and slightly frothy. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the butter, swirling until melted and the pan is evenly coated. Pour the batter into the hot skillet and scatter the blueberries evenly over the top. Return the skillet to the oven and bake 18–22 minutes, until the edges are puffed and golden and the center is set. Remove from oven; the Dutch baby will deflate slightly as it cools—this is perfect. Drizzle with lemon juice, dust with powdered sugar, and add extra blueberries and a splash of maple syrup if you like. Slice and serve immediately for best texture. Enjoy a warm, lemon-kissed bite—this Dutch baby turns holiday mornings into something special. Spinach and Feta Breakfast Puff Pastry Tarts A flaky, cheesy puff pastry tart that’s ready in minutes — bright spinach, tangy feta, and buttery pastry make mornings feel festive. Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed if frozen) 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 5–6 oz (about 150–175 g) fresh spinach (or 1 cup thawed, drained frozen spinach) 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional) 2 large eggs (1 to mix with filling, 1 to brush pastry) 2 tablespoons milk or cream Salt and black pepper, to taste Pinch of nutmeg (optional) Sesame seeds or nigella seeds for sprinkling (optional) How to Make: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach in batches and cook until wilted (or heat thawed spinach), then remove from heat. Let cool slightly. If using fresh spinach, chop roughly. Squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach. In a bowl, whisk together 1 egg and milk/cream. Stir in spinach, feta, Parmesan (if using), salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Unfold puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 4 equal squares or desired tart shapes. Transfer to the prepared sheet. Score a 1/2-inch border around each square with a knife, being careful not to cut all the way through. Prick the center lightly with a fork. Divide the spinach-feta mixture among the pastry centers, keeping filling inside the scored borders. Beat the remaining egg and brush the pastry edges. Sprinkle seeds on the edges if you like. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until pastry is puffed and golden and filling is set. Let cool 2–3 minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a rack. Serve warm. Enjoy flaky, savory bites that make any morning feel like a holiday brunch! Maple Bacon Pancake Skillet Sweet, smoky pancakes cooked right in the skillet for a cozy holiday morning treat. Ingredients: 6 slices thick-cut bacon 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 tbsp granulated sugar 1 tbsp baking powder 1/4 tsp salt 1 large egg 3/4 cup milk 2 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for the skillet if needed) 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp pure maple syrup (plus extra for serving) 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional) How to Make: Heat a large ovenproof or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crisp, turning occasionally, about 8–10 minutes. Remove bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and reserve 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet; discard excess. While the bacon cools slightly, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. In another bowl, beat the egg with milk, melted butter, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons maple syrup. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined; fold in nuts if using. Cut the cooked bacon into bite-sized pieces and scatter them evenly across the hot skillet in the bacon fat. Pour the pancake batter over the bacon, spreading gently to an even layer. Cook on the stovetop over medium-low until edges set and bubbles form on top, about 4–5 minutes. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake 8–12 minutes, until the pancake is puffed and golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Remove from oven, drizzle with extra maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar if desired, and cut into wedges. Serve warm and enjoy the sweet-and-salty holiday goodness. Happy breakfast—this skillet is perfect for sharing and licking the plate! Sweet Potato Hash With Poached Eggs Sweet Potato Hash With Poached Eggs — a cozy, colorful breakfast that’s crispy, savory, and topped with silky poached eggs. Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 red bell pepper, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter) 1 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp ground cumin Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 4 large eggs 1 tbsp white vinegar (for poaching) 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce How to Make: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potatoes and spread them in an even layer; let cook undisturbed 5–7 minutes so they start to brown. Stir in the onion and bell pepper; cook 5–7 more minutes until vegetables are tender and sweet potatoes are crisp-tender. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant. While the hash finishes, bring a medium saucepan of water to a gentle simmer and add the vinegar. Crack each egg into a small cup or ramekin. Create a gentle whirlpool in the simmering water, slide an egg in, and poach 3–4 minutes for a runny yolk; repeat for remaining eggs. Taste the hash and adjust seasoning as needed; keep warm on low heat. Divide the sweet potato hash onto plates, top each portion with a poached egg, and sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro. Finish with red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little heat. Serve immediately and dig into warm, comforting bites of sweet, smoky hash and creamy yolk—breakfast perfection! Gingerbread Waffles With Whipped Mascarpone Warm, spicy gingerbread waffles topped with silky whipped mascarpone — holiday morning heaven. Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 tablespoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (or 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice) 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 large eggs 1 3/4 cups buttermilk (or 1 3/4 cups milk + 1 3/2 tablespoons lemon juice/vinegar, rested 5 min) 1/3 cup molasses 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter, slightly cooled 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Nonstick cooking spray or extra melted butter for the waffle iron Whipped Mascarpone: 8 oz mascarpone cheese, chilled 1/3 cup heavy cream, cold 2–3 tablespoons powdered sugar (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Zest of 1/2 orange (optional) Optional toppings: Maple syrup Toasted pecans or walnuts Fresh cranberries or sliced pears A dusting of powdered sugar How to Make: Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer directions. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then stir in buttermilk, molasses, melted butter, and vanilla until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and fold gently until just mixed — a few small lumps are okay. Let the batter rest 5 minutes while the waffle iron finishes heating. Meanwhile make the mascarpone: in a chilled bowl, beat mascarpone with cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla, and orange zest (if using) until thick, light, and spreadable. Grease the waffle iron lightly, then cook batter in batches following your iron’s timing until waffles are golden and crisp. Keep finished waffles warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) on a rack while you cook the rest. Stack waffles, dollop or spread a generous spoonful of whipped mascarpone, and add maple syrup and any optional toppings you like. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm spices and creamy topping. Finish with a steaming cup of coffee or cider — these gingerbread waffles make every holiday morning feel extra special. Pear and Brie Crostini Breakfast Toasts Sweet, melty Brie meets crisp pear and crunchy toast for an elegant, easy holiday breakfast. Ingredients: 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices 1-2 ripe but firm pears (Bartlett or Bosc), thinly sliced 6–8 oz Brie cheese, sliced or torn into pieces 2 tsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing) 1–2 tbsp honey (plus extra for drizzling) 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans (optional) Fresh thyme leaves or rosemary sprigs for garnish Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional) How to Make: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and lightly brush each with olive oil or melted butter. Toast the slices in the oven for 6–8 minutes, until lightly golden and crisp. Remove the baking sheet and top each toast with a slice of Brie (a thin layer so it warms quickly). Layer 2–3 thin pear slices over the Brie on each toast. Return to the oven for 4–6 minutes, until the Brie is soft and just beginning to melt. Drizzle each crostini with honey, sprinkle with chopped toasted nuts if using, and finish with fresh thyme leaves, a pinch of flaky sea salt, and a crack of black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, savory combo—perfect with coffee or a festive mimosa. Enjoy these elegant toasts while the cheese is gooey and the pears are perfectly sweet! Cheddar Chive Breakfast Biscuits Cheddar Chive Breakfast Biscuits — flaky, savory biscuits that wake up the whole table. Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon granulated sugar 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated 3 tablespoons fresh chives, snipped (or 1 tablespoon dried) 3/4 to 1 cup buttermilk (start with 3/4 cup) 1 large egg (for egg wash, optional) 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for brushing) How to Make: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture and cut or rub them in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits. Stir in the grated cheddar and chopped chives so they’re evenly distributed. Pour in 3/4 cup buttermilk and gently mix until the dough just comes together; add up to 1/4 cup more buttermilk if it’s too dry. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, fold it over a few times to bring it together, and pat it into a 1-inch-thick round. Use a biscuit cutter or a floured glass to cut out rounds and place them on the prepared sheet about 1 inch apart. Beat the egg with a tablespoon of water and brush the tops for a golden finish, if desired. Bake 12–15 minutes until the biscuits are risen and golden brown on top. Remove from oven and brush with melted butter for extra richness, if you like. Enjoy warm — these cheddar chive biscuits are perfect with butter, jam, or alongside your favorite breakfast spread. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Muffins A warm, chocolaty twist on banana bread in perfectly portable muffin form. Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar (or 1/2 cup brown + 1/4 cup granulated) 1 large egg 1/3 cup (75 g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (or 1/3 cup vegetable oil) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 to 1 1/4 cups) 1/3 cup (80 ml) milk or plain yogurt (optional, for extra moistness) 3/4 cup (120 g) semisweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping) How to Make: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; set aside. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth. Add the sugar, egg, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla to the mashed bananas and stir until combined. If using, stir in the milk or yogurt to loosen the batter for a more tender muffin. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently until just combined—don’t overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a few to sprinkle on top of the batter in the cups. Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full, and sprinkle the reserved chips on top. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool a bit more before serving. Enjoy warm for melty chocolate, or store cooled muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days—perfect for a grab-and-go holiday breakfast! Conclusion You’ve got 13 solid breakfast ideas that save time and taste great. Try one each morning, or pick a favorite to repeat—people eat breakfast 86% more often on days they plan ahead. Make the night-before dishes first, or prep fillings and toppings in advance. Reheat gently, assemble quickly, and serve warm. Keep a simple shopping list, follow the basic steps, and you’ll start the holiday mornings calm, fed, and ready for the day.