Festive Christmas Brunch
BRUNCH is a wonderful meal to enjoy on a special day like Christmas! I love to gather my family for Mushroom Sausage Strata, Fruit Medley, Cinnamon Rolls and Warm Christmas Punch.
My husband, Edd, is the minister for the Church of Christ here in Harrisburg, and we have three children—Bethany, Brittany and Ben.
Thanks to several recipes that can be made ahead, even the cook can relax and enjoy this appealing holiday brunch!
The hearty Mushroom Sausage Strata is a delightful do-ahead main dish. A friend brought this dish to serve to our Home Extension group one year, and I was so impressed with it. Made with whole wheat bread, sausage, mushrooms and two types of cheese, it's an appetizing combination.
Salad Was Mom's Creation
I remember my mom coming up with the colorful and tasty Fruit Medley salad one Christmas. Wanting something bright and refreshing for breakfast, Mom combined pineapple, sweet cherries, oranges, berries, grapes and more…and the whole family raved about how good it was.
Some years later, I realized I had better write down the recipe so I could continue this popular tradition with my own family.
Warm Christmas Punch is another recipe you can mix up beforehand and simply heat in a slow cooker the morning of the brunch. Its rich color, inviting aroma and delightful flavor win over even those who aren't usually punch fans. I also serve this pretty beverage at a holiday open house we host each year, and it's always a hit.
Doing so much of the preparation the day before frees up time for me to make Cinnamon Rolls the day of the brunch. They're such a treat, served fresh from the oven!
A dear friend brought these yummy rolls to a church fellowship meal several years ago. Edd was instantly hooked and encouraged her to bring them at every opportunity!
I love how easy it is to make these rolls. With the quick-rise yeast, they don't take as much time as traditional yeast rolls…and they are much less labor-intensive than others I've made.