Easter is a time for gathering with loved ones and sharing delicious meals.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, dinner, or just contributing a dish to a family celebration, having the right recipes can make your Easter table truly special.
These 21 best Easter recipes offer something for everyone, from traditional ham and scalloped potatoes to sweet treats like carrot cake and blueberry ricotta crumb cake. You’ll find options that honor old family traditions while also introducing new favorites that can become part of your Easter celebrations for years to come.
From appetizers to desserts, these recipes will help you create a memorable Easter meal.
1. Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze
Baked ham with brown sugar glaze is a classic Easter centerpiece that’s surprisingly easy to make.
The sweet, sticky glaze creates a beautiful finish that tastes amazing.
You can make a simple glaze using brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Some recipes add a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
For extra moisture, try baking your ham with ginger ale in the pan. This secret ingredient helps keep the meat juicy while adding subtle flavor.
No need to score or stud your ham with cloves. A simpler approach still delivers great results. Just brush the glaze over the ham during the last portion of cooking time.
2. Classic Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are an Easter staple that everyone loves. These bite-sized treats are simple to make and always disappear quickly from the table.
To make classic deviled eggs, you’ll need hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Start by slicing your eggs in half and removing the yolks.
Mash the yolks in a bowl and mix with about 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise and 2 teaspoons of mustard. Add a splash of vinegar and season with salt and pepper.
Spoon or pipe the filling back into the egg white halves. For Easter, you can add a festive touch with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs on top.
3. Best Carrot Cake
A classic carrot cake is the perfect dessert for your Easter celebration.
The key to a great carrot cake is moisture, and most recipes achieve this through the perfect balance of carrots, oil, and spices.
Look for a recipe that includes freshly grated carrots and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The best carrot cakes are topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting that complements the sweet, spiced cake layers.
You can find variations that include additions like pineapple, nuts, or raisins if you prefer. Some even come in cupcake form or as a bundt cake with a cheesecake swirl for something different.
4. Hot Cross Buns
Hot cross buns are sweet, spiced rolls traditionally eaten during Easter. They’re marked with a cross on top, symbolizing the holiday.
These fluffy buns contain dried fruits like raisins or craisins and warm spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes cardamom. The aroma that fills your kitchen while baking them is wonderful.
You can make these at home with basic ingredients. The dough needs time to rise, but the results are worth the wait.
Serve hot cross buns warm or toasted with butter for a delicious Easter breakfast or brunch. They’re subtly sweet and perfect for sharing with family.
5. Easter Egg Nest Cake
The Easter Egg Nest Cake is a showstopping dessert that’s perfect for your holiday table. This chocolate cake features a nest-like appearance on top where colorful Easter eggs can be displayed.
To make this festive treat, you’ll need dark chocolate, butter, eggs, and sugar as your base ingredients. The cake has a fudgy, brownie-like texture that’s both rich and decadent.
What makes this cake special is its presentation. After baking, the center naturally sinks, creating the perfect “nest” for placing chocolate eggs or other Easter candies on top.
You can enhance your cake with a ganache topping or dust it with powdered sugar for a simpler finish. It’s sure to impress your guests while being easier to make than it looks!
6. Glazed Ham
Glazed ham is a classic Easter centerpiece that’s both impressive and easy to prepare. You can create a delicious glaze with simple ingredients you likely have in your pantry.
Popular glazes include honey, brown sugar, mustard, and even unexpected ingredients like root beer or Dr. Pepper. These sweet and tangy combinations create a beautiful shiny coating when baked.
For the best results, score your ham in a diamond pattern before applying the glaze. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Apply your glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent burning. Baste occasionally for an extra glossy finish that will impress your Easter guests.
7. Rhubarb Macaroon Tart
This eye-catching dessert combines sweet and tart flavors perfectly for your Easter table. The base features a chewy macaroon shell that adds wonderful texture.
Hidden beneath the vibrant rhubarb is a smooth vanilla custard that balances the fruit’s natural tartness. The contrast between the creamy filling and tart rhubarb creates a delightful flavor combination.
You can prepare this tart a day ahead, making your Easter preparations less stressful.
For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of ginger to complement the rhubarb, or pair with strawberries for added sweetness.
This impressive dessert will surely become a new Easter tradition for your family gatherings.
8. Lemon Meringue Pie
Lemon meringue pie is a beautiful Easter dessert that combines sweet and tart flavors perfectly. It features a flaky crust filled with bright, tangy lemon custard and topped with fluffy clouds of sweet meringue.
You can make this heavenly dessert with simple ingredients. The filling uses egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and fresh lemon juice for that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
The meringue topping is light and airy, creating a stunning presentation that will impress your Easter guests. While it takes a little time to prepare, the results are well worth the effort.
This classic dessert makes a wonderful addition to your Easter meal and continues a tradition that grandma would approve of.
9. Roast Lamb Leg with Gravy
A perfectly roasted leg of lamb makes an impressive Easter centerpiece. Marinating the lamb overnight enhances its flavor significantly.
Try rubbing the meat with a mixture of garlic and rosemary before roasting. This classic combination creates a fragrant and flavorful crust.
For the best results, cook your lamb to a blushing pink perfection in the center. This ensures the meat remains juicy and tender.
Serve your lamb with a rich homemade gravy made from the pan drippings. Complete the meal with sides like crispy roast potatoes, peas, and carrots for a traditional Easter feast.
10. Chocolate Cream Pie
Chocolate Cream Pie is a dreamy dessert perfect for your Easter celebration. This indulgent treat features a rich chocolate pudding filling inside a crisp Oreo crust.
You can make the chocolate filling from scratch using simple ingredients like cocoa, cornstarch, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks. The homemade approach gives you control over the sweetness and chocolate intensity.
Top your pie with freshly whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch. For an extra special presentation, add chocolate curls or shavings on top.
This decadent dessert will surely impress your Easter guests and satisfy any chocolate lover at your table.
11. Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is a perfect Easter side dish that balances sweet and savory flavors. You can easily prepare it ahead of time to reduce holiday cooking stress.
The classic recipe features mashed sweet potatoes mixed with butter, eggs, and sweeteners like maple syrup. Some versions include buttermilk for a tangy note.
For toppings, you have delicious options. Try a crunchy pecan mixture or the traditional marshmallow layer that gets perfectly toasted in the oven.
Healthier versions substitute clean ingredients and might incorporate butternut squash for extra nutrients. The dish pairs wonderfully with ham or turkey for your Easter meal.
12. Pineapple Casserole
Pineapple casserole is a unique Southern dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. This unexpected combination makes it an excellent side dish for your Easter ham.
The classic recipe combines crushed pineapple, sharp cheddar cheese, sugar, and flour. The top features a buttery cracker crust that turns golden brown when baked.
To make this dish, you’ll mix sugar, flour, and pineapple juice before adding cheese and pineapple. Pour the mixture into a buttered casserole dish and top with crushed crackers.
Your guests might be surprised by this unusual pairing, but the sweet pineapple and savory cheese create a truly delicious Easter side dish.
13. Oven-Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus makes a perfect Easter side dish that’s both elegant and simple to prepare.
Start with fresh asparagus spears, trimmed at the woody ends.
Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Roast in a very hot oven (around 425°F) for about 10 minutes until they begin to brown. The high heat helps remove any bitterness while creating a delicious caramelized exterior.
For extra flavor, add minced garlic before roasting or finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese when they come out of the oven.
14. Easter Breakfast Casserole
Easter breakfast casserole is the perfect make-ahead dish for your holiday morning.
Combining eggs, hash browns, and bacon or ham, it offers a hearty start to your celebrations.
Simply prep the casserole the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, pop it in the oven while you hide Easter eggs or attend church services.
Many recipes include colorful vegetables like bell peppers and onions for added flavor and nutrition. Some versions use crescent roll dough as a base, making assembly even easier.
This crowd-pleasing dish saves you time in the kitchen so you can enjoy more moments with family on Easter Sunday.
15. Strawberry Poke Cake
Strawberry Poke Cake is a delicious Easter dessert that’s easy to make and full of sweet strawberry flavor. This treat features a moist white cake that’s poked with holes and filled with strawberry syrup or jello.
The cake is topped with fluffy whipped cream or Cool Whip frosting. Some versions include a crunchy strawberry topping for extra texture and flavor.
You can prepare this cake in about 15 minutes using just six ingredients. It’s perfect for your Easter celebration and can be made a day ahead to save time. The bright pink color also makes it a festive addition to your holiday table.
16. Paska Bread
Paska bread is a traditional Easter bread with Ukrainian origins. This slightly sweet bread is often studded with raisins and has a light, fluffy texture similar to brioche.
You can enjoy this festive bread with butter or jam alongside a cup of tea. The bread’s soft texture makes it melt in your mouth, especially when topped with a simple glaze.
Some variations include a cheese spread made with quark, which adds a unique tangy flavor. Paska is fairly simple to make despite its impressive appearance.
This Easter bread represents celebration and spring, making it a perfect addition to your holiday table.
17. Bunny Cinnamon Rolls
Bunny Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful Easter breakfast that’s both cute and delicious.
You can transform store-bought refrigerated cinnamon rolls into adorable bunny shapes with minimal effort.
Simply unroll the dough and reshape it to create bunny ears and a round face. After baking, add icing for the finishing touch. Some people add edible pastel flowers for extra spring charm.
These sweet treats make a perfect centerpiece for your Easter table. Serve them with scrambled eggs and coffee for a complete holiday breakfast. Kids especially love these playful pastries.
This easy recipe creates a fun family tradition that everyone will look forward to each Easter morning.
18. Homemade Peanut Butter Eggs
Homemade peanut butter eggs are an easy no-bake treat perfect for Easter. They taste just like Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs but with a softer texture.
You can make these with simple ingredients: peanut butter, powdered sugar, butter, and chocolate for coating. Mix the filling, shape into eggs, and dip in melted chocolate.
Kids love helping with this fun Easter project. You can decorate your eggs with sprinkles or colored frosting to make them festive.
For a creative twist, some recipes show how to color the chocolate coating to look like real robin’s eggs. These sweet treats make wonderful gifts or additions to Easter baskets.
19. Green Bean Almondine
Green Bean Almondine is a classic French side dish that perfectly complements your Easter dinner. This elegant yet simple recipe combines crisp green beans with crunchy almonds.
To make this dish, sauté fresh green beans until tender-crisp. Then add sliced almonds, butter, garlic, and shallots for rich flavor.
A splash of lemon juice and zest brightens the entire dish, cutting through the buttery richness. The best part? It only takes about 15 minutes to prepare.
Your Easter guests will appreciate this light side dish alongside heavier main courses. The vibrant green color also adds a fresh, spring-like touch to your holiday table.
20. Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes make a perfect side dish for your Easter ham. This classic comfort food features thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce until tender and golden.
The traditional recipe includes layers of potatoes with milk, flour, butter, and seasonings. Some versions add cheese, making them extra rich and delicious.
You can prepare scalloped potatoes ahead of time and bake them while your ham rests. The simple ingredients create an impressive side dish that everyone loves.
For the best results, use starchy potatoes like russets and slice them to uniform thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the creamy sauce.
21. Moroccan Lamb Backstrap
Moroccan lamb backstrap is a tender cut of meat with a delicate flavor that makes a perfect Easter main dish. This recipe uses a flavorful spice rub that includes cumin, ginger, paprika, and cinnamon.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You’ll only need common spices you likely already have in your pantry, yet the result tastes exotic and impressive.
Lamb backstrap requires minimal preparation but delivers maximum flavor. The spice rub creates a fragrant crust while the tender meat stays juicy inside.
Serve this with couscous or roasted vegetables for a complete Easter meal that will impress your guests.
Nutritional Benefits of Easter Ingredients
Many traditional Easter foods offer valuable nutrients while healthier alternatives can make your holiday meal more balanced. Let’s explore both the nutrition in classic Easter dishes and smart substitutions you can make.
Nutritional Information on Traditional Easter Foods
Ham provides high-quality protein and is rich in selenium, phosphorus, zinc, and several B vitamins including B12. A 3-ounce serving contains about 18 grams of protein but can be high in sodium.
Eggs are nutrition powerhouses with 6 grams of protein per egg, plus choline for brain health, lutein for eye health, and vitamin D. They’re also relatively low in calories at just about 70 calories each.
Lamb offers complete protein, vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium. It contains healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids, especially if grass-fed.
Spring vegetables like asparagus, peas, and carrots provide fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Asparagus is particularly high in folate and vitamin K.
Hot cross buns and Easter bread do contain carbohydrates for energy but traditional recipes can be high in sugar and refined flour.
Healthier Ingredient Alternatives
Smart Substitutions for Easter Meals:
- Choose lean ham cuts or trim visible fat to reduce calories
- Opt for grass-fed lamb which contains more omega-3 fatty acids
- Use whole grain flour instead of white flour in breads and desserts
- Replace half the butter with applesauce in baking recipes
You can sweeten dishes naturally with honey, maple syrup, or mashed bananas instead of refined sugar. These alternatives provide some nutrients along with sweetness.
Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for sour cream in many recipes, offering more protein and less fat. Try it in potato dishes or as a base for dips.
Roasting vegetables with olive oil instead of butter adds heart-healthy fats. This cooking method also enhances natural flavors without adding many calories.
Herbs like rosemary, thyme, and mint add flavor without calories or sodium, making them perfect for seasoning Easter dishes.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
Mastering a few key techniques will elevate your Easter dishes from good to exceptional. The right cooking methods ensure perfect textures while thoughtful seasoning brings out the best flavors in traditional holiday favorites.
How to Achieve Perfect Textures
For a juicy Easter ham, cook it low and slow at 325°F, allowing about 18-20 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to reach 140°F for pre-cooked hams.
Roasting lamb? Sear it first at high heat (450°F) for 15 minutes, then reduce to 350°F to finish cooking. This creates a flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender.
For perfect scalloped potatoes, slice them uniformly (about 1/8 inch thick) to ensure even cooking. Par-boil the slices for 5 minutes before layering to reduce overall baking time.
When preparing Easter breads like hot cross buns, don’t rush the rising process. Allow the dough to double in size in a warm, draft-free spot for a light, airy texture.
Using Herbs and Spices for Flavor
Fresh herbs dramatically improve Easter dishes. Try rosemary and garlic with lamb, or thyme and orange zest with ham. Add herbs toward the end of cooking to preserve their flavors.
Classic Easter Herb Combinations:
- Ham: Cloves, brown sugar, mustard, cinnamon
- Lamb: Rosemary, garlic, mint, thyme
- Potatoes: Nutmeg, thyme, garlic
- Carrots: Dill, butter, honey
Create a simple herb butter by mixing softened butter with minced herbs, garlic, and lemon zest. This can be spread under poultry skin or melted over vegetables.
For Easter desserts, warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom add depth to carrot cakes and hot cross buns. Balance sweetness with a pinch of salt to enhance flavors.
Easter Recipe Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Creating memorable Easter meals goes beyond just the recipes. The right pairings and beautiful presentation can elevate your Easter feast from good to extraordinary.
Wine Pairings for Easter Dishes
For ham dishes, consider a medium-bodied white wine like Riesling or Gewürztraminer. These slightly sweet wines balance ham’s saltiness perfectly. If you prefer red, try a light Pinot Noir.
Lamb pairs beautifully with bolder reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. The wine’s robust flavors complement lamb’s richness without overwhelming it.
For spring vegetable sides, choose Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Their crisp acidity and light profiles highlight fresh vegetables rather than masking them.
With deviled eggs or egg dishes, sparkling wines work wonderfully. The bubbles cleanse your palate between bites.
For desserts, sweet wines like Moscato pair nicely with fruit-based treats, while Port complements chocolate desserts.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Use fresh flowers as table decorations.
Place small bouquets of daffodils or tulips in colored eggshells for charming centerpieces.
Serve deviled eggs on a bed of microgreens for a fresh spring look.
Add edible flowers as garnish for instant elegance.
Create height on your table with cake stands.
Use them not just for desserts but also to display rolls or appetizers.
Try colored napkins in pastel shades with rabbit or egg-shaped napkin rings.
These small touches add festive charm.
Label dishes with decorative cards so guests know what they’re eating.
This is especially helpful for guests with dietary restrictions.
Use tiered platters to maximize table space and create visual interest.
Place colorful dishes at different levels for a more dynamic table setting.
