Between cinnamon rolls, muffins, coffee cakes, and casseroles, we know we’re not alone in thinking holiday breakfast is the meal of the day. Yep, even better than the main holiday course — there, we said it! Enjoyed with a yummy holiday latte and good company, there’s nothing quite like good food on a cozy holiday morning. That said, traditional holiday breakfast foods aren’t always the healthiest. In fact, they’re often loaded with sugar and artificial add-ins. But fear not, with a few healthy holiday swaps and a little know-how, there are so many ways to enjoy a taste of the holidays in a healthy way! From healthy muddy buddies to homemade cinnamon rolls to cinnamon-spiced blended and baked oats, we’re treating you to the healthiest and tastiest holiday breakfast recipes that you and the whole family will love.
10 Delicious Healthy Holiday Breakfast Recipe Ideas
Grain-Free Healthy Muddy Buddies
Whether you know it as puppy chow or muddy buddies, this sweet and salty treat is a holiday classic. Traditionally, this recipe is covered in sugar and loaded with empty calories. But, we’re giving it a healthy holiday twist! Loaded with protein, made with grain-free cereal and dairy-free chocolate, and sweetened naturally. Sprinkle it over your smoothie, stir it into your yogurt bowl, or enjoy a serving with dairy-free milk and a side of fruit! Yum.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Grain-Free Rice Chex Cereal alternative (such as Lovebird, Magic Spoon, Forager Project O’s, Love Grown, and Three Wishes)
- ⅔ cup dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped dairy-free chocolate bar (we love Enjoy Life Foods or love Hu Kitchen)
- ⅓ cup natural peanut butter (or nut or seed butter of choice, such as almond or sunflower)
- *⅔ cup powdered coconut sugar (or powdered monk fruit)
- ½ cup vanilla or chocolate protein powder of choice
Directions:
Step #1: In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, add your nut butter and chocolate chips. Microwave in 20-second increments, stopping to stir to prevent burning. Continue until the chocolate mixture is fully melted.
Step #2: Add cereal of choice to a large mixing bowl, then pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cereal. Gently mix until the cereal is fully coated. If the mixture is warm, cool to room temperature or place in the fridge to chill for 5 minutes. Note: you only want the chocolate to cool, not harden; you want the sugar/protein powder mix to stick
Step #3: Add powdered sugar (see how-to below) and protein powder and stir until well-coated. If your bowl has a lid, option to shake to coat. Alternatively, you may shake in a Tupperware or ziplock bag.
Step #4: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
*Notes:
#1: Option to omit protein powder and use 1 cup powdered sugar
#2: Option to omit sugar and use 2-3 scoops of vanilla or chocolate-flavored protein powder
#3: To make homemade powdered coconut sugar, simply blend 1 cup coconut sugar with 1 tbsp arrowroot or tapioca starch until a fine powder is achieved
Healthy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
There’s nothing like waking up to the sweet scent of cinnamon on a holiday morning — especially when freshly baked cinnamon rolls are waiting to be had! Perfectly doughy and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, these healthy cinnamon rolls are a must-have. Made with grain-free bread mix and a naturally sweetened coconut butter frosting, you and your guests will be swooning over this better-for-you holiday breakfast.
Ingredients:
Cinnamon Roll Dough:
- 3 eggs
- 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted and cooled
- ¼ cup + 1 tsp water
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 box Simple Mills bread mix (storefinder or available on Amazon)
- 1/2 tbsp coconut sugar
For rolling dough:
- 1-3 tbsp almond flour
Cinnamon Roll Filling:
- 2-4 tbsp cinnamon (depending how strong you like the flavor)
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted and cooled
- ⅓ cup coconut sugar
- ½ tbsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Roll Frosting:
- ½ cup coconut butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-4 tsp non-dairy milk
- 1-2 tsp coconut sugar, optional
Directions:
Step #1: Gather ingredients and preheat oven to 350°F
Step #2: Prepare dough mix by whisking eggs, ¼ cup plus 1 tsp. water, and 2 tbsp. melted and cooled coconut oil in a large mixing bowl. Add Simple Mills bread mix and ½ tbsp. coconut sugar and stir well until combined. Then add apple cider vinegar and mix again until combined into a dough. Set aside.
Step #3: Next, prepare the cinnamon roll filling. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the 2 tbsp. cinnamon, ¼ cup melted and cooled coconut oil, ⅓ cup coconut sugar, and ½ tbsp. vanilla extract until well combined.
Step #4: Next, form the dough. Place a large piece of parchment paper on the counter and add 1-2 tablespoons of almond flour, evenly spreading the flour to cover the surface. Place the ball of dough to the center of the parchment paper. Using a flour-coated rolling pin or drinking glass, roll out the dough into a ½ -inch thick rectangle.
Step #5: Spread the filling. Using a brush, silicone spatula, or back of a spoon, evenly spread the cinnamon filling on the dough, leaving ½ -inch space from the edges.
Step #6: Roll the dough. Once filling is spread, roll the dough into a log starting from the shorter end of the rectangle. Then, cut into 1 ½ inch slices (about 9-10). Option to slice using string floss.
Step #7: Grease an 8×11 square baking dish or line with parchment paper, and add slices to the baking dish and bake for 14-18 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a muffin pan and add each slice to a greased muffin hole, baking for 10-12 minutes. Note: option to double the cinnamon filling recipe and spread on top of the cinnamon rolls before baking.
Step #8: While cinnamon rolls are baking, make the frosting. Add the coconut butter to a microwave-safe bowl and melt for 30 seconds. Remove and add 1-2 tsp of non-dairy milk and stir into a glaze (you may need to add an extra splash of milk and heat to form glaze). Once glaze texture is achieved, stir in the 1 tsp. of vanilla extract.
Step #9: Remove cinnamon rolls from the oven and drizzle glaze over the top. Option to sprinkle with cinnamon. Enjoy!
Delicious Oatmeal Raisin Breakfast Cookies
If you love your morning coffee accompanied by a holiday cookie, you’ll love these healthy breakfast cookies! Because let’s be honest, what’s a holiday breakfast without a sweet treat? Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, pumpkin seeds, raisins, and almonds, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are the perfect balance of nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oats, rolled
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
- ¼ cup pumpkin seeds
- ⅓ cup slivered almonds
- ¼ cup raisin
- ¼ cup cacao nibs
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 pinch sea salt
- ¼ cup water
- almond butter, to serve
Directions:
Step #1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step #2: Add all ingredients to a food processor and blend until the mixture comes together, adding a splash more water if needed.
Step #3: Drop the cookie dough by the rounded tablespoon onto the parchment-lined baking tray, shaping them into rounds.
Step #4: Bake for 15 minutes until the edges are golden.
Step #5: Serve with a dollop of almond butter.
Dark Chocolate Cranberry Granola
This homemade granola recipe is the perfect sweet and savory breakfast idea that can be enjoyed in so many ways! Inspired by holiday flavors like cranberries, pistachios, and ginger alongside wholesome granola staples like oats + chocolate chips. Enjoy it with a bowl of non-dairy milk or yogurt, sprinkle it on your warm bowl of oats, or break it into bite-sized pieces and dip it into your coffee or PSL.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups oats, rolled
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 1 banana
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
- ¼ cup pistachios
Directions:
Step #1: Heat oven to 300 F.
Step #2: Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl.
Step #3: Combine wet ingredients in a food processor or blender.
Step #4: Mix wet with dry.
Step #5: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread oat mixture evenly on top.
Step #6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step #7: Let granola cool. Then, mix in cranberries and chocolate. Enjoy!
Cinnamon Apple Muffins
Cinnamon-spiced apple muffins that will bring guilt-free joy to every holiday breakfast table! Made with an almond flour base and naturally sweetened with honey and a dash of coconut sugar for a healthy holiday breakfast recipe that’s gluten-free, refined-sugar free, and easily made vegan. Customize as desired with healthy holiday swaps or flavor add-ins such as leftover cranberries or chopped dates. The best part? These healthy muffin cups can be prepped ahead of time and heated up when you’re ready to enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups almond flour
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 apple, grated or shredded
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- 4 eggs
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 pinch sea salt
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar
- almond butter, to serve
Directions:
Step #1: Start by preheating your oven to 320°F and line a muffin tin with muffin liners.
Step #2: Next, add the almond flour, cinnamon, salt and baking powder to a large mixing bowl and stir to combine. In a separate mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk to combine. Then add the melted coconut oil, honey, and vanilla.
Step #3: Add the wet mixture to the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix well. Fold in the grated apple, lemon juice, and pecans. Add optional mix-ins, if desired.
Step #4: Pour the batter into the lined muffin tins and top with extra pecans and a sprinkle of coconut sugar. Then, bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step #5: Allow the muffins to cool before serving. Enjoy with a dollop of almond butter!
Comforting Cinnamon Chia Breakfast Oats
No time to prep? No worries! This quick and easy recipe allows you to wake up and whip up a delicious holiday breakfast with ease. Made with five base ingredients and a handful of healthy toppings, this comforting oat breakfast is designed for convenience. It’s low in sugar, full of fiber, and makes staying healthy during the holidays easier than ever.
For a holiday twist, serve with stewed cranberries or apples, a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, and an extra handful of chopped pecans or pistachios!
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- ⅓ cup oats, rolled
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 cups oat milk
- 2 tbsp coconut cream
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp shredded coconut, to serve
- Slivered almonds, to serve
- Crushed pecans or pistachios, to serve
- Mixed berries, cranberries, or apples, to serve
- Honey, to drizzle
Directions:
Step #1: Add the oats, chia seeds, and the oat milk to stockpot over medium heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the oats are soft.
Step #2: Once the oats are cooked, stir in the cinnamon and coconut cream. Remove from heat and add to a serving bowl.
Step #3: Top with the shredded coconut, almonds, pecans, and seasonal fruit such as fresh or stewed cranberries or apples. Drizzle with honey and enjoy!
Guilt-Free Banana Cinnamon Pancakes
Made with a handful of wholesome ingredients, such as banana, oats, and eggs, these easy-prep Banana Cinnamon Pancakes are the perfect holiday breakfast idea. Add your favorite holiday mix-ins like dairy-free chocolate chips or pumpkin puree, and serve with your favorite pancake toppings like nut butter, fresh fruit, or any holiday baking leftovers! Enjoy this single-serve portion or double (or triple) the recipe for all to enjoy.
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- ½ cup oats, rolled
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 banana
- ¼ cup oat milk
- 1 tsp coconut oil
- ½ tbsp pecans, chopped
- ½ tbsp walnuts, chopped
- Maple syrup, to drizzle
Directions:
Step #1: Add the oats, egg, baking powder, chia seeds, vanilla, banana, cinnamon, and oat milk to a high-speed blender and blend until smooth.
Step #2: Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat with coconut oil. Add about two tablespoons of the pancake batter to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
Step #3: Serve with sliced banana, pecans, walnuts, and a drizzle of pure maple syrup. Option to customize with additional holiday toppings such as pumpkin pie spice, a drizzle of pecan butter, a sprinkle of chocolate chips, or a serving of fresh seasonal fruit like persimmons. Enjoy!
Easy Egg & Winter Squash Breakfast Bake
If you have leftover eggs, winter squash, and veggies, give this simple savory holiday breakfast idea a try! Not only is it packed with protein, low in sugar, and easy to prep (and clean!), but it’s also a great way to reduce food waste and use up any leftovers. Make it ahead of time for busy mornings, and customize it with any veggies of choice.
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 12 eggs
- 3 cups peeled and cubed winter squash (such as butternut, kabocha, or honeynut)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4-6 cups baby spinach, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¾ tsp dried thyme
- ¾ tsp dried oregano
- ¾ tsp sea salt
- ¾ tsp black pepper
Directions:
Step #1: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Step #2: Add the olive oil to the pan and heat over medium heat. Once hot, add the winter squash and onion. Cook for 8-10 minutes until soft and tender, adding 1-2 tablespoons of water as needed. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and spices. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Then, add the spinach and cook until it wilts, 1-2 minutes.
Step #3: Once cooked, add the veggie mixture to a greased baking dish. Set aside.
Step #4: Next,whisk together the eggs and cottage cheese until smooth. Pour the egg mixture over the veggies. Bake for 20-25 minutes until eggs set and are cooked through. Once the top is golden brown, remove from the oven. Let cool before slicing.
Pesto & Parmesan Breakfast Egg Muffins
Speaking of eggs, these Pesto & Parmesan Breakfast Egg Muffins are an easy-prep option that will be loved by all. Make them as instructed with pesto, or customize them with any leftover holiday dips and spreads such as salsa, pumpkin hummus, or black bean dip! Serve with a side of fresh fruit, avocado toast, or a savory cottage cheese bowl.
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 12 eggs
- 2 cups baby spinach, chopped
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup pesto
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Sea salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Step #1: Start by preheating the oven to 350°F and grease a muffin tin with oil.
Step #2: Add the eggs to a large mixing bowl and whisk well. Season with salt and pepper and add the chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan cheese.
Step #3: Pour the egg mixture into the muffin tins, filling halfway. Add 1 teaspoon of pesto (or sauce/dip of choice) to each egg muffin.
Step #4: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the muffins are set and cooked through. Serve with salsa, cottage cheese, or any other toppings and sides of choice!
Apple Cinnamon Blended Baked Oats
Ready for a change-up from classic warming oats? Enter: blended baked oats. Infused with all the cozy flavors of fall and winter like apples, nutmeg, and cinnamon, it’s perfect when you want an easy-prep breakfast dish that tastes like dessert. Serve it with Greek yogurt, a drizzle of nut butter, or freshly sliced seasonal fruit!
Serves: 2-3
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 apple, diced
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce or 2 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ oat milk or dairy-free milk of choice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of sea salt
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
- Greek yogurt and fresh sliced apples, to serve (optional)
Directions:
Step #1: Preheat your oven to 375 F and grease a baking dish or individual ramekins.
Step #2: In a high-speed blender, combine the rolled oats, banana, diced apple, applesauce, oat milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and sea salt. Blend until smooth (but careful not to over blend).
Step #3: Pour the blended mixture into the prepared baking dish or ramekins. Top with chopped nuts and an optional sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
Step #4: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, test with a toothpick. Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Option to enjoy with fresh apples, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of nut butter.
Our Gift To You: Holiday Mornings Made Healthy!
With these delicious and nutritious breakfast recipe ideas, kick off your holiday in a healthy way. Best of all, there’s something for everyone: our healthy morning menu includes a range of gluten-free, paleo-friendly, plant-based, and protein-packed ideas! With nutrient-dense ideas like breakfast cookies and cozy quinoa bowls, enjoy a tasty morning treat without the guilt. Customize these recipes to make them your own, and add in any holiday leftovers or add-ins!
