The holiday season is a time filled with family gatherings, cozy mornings, and, of course, delicious food! One of the best ways to make the holidays even more magical for kids is by starting the day with a fun and festive breakfast. These holiday-inspired breakfast ideas are simple, nutritious, and most importantly, kid-approved. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just adding a little seasonal cheer to a regular day, these breakfast ideas are sure to bring smiles to the table.
Here are six creative breakfast ideas that you and your kids can enjoy throughout the holiday season!
1. Snowman Pancakes
Pancakes are always a hit with kids, and turning them into a snowman adds an extra dose of holiday fun. To make snowman pancakes, stack three pancakes of varying sizes on top of each other to resemble a snowman’s body. Use small blueberries or chocolate chips for the snowman’s eyes and buttons, a slice of carrot or orange for the nose, and whipped cream or mini marshmallows to create a snowy effect.
For a savory twist, you can also use strips of bacon as a "scarf" or add small pieces of fruit like strawberries or grapes for additional decoration. Serve with syrup, honey, or fruit preserves to make it a delicious and sweet start to the day.
This breakfast idea not only brings holiday cheer but also lets kids get creative with their food. You can even set out different toppings and let them design their own snowman creations!
2. Holiday Tree Waffles
Waffles are another breakfast classic, and with a little creativity, they can easily be transformed into a holiday tree. After making waffles, cut them into triangles and arrange them to resemble the shape of a tree. To make it even more festive, provide a variety of toppings that can serve as "decorations" for the waffle tree.
Fresh berries, like raspberries and blueberries, can act as ornaments, while whipped cream or yogurt can be drizzled to create the look of snow. For the top of the tree, a star-shaped fruit such as a slice of pineapple or starfruit adds the perfect touch.
This holiday tree waffle idea allows for endless possibilities when it comes to toppings, making it a great way for kids to have fun personalizing their breakfast while enjoying a balanced meal.
3. Holiday Fruit Kabobs
If you’re looking for a quick and healthy holiday breakfast, fruit kabobs are the perfect solution. Skewer a variety of colorful fruits to create a vibrant and festive breakfast that kids will love. Fruits like red grapes, green apples, pineapples, strawberries, and blueberries work well to create a holiday-inspired look.
Pair the fruit kabobs with a yogurt dipping sauce, either plain or with a dash of cinnamon for added holiday flavor. The combination of fresh fruits and creamy yogurt provides a nutritious start to the day, and the fun presentation makes it extra special.
Fruit kabobs are also a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen. Let them choose their favorite fruits and arrange them on the skewers. Not only will they enjoy eating their creation, but it also encourages them to try new fruits and flavors.
4. Gingerbread Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a warm and comforting breakfast option, especially during the chilly holiday months. To give it a festive twist, try making gingerbread oatmeal by adding gingerbread spices to your usual oatmeal recipe. Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a touch of molasses will give the oatmeal a rich, spiced flavor that evokes the feeling of holiday treats.
Top the oatmeal with raisins, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of crushed gingerbread cookies for added texture and flavor. This breakfast is not only flavorful but also packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice that will keep kids full and energized for holiday activities.
The gingerbread flavor adds a touch of indulgence without being overly sweet, making it a perfect option for a holiday breakfast that feels special but remains healthy.
5. Cranberry Orange Muffins
Muffins are a great make-ahead option for busy holiday mornings, and cranberry orange muffins are a festive twist on a classic breakfast item. The tartness of the cranberries combined with the sweetness of orange creates a delightful flavor combination that’s perfect for the holiday season.
To make these muffins extra nutritious, consider adding whole wheat flour, oats, or flaxseeds to the batter for a boost of fiber. You can also use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener instead of sugar. The bright, citrusy flavor of the orange pairs perfectly with the cranberries, making these muffins a fresh and zesty start to the day.
Muffins are also easy to store and freeze, so you can make a batch ahead of time and simply warm them up on busy holiday mornings. Pair the muffins with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy and satisfying breakfast.
6. Egg and Veggie Holiday Breakfast Casserole
For families who prefer a savory breakfast, an egg and veggie casserole is a hearty and nutritious option that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. This breakfast casserole can be prepped the night before, making it an easy and stress-free choice for holiday mornings.
To create a festive version, use red and green vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, and tomatoes. You can also add cheese, cooked sausage, or bacon for extra flavor. Whisk the eggs with milk and pour them over the vegetables and meat, then bake the casserole until golden and set.
This dish is not only packed with protein and veggies but also customizable based on your family’s preferences. Serve it with toast or fresh fruit for a complete holiday breakfast that’s both filling and delicious.
The holidays are a special time for family, and what better way to start each day than with a breakfast that’s both fun and festive? Whether your kids prefer sweet or savory, there’s something on this list for everyone. From snowman pancakes to holiday fruit kabobs, these breakfast ideas will add a touch of magic to your holiday mornings.
Each of these ideas is designed to be simple enough for kids to help with, encouraging them to get involved in the kitchen and enjoy the process of creating something special. Whether you’re hosting family or just enjoying a quiet holiday morning, these breakfasts will make the holidays even more memorable for your little ones.
So, gather your ingredients, let the kids get creative, and enjoy the delicious results together!
