15+ Easter Recipes to Celebrate with Family and Friends

15+ Easter Recipes to Celebrate with Family and Friends

ByCook Maniac Team Reading Time: 13 minutes

Easter is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food. Your menu can shine with a variety of festive Easter recipes that cater to every taste.

From hearty main dishes to delightful desserts, there are countless ways to add flavor and joy to your holiday table.

A table set with colorful Easter desserts and treats, surrounded by vibrant spring flowers and decorative eggs

Whether you are planning an elegant brunch or a cozy dinner, choosing the right recipes is key. You can explore different traditions and flavors to find what works best for you and your loved ones.

Embrace the spirit of Easter with meals that bring everyone together.

1) Glazed Ham

A succulent glazed ham surrounded by colorful Easter eggs and fresh spring flowers

A glazed ham makes for a delicious centerpiece during Easter gatherings. You can use a fully cooked bone-in ham for great flavor and ease. The glaze adds a sweet and tangy touch.

A popular choice is a brown sugar glaze mixed with mustard and a bit of soda, like Dr Pepper. This combination creates a tasty crust that pulls everyone in.

You just need to score the ham to let the glaze soak in.

Make sure to bake the ham until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready to serve, leaving your guests impressed.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole fully cooked bone-in ham (15-18 pounds)
  • Whole cloves
  • 3 cups brown sugar
  • ½ cup spicy brown mustard
  • 1 can Dr Pepper or Coca-Cola

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Score the surface of the ham and place cloves in the cuts.
  3. Mix brown sugar and mustard, then spread it over the ham.
  4. Pour soda over the ham.
  5. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
  6. Ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) before serving.

2) Easter Breakfast Casserole

A colorful Easter breakfast casserole surrounded by pastel-colored eggs and spring flowers

Easter breakfast casserole is a tasty way to start your holiday. It combines simple ingredients that everyone will enjoy. You can make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.

A popular version includes hash browns, bacon, and green bell peppers. You might also like to try a recipe with English muffins, sausage, and cheese for a different twist.

Feel free to customize your casserole with your favorite vegetables or meats. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

  • 1 bag of hash browns
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1 cup of shredded cheese
  • ½ cup of cooked bacon or sausage
  • ½ cup of chopped bell pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a baking dish.
  3. Layer hash browns in the dish.
  4. Sprinkle cooked bacon or sausage on top.
  5. Add chopped bell peppers and cheese.
  6. In a bowl, whisk eggs and milk with salt and pepper.
  7. Pour the egg mixture over the layers.
  8. Bake for 30-40 minutes until set.

3) Hot Cross Buns

A plate of hot cross buns surrounded by colorful Easter decorations and fresh spring flowers

Hot cross buns are a classic Easter treat that many people love. These sweet, spiced buns are often made with currants or raisins. The traditional cross on top adds a nice touch and marks them as a festive favorite.

To make these buns, you can use cinnamon and nutmeg for flavor. They are soft and fluffy, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy them fresh or toasted with butter.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk (warm)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter (melted)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup raisins or currants
  • 1/2 cup water

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. Add eggs, melted butter, and yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes.
  5. Fold in raisins or currants.
  6. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  8. Shape into buns and place on a baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

4) Deviled Eggs

A festive table spread with deviled eggs, garnished with paprika and fresh herbs, surrounded by colorful Easter decorations

Deviled eggs are a classic favorite for Easter gatherings. They are easy to make and can be decorated to look festive. You can customize the filling to your taste.

To start, hard boil your eggs and peel them carefully. Slice them in half and scoop out the yolks into a bowl. Mix the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and your choice of seasonings.

You can also add fun toppings like paprika, chives, or even small pieces of olives for eyes. These little touches can make your deviled eggs look like adorable Easter chicks!

Ingredients

  • 12 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Hard boil the eggs in water for about 10-12 minutes (212°F or 100°C).
  2. Let them cool, then peel the shells.
  3. Cut eggs in half and scoop out yolks.
  4. Mix yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.
  5. Spoon or pipe the mixture back into the egg whites.
  6. Add toppings as desired. Enjoy!

5) Easter Bread

A table set with a freshly baked Easter bread surrounded by colorful dyed eggs and spring flowers

Easter bread is a delightful treat to celebrate the holiday. This sweet bread often features colorful eggs baked right inside, making it a festive addition to your table.

You can find various recipes for Easter bread, each with unique flavors and shapes. Some are braided, while others are formed into wreaths. Whichever style you choose, it’s sure to be a hit.

For a traditional touch, you can decorate your Easter bread with colorful sprinkles. This makes it not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Food coloring (optional for eggs)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Warm milk and dissolve yeast in it.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture.
  4. Knead until smooth and let rise for 1 hour.
  5. Shape the dough and place colored eggs on top.
  6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.

6) Roast Lamb Leg with Gravy

A succulent roast lamb leg, glistening with savory gravy, surrounded by sprigs of fresh herbs and accompanied by colorful seasonal vegetables

Roast lamb leg is a classic dish that is perfect for Easter. Its tender meat and rich flavor make it a favorite. You can enjoy it with a delicious gravy that enhances its taste.

For this recipe, you will need garlic, rosemary, and other seasonings to create a flavorful rub for the lamb. Cooking it slowly ensures it remains juicy. Serve it with sides like peas, carrots, and crispy roast potatoes.

Ingredients

  • 1 leg of lamb (about 4-5 pounds)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Season the lamb with garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place the lamb in a roasting pan.
  4. Roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
  5. In a saucepan, combine broth and flour to make gravy.
  6. Serve the lamb with gravy and your favorite sides.

7) Bunny Cinnamon Rolls

A table set with freshly baked bunny-shaped cinnamon rolls surrounded by colorful Easter decorations

Bunny Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful addition to your Easter table. They are fun to make and a hit with kids and adults alike. You can use either homemade or store-bought cinnamon roll dough.

To get started, shape the dough into cute bunny faces with ears. Bake them until they are golden brown. Once out of the oven, you can decorate them with icing and candies to enhance their bunny features.

These rolls pair nicely with scrambled eggs and coffee, making them perfect for brunch. Everyone will love this whimsical breakfast treat!

Ingredients

  • 1 package of cinnamon roll dough (or homemade dough)
  • Icing (included with the dough or homemade)
  • Candy for eyes (like chocolate chips or jelly beans)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roll out the cinnamon dough and cut into pieces for bunny shapes.
  3. Shape the dough into bunny faces and ears.
  4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Let cool, then use icing and candies for decoration.

8) Chocolate Cream Pie

A chocolate cream pie sits on a pastel-colored table surrounded by Easter eggs and spring flowers

Chocolate cream pie is a delightful dessert perfect for any Easter celebration. It features a rich chocolate filling that is creamy and smooth. You can use a store-bought or homemade crust, making it easy to prepare.

Start by making the chocolate filling using simple ingredients like cocoa powder and sugar. Once cooked, let it cool slightly before pouring it into the crust.

Top your pie with whipped cream for a light touch. You can also add chocolate shavings for extra flair. This dessert is sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

  • 1 pre-made pie crust or homemade crust
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream for topping

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a pot, mix sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and whisk in egg yolks, butter, and vanilla.
  5. Pour filling into the baked pie crust.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for 4 hours.
  7. Before serving, top with whipped cream.

9) Homemade Peanut Butter Eggs

A kitchen counter with ingredients and utensils for making homemade peanut butter eggs

Homemade peanut butter eggs are a delicious treat for Easter. They are sweet, creamy, and covered in chocolate. Everyone will love these easy-to-make candies.

To start, gather all your ingredients. You’ll need creamy peanut butter, butter, confectioners’ sugar, milk, and chocolate for dipping.

First, mix the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and mix well. You want a dough-like consistency.

Next, shape the mixture into egg forms and chill them in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Once they are firm, melt the chocolate.

Dip the chilled peanut butter eggs into the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set.

These homemade peanut butter eggs will make your Easter celebration even sweeter!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 (16 ounce) package confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 8 ounces chocolate for dipping

Cooking Instructions

  1. Mix peanut butter and butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and stir.
  3. Shape into egg forms and chill for 30 minutes.
  4. Melt chocolate.
  5. Dip eggs into melted chocolate and place on parchment paper.

10) Paska Bread

A table set with freshly baked Paska bread, decorated with colorful Easter eggs and surrounded by vibrant spring flowers

Paska bread is a delightful treat for Easter. This sweet, rich bread is popular in Eastern Europe, especially in Ukraine and Slovakia. It’s often enjoyed on Easter morning with family.

To make Paska, you’ll start with a yeasted dough enriched with butter, eggs, and sugar. This combination gives it a brioche-like texture that’s soft and fluffy.

You can also add ingredients like golden raisins for extra sweetness. Once baked, Paska is often topped with a simple glaze.

This bread is not just delicious, but it also carries deep traditions. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup butter, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk, warmed
  • ½ cup raisins (optional)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix warmed milk and yeast; let it bubble for 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and butter. Mix until smooth.
  4. Knead for about 10 minutes until dough is elastic.
  5. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
  6. Shape the dough and place it in a greased pan.
  7. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  9. Brush with egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  10. Cool before serving. Enjoy your Paska bread!

11) Moroccan Lamb Backstrap

A platter of Moroccan lamb backstrap surrounded by colorful Easter decorations

Moroccan lamb backstrap is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for Easter. The tender lamb is infused with spices, giving it a rich taste.

To prepare, you’ll need lamb backstraps or fillets, which are both juicy cuts. A mix of cumin, paprika, and garlic adds that signature Moroccan flavor.

You can serve this dish with a yogurt sauce for a refreshing dip. It pairs well with roasted vegetables or couscous.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg (about 2 pounds) lamb backstraps or lamb fillet
  • 3 teaspoons cumin
  • 3 teaspoons sweet paprika
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Mix cumin, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. Rub the spice mix all over the lamb.
  4. Heat olive oil in a pan and sear the lamb on all sides.
  5. Transfer to the oven and roast for about 15-20 minutes.
  6. Let it rest before slicing. Enjoy!

12) Pasta With Peas

A steaming plate of pasta with peas sits on a rustic wooden table, surrounded by fresh ingredients like garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil

Pasta with peas is a simple and tasty dish that brings a touch of spring to your table. It’s quick to make and uses just a few ingredients. You’ll love how fresh and vibrant it tastes.

To start, cook your pasta until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, you can sauté some pancetta or just use olive oil for a lighter option. Add frozen or fresh peas to the pan for a bright pop of color and flavor.

Once the pasta is ready, mix it in with the peas. You can also add a bit of lemon zest for extra zing. Finish it off with Parmesan cheese, and you have a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta
  • 1 cup (150 g) peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 oz (55 g) pancetta or olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Lemon zest (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
  2. In a pan, sauté pancetta or heat olive oil.
  3. Add peas and cook for a few minutes.
  4. Drain the pasta and mix it with peas in the pan.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
  6. Serve with grated Parmesan on top.

13) Asparagus Tart

A rustic table setting with a freshly baked asparagus tart surrounded by colorful Easter decorations and vibrant spring flowers

Asparagus tart is a delightful and elegant dish for your Easter celebration. This recipe features flaky puff pastry topped with tender asparagus and cheese. It’s easy to prepare and looks beautiful on the table.

You can use ingredients like Gruyere cheese for a rich flavor or goat cheese for a creamier texture. Fresh herbs like tarragon or chives can add a lovely touch.

This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for your gathering.

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry
  • 1 bunch of asparagus
  • 1 cup Gruyere cheese (or goat cheese)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • Fresh herbs (like tarragon or chives)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roll out the puff pastry on a baking sheet.
  3. Spread Dijon mustard on the pastry.
  4. Arrange asparagus on top.
  5. Sprinkle cheese and herbs over asparagus.
  6. Beat the egg and brush it on the edges of the pastry.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

14) Easter Carrot Cake

A festive Easter Carrot Cake surrounded by colorful eggs and spring flowers on a decorated table

Easter is the perfect time to enjoy a delicious carrot cake. Its moist layers and warm spices make it a favorite during spring. A classic cream cheese frosting on top adds a tangy sweetness that everyone loves.

To make this cake even more special, you can add nuts or raisins for extra flavor. Decorate it with cute candies or festive decorations to match the holiday spirit.

This cake is not only tasty but also a great centerpiece for your Easter table. Everyone will be excited to taste a slice!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. Add eggs and oil, stirring until smooth.
  4. Fold in the grated carrots and nuts if using.
  5. Pour the batter into two greased cake pans.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Let the cakes cool before frosting with cream cheese frosting.

15) Lemon Drizzle Cake

A lemon drizzle cake sits on a pastel-colored table with Easter decorations and fresh lemons scattered around

Lemon drizzle cake is a delightful treat perfect for Easter. Its bright flavor adds a refreshing touch to any dessert table. This cake is simple to make and sure to impress your guests.

To prepare this cake, you’ll need basic ingredients. Start with self-rising flour and sugar to give it a lovely texture. The magic happens when you add fresh lemon juice and zest for that zesty flavor.

Once baked, pour a sweet lemon syrup on top. This glaze gives the cake a shiny finish and keeps it moist. Serve it for dessert or enjoy it with tea.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 2 lemons, zested
  • 2 ¼ cups self-rising flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon fine salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour a loaf pan.
  3. In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar.
  4. Then, add eggs one at a time, and mix well.
  5. Next, stir in lemon zest and juice.
  6. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt.
  7. After that, pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown.
  9. Let it cool before drizzling with lemon syrup.

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