In our family, summers are for bbqs and fall is for brunches.
Once the air gets a bit crisp outside, we move our gatherings inside and enjoy the coziness of warm and savory foods.
We still keep the potluck vibe (who wants to cook every single thing for a crowd?) and I love when everyone brings something.
Even if it’s just store-bought muffins tossed onto a cute plate.
But if you know me, then you know I love any excuse to whip up something in my kitchen!
And if you’re like me and hosting a brunch, you’ll want delicious dishes that taste amazing when people sit down to eat.
Here are some of my faves and a few I can’t wait to try:
Mains
When you make just one big main dish, you can let the rest fill in around it.
So when I host, I usually do a main or two and let guests bring some sides (if we’re doing potluck style).
1. Quiche
Start with a store-bought or homemade crust, bake it for about ten minutes so it doesn’t get soggy.
Whisk together eggs, milk, a pinch of salt, and whatever mix-ins you like (things like cheese, cooked bacon, chopped veggies).
Pour it all into the crust and bake until the center is just set.
You can always put it on a baking sheet in case it bubbles over.
2. Breakfast Casserole
Grease a baking dish and layer in cubes of bread, cooked sausage, and shredded cheese.
In a bowl, mix eggs, milk, and seasonings, then pour over the layers so the bread soaks it up.
Let it sit for at least thirty minutes in the fridge (you can leave it overnight too).
Bake until golden and puffy, then scoop out portions with a big spoon.
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you have them.
3. Baked Frittata
Crack a bunch of eggs into a bowl and whisk with a splash of cream to make it rich.
Stir in diced vegetables, cooked meat, or even last night’s roasted potatoes.
Pour into an oven-safe skillet that’s been lightly oiled, then bake until the edges are golden and the middle barely jiggles.
Sometimes I top mine with a handful of shredded cheese halfway through baking so it melts on top.
Slice into wedges right in the pan.
4. Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a poached egg dish with lots of yummy spices!
Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté onions, peppers, and garlic until soft.
Add canned tomatoes, a little tomato paste, and spices like paprika and cumin, letting it simmer until thick.
Make small wells in the sauce and crack in the eggs, covering the pan so they cook through.
Crumble a bit of feta on top before serving and tear up some crusty bread for dipping.
5. Breakfast Pizza
Use a pre-baked crust or naan bread as the base, brushing it with olive oil.
Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or ricotta, then sprinkle on shredded cheese and toppings like crumbled bacon, spinach, or tomatoes.
Crack an egg or two on top, then bake until the crust is crisp and the egg is cooked to your liking.
I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
Cut into slices and serve right away.
6. Omelet Bar
Set out bowls of toppings (like diced ham, shredded cheese, chopped peppers, sliced mushrooms) so everyone can build their own.
Whisk eggs with a splash of milk, then pour into a hot nonstick skillet.
Add the chosen fillings, fold the omelet in half, and cook until the eggs are set.
You can keep the heat medium so nothing browns too quickly.
And have a stack of warm plates ready so people can eat right away!
7. Chicken And Waffles
Warm up some waffles (homemade or frozen both work fine) and keep them in a low oven while you cook the chicken.
I like using crispy fried tenders, but you could do baked for less mess.
Stack the chicken on top of the waffles and drizzle with maple syrup or honey.
If you’re feeling extra, add a pat of butter that melts down over everything.
Serve each plate while it’s still hot.
8. Bagel Sandwiches
Slice a few bagels and toast them lightly so they hold up to the fillings.
Spread on cream cheese, butter, or even mashed avocado.
Add layers like scrambled eggs, bacon, sliced cheese, or smoked salmon.
I usually wrap them in foil if we’re taking them to go, so they stay warm!
9. Croissant Breakfast Bake
Tear up croissants into big chunks and toss them into a buttered baking dish.
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and a bit of Dijon mustard, then pour it over the croissants so they soak it up.
Mix in some shredded cheese and bits of ham or cooked sausage.
Bake it until it’s puffy and golden on top then spoon it out while the cheese is still melty.
Pancakes and Waffles
Pancakes and waffles are a breakfast staple in our home, but for brunches I like to take them up a notch.
And when it comes to fall, there are tons of flavors you add to make them perfect for a cozy gathering.
10. Pumpkin Pancakes
Whisk together some pancake mix (store bought is fine) with a scoop of canned pumpkin, a splash of milk, and a good shake of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Cook on a hot griddle or pan until bubbles form, then flip and let them turn golden.
Make a few extra of these pumpkin pancakes and keep them warm in the oven while you brew the coffee.
11. Apple Cinnamon Waffles
Peel and grate an apple right into your waffle batter, then stir in a teaspoon of cinnamon.
Pour the batter into a hot waffle iron and let it cook until the edges crisp up.
Pro tip: Don’t be tempted to check your waffles too early because the batter can pull apart!
If you want your home to smell like a crisp fall morning, you will love this waffle recipe!
Oh, and try topping them with warm applesauce instead of syrup.
12. Maple Pecan Pancakes
Fold some chopped pecans into your pancake batter along with a splash of vanilla.
Cook until the edges look set, then flip once for a soft inside with a little crunch.
I like to toast a few extra pecans to sprinkle on top right before serving.
And warm maple syrup ties the whole thing together.
13. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Waffles
Stir pumpkin puree and a little cinnamon into waffle batter, then toss in some chocolate chips.
Spoon the mix into a hot waffle iron and let it cook until golden.
The chocolate melts into the pockets of the waffle so it’s almost like you’re serving cake for brunch!
Dust with powdered sugar for an easy (and fancy looking) finish.
14. Caramel Apple Pancakes
Slice apples thin and sauté them in butter with brown sugar until soft and sticky.
Stack a pile of pancakes and spoon the warm apples right over top.
The caramel sauce drips down between the layers and makes a simple stack feel dressed up.
You can also add a dollop of whipped cream if you want to lean into dessert vibes.
15. Gingerbread Waffles
Mix some molasses, ginger, and cinnamon into your waffle batter until it turns rich and dark.
Cook in the waffle iron until they’re crisp on the outside and soft inside.
Sprinkle them with some powdered sugar while they’re still warm (sometimes I add a touch more cinnamon).
These are perfect to serve at brunch alongside some cozy coffee!
16. Banana Nut Pancakes
Mash a ripe banana into your pancake batter and stir in a handful of chopped walnuts.
Pour onto a hot skillet and flip once the bubbles appear.
A little extra cinnamon goes a long way here to bring the flavors together.
Drizzle with honey or maple syrup to finish.
17. Cinnamon Roll Waffles
This one feels like you’re cheating but no one will know!
Pop a can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and place each one straight into a waffle iron.
Press the lid down and cook until golden brown. It’s the easiest shortcut ever for a brunch table.
Finish with the icing packet while they’re still hot!
Baked Goods
Breakfast doesn’t feel like breakfast without something bready.
But instead of just serving up toast, there are tons of yummy (and easy) baked things you can make for your fall brunch!
18. Cornbread Muffins
Whisk together some cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
Then stir in milk, eggs, and melted butter until everything is just combined (don’t overmix!).
Spoon the batter into lined muffin tins and bake until golden.
You can check them for doneness by using a toothpick (they’re done when it comes out clean).
I like to add shredded cheese or diced jalapeños for a twist!
19. Coffee Cake
Mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in one bowl.
Then whisk some eggs, milk, and butter in another.
Combine everything and pour half the batter into a pan, sprinkle with a cinnamon-sugar layer, then add the rest of the batter.
Top with more cinnamon-sugar and bake until a knife comes out clean.
Cut it while it’s still warm and keep a napkin nearby because it can be crumbly!
20. Cinnamon Rolls
You can make these from scratch but if you’re short on time, canned ones work just fine!
Roll out the dough (homemade or store bought) into a rectangle, spread it with softened butter, and sprinkle it with cinnamon sugar.
Roll it up tightly and cut into even slices.
Place them in a greased pan, cover, and let rise until they’re puffy.
Bake then until their golden then top with cream cheese icing while they’re still warm so it gets all melty and gooey!
And to add more “fall” themes to these, check out my pumpkin cinnamon roll recipe.
21. Pumpkin Muffins
Whisk together some flour, sugar, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice in a big bowl.
In another bowl, mix pumpkin purée, eggs, and oil until smooth, then fold it into the dry ingredients.
Spoon the batter into muffin tins lined with paper cups.
If you want to try something fancier, check out my cream cheese filled pumpkin muffin recipe!
22. Apple Turnovers
Roll out puff pastry and cut into squares.
Spoon a bit of apple pie filling into the center, fold the pastry over into a triangle, and seal the edges with a fork.
Brush the tops with egg wash so they bake up golden.
Dusting them with powdered sugar once they’ve cooled gives them a real bakery vibe for the table.
23. Banana Bread
Mash some ripe bananas in a large bowl, then stir in sugar, eggs, and melted butter.
Mix in flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt until everything is just combined.
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
I always save one banana to slice over the top before baking (to make it look pretty!).
24. Pecan Pie Bars
Make a shortbread base by mixing flour, butter, and sugar, then press it into a baking dish and bake until lightly golden.
Stir together some corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and pecans, then pour over the crust.
Bake until the topping is set and bubbly.
I find it’s easier to cut them once they’ve cooled completely.
And use a sharp knife so you get clean edges.
25. Scones
Mix some flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
Cut in some cold butter until the mixture looks crumbly (don’t over mix), then stir in cream and any extras you want like chocolate chips or berries.
Pat it into a circle, cut into wedges, and place on a baking sheet.
Bake until lightly golden on the edges then brush with a little cream before baking for a super soft crust.
26. Pumpkin Bread
Whisk together some flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice in one bowl.
Then mix pumpkin purée, sugar, eggs, and oil until smooth in a separate bowl.
Combine the two mixes, stirring just until there are no streaks of flour.
To give it a satisfying crunchy crust, sprinkle some raw on top right before baking!
Snacks
If brunches tend to go on all day, or it’s a lighter meal, snacks are simple to make and perfect to serve.
I like to make them up in platters and let people pick at them (and refill them when they start to get low).
27. Mini Bagels With Cream Cheese
Slice the bagels in half and toast them lightly.
Spread with cream cheese (plain or flavored, whatever you have).
I like to add sliced cucumber or tomato for extra freshness.
But if you want a real savory flavor, you can use some smoked salmon.
If you’re making them for bunch, line them up on a big tray for easy grabbing.
28. Pumpkin Cheese Ball
Shape softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and a little garlic powder into a round ball, then roll it in crushed cheese crackers or shredded cheddar cheese.
Use a piece of bell pepper stem or a pretzel rod in the top so it looks just like a little pumpkin!
I like to mix in some green onion or chives for extra flavor, but you can keep it plain too.
Serve with crackers, pita chips, or even sliced apples for a sweet-and-savory mix.
29. Stuffed Mushrooms
Remove the stems from button mushrooms and set the caps aside.
Mix some cream cheese, breadcrumbs, herbs (like sage or thyme), and a little shredded cheese for the filling.
Then spoon the mix into each cap and place on a baking sheet.
Bake until the tops are golden and the mushrooms are tender.
Make sure to serve them warm so the filling stays creamy!
30. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are the ultimate brunch snack!
Boil eggs until hard-cooked, then peel and slice them in half.
Scoop out the yolks and mash them with mayonnaise, mustard, and a pinch of salt.
If you want to give them a real cozy vibe, add in a little bit of nutmeg!
Spoon or pipe the filling back into the whites.
Sprinkle paprika over the top for color and keep them chilled until just before serving.
31. Veggie Sticks And Dip
Cut carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumbers into sticks.
Arrange them with some cherry tomatoes in cups or on a platter around a bowl of dip.
I like to use hummus, but you can put out some ranch dip or even a savory cheese dip!
Keep everything chilled until it’s time to put them out.
32. Fruit Skewers
Thread chunks of fruit like melon, pineapple, grapes, kiwi and strawberries onto wooden skewers.
Lay them on a tray or stand them in a tall jar for a fun look.
I like to use a mix of colors so they pop on the table!
If you want to get fancy, brush them with a little honey-lime glaze before serving.
33. Mini Sandwiches
Use small rolls or cut regular bread into quarters for bite-size portions.
Or you can use croissants for a more breakfasty feel!
Fill them with ham and cheese, chicken salad, or whatever’s easy.
Wrap them in parchment if you’re making them ahead so they don’t dry out.
Stick a toothpick in each one to hold them together and arrange on a platter so they’re easy to grab.
34. Bacon Popcorn
I didn’t think you could mix bacon and popcorn until I tried it!
Cook up a few strips of bacon until they’re nice and crisp, then crumble them into small pieces.
Pop a big bowl of popcorn (stovetop or microwave both work), and toss it with the bacon along with some of the drippings for extra flavor.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or a little smoked paprika if you want to take it up a notch.
Drinks
Yes, you can definitely whip up some special drinks for a fall brunch!
I love mixing up some drinks that are warm and cozy to go along with the more refreshing ones like juice.
35. Apple Cider
Warm some apple cider in a pot with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a few orange slices.
Let it simmer so all the flavors come together.
Or you can use a slow cooker on the counter so it stays hot for hours!
Guests can ladle their own into mugs.
Add a cinnamon stick to each cup for a little extra flair.
36. Pumpkin Spice Lattes
Brew strong coffee or espresso and heat milk in a small saucepan.
Whisk in pumpkin purée, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
Pour the milk mixture over the coffee and stir well.
I sometimes top mine with whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon.
It’s a super easy thing to do to make it look fancy!
37. Masala Chai
Simmer water with black tea bags, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, and a slice of fresh ginger.
Add milk and sugar to taste, then strain into mugs.
Steep a little longer for a stronger flavor and keep it warm in a teapot or slow cooker if you’re serving a crowd.
38. Hot Chocolate
Heat up some milk in a saucepan and whisk in cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Stir until everything is smooth and steaming.
Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows or whipped cream.
I sometimes melt in a little chocolate bar for extra richness!
39. Cold Brew Coffee
Combine coarsely ground coffee with cold water in a large jar or pitcher.
Let it steep in the fridge for about 12 hours, then strain through a fine mesh sieve or coffee filter.
Serve over ice with cream or flavored syrups.
This sounds like iced coffee, but cold brewing it is different and gives it a smoother flavor.
40. Cinnamon Spiced Apple Tea
Bring apple cider or apple juice to a gentle simmer with a couple of cinnamon sticks and a few slices of fresh apple.
Drop in a black tea bag and let it steep until the flavor gets nice and bold.
You can toss in a clove or two for a deeper spice, but you can also keep it simple if you want it lighter.
Serve it warm in a mug with an extra cinnamon stick for stirring.
41. Fresh Juice
Run oranges, apples, or whatever fruit you have through a juicer, or use store-bought if you’re short on time.
Pour into a clear pitcher so the color shows off on the table.
You can mix in a little sparkling water to give it a bubbly texture!
Keep it chilled until you’re ready to pour.
42. Sparkling Water
Fill a drink dispenser or large pitcher with sparkling water.
Add slices of lemon, lime, or berries for a bit of flavor.
I keep extra bottles in the fridge so I can top it up as needed.
And sometimes I set it out with a few flavored syrups so people can mix their own!
Make-Ahead
If you do nothing else for a fall brunch, make at least one dish ahead of time so you’re not scrambling!
You can just pull it out of the fridge, warm it up if needed, and no one will be the wiser.
43. Overnight Oats
Mix rolled oats with milk or yogurt in a jar, then stir in fruit, nuts, or a spoonful of nut butter.
Let it sit in the fridge overnight so the oats soften.
I usually make a few different flavors so there’s some variety for guests!
Add a little drizzle of honey right before serving.
44. Baked Oatmeal
Combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, milk, eggs, and a bit of maple syrup in a bowl.
Stir in some fruit or nuts if you like, then pour into a greased baking dish.
Bake until the top is golden and the edges pull away slightly.
You can serve it in squares and have some yogurt and topping on the side for your guests.
45. Slow-Cooker Breakfast Potatoes
Cube potatoes and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any seasonings you like.
Add to the slow cooker with diced onions and peppers.
Cook on low until tender and lightly browned.
Give them a stir once or twice during cooking so they don’t stick and serve straight from the slow cooker to keep them warm.
46. Chia Pudding
Mix some chia seeds with milk or a milk alternative in a bowl or jar, then stir in a little honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
Let it sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge until it thickens.
When you take it out, give it a quick stir.
Oh, and lay out some toppings like berries and granola so your guests can customize their pudding!
47. Breakfast Burritos
Sometimes I just batch cook breakfast burritos for the kids but they work great for brunches too!
Scramble some eggs with cheese, diced peppers, and cooked sausage or bacon.
Spoon the mixture into warm tortillas and roll them up tightly.
Then wrap them in foil if you’re going to warm them up in the oven.
Set out salsa or hot sauce for anyone who wants a little kick!
48. Yogurt Parfaits
Layer yogurt with fruit and granola in clear cups or jars so you can see the layers.
I like to mix plain yogurt with a little honey for flavor but you can also use something like cinnamon for a cozy vibe.
Set them out with extra toppings like fruit and granola so people can customize.
49. Egg Muffins
Whisk some eggs with milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Stir in chopped veggies (like onions, bell pepper or mushrooms), cheese, or cooked meat.
I like to add some bacon or crumbled sausage to mine!
Pour into greased muffin tins and bake until set and lightly golden.
Let them cool and then store them in an air tight container.
50. Breakfast Quesadillas
Fill some tortillas with scrambled eggs, cheese, and any extras like spinach, mushrooms, or ham.
Then fold them in half and cook in a skillet until the outside is crisp and the cheese is melted.
You can brush the tortillas with a little butter for extra flavor.
Cut them into wedges before serving.
Extras
These extras are just little touches to add some flavor to the table.
You can set them out in cute little bowls or jars so people can add what they want!
- Flavored Butters: Soften some butter and mix in things like honey, cinnamon, or fresh herbs. You can lay out a few so people can try different ones!
- Fruit Compote: Cook some chopped fruit with a splash of water and a little sugar in a saucepan. Stir occasionally until it’s soft and syrupy. You can serve this chilled or warm.
- Whipped Cream: Pour cold heavy cream into a mixing bowl and beat until soft peaks form. Add a spoonful of sugar and a dash of vanilla, then whip again until it’s fluffy.
- Honey Drizzle: Pour some honey into a small jar or dish and keep it near breads, muffins, or yogurt. You can use a honey dipper for a little charm!
- Maple Syrup: Gently warm up the maple syrup and pour it into a pretty pitcher or jar. Put it near the waffles or pancakes.
Bring On The Cozy Brunch Vibes
Fall brunches are an amazing excuse to hang out with friends and family.
And you don’t need anything fancy!
Let everyone pitch in so you can enjoy your own brunch instead of juggling a dozen dishes.
