How To *Actually* Enjoy Drinking Red Wine

a glass of red wine with red grapes and a wine bottle

Let’s face it – the wine world is a lot to tackle. Between the endless list of technical syntax and TikTok-backed bottle recommendations, it can sometimes feel like you’re not measuring up to sommelier-tier knowledge, or that you're doing the "wrong" thing when it comes to wine altogether.

Fear not, beginner, for we’ve got a glass full of expert tips, courtesy of AJ Kiamie, founder of Kiamie Restaurant Group. Through his work, he’s established The Sipp on South Lamar and YŪGŌ Oxford, amassing a hub of wine wisdom along the way.

When compared to other wines, red wine in particular holds an intimidating energy, which may be one reason why beginners shy away from drinking it.

“Whites and pinks are usually chilled, this makes them more refreshing. They are also usually lower in alcohol content,” says Kiamie. “Some red varieties can hit above 15% ABV.”

One thing that kept me away from choosing red wine was the fact that every kind I had tried was just too bitter. I’m a sweets-loving gal, so that blip in flavor was hard to work through. Kiamie attributes this preference to what he calls “the American palate.”

“Typically reds are not meant to be sweet. Old world wines (from Europe) tend to be earthy and dry, and new world wines tend to be more fruit forward,” he explains. “America is a culture raised on large amounts of sugar – this carries over to adulthood in the form of sweet wines.”

If you’re seeking to enhance your palette (or in my case, finally grow up and learn to love red wine), here are four *very* simple ways to actually get into savoring reds:

How To Enjoy Red Wine

Photo by Cup of Couple / PEXELS

1. Participate in a tasting.

There’s a total difference between drinking red wine, and tasting red wine. Following the proper wine tasting steps can help you develop a deeper appreciation for the flavors and impressions of red wine.

“Be sure to smell the wine before you taste it. This is the key to opening up the flavors,” Kiamie says. “Sip the wine then slowly swirl it around your mouth, and try to hit all the different taste buds in your mouth. After swallowing, open your mouth and breathe out. Then close your mouth and taste again – you will get different flavors on the finish this way.”

Whether you choose to visit a local winery for a tasting (some guidance could be helpful!), or just host one at home, taking the time to inspect red wine with your senses can aid in a better sipping experience overall.

Photo by Polina Kovaleva / PEXELS

2. Pair different wines with different foods.

We’re always here for some snack and wine pairings! Kiamie says that trying different combinations can alter the tastes of red wines. “An easy start is cheese,” he notes. “This will help cut the tannins from the wines a bit.”

Sweets are a no-no with red wine, though.

“Shy away from sweet foods when drinking reds – the sweeter the food, the drier the wine will taste,” Kiamie says. “For heavier reds such as Cabernet and Zinfandel, red meat is always a winner.”

Photo by KoolShooters / PEXELS

3. Eliminate all judgements.

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Everyone has a different palate,” Kiamie says.

It’s important that your red wine journey is your own – so focusing on what you like to drink rather than what others are pouring can be the most helpful tool in the process of discovering red wine. And forget the fancy language!

“Never let your lack of knowledge stop you from exploring,” Kiamie urges. “Try new wines and enjoy them the way you prefer. If you want to drink your merlot with ice, go for it! No judgment here!”

Photo by ilya st / PEXELS

4. Try everything!

There are endless possibilities when it comes to red wine. Trying a different bottle every time opens up a plethora of opportunities for you to like reds more and more!

“What you choose to drink is completely up to you,” Kiamie says. “Just be sure to enjoy it responsibly and practice moderation.”

The Best Bottles For Getting Into Red Wine

Josh Pinot Noir Red Wine

Great for beginners: a slightly chilled California Pinot Noir.

"The temperature barrier is a major deal for people that drink white or rosé," Kiamie says. "Bringing the temperature down on a fruit forward red helps it to be more approachable.”

Medici Ermete Lambrusco Querciolo Dolce

If you like sweets, pick this: Lambrusco from Italy.

“The sweeter reds from Italy tend to be very popular and approachable. They also tend to have less added sugar than their new world counterparts," he says. "I’ve always enjoyed Lambrusco from Italy. It is a slightly sweet, lightly bubbly red.”

Meiomi Pinot Noir

A crowd favorite: Meiomi Pinot Noir.

Another California-crafted Pinot, this brand of red wine has become popular amongst winos of all kinds.

Colosi Nero d'Avola

For a more complex flavor profile: ruby-red wine.
The allure of the fruits like sour cherry, prunes, and blackberries included in this Italian red wine will have you hooked. Pair it with strong cheeses for a well-rounded sip.

Boom Boom! Syrah Red Wine by Charles Smith

When you want a unique pick: Syrah.

Syrah red wines can range anywhere from savory to sweet, based on the region they're made in. This versatility in flavor makes it a great option, especially if you're attending a dinner party and want to impress.

Justin Cabernet Sauvignon

​Heavier on the palate: this full-bodied red wine.

Though this red is filled with elements of black cherry, red berries, blackcurrant, and vanilla, it still holds a bolder oaky taste. Though it plays around with more complex inclusions, it's generally very balanced and great for red wine beginners. 

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Lead photo by Dziana Hasanbekava / PEXELS.

Live up to the “rosé all day" slogan this season by shaking up one of these refreshing rosé cocktail recipes we've gathered from bars, recipe developers, and winemakers across the country. This list includes a twist on the classic French 75, a rosé mimosa, and a new version of frosé... and yes, they all star everyone's favorite pink wine! Cheers to these delightful sips when the days are long and the temps are hot. Scroll for the recipes!


Frozen Watermelon Rosé Sangria Slushies

We can't wait to combine a few of our favorite things with this drink. Slushies, booze, and watermelon – all in one sip! Freeze sliced watermelon and fresh raspberries ahead of time to make sure that the finished drink has that perfect frozen consistency. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Pink Sangria with Rosé Wine

Prep a big pitcher of this rosé-infused sangria to share with all the besties. (via Barley & Sage)

The Pink French 75 Cocktail

This rosé cocktail is a great choice for every flirty and fun cocktail drinker. And with elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and vodka or gin, it's a quick and easy fix! Pink cocktails for the win. (via The Beauty Blotter)

Raspberry and Pomegranate Rosé Cocktail

This sweet, tart drink makes for a relaxing summer evening. Pomegranate juice, fresh lime, and raspberries give the glass a fruity kick, and the gin and rosé give it the right amount of edge. (via Foolproof Living)

Always Sparkling from Ruffino

Ingredients (serves 1):

  • 1 ounce cognac
  • 3/4 ounce lemon juice
  • 3/4 ounce strawberry purée
  • 1 dash rose water
  • Ice
  • 1 1/2 ounces Ruffino Sparkling Rosé
  • Fresh strawberries, to garnish

Instructions:

  1. Shake all ingredients together except for the rosé.
  2. Strain into a lowball glass with ice and top off with sparkling rosé.
  3. Garnish with a strawberry.

Lavender Lemonade Rosé Cocktails

Lemon and lavender is a match made in heaven, and we can't wait to try this cocktail! A pinch of sea salt rounds out the flavor for a full-bodied drink. (via Plays Well With Butter)

Watermelon Rosé Paloma

This fizzy, sweet sip partners up with a salty, spicy rim that'll keep you coming back for more. (via Half Baked Harvest)

No-Wait Frosé

For anyone who's a *little bit* impatient when it comes to devouring delicious recipes (we totally understand), then this is for you. This drink — which features rosé, frozen strawberries, and vodka — only takes 5 minutes to make, which makes us love it even more than we already did. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Rosé Wine Granita

The hottest of summer days deserve a sweet icy treat like this rosé slushy. It's like a snow cone, but better! (via Feast + West)

Rosé Mimosa from Kim Crawford Wines

Ingredients (serves 4):

For the syrup:

  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup water

For the cocktail:

  • 1 bottle Kim Crawford Rosé
  • 1/2 bottle prosecco
  • 8 rosemary sprigs, to garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a small saucepan bring the sugar and water to a boil, simmer for 5 minutes until dissolved.
  2. Cool and mix in the rosé, then freeze in a loaf pan, breaking up occasionally until frozen solid.
  3. Process in batches in a food processor until smooth, then freeze again until firm.
  4. Scoop into coupe glasses and top off with Prosecco.
  5. Garnish with rosemary and serve.

Rosé Raspberry Sorbet Mimosas

These mimosas are a unique and colorful addition to brunch or weekends with your gal pals. The drink might have sorbet in it, but we'll still pair it with dessert. (via Fox and Briar)

Strawberry Peach Frosé

As far as we're concerned, peaches are the *ultimate* summer fruit. They're juicy, sweet, and taste amazing in a variety of summer dishes. Add it to your rosé recipe to give your drink even more of a summer feel. (via Culinary Hill)

Summer's Perfect Rosé Spritzer

With strawberries, mint, and lemon, this rosé cocktail is like summer in a glass. (via The Sweetest Occasion)

Frozen Peach Rosé Slushy

Decadent peaches get frozen then blended with your best rosé wine for a drink that keeps things extra cool. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Strawberry Frozen Rosé

Because this cocktail has fruit in it, that means it's a healthy option, right?! Either way, this frosé recipe is delicious and super fitting for summertime – day or night. (via Barley & Sage)

Next time you need a drink for an evening on the front porch or brunch, grab one of these rosé cocktails. Any of these recipes will add some flavor to your spring or summer day!

Follow us on Pinterest for more classic cocktails.

This article has been updated from a previous post.

After several Christmases, I have fully assumed the role of charcuterie-maker in my family. I geek out over arranging everything to be as perfect as possible – I’m talkin’ meats, cheeses, olives, nuts, peppers, dips, breads, and of course, crackers.

As a self-proclaimed pro, the signature mark of a great charcuterie spread is having plenty of unique flavor combos – and Trader Joe’s latest limited-edition innovation is just the thing I’ve been searching for to complete my snacky plans!

Trader Joe's

Trader Joe’s Stollen Crisps have the people going crazy. While you’d normally assume crackers to be a savory treat, these crispy bites boast raisins, orange and lemon peels, and a “dusting” of powdered sugar.

The Stollen Crisps mimic the grocery chain’s famous Fig & Olive Crisps (which also inspired the late seasonal Raisin & Rosemary Crisps and Strawberry & Jalapeño Crisps) by combining unexpected sweet notes with a savory-leaning base. Every bite will leave your Christmas dinner guests reeling!

TJ’s fanatic @traderjoeslist recently reviewed the Trader Joe’s Stollen Crisps on their Instagram account, and plenty of shoppers chimed in to share their thoughts on them – including some epic snacking combinations.

“Those are soooo good!!” one person said enthusiastically. “I [took] the lemon ricotta and blended it with some heavy cream and a pinch of sugar. OMG. Sooooo good!!!!”

“I’ve been enjoying them with brie!” another commenter wrote.

“I had these last year and couldn’t wait for them to come back,” someone else commented. “Excellent with cheese - cuts the sweetness.”

Trader Joe's

The Trader Joe’s Stollen Crisps currently go for $4.29 for 5.3 ounces worth of crunchy crackers. They have the perfect balance of sweet and savory, qualifying them as the ideal cracker to add to your Christmas plans this year. Even if you normally don’t opt for out-there flavors like this, you’re definitely going to change your mind after a bite with brie.

You’ve gotta be quick, though – this Trader Joe’s marvel is only on shelves for a limited time. Though there’s not a concrete end date for this snack, it’ll likely be gone right after the holidays. Time to stock up!

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There are times when you’re celebrating big, so you're willing to spring for an expensive champagne. But what if you want a little bubbly to freeze, spike mimosas with, or to pour into a champagne tower? Trader Joe's to the rescue! Trader Joe's champagne has expanded waaaay beyond 'Two-Buck Chuck' to include French champagne and other sparkling white wines produced using the Champagne method, which are *way* less expensive.

Time to pop some tags – no – corks! Here are some of the best Trader Joe's champagnes you can snag on a bargain... ones that even your wine snob friends will love.

Simpler Wine Italian Wine Cocktail

We're kind of obsessed with these little guys, which hold a little over a glass of wine in each $1 can. We love the mango flavor, with hints of fruit and a fizzy finish. Bring these to any BYOB situation, and you're sure to be a hit.

French Fizz Le Blanc 2021

This French sparkling wine, made with a blend of grapes, has a light body with a dry, crisp, and citrusy taste. Plus, the bottle looks so fancy! It also comes in a tasty rosé version.

Brut Rosé French Sparkling Wine

We can’t get enough of this pink Italian sparkler. When summer rolls around, be sure to stock up on these reasonably priced ($7!) bottles.

Opaline Pinot Noir Brut Rosé

This bottle has the delicate flavors of red fruits like strawberry and raspberry, and it bubbles just like a much more expensive option would. You essentially get the taste you love without the price tag!

Trader Joe's Reserve Brut Rosé

Also fermented in the traditional méthode champenoise, this North Coast Californian bubbly has hints of strawberry and a clean, dry finish. It's a flawless upgrade to your basic brunch mimosas!

Villa Antica Asolo Prosecco DOCG Superiore

Prosecco is a dry Italian sparkling wine that starts with different grapes than champagne and undergoes an entirely different fermentation process. (Champagne goes through a second fermentation in the bottle to achieve all of those bubbles and rich texture, while prosecco's second fermentation happens in large vats, which is why it's so affordable.) This prosecco has a clean mouthfeel, bright, bubbles, and a melon-forward flavor. (Photo via Trader Joe's)

Platinum Reserve Brut Sparkling Wine Sonoma County

This medium-bodied brut hints of apple and pear, plus a light gingery spice. It's easy sipping, so you don't have to save it for a special occasion — today will do! Cheers!

La Burgondie Crémant de Bourgogne

Made up of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gamay, and Aligotè grapes, this sparkling bev has notes of citrus and red apple with a dash of gingerbread spice.

If you’re enjoying this roundup of Trader Joe’s champagne, there’s more where that came from. Follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to our newsletter!

Photos via Trader Joe’s.

Additional reporting by Sally Jones and Meredith Holser.

FacebookTaylor Swift's Eras Tour may have officially come to a close, but she only just revealed one of the biggest mysteries of the $2 billion cultural phenomenon: her cleaning cart. If you're confused, let me break it down for you really quickly. Every night of the tour, Taylor Swift had to sneak onstage before the show, and fans predicted very early on that she hid in a cleaning cart that crossed the grounds shortly before everything started. It quickly became tradition for concert-goers to cheer every time the cart made its nightly pilgrimage to the stage, applauding for what they assumed to be their favorite singer taking her place backstage.

While she confirmed her makeshift vehicle in the "I Can Do It With A Broken Heart" music video, she's finally giving us a peek behind the curtain — or rather, the cleaning cart. Here's what she posted!

Scroll to see what the inside of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour cleaning cart actually looks like!

Instagram/TaylorSwift

Taylor looks totally adorable, posing in her opening set body suit while sitting on a black chair in the cleaning cart. While understanding how the "August" singer got around in the cart would have been enough for me, there's plenty more inside to unpack, too. Here's everything I noticed in the cart:

  • A floral cat illustration: Such classic cat-lover behavior.
  • Printed out "Animals of the Day" flyer featuring Olivia, Meredith, and Benjamin: She's such a proud cat mom!
  • A painting of a waterside town: Fans pointed out all over social media that this is potentially Cardiff, one of her many stops on the tour.
  • More hanging and taped-up decor: I'm dying to know what else Taylor wants to see before she hits the stage!
  • A little gold and red trinket on a ledge: Is Taylor a trinket girl?!
  • A little fan in the corner: And thank goodness, because you know that girl puts in hard work on that stage!
Is there anything I missed? Let me know in the comments!

Looking for more news on all your fave celebrities? Be sure to follow us on https://www.facebook.com/britandco/ so you never miss a thing!

If you’re anything like us, you awake on Christmas morning with an extra spring in your step, ready to see what goodies under the tree bare your name (and because you must watch A Christmas Story for the 500th time). You ignore the after-effects of your Christmas Eve cookiesbinge and the one-too-many cocktails because, well, it’s Christmas. But just in case you need a little extra present-opening gusto, we’ve rounded up some iconic Christmas breakfast ideas so decadent and delicious, Santa is going to wish he delivered your gifts on Christmas morning.

Real Foot Dietitians

Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole

This veggie-filled casserole, made with homemade breakfast sausage, sweet potatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and spinach, will kick off the holiday on a healthy start. It reheats well too so you can make it the night before! (via Real Food Dietitians)

Clean Cuisine

Easy Crepe Recipe

Go easy on yourself Christmas morning with this delicious recipe that can be whipped up in minutes! Add your favorite toppings and prepare the night before! (via Clean Cuisine)

Crowded Kitchen

Chocolate Cherry Baked Oats

This vegan and gluten free breakfast is also nut-free, easy to make, and can be served cold or warm.

Vikalinka

Millet Porridge With Honey Glazed Plums

Try something totally unique with this delicious millet porridge with honey glazed plums. (via Vikalinka)

Completely Delicious

Build Your Own Pancake Board

This is a fun idea for everyone of all ages and relieves you of the heavy lifting. (via Completely Delicious)

The Original Dish

Cranberry Prosciutto Ricotta Toast

So much flavor in one bite, your crew will love this tasty yet simple recipe. (via The Original Dish)

Hello Little Home

Mexican Baked Eggs

Spice things up with this Shakshuka-style dish. (via Hello Little Home)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Panettone Bread Pudding

If you like things on the sweet side, this holiday breakfast is for you. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Vanilla and Bean

Spinach Ricotta Pie With Phyllo Crust

Surprise your morning crew with a rich and creamy ricotta cheese, salty parmesan cheese, spinach, and eggs, with a touch of nutmeg and pepper flakes. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Culinary Hill

Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Meat lovers will swoon over this rich bennie dish. (via Culinary Hill)

Woman Scribbles

Almond Star Bread

This bread is tastes as good as it looks. (via Woman Scribbles)

Eggnog French Toast

The key to mastering this eggnog-infused French toast for Christmas breakfast is using thick-cut brioche bread. Each slice eagerly soaks up the batter, creating a very succulent bite. Top everything off with caramelized oranges and a generous drizzle of toffee sauce for sweetness! (via Brit + Co.)

Bread Pudding

Even if bread pudding is reserved only for dessert, we'll still be eating it on Christmas morning. This recipe in particular yields a super sweet batch for the whole fam! (via Brit + Co.)

Cranberry Bliss Bars

No need to make a Starbucks run – this Christmas breakfast recipe is for about 8 servings, and each bar is even better with a hot cup of coffee. (via Brit + Co.)

Feta Fried Eggs

These fried eggs get their flavor from chili oil and feta cheese, but you can make them even more of a fit for Christmas breakfast by serving them with green avocado and red salsa! (via Brit + Co.)

Blood Orange Banana Smoothie

For the holidays, switch up the typical banana-berry combo with this citrusy smoothie, which is pink from blood orange juice and protein-rich from Greek yogurt. Add a garnish of rosemary for a little Christmas-y flavor. (via Brit + Co.)

Pumpkin Rolls

Even though PSL season is old news, it doesn't mean that pumpkin-infused foods aren't still delicious AF! These pumpkin rolls get baked in a handful of warm spices then drenched in icing for a sweet Christmas breakfast option. (via Brit + Co.)

Lemon Loaf

This recipe is another play on one of Starbucks' fan-favorite snacks, the Lemon Loaf. The tangy flavors will definitely help you wake up on the big day. (via Brit + Co.)

Rainbow Toast

You can try a trendybutter board or a spread of colorful toasts like green avocado and cucumber and raspberry and pomegranate for a colorful Christmas breakfast. (via Brit + Co.)

Vegan Butter Board

We love butter boards (after all, what's not to love?) but the mainstream butter board recipes you'll find on TikTok aren't usually vegan. Follow this plant-based Christmas breakfast recipe instead! (via Brit + Co.)

Gluten-Free Frittata

This light and fluffy frittata is packed with the classics and is sure to fill you up while also keeping you light on your feet this holiday season. (via Brit + Co.)

Baked French Toast

If you’re looking to host your friends and family forbrunch with minimal effort, consider this baked French toast. Throw it together in minutes, toss it in the oven, and use your extra free time to whip up a killer pitcher of Christmas cocktails. (via Brit + Co.)

Jacques Torres’ Famous Hot Chocolate

Chocolatier Jacques Torres' recipe for hot chocolate is a must-try. Serve these decadent drinks alongside one of his perfect chocolate chip cookies. It's sure to become a favorite of all ages. (via Brit + Co.)

Strawberry Pancake

Most of us have some experience of growing up with a favorite pancake recipe, and if fresh fruit is involved, this dish is all the better. The best fruit on pancakes? We're torn between bananas and strawberries. Here, you can have both. (via Brit + Co.)

Strawberry & Cream Croissant French Toast

We're pretty sure croissants are one of the best things France ever gave us. This take on the French pastry turns your go-to croissants into French toast — with plenty of strawberries, cream, and jam to boot. (via Brit + Co.)

4-Ingredient (Gluten-free) Zucchini Pancakes

These easy, savory, veg-based pancakes are healthy, celiac-friendly and delicious. (via Brit + Co.)

Crepes with Chocolate Hazelnut Spread and Banana

Hannah Sunderani's Two Spoons cookbooknot only has this French chocolate-hazelnut crepe recipe, but tons of other breakfasts you can whip up to feel like you're living the French girl dream. (via Brit + Co.)

Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Egg Boat

We love these baked egg boats for so many reasons. They are delicious, they reheat well, are easy to slice, and they’re just beautiful! But not too beautiful to eat – you’ll devour them. (via Brit + Co.)

Red Velvet Heart Waffles

Our red velvet brunch waffles also make for a sweet Christmas breakfast treat! If you have a Christmas-themed waffle maker, use that instead for the vibes. (via Brit + Co.)

Strawberry Fig Crepes

A skinny pancake topped with your favorite preserves and a sprinkling of confectioners sugar... need we say more? (via For the Love of the South)

Zucchini Bread Pancakes

Zucchini bread and pancakes are two of our most favorite things. Now, we can enjoy them together! ‘Nuff said. (via Smitten Kitchen)

Strawberry Lemon Crescent Ring

This pick may be classified as a dessert, but you can 1000% make this recipe for Christmas breakfast! It's reminiscent of strawberry lemonade, so it'll taste light and refreshing. (via Averie Cooks)

Blueberry Yogurt Multigrain Pancakes

Sure, there are loads of butter and full-fat yogurt in this recipe, but these pancakes are also multigrain – so they’re healthy, right?! (via Smitten Kitchen)

Multigrain Flax Waffles

These waffles just look like Christmas with their bright red pomegranate seeds and generous dollops of yogurt. (via Sprouted Kitchen)

Strawberry-Rhubarb Stuffed French Toast

Who doesn't love stuffed French toast? Once you taste the scrumptiousness of this recipe, you'll want to make it beyond Christmas breakfast for years to come. (via Completely Delicious)

Everything Cheesy Potato and Egg Breakfast Casserole

This make-ahead Christmas breakfast recipe is sprinkled with everything bagel spice and fresh herbs. Oh, what fun! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Potato, Egg and Bacon Breakfast Skillet

This delicious one-pan breakfast recipe features all the best breakfast foods – potatoes, eggs, bacon and onions. (via Cozy Cravings)

Slow Cooker Make-Ahead Sausage and Mushroom Scrambled Eggs

We’re all for stick-to-the-ribs oatmeal and can’t wait to try this rich, eggy alternative. (via Betty Crocker)

Goat Cheese & Leek Quiche

Try serving up a warm quiche for the best Christmas breakfast that'll suit a morning crowd. (via Live Eat Learn)

Fluffy Glazed Vegan Pumpkin Donuts

Made with tons of homemade pumpkin spice and a dreamy cinnamon glaze, these vegan baked donuts are a gift for the tastebuds! (via Munching with Mariyah)

Easy and Healthy Egg Cups

So easy for kids and adults to eat, these healthy egg cups are a versatile and gluten-free Christmas breakfast offering. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Basic Quiche

Few breakfasts are as hearty and delicious as a cheesy quiche. Add some spinach and onion, and you’ve got a five-star Christmas breakfast. (via Real Simple)

Image via Shutterstock

Multigrain Maple Mini Muffins

There’s something about bite-size holiday treats that we just love. And when it comes to these hearty (yet sweet) mini muffins, we just can’t get enough. (via Sprouted Kitchen)

Homemade Bagels

You can make these sourdough bagels now, and freeze them until you're ready to eat on Christmas morning. Play with some seasonal toppings, like pumpkin spice or cinnamon. (via Calico & Twine)

Whole-Grain Blueberry Muffins

These aren’t your typical blueberry muffins. Packed with whole grain flour, rolled oats, and flaxseed, they’ll keep you full all morning long. (via Real Simple)

Vegan Cinnamon Rolls

These easy vegan cinnamon rolls are sweet, fluffy, and totally plant-based. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Homemade Breakfast Sausage

You can make these meaty bites ahead of time and freeze them for Christmas morning. This recipe adds a little maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. (via The Endless Meal)

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin and cinnamon are two flavors synonymous with the colder months. Whip up a batch of these confections and let yourself indulge a little! (via Smitten Kitchen)

Creamy Southern Cheese Grits

A good-old southern Christmas breakfast almost always includes cheese grits. They're easy to make and are a satisfying way to fill everyone's bellies. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Biscuits & Gravy

Flaky buttermilk biscuits topped with creamy sausage gravy is the ultimate Christmas comfort food. (via Culinary Hill)

Cranberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal

With a combo of fresh cranberries, pecans, and maple syrup, this warm dish tastes exactly like the holidays. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Lavender Oatmeal Squares

While these may not be enough food to serve as a main course on Christmas morning, they’ll be perfect to munch on as you sip your coffee by the Christmas tree. (via Tartelette Blog)

Simple Breakfast Casserole

This hash brown casserole has fluffy eggs, bell peppers, tender sausage, and of course loads of cheese – yum! (via Salt & Lavender)

Banana Granola

Making granola from scratch isn’t as difficult as it sounds, thanks to this recipe. Stir in your favorite Greek yogurt and top with extra fruit for a filling meal. (via Green Kitchen Stories)

Banana Nut Bread

You could bake this ahead of time to minimize your to-dos on Christmas morning, or opt to eat straight from the oven with a smear of going-to-melt butter. (via For the Love of the South)

The Ultimate Sticky Buns

If they’re branded as "The Ultimate," they must be good. Embrace some Southern tradition with this uber-decadent stinky bun dish! (via Bon Appetit)

Christmas Granola

Because no Christmas breakfast would be complete without some eponymous granola! (via Green Kitchen Stories)

Pumpkin Banana Bread Bars

What do you get when you mix pumpkin, bananas and cinnamon? Yummy pumpkin banana bread bars, that's what. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread

Is it bread, or is it cake? Whatever you decide, expect a tender, fluffy, and bright lemon bread that is sweet and delicious. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Eggnog Breakfast Bread Pudding

This make-ahead recipe is equal parts breakfast and dessert. The best part? You can make it the night before, so all you have to do ion Christmas morning is throw it in the oven. (via The Kitchn)

Jalapeño-Cheddar Scones

Spice up your Christmas breakfast with jalapeño cheddar scones! If you're feeling it, add a scoop of scrambled eggs to turn them into artisanal egg and cheese sandwiches — with a kick. (via Smitten Kitchen)

Croissants: Three Ways

Because one way would be boring. Add more flavor to a traditional croissant with blood oranges, spinach and feta filling, or ham and cheese. These make for an extra-fancy Christmas breakfast platter. (via Adventures in Cooking)

Spelt & Muesli Scones

These are hearty and healthy scones that you can pair with just about anything, be it a side of scrambled eggs or your favorite jam. (via Green Kitchen Stories)

Monkey Bread

This recipe is an absolute classic when it comes to Christmas breakfast. We've always had it in a bundt cake pan, but you can use any vessel you'd like. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Image via Shutterstock

Breakfast Burritos

Turn your Christmas breakfast into brunch with these hearty burritos complete with protein, dairy, and lots of veggies and herbs. (via Sprouted Kitchen)

Eggnog Custard Tart

This delicious and beautiful tart is made with a crunchy gingersnap cookie crust topped with boozy eggnog custard. Garnish it with homemade gingerbread cookies, sugared cranberries, and fresh rosemary for an indulgent Christmas breakfast or dessert. (via Barley & Sage)

Image via Shutterstock

Breakfast Panini

Paninis aren’t just reserved for lunchtime. Swap your deli meat for some eggs, and you’ve got a tastefully toasted breakfast fare. (via Sprouted Kitchen)

Tomato Tart

A puff pastry meets pizza that we will happily eat for breakfast any day. Prepare as is or top with scrambled egg whites for extra (and light) protein. (via Joy the Baker)

Two Peas and Their Pod

Lemon Zucchini Bread

No one will pass up this lemony breakfast that tastes like dessert! (via Two Peas and Their Pod)

The Fast Recipe

Easy Spam Eggs and Rice

Try an easy Hawaiian-inspired breakfast for your holiday meal. (via The Fast Recipe)

Bowl of Delicious

Make Ahead Breakfast Pie With Lattice Bacon Crust

Sleep in and still impress your guests! (via Bowl of Delicious)

Barley and Sage

Coffee Donuts

Forget coffee *and* donuts. Make coffee donuts for a perky morning! (via Barley and Sage)

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Spicy Chai Latte

Upgrade your morning cup o’ joe with a homemade chai latte. The spices alone — cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg — will put you in the Christmas spirit. (via Sprouted Kitchen)

Spiked Orange Hot Chocolate

Try making this spiked hot chocolate recipe for the adults while the kids are playing after Christmas breakfast. Everyone will be in good spirits when it's time to open presents. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Sugar Cookie Martini

Christmas breakfast won't be complete without this sugar cookie martini! Combine Bailey's Irish Cream with a little vanilla vodka and other yummy ingredients to make this delicious martini that rivals Christmas cookies. (via Mixop)

Check out our online baking classes for more easy Christmas meal inspiration and follow us on Pinterest for more recipes!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Jasmine Williams and Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Completely Delicious