33 Recipes For An Elegant Brunch (Photos)

Brunch is a glorious affair. It's that one chance on the weekend for family and friends gather, and there's a general excitement in the air. The workweek is over, you can wake up at your leisure, and then sit down and take your time without the rush of the workday on you. And aside from that, there's the food. Click through the slideshow below for the perfect brunch recipes. From sticky buns to baked eggs to banana-blueberry pancakes and oversized biscuits, you're sure to have the best spread yet.

What's your favorite brunch recipe? Leave a comment.

Loading Slideshow

• Butterscotch Sticky Buns

  Sticky buns get a make over with the addition of butterscotch. And though it takes two hours from start to finish, every minute is worth it. This recipe is sure to be a hit! <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/butterscotch-sticky-buns_n_1058262.html" target="_hplink">Butterscotch Sticky Buns</a> recipe</strong>

• Blueberry Pancakes With Blueberry Compote

  Blueberry and pancakes were just meant to go together -- and this recipe doesn't shy from indulging in that perfect pairing. Loaded with the little berries and then topped with a blueberry compote, these pancakes will certainly hit the spot. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/blueberry-pancakes-with-b_n_1055891.html" target="_hplink">Blueberry Pancakes with Blueberry Compote</a> recipe</strong>

• Potato And Kale Frittata

  A mix between the Spanish tortilla -- an egg and potato cake that's common at tapas bars -- and an Italian frittata, this egg dish is an easy one to cook up. The addition of kale adds some nice color to this soon-to-be favorite brunch item. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/potato-and-kale-frittata_n_1057189.html" target="_hplink">Potato and Kale Frittata</a> recipe</strong>

• Chocolate Chip And Banana Muffins

  Like banana bread, these extra moist muffins are a great way to use up overripe bananas. And the addition of chocolate ensures that you'll have satisfied your sweet tooth. Chopped toasted pecans would make a great addition. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/chocolate-chip-and-banana_n_1058313.html" target="_hplink">Chocolate Chip and Banana Muffins</a> recipe</strong>

• Artichoke-Scrambled Eggs Benedict

  Roasted artichoke bottoms stand in for English muffins in this quick yet elegant recipe -- while also making this beloved brunch item a tad healthier. Substitute roasted mushrooms for the pancetta for a vegetarian option. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/artichoke-scrambled-eggs-_n_1056660.html" target="_hplink">Artichoke-Scrambled Eggs Benedict</a> recipe</strong>

• Blueberry-Banana Pancakes

  Not often paired together -- and that's truly a shame -- blueberries and bananas make a delicious duo in this pancake recipe. The creaminess of the bananas and the juicy flavor blasts of the blueberries provide a delightful texture to this breakfast favorite. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/blueberry-banana-pancakes_n_1059508.html" target="_hplink">Blueberry-Banana Pancakes</a> recipe</strong>

• Free-Form Onion Tart

  Onion and thyme come together in this savory and rustic tart to create a satisfying, light savory bite. The onions are caramelized before being baked in the tart to ensure that the maximum sweetness is drawn out. This one is sure to be a hit on the brunch table. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/free-form-onion-tart_n_1058392.html" target="_hplink">Free-Form Onion Tart</a> recipe</strong>

• Sweet Potato Doughnuts

  Never tried a sweet potato donut? Well, you should. The addition of sweet potato puree adds a naturally sweet and earthy flavor. These donuts are baked instead of fried, meaning they're much healthier than the average one -- and they go great next to a cup of freshly-brewed coffee. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/sweet-potato-doughnuts_n_1061079.html" target="_hplink">Sweet Potato Doughnuts</a> recipe</strong>

• Oversize Breakfast Biscuit

  Nothing says brunch decadence like an oversized biscuit. Fill it with sausage, thick-cut ham or eggs -- or if you are feeling particularly hungry, filling with all three is not a bad idea either. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/oversize-breakfast-biscui_n_1059199.html" target="_hplink">Oversize Breakfast Biscuit</a> recipe</strong>

• Baked Almond French Toast

  Inspired by almond croissants, this baked version of french toast -- which is assembled ahead and then finished in the oven -- is the way to go when you're serving a brunch; the classic top-of-the-stove method for french toast is just too labor-intensive. And you'll love the way the almond topping crisps up to offset the custardy innards of the bread. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/baked-almond-french-toast_n_1057847.html" target="_hplink">Baked Almond French Toast</a> recipe</strong>

• Cheddar Scallion Brunch Eggs

  This egg casserole will make a terrific main for any Irish-style breakfast gathering. Serve it with slices of crispy bacon, toast and any of your favorite sides. A bit of flour and baking powder help the baked eggs puff up high. Cottage cheese and cheddar cheese add creaminess and flavor. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/cheddar-scallion-brunch-e_n_1057187.html" target="_hplink">Cheddar Scallion Brunch Eggs</a> recipe</strong>

• Blueberry-Sour Cream Muffins

  Baking is a perfect way to spend your Sunday; and baking for a Sunday brunch feast is even better. The sour cream in these muffins keep them extra moist and add an extra element to the beloved blueberry muffin. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/blueberry-sour-cream-muff_n_1058242.html" target="_hplink">Blueberry-Sour Cream Muffins</a> recipe </strong>

• Bacon, Tomato And Cheddar Breakfast Bake With Eggs

  This breakfast bake topped with runny eggs develops a terrific texture as it cooks slowly in a glass dish (which makes it easy to see when the bottom is perfectly browned). <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/bacon-tomato-and-cheddar_n_1059614.html" target="_hplink">Bacon, Tomato and Cheddar Breakfast Bake with Eggs</a> recipe</strong>

• Hush Puppies With Green Zebra Tomato Jam

  If you want to take your hash browns up a notch, try the hush puppy. They're golden and crisp on the outside, but creamy and rich on the inside. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/hush-strongpuppies-with-green-z_n_1058498.html" target="_hplink">Hush Puppies With Green Zebra Tomato Jam</a></strong> recipe</strong>

• Strawberry-Almond Scone

  Scones are not just for English tea time. They're crumbly and rich and melt in your mouth. Think of them as the sweet alternative to the biscuit and you'll understand why they deserve a solid place in the brunch line-up. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/strawberry-almond-scones_n_1061078.html" target="_hplink">Strawberry-Almond Scone</a> recipe</strong>

• Leek And Bacon Pie

  This crustless, savory pie is not only incredibly simple to make, but it only calls for five ingredients (if you don't include the salt and pepper for taste). This is a great recipe to turn to when you are looking for an easy dish to put together. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/leek--bacon-pie_n_1056867.html" target="_hplink">Leek and Bacon Pie</a> recipe</strong>

• Sticky Pecan Muffins

  If you're looking for fresh baked goods in a hurry, this is the recipe for you -- and it's a delectable one, too. Everything is quickly put together in the food processor with just a few pulses, and the majority of the 35 minute cook time is simply waiting for the muffins to come out of the oven. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/sticky-pecan-muffins_n_1057216.html" target="_hplink">Sticky Pecan Muffins</a> recipe</strong>

• Eggs En Cocotte (Eggs Baked In Ramekins)

  Baked eggs with the added richness of cream and cheese makes for great Sunday fare. The fact that these eggs come in individual servings makes it a nice elegant touch to the brunch spread. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/eggs-en-cocotte-baked-eg_n_1057500.html" target="_hplink">Eggs en Cocotte</a> recipe</strong>

• Orange-Ginger Pancakes With Citrus-Honey Topping

  While pancakes are almost always topped with golden maple syrup to give it that extra sweetness we all love, honey makes a wonderful alternative -- and brings in a complexity of flavor. The orange and ginger work harmoniously together, and draw out the mellow flavor notes of the honey. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/orange-ginger-pancakes-wi_n_1057447.html" target="_hplink">Orange-Ginger Pancakes with Citrus-Honey Topping</a> recipe</strong>

• Sticky Oat-And-Pine-Nut Bars

  For a granola bar with a sweeter side, this one is a real winner. It's simple on the inside with oats, pine nuts and honey, and then doused in white chocolate. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/sticky-oat-and-pine-nut-b_n_1058718.html" target="_hplink">Sticky Oat-and-Pine-Nut Bars</a> recipe</strong>

• Ricotta Pancakes With Orange Syrup

  This recipe is famous for being a room service favorite at the Ace Hotel in New York City. The pancakes include ricotta cheese and cornmeal, creating a unique texture. Serve the breakfast drizzled with orange syrup made from freshly squeezed juice and zest. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/the-breslins-ricotta-pan_n_1058745.html" target="_hplink">Ricotta Pancakes with Orange Syrup</a> recipe</strong>

• Homemade Waffles With Honeycomb Butter And Bananas

  The combination of bananas and honeycomb are a comforting duo. And when served atop freshly made waffles -- who could ask for anything more? <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/homemade-waffles-with-hon_n_1059855.html" target="_hplink">Homemade Waffles with Honeycomb Butter and Bananas</a> recipe</strong>

• Bacon, Cheddar And Scallion Strata

  This strata, just another name for a savory bread pudding, combines crispy bacon, cheddar and scallion. The strata can be assembled a day in advance and baked fresh the morning of your breakfast or brunch. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/bacon-cheddar-and-scall_n_1057846.html" target="_hplink">Bacon, Cheddar and Scallion Strata</a> recipe</strong>

• Baked Currant Doughnuts

  This baked doughnut recipe mixes dried currants in the dough, imparting a welcomed sweetness throughout. A nice way to finish them off is to brush with butter and then dredge them in sugar. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/baked-currant-doughnuts_n_1058216.html" target="_hplink">Baked Currant Doughnuts</a> recipe</strong>

• Fig And Walnut Loaf

  Skip the traditional bread at your brunch table and replace it with a fruity and hearty loaf. When this loaf bakes in the oven, a rich nutty aroma fills your home. It is a nice treat to great your guest when they arrive for brunch. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/fig-and-walnut-loaf_n_1056805.html" target="_hplink">Fig and Walnut Loaf</a> recipe</strong>

• Broccoli And Cheesy Cheddar Pie

  Broccoli is often taken up a notch when paired with cheddar -- and the same is true in this pie recipe. Look for sharp cheddar; the extra kick of flavor is a nice addition. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/broccoli-and-cheesy-chedd_n_1057323.html" target="_hplink">Broccoli and Cheesy Cheddar Pie</a> recipe</strong>

• Apple Pie Muffins

  Ground almonds and oats are added to these muffins to give them a nice, hearty feel -- and a great nutty flavor. Cinnamon and brown sugar come together in this recipe, along with a bit of apple, to give you a taste of home-made apple pie. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/apple-pie-muffins_n_1057015.html" target="_hplink">Apple Pie Muffins</a> recipe</strong>

• Moroccan Baked Eggs With Red Peppers And Spinach

  This scrumptious breakfast is made to serve two, but can easily be multiplied depending on your hosting needs. The recipe combines sauteed spinach, strips of roasted red pepper, cream, goat cheese and harissa (a spicy Moroccan paste) for a bit of kick. Bake the eggs in individual gratin dishes until the yolks are just set. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/moroccan-baked-eggs-with-_n_1060962.html" target="_hplink">Moroccan Baked Eggs With Red Peppers And Spinach</a> recipe</strong>

• Pillow Talk French Toast

  Everyone loves French toast, but not many like it cold. And when serving breakfast for many, it's hard to keep each serving pipping hot. The best way around that is to bake your French toast. You get to enjoy this tasty dish, and spend time with your guests -- win-win. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/pillow-talk-french-toast_n_1060893.html" target="_hplink">Pillow Talk French Toast</a> recipe</strong>

• Jelly-Stuffed Corn Muffins

  A little bit lighter than a jelly-stuffed donut, but every bit as tasty. These simple corn muffins are stuffed with strawberry preserves -- though feel free to use your favorite flavor here -- which means they're ready to be enjoyed immediately (no need to top with butter and honey). <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/jelly-stuffed-corn-muffin_n_1057243.html" target="_hplink">Jelly-Stuffed Corn Muffins</a> recipe</strong>

• Fruit-And-Nut Energy Bars

  Not quite a breakfast pastry, but the addition of dried blueberries, figs and coconut would suggest otherwise. These homemade breakfast bars are a great start to any morning -- and make a welcomed healthy addition to this meal. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/fruit-and-nut-energy-bars_n_1058399.html" target="_hplink">Fruit-and-Nut Energy Bars</a> recipe</strong>

• Banana-Walnut Pancakes With Maple-Cinnamon Brown Butter

  If you are a fan of banana nut bread, then this is the perfect pancake recipe for you. The bananas add a welcome creaminess to the fluffy pancakes, and the nutty, crunchy walnuts throws in a nice kick. The maple-cinnamon brown butter topping ties it all together. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/banana-walnut-pancakes-wi_n_1057448.html" target="_hplink">Banana-Walnut Pancakes with Maple-Cinnamon Brown Butter</a> recipe</strong>

• BLT Strata

  This strata incorporates all the best ingredients of the BLT sandwich into this breakfast egg dish. The recipe can be made well ahead of time, in different stages, allowing you to free up your time if cooking for guests. <strong>Get the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/27/blt-strata_n_1056945.html" target="_hplink">BLT Strata</a> recipe</strong>

• WATCH: How To Host An Easter Brunch

  Whether Easter brunch is a casual gathering or a more formal affair, these tips will ease your stress for a successful mid-morning meal.

Comments

[Carmen Sepulveda]

04:52 PM on 03/25/2012

All the recipes are low fat, right? Yeah, right!

[GrandmaG]

03:28 PM on 03/27/2012

Some of them could be. I enjoy the challenge of making yummy sounding recipes lower in carbs, fat and calories where I can. : )

[myk7422]

04:14 PM on 03/25/2012

i just me or anyone see the "Face" first thing you see this picture?

[mimidec67]

02:31 PM on 03/25/2012

In a word...Nom.

[suziespot]

02:16 PM on 03/25/2012

I have never made pancake's that look like that but I sure would like to see someone make them for me. That look's like one awesome pancake dish and my pancake's alway suck. They either are like rubber or doughy.

[chaya]

07:35 PM on 03/28/2012

Try whipping eggwhites into peaks and then folding them gently into your batter.

[ericakrysta333]

12:00 PM on 03/25/2012

Blueberry Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are even on a dish!!