The Ultimate Easter Brunch Checklist
Updated: Apr. 14, 2022
Take the stress out of hosting an Easter brunch.
Ready or not, Easter is on its way. And if you’re hosting a big brunch, stay on track with our ultimate planning checklist. We’ll show you how to prep for the big day—starting three weeks in advance and going all the way up to your guests’ arrivals. Whether you’re a first-time host or an Easter pro, we guarantee that these tips and tricks will make your brunch stress-free.
Get our best Easter brunch recipes here.
Scrambled Egg Hash Brown Cups
They may look like muffins, but these cuties pack my favorite breakfast all-stars like eggs, hash browns and bacon. Grab one and get munching. &emdash;Talon DiMare, Bullhead City, Arizona
Buffet Scrambled Eggs
These are my favorite scrambled eggs. The white sauce, flavored with chicken bouillon, keeps the eggs creamy and moist. It's a tasty twist on a morning mainstay.
Veggie-Packed Strata
This is a wonderful, colorful casserole that everyone enjoys. I'm sure you'll be hooked on it after one bite, too. —Jennifer Unsell, Vance, Alabama
Fresh Fruit Bowl
The glorious colors of the fruit make this a festive salad. Slightly sweet and chilled, it makes a nice accompaniment to a grilled entree. —Marlon Kirst, Troy, Michigan
Baked Blueberry Pancake
For a quick breakfast, Norna makes the pancake while fixing supper the night before, then cuts it into squares. The next morning, she tops them with butter and syrup before placing them in the microwave. This innovative way to make pancakes takes most of the fuss out of making breakfast. Norna Detig - Lindenwood, Illinois
Mini Ham 'n' Cheese Frittatas
I found this recipe a few years ago and made a few changes. I'm diabetic, and this fits into my low-carb and low-fat diet. Every time I serve a brunch, the frittatas are the first to disappear, and nobody knows they are low in fat! —Susan Watt, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
Brunch Egg Casserole
There aren't many foods that do a better job of combining two meals - in this case, breakfast and lunch - than cheese and eggs. This dish satisfies a mouthful of taste buds and both hearty and light eaters. —Lelia Brown, Annandale, Virginia
Slow-Cooker Ham & Eggs
This dish is a treat any time of the year, but I love serving it on holiday mornings. It's basically a hands-off dish and a fun meal for family. —Andrea Schaak, Jordan, Minnesota
Colorful Brunch Frittata
A friend called and asked me for a special recipe that he could serve at his daughter's wedding brunch. I created this brunch frittata recipe for the special day. —Kristin Arnett, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Baked Blueberry-Mascarpone French Toast
When I want something special to serve my guests for a Saturday or Sunday brunch, I turn to this recipe. It never fails. It's wonderful during the spring and early summer because the blueberries are particularly good this time of year. —Patricia C. Quinn, Omaha, Nebraska
Aunt Edith's Baked Pancake
My aunt made a mighty breakfast that revolved around 'The Big Pancake'. I always enjoyed watching as she poured the batter into her huge iron skillet, then created the perfect confection: baked pancakes. —Marion Kirst, Troy, Michigan
Biscuits and Sausage Gravy
This biscuits and sausage gravy is an old southern recipe that I've adapted. Homemade sausage gravy is a classic, hearty breakfast that takes you on a trip to the South every time it's served. —Sue Baker, Jonesboro, Arkansas
Fruit-Filled French Toast Wraps
Here’s my go-to whenever we have brunch guests. If I have extra berries, I just make a fruit salad for later. —Dawn Jarvis, Breckenridge, Minnesota
BLT Waffle Sliders
Craving a BLT for breakfast? Try a deliciously different version that features crisp bacon and fresh tomatoes between two golden cornmeal waffles. Prepare the waffles ahead of time and reheat in the toaster for quick assembly. —Stacy Joura, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania.
Fluffy Pancakes
This is the best fluffy pancakes recipe according to my family. They are quick and easy to prepare, but we still consider these homemade pancakes a special treat. —Eugene Presley, Council, Virginia
Breakfast Loaf
I love to make this mile-high breakfast sandwich when we have company for the weekend. If you'd like, add sliced mushrooms and olives. —Amy McCuan, Oakley, California
Bananas Foster Baked French Toast
Mmm…bananas Foster for breakfast! This yummy baked French toast serves up all the taste of the spectacular dessert in fine fashion. —Laurence Nasson, Hingham Massachusetts
Beefy Huevos Rancheros
This recipe is quick, easy and oh-so-tasty recipe works for breakfast, lunch or dinner and is delicious served in flour tortillas with fruit or salad on the side. Guests can top them however they like. —Sandra Leonard, Peculiar, Missouri
Sausage, Egg and Cheddar Farmer's Breakfast
This hearty combination of sausage, hash browns and eggs will warm you up on a cold winter morning. —Bonnie Roberts, Newaygo, Michigan
Rise and Shine Parfait
Start your day with a smile. This fruit, yogurt and granola parfait is so easy to make. If you like, use whatever favorite fresh fruits are in season and are looking best at the supermarket. —Diana Laskaris, Chicago, Illinois
Overnight Asparagus Strata
I've made this tasty egg dish for breakfast, brunch, even dinner as a side dish. This is not your run-of-the-mill strata. —Lynn Licata, Sylvania, Ohio
Yankee Rancheros
After my in-laws began affectionately referring to me as a Yankee, I decided I had to learn to make some Mexican dishes. These are super easy and make my Tex-Mex-loving family happy—even if they do come from a Northerner!. —Darla Andrews, Schertz, Texas
Eggs & Chorizo Wraps
My husband grew up in Southern California and loves chorizo. We use the spicy sausage in these chorizo and egg wraps that our children call Daddy's Eggs.—April Nissen, Yankton, South Dakota
Nutty French Toast
This sweet breakfast treat is a cross of caramel rolls and French toast. It's easy to begin the night before. In the morning, just spread on the nutty topping and bake as you are getting ready for the day. —Mavis Diment, Marcus, Iowa
Cream Cheese & Chive Omelet
The first bite of creamy filling lets you know this isn’t any old omelet. Make it once, and we suspect you’ll be fixing it often. —Anne Troise, Manalapan, New Jersey
Mint-Cucumber Tomato Sandwiches
I jazzed up the quintessential teatime cucumber sandwich to suit my family's tastes. This was my absolute go-to sandwich last summer when I was pregnant. It hit all the right spots! —Namrata Telugu, Terre Haute, Indiana
Brown Sugar Oatmeal Pancakes
My family absolutely loves these oat pancakes. I make them every Saturday and Sunday. If I don't, they don't believe it's the weekend! My son's friends often spend the night, and I think it's because they like these oatmeal pancakes so much. They are especially delicious served with molasses and syrup. —Sharon W. Bickett, Chester, South Carolina
Yogurt & Honey Fruit Cups
This tasty combo of fresh fruit and creamy orange-kissed yogurt is guaranteed to disappear fast from your breakfast table. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Easy Glazed Bacon
Brown sugar, mustard and wine make bacon a little more special in this recipe. It's easy to prepare while working on the rest of the meal. —Judith Dobson, Burlington, Wisconsin
Ham Muffinwiches
I concocted this fun recipe when I was looking for something to pack for lunch. I had leftover ham but no bread, so I got creative with cornbread mix. They freeze well and are handy for an on-the-go breakfast or lunch. —Jenny Wiebe, Villa Hills, Kentucky
Homemade Sage Sausage Patties
Oregano, garlic and sage add savory flavor to these ground pork patties. I've had this Pennsylvania Dutch recipe for years, and it always brings compliments.
Mixed Fruit with Lemon-Basil Dressing
A slightly savory dressing really complements the sweet fruit in this recipe. I also use the dressing on salad greens. —Dixie Terry, Goreville, Illinois
Chocolate Chip Pancakes with Cinnamon Honey Syrup
This is a great breakfast for special days, but it mixes up so fast that it's perfect for busy mornings as well. —LeeAnn Hansen, Kaysville, Utah
Sausage & Sweet Potato Hash
Meat and potatoes make up traditional hash. Our version uses sausage, sweet potatoes and sometimes, a little salsa. Sometimes we have it for dinner, too. —Christy Scott Campbell, Blooming Grove, Texas
Potato Sausage Frittata
With sausage, bacon, eggs and potatoes, this frittata is one hearty meal! Although I double the recipe for my large family, we never have any leftovers. As good as this dish is, you can experiment to customize it for your family. Try using ham, bell peppers, chorizo—the sky’s the limit!
Sweet Orange Croissant Pudding
Time-crunched cooks are sure to appreciate the make-ahead convenience of this delightful dish. Feel free to replace the orange marmalade with any jam or jelly that suits your taste.—Mary L. Gabriel, Las Vegas, Nevada
Festive Scrambled Eggs
Every bit as quick as scrambled eggs are meant to be, this hearty dish— with red pimientos and green parsley or chives— is nice for hectic Christmas mornings.
Chili & Cheese Crustless Quiche
This filling Tex-Mex egg casserole is perfect for any meal of the day. I add a salad and dinner is on! —Gail Watkins, Norwalk, Califiornia
Cilantro-Avocado Tuna Salad Sandwiches
Lime juice and cilantro in tuna salad – who knew? This recipe for avocado tuna salad came to me as a way to have a protein-packed meal with lots of pizzazz. —Heather Waldorf, Black Mountain, North Carolina
Zucchini Egg Skillet
My neighbor shared more zucchini from his garden than I knew what to do with. He loved this recipe—it's great for brunch or a special breakfast. —Darcy Kennedy, Hendersonvlle, North Carolina
Mocha Morning Drink
When I'm sipping this delicious coffee, I almost feel like I'm visiting my favorite coffeehouse. —Jill Rodriguez, Gonzales, Louisiana
Maple Sausage Patties
Maple syrup, sage, thyme and a little liquid smoke give a delightful flavor to these homemade sausage patties. They're always a treat, but especially alongside pancakes or French toast. —Margaret Eid, Huron, South Dakota.
Loaded Tater Tot Bake
I keep frozen Tater Tots on hand for meals like this yummy Tater Tot casserole. It’s a super brunch, breakfast or side dish for kids of all ages. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Reuben Brunch Bake
I created this when I wanted something different for a graduation brunch for two of our sons. When I realized I had most of the ingredients on hand for the Reuben dip I usually make, I decided to use them in a brunch casserole instead! Everyone asked for the recipe. —Janelle Reed, Merriam, Kansas
Gouda Turkey Club
With this recipe, two can enjoy the taste of something new and elegant in minutes. All you need to add is the ambiance for a bistro meal at home. —Karen Harris, Littleton, Colorado
Eggs a la Trish
By using English muffins instead of bread or rolls, this overnight breakfast dish becomes just a little bit heartier. I'll often switch it up and use different cheeses or meats and it always comes out perfect. —Mark Bohlke, Rosemount, Minnesota
Grandmother's Toad in a Hole
I have fond memories of my grandmother’s Yorkshire pudding wrapped around sausages, a puffy dish my kids called “the boat.” Slather it with butter and maple syrup. —Susan Kieboam, Streetsboro, Ohio
Buttermilk Buckwheat Pancakes
This buckwheat pancake recipe uses buckwheat flour instead of the wheat-based variety. The light and tender buckwheat pancakes offer a nutty flavor and hearty texture. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Creamy Caramel Mocha
You can easily indulge in a coffeehouse-quality drink at home anytime. With whipped cream and a butterscotch drizzle, this mocha treat will perk up even the sleepiest person at the table. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Ham & Egg Wraps
This is a great kid-friendly recipe that takes only 20 minutes to prepare and cook.—Sharon Haswell, Cheshire, Massachusetts
Sausage & Crescent Roll Casserole
I made this tasty breakfast casserole with crescent rolls for a baby shower. It saved me; preparing it ahead gave me more time to finish decorating for the party. —Melody Craft, Conroe, Texas
Corned Beef Hash and Eggs
Sunday breakfasts have always been special in our house. It's fun to get in the kitchen and cook with the kids. No matter how many new recipes we try, they always rate this corned beef hash recipe No. 1! —Rick Skildum, Maple Grove, Minnesota
Curried Egg Salad
A curry kick gives this egg salad big appeal. We love it when the weather gets warm. —Joyce McDowell, West Union, Ohio
Coffee Milk
It's the official state drink of Rhode Island, and once you taste it, you'll understand why it has so many fans! —Karen Barros, Bristol, Rhode Island
Bacon Breakfast Pizza
I used to make this bacon breakfast pizza for my morning drivers when I worked at a delivery place. And they just loved it. Breakfast pizza is a quick and easy eye-opener that appeals to all ages. —Cathy Shortall, Easton, Maryland
Chicken Salad Croissants
This tempting chicken salad that gets its special taste from Swiss cheese and pickle relish. It's a favorite of my brother, who insists I make it whenever he visits. —Laura Koziarski, Battle Creek, Michigan
Camper's Breakfast Hash
When we go camping with family and friends, I'm always asked to make this hearty breakfast. This camping breakfast is a favorite at home, too. —Linda Krivanek, Oak Creek, Wisconsin
Chipotle BLT Wraps
BLT sandwiches are so good, but they can make a lot of messy crumbs from the toasted bread. Since we also love wraps, I decided to make BLTs using tortillas instead. Warming the wraps a little makes them easy to work with. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon
Very Vanilla French Toast
These French toast slices have creamy vanilla flavor from a convenient pudding mix, plus a hint of cinnamon. We like to top them with syrup or powdered sugar and fresh berries. —Linda Bernhagen, Plainfield, Illinois
Vanilla Almond Hot Cocoa
Treat your family to this comforting, homemade cocoa as you decorate the tree or open holiday gifts. Vanilla and almond extracts make it taste even more special. —Vicki Holloway, Joelton, Tennessee
Make-Ahead Breakfast Burritos
Burritos for breakfast? Why not! These zesty little handfuls will wake up your taste buds and start your day with a smile. And you can make and freeze them ahead, then just pop them into the microwave for a quick meal. —Linda Wells, St. Mary's, Georgia
Marmalade French Toast Sandwiches
I change up these warm, filling sandwiches to be sweet or savory but always a treat. All it takes is a different jelly or jam. Try hot pepper jelly when you want a little sizzle. —Danielle Loring, Lewiston, Maine
Maple French Toast Bake
This yummy French toast casserole is a breeze to whip up the night before a busy morning. My family loves the richness it gets from cream cheese and maple syrup. —Cindy Steffen, Cedarburg, Wisconsin
Country Brunch Skillet
Using frozen hash browns and packaged shredded cheese shaves minutes off the prep time of this skillet egg dish, making it an appealing meal you can put together quickly. —Elvira Brunnquell, Port Washington, Wisconsin
Savory Apple-Chicken Sausage
These easy, healthy sausages taste great, and they make an elegant brunch dish. The recipe is also very versatile: It can be doubled or tripled for a crowd, and the sausages freeze well either cooked or raw. —Angela Buchanan, Longmont, Colorado
Overnight Pancakes
Our kids love waking up to these golden, fluffy pancakes. The buttermilk batter is refrigerated overnight, making them perfect for busy mornings and special occasion breakfasts alike. —Lisa Sammons, Cut Bank, Montana
The Ultimate Grilled Cheese
These gooey grilled cheese sandwiches taste great for lunch with sliced apples. And they're really fast to whip up, too. Here's how to make grilled cheese the right way. —Kathy Norris, Streator, Illinois
Ham and Swiss Omelet
This easy omelet will be a snap to fix for breakfast or dinner. —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
Fluffy Hot Chocolate
This is our daughter's favorite hot chocolate recipe. It may look like ordinary cocoa, but a touch of vanilla sets it apart from the rest. And the melted marshmallows give it a frothy body you won't get from a cocoa packet. —Jo Ann Schimcek, Weimar, Texas
Peach Champagne
I searched high and low for the perfect punch recipe and finally decided to create my own. This sipper is a big hit at parties, especially weddings. In summer I freeze fresh peaches and fresh strawberries; if you don't have fresh fruit, store-bought frozen fruit works just as well. —Linda Hall, Evington, Virginia
Calico Scrambled Eggs
When you're short on time and scrambling to get a meal on the table, this recipe is just what you need. There's a short ingredient list, cooking is kept to a minimum. and the green pepper and tomato makes it colorful. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Chicken & Apple Waffle Sandwiches
Have breakfast for dinner! These fun, hearty and convenient waffle sandwiches make a delicious meal in no time. —Deb Williams, Peoria, Arizona
Brunch Pizza
Whenever I entertain guests, this zippy pizza is a definite crowd-pleaser. It also makes a great late-night snack for any time of the year! —Janelle Lee, Appleton, Wisconsin
Fluffy Scrambled Eggs
When our son, Chris, wants something other than cold cereal in the morning, he whips up these eggs. Cheese and evaporated milk make them especially good. They're easy to make when you're camping, too. —Chris Pfleghaar, Elk River, Minnesota
Bacon 'n' Egg Sandwiches
I came across this unique grilled combo when I was digging in my mom's recipe box. The crisp bacon, hard-boiled eggs and crunchy green onions make these cozy sandwiches look impressive when company drops by for lunch. Best of all, they're a snap to assemble. —Ann Fuemmeler, Glasgow, Missouri
Southwest Tortilla Scramble
Here’s my version of a deconstructed breakfast burrito that’s actually good for you. Go for hefty corn tortillas in this recipe. Flour ones can get lost in the scramble. —Christine Schenher, Exeter, California
Quick Crunchy Apple Salad
Pair crunchy toppings with smooth vanilla in this apple salad with yogurt recipe. You'll love this creative combination! —Kathy Armstrong, Post Falls, Idaho
Cinnamon Blueberry French Toast
I like to prep this breakfast in the evening, let it chill, then turn on the slow cooker when we wake up in the morning. It’s done just right. —Angela Lively, Conroe, Texas
Poached Huevos Rancheros
I like to spice things up with tempting whole eggs poached in a zesty tomato sauce. This southwestern fare is perfect for brunch. —Olga Koetting, Terre Haute, Indiana
Bacon Swiss Squares
Not only does this savory breakfast pizza come together easily, but it's also a cinch to double the ingredients when I'm hosting a large event. Biscuit mix makes it convenient, and the combination of eggs, bacon and Swiss cheese keeps guests coming back for more. —Agarita Vaughan, Fairbury, Illinois
Lemony Fruit Cooler
This punch looks so pretty with all the colorful fruit floating in the bowl. It has a refreshing taste and is easy to put together. —Dawn Shackelford, Fort Worth, Texas
Lemon Chia Seed Parfaits
These bright and tangy parfaits start the day on a healthy note, but they're also sweet enough to double as dessert. —Crystal Schlueter, Babbitt, Minnesota
Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
These pancakes have less sodium per serving than other pancakes made from mixes. Decrease sodium even further by stretching the mix with banana, oats and walnuts. In our house we just sprinkle these with a little confectioners' sugar, because the fruit is so sweet you don't need syrup. — Patricia Swart, Galloway , New Jersey
Fiesta Breakfast Bake
I get a kick out of making breakfast for a crowd when I have weekend guests, and my family also loves breakfast for dinner. I created this dish by combining my family's favorite southwestern flavors in an all-in-one-pan recipe.—Whitney Gilbert, Smithville, Missouri
Orange Spiced Ham Steak
I turn orange marmalade, mustard and just a hint of ginger into a glaze for ham that comes together super quick but feels exceptional. And that makes it perfect for when I’m entertaining brunch guests! —Connie Moore, Medway, Ohio
Baked Egg & Stuffing Cups
Save your leftover stuffing to make shells for holding baked eggs. This is a hearty breakfast that keeps us going for the marathon shopping trips. —Karen Deaver, Babylon, New York
Cheese and Fresh Herb Quiche
With herbs from the garden to use, I created a quiche with basil, parsley and dill along with feta, Swiss, Gruyere and mozzarella. Goat cheese is also yummy. —Sonya Labbe, West Hollywood, California
Denver Scramble Tostada
My tostadas feature the ingredients of a classic Denver omelet: ham, cheddar and green pepper. I also make a zesty Mexican version with chorizo and pepper jack and a Reuben with corned beef and Swiss. —Joi Sinclair, Atchison, Kansas
Breakfast Tacos
This is a really simple, tasty breakfast. It has been a mainstay for our mornings together as a family. —Jo Ferguson, Arnold, Missouri
Cuban Breakfast Sandwiches
Grab hold of breakfast time by serving these warm, energy-boosting sandwiches. The hearty helping of protein will help keep hunger at bay, and they travel well on hectic mornings. —Lacie Griffin, Austin, Texas
Breakfast Bruschetta
My family loves bruschetta, so why not have it for breakfast? This gives us a healthy start to the morning, and takes very little effort. You get all the traditional flavors, and with egg added, it makes a great meal. —Kallee Krong-McCreery, Escondido, California
Fruity Waffle Parfaits
This recipe satisfied all of my cravings for breakfast when I was pregnant. I knew I was getting plenty of nutrition in each serving and it tasted great.—Penelope Wylie, San Francisco, California
Viennese Coffee
This isn't your regular cup of Joe! Dress it up with chocolate, whipped cream and more, making it a drink to savor! —Sharon Delaney-Chronis, South Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Artichoke Egg Casserole
This is a great recipe for a brunch. I serve it with fresh stir-fried asparagus, a fruit salad and croissants. —Marilyn Moores, Indianapolis, Indiana
Raspberry Peach Puff Pancake
Here's a simple, satisfying treat that's perfect when you have company for brunch. It's elegant enough that you can even serve it for dessert at other meals.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
French Toast Sticks
Keep these French toast sticks in the freezer for an instant filling breakfast. Their convenient size makes them ideal for a breakfast buffet. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Zucchini Ham Frittata
This frittata is so quick to make--it cooks in the microwave in just minutes! Add a red pepper garnish for a colorful look. —Mildred Fox, Fostoria, Ohio
Green Chili Egg Puff
Green chilies add a touch of Southwest flavor to this fluffy egg dish. The cottage cheese offers nice texture, and people always love the gooey Montery Jack cheese melted throughout. —Laurel Leslie, Sonora, California
Blueberry Crunch Breakfast Bake
Blueberries in season make this a very special breakfast, but I find that frozen berries can work just as well. My grandmother used to make this with strawberries and I always loved to eat it at her house.—Marsha Ketaner, Henderson, Nevada
Download your Ultimate Easter Brunch Checklist here!
3 Weeks Before
- Send invitations
- Take inventory of tables, chairs, plates, cups, napkins and utensils. Make plans to fill in any gaps—such as borrowing folding chairs from a friend, picking up extra plates at a thrift store or purchasing disposable cups.
2 Weeks Before
- Plan your menu and make a grocery list. We’ve compiled 100 of our easiest Easter brunch recipes just for you!
- Design, cut and fold buffet markers. These will help guests navigate your buffet spread. Make sure to note any potential allergens on the cards.
1 Week Before
- Clean the house (These brilliant cleaning tips are grandma-approved.)
- Review grocery list; purchase nonperishable food ingredients
- Follow up with guests who have not RSVP’d
- Do a test run of your buffet setup to ensure everything will fit
3 Days Before
- Purchase remaining food ingredients
- Wash serving dishes
- Press any linens you plan to use
1 Day Before
- Spot-clean the house
- Set out party decorations (We love these festive Easter table decorations!)
- Make as many dishes ahead of time as you can. Muffins, mini quiches, fruit salads and desserts are all good options. (These are our favorite make-ahead Easter brunch recipes.)
- Measure or chop ingredients for any dishes you can’t make ahead
- Place beverages in the fridge to chill
Morning Of
- Set serving dishes/platters on the buffet
- Set out plates, cups, napkins and utensils
- Prepare final recipes
- Add finishing touches or garnishes to any foods you prepped in advance
1 Hour Before
- Hold warm food in a 200-degree oven
30 Minutes Before
- Set out food with corresponding markers on the buffet table
Just Before Guests Arrive
- Relax and get ready for some memorable Easter fun! (Having an Easter egg hunt? Try these genius ideas.)
Finish your meal with one of these gorgeous Easter desserts.
Rhubarb Crisp
I found this strawberry rhubarb crisp recipe on a box of Quaker Oats about 20 years ago. It's quick and easier to make than pie. It's versatile, too, because you can add strawberries in spring or apples in fall. I usually pop it into the oven shortly before we sit down to eat so it's still warm for dessert! —C.E. Adams, Charlestown, New Hampshire
Lemon Pudding Cake
My husband, Lloyd, loves this cake because it tastes like lemon meringue pie. The cake is a no-fuss, easy Easter dessert and makes just enough for the two of us. —Dawn Fagerstrom, Warren, Minnesota
Easter Sugar Cookies
Cream cheese contributes to the rich taste of these melt-in-your-mouth Easter sugar cookies. They have such nice flavor, you can skip the frosting and sprinkle them with colored sugar for a change. —Julie Brunette, Green Bay, Wisconsin If you're a sucker for festive treats, we have plenty of cute Easter-themed desserts to choose from.
Banana Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
I make these banana bars with cream cheese frosting whenever I have ripe bananas on hand, then store them in the freezer to share later. With creamy frosting and big banana flavor, this treat is a real crowd-pleaser and an easy Easter dessert. —Debbie Knight, Marion, Iowa
Lemon Chess Pie
This bright and creamy lemon chess pie cuts beautifully and has a smooth texture. It’s one of my favorites. —Hannah LaRue Rider, East Point, Kentucky
Berry Trifle
This Berry Trifle is a delicious salute to summer! I usually serve it during the summer when fresh berries are bountiful, but you can also prepare it with frozen cherries and light cherry pie filling during cooler months. —Brenda Paine, North Syracuse, New York
Slow-Cooker Lava Cake
I love chocolate. Perhaps that's why this decadent slow-cooker cake has long been a family favorite. Sometimes I serve it warm, with vanilla ice cream; the cake can also be served cold. —Elizabeth Farrell, Hamilton, Montana
Best Strawberry Shortcake
For a dazzling summer dessert, you can’t beat juicy strawberries and fresh whipped cream over homemade shortcake. My father added even more indulgence to this recipe by buttering the shortcake. This is the best strawberry shortcake recipe. —Shirley Joan Helfenbein, Lapeer, Michigan. If you can't pass up classic desserts like this one, head to our list of traditional Easter desserts.
Bunny Tails
My granddaughters and I came up with this clever and easy Easter dessert idea. —Kelly Ciepluch, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Carrot Cupcakes
To try to get my family to eat more vegetables, I often "hide" nutritional foods inside sweet treats. The carrots add wonderful moistness to these cupcakes, which have a rich cream cheese frosting. Now we can have our cake and eat our vegetables, too! —Doreen Kelly, Rosyln, Pennsylvania
Pina Colada Tube Cake
We named this a “pina colada” cake because it has coconut, pineapple and rum. It’s a soothing finish at the end of a big spread. —Debra Keil, Owasso, Oklahoma
Contest-Winning Easy Tiramisu
This recipe makes an easy Easter dessert... or an anytime dessert. It's easily doubled if needed. What a fun use for pudding snack cups! —Betty Claycomb, Adverton, Pennsylvania
Lemon Cheesecake Squares
Whether I'm hosting friends or sending a plate to work with my husband, these creamy elegant lemon cheesecake bars are always a hit. It's a wonderful make-ahead Easter dessert that easily serves a large group.
Jumbleberry Crumble
A friend brought this delicious, down-home dessert to church and was kind enough to give out the recipe. Everyone enjoyed it so much and just showered her with compliments! It’s especially wonderful served warm or with a dollop of creamy whipped topping. —Mary Ann Dell, Phoenixville, Pennsylvania
Nutella-Stuffed Strawberries
Gourmet strawberries are pricey to order but easy to make. We serve strawberries with hazelnut spread as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or dessert. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon
Mimosa Butter Cookies
You can add many different flavors to butter cookies to make them your own. Try an alternate type of citrus zest, or add an alternate liquid to change things up. —Sara Lark, Raton, New Mexico
Winning Apricot Bars
This recipe is down-home baking at its best, and it really represents all regions of the country. It's won blue ribbons at county fairs and cookie contests in several states! Easy to make, it's perfect for potluck suppers, bake sales, lunchboxes or an easy Easter dessert. —Jill Moritz, Irvine, California
Aloha Cupcakes
A friend asked me to make a coconut and pineapple cupcake for a gathering she was hosting. Everyone agreed that this beauty took them to the tropics. The macadamia nuts are completely optional (the friend happens to be allergic), and the cupcakes are still fantastic without them. —Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta
Chunky Banana Cream Freeze
Everyone loves ice cream, but we all know it doesn't make a great after-school snack. Until this! With its sweet banana-almond flavor and chunky texture, this appealing banana peanut butter "ice cream" is a crowd-pleaser. People who ask me for the recipe can't believe how easy it is to make. —Kristen Bloom, Okinawa, Japan
Nutella Hand Pies
These pint-sized Nutella hand pies made with puff pastry are too good to keep to yourself! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Glazed Lemon Cake
My mother baked this moist treat when I was a child. I loved the lemon glaze and light cake as much then as my children do now. —Missy Andrews, Rice, Washington
Rose and Raspberry Fool
I came up with this recipe when I was going through a floral phase, putting rose or lavender in everything. This Easter dessert is easy to make, but it's also elegant to serve when company comes. —Carolyn Eskew, Dayton, Ohio
Lavender Shortbread
Lavender flowers can be used fresh or dried in cooking. The flowers have an intense flavor, so they are best used sparingly. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Greendale, Wisconsin
Easy Pistachio Tube Cake
Mixes make this light cake easy, and a fluted tube pan gets it holiday party-ready. Go for the pistachios on top—the extra crunch is worth it. —Dina Crowell, Fredericksburg, Virginia
Citrus Mini Cakes
These moist, bite-size muffins from Linda Terrell of Palatka, Florida are melt-in-your-mouth good. "With their appealing look, they really dress up a party table," she notes. The recipe makes a big batch, so there's plenty to please a crowd.
Pineapple Upside-Down Dump Cake
This dump cake recipe is wonderful topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. It works well with gluten-free and sugar-free cake mixes too. —Karin Gatewood, Dallas, Texas
Soft Honey Cookies
These old-fashioned honey cookies have a subtle honey-cinnamon flavor and a tender texture. This recipe has been a favorite in my family for years and now it can be one at your house, too. —Rochelle Friedman, Brooklyn, New York
Strawberry-Banana Pudding Cake
This luscious pink pudding cake is so easy to put together. Top it with ice cream and fresh fruit, and you have one very happy family. —Nadine Mesch, Mount Healthy, Ohio
Peeps Sunflower Cake
The inspiration for this cake came from one of my favorite flowers, the sunflower. The yellow peeps make eye-catching flower petals, and I carefully placed chocolate chips in a circular pattern to resemble the seeds in the middle of a sunflower. This cake is an easy Easter dessert but looks quite impressive. —Bethany Eledge, Cleveland, Tennessee
Tender Pecan Logs
Folks always ask me to make these tender nutty logs. Not overly sweet, they're just right with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. —Joyce Beck, Gadsden, Alabama
Cookie Butter Pie
I tasted Biscoff cookie spread at a grocery store one day, and it was so delicious that I decided to create a no-bake pie with it. You can make this pie your own by substituting peanut butter or another kind of spread for the Biscoff spread and then matching toppings. —Katrina Adams, Mount Olive, Alabama
Almond-Coconut Lemon Bars
These bars are one of our go-to easy Easter desserts. Give traditional lemon bars a tasty twist with the addition of almonds and coconut. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Banana Pudding
I didn’t see my son, Lance Corporal Eric Harris, for more than two years after he enlisted in the Marines after high school. And when I saw him arrive at the airport, I just grabbed hold of him and burst out crying. When we got home, the first thing he ate was two bowls of my easy banana pudding recipe. He’s a true southern boy! It also makes an easy Easter dessert—you can have it for breakfast, lunch or dinner. —Stephanie Harris, Montpelier, Virginia
Jelly Bean Bark
Homemade Easter candy really doesn't get better than this. It's so simple—all you need are three ingredients, a microwave and a pan! It makes a perfect easy Easter dessert. —Mavis Dement, Marcus, Iowa
Mamaw Emily's Strawberry Cake
My husband loved his mamaw's strawberry cake recipe. He thought no one could duplicate it. I made it, and it’s just as scrumptious as he remembers. —Jennifer Bruce, Manitou, Kentucky
Lime & Gin Coconut Macaroons
I took these lime and coconut macaroons to our annual cookie exchange, where we name a queen. I won the crown! —Milissa Kirkpatrick, Angel Fire, New Mexico
Baked Lemon Pound Cake
If you and your family like lemon, you'll love this easy lemon cake recipe! Every bite is sweet and tart at the same time. —Traci Wynne, Denver, Pennsylvania
Coconut Creme Chocolates
I'm a proud wife, mom of three and grandma of many. I've cooked many things over the years, including these marshmallowy chocolates. —Dolores Wilder, Texas City, Texas
Cinnamon Apple Pan Betty
I found this recipe soon after I was married decades ago. You'll need just a few ingredients that you probably have on hand. It's super quick to put together and a favorite of ours during fall and winter, when apples are at their best. —Shirley Leister, West Chester, Pennsylvania
