'Tis the Season Brunch
A scrumptious, do-ahead spread lets you enjoy the spirit of the season in style!
During this busy season, a brunch is a great way to celebrate a special occasion without taking away precious holiday prep or shopping hours. Lots of these recipes are made ahead, so it’s easy on the host! So no matter what the reason for celebrating, it will be a joyful one!
Make It Special!
- Get the celebration rolling with tangy Mimosas.
- Make an eye-catching centerpiece for the table from your favorite holiday decorations. Show off your Santa collection, or make beautifully wrapped gifts do double-duty as table decorations.
- Flavored butter will make the Banana-Blueberry Muffins and Almond-Crumb Scones extra special. Stir honey into softened margarine or butter for a sweet spread. Or stir in a little grated orange peel for a refreshing burst of citrus flavor. Place a holiday-shaped outline-type cookie cutter on a waxed-paper covered plate. Fill cookie cutter with the orange butter; refrigerate until firm. Remove butter from cookie cutter by running a knife dipped in hot water along the inside edge.
- Use small, decorated wreaths (available at craft stores) or ring-shaped candy canes (available at supermarkets) as napkin rings.
- Before serving Chocolate-Cinnamon Cake Roll, place a little baking cocoa in a small strainer. Tap the edge of the strainer with a spoon over the serving plates to “dust” the plates with cocoa. After arranging a slice of cake roll on each plate, garnish with a little whipped cream and a chocolate twig (available at large supermarkets or gourmet food stores).
Preparation Guide
A Few Days Before
- Prepare Banana-Blueberry Muffins and Almond-Crumb Scones; cool and freeze in plastic bags.
- Prepare flavored butters for the muffins and scones.
The Day Before
- Prepare (but do not bake) Mozzarella and Pesto Strata.
- Bake Chocolate-Cinnamon Cake Roll.
About One Hour 30 Minutes Before
- Prepare and bake Wild Rice and Turkey Casserole.
About One Hour Before
- Bake Mozzarella and Pesto Strata.
As Guests Arrive
- Prepare and serve Mimosas.
About Twenty Minutes Before Serving
- Prepare Roquefort and Toasted Walnut Salad.
- Remove muffins and scones from freezer. Wrap in aluminum foil and reheat in oven with the main dishes.
After the Main Course
- Prepare coffee.
- Serve Chocolate-Cinnamon Cake Roll.