Christmas morning is a time for joy, giving, and making memories with loved ones. However, it can also be a chaotic and stressful time, especially when it comes to cooking and preparing meals. One way to make your Christmas morning more enjoyable and less hectic is to prepare some dishes the night before. In this article, we will explore some delicious and convenient ideas for what you can make the night before Christmas.
The Benefits of Preparing Ahead
Preparing some dishes the night before Christmas can have several benefits. For one, it can save you time and reduce stress on Christmas morning. By having some dishes already prepared, you can focus on enjoying the holiday with your family and friends, rather than spending all morning in the kitchen. Additionally, preparing ahead can also help ensure that your dishes turn out perfectly, as you can take your time and attention to detail without feeling rushed.
Breakfast Dishes
One of the most popular meals to prepare the night before Christmas is breakfast. Here are a few ideas for delicious breakfast dishes that can be made ahead of time:
Overnight French toast is a classic Christmas morning breakfast dish that can be prepared the night before. Simply slice a loaf of bread, mix together eggs, milk, and cinnamon, and pour the mixture over the bread in a baking dish. Refrigerate overnight and bake in the morning for a delicious and easy breakfast.
Another great option is a breakfast strata, which is a layered dish made with bread, eggs, and cheese. Simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake until puffed and golden brown.
Make-Ahead Muffins and Scones
If you prefer a lighter breakfast, consider making a batch of muffins or scones the night before. These can be baked in advance and stored in an airtight container overnight. In the morning, simply serve and enjoy.
| Muffin/Scone Recipe | Make-Ahead Instructions |
|---|---|
| Cranberry Orange Muffins | Bake and cool completely. Store in an airtight container overnight. |
| Blueberry Scones | Prepare dough and shape into triangles. Refrigerate overnight and bake in the morning. |
Main Course Dishes
While breakfast is a great meal to prepare ahead of time, it’s not the only option. Here are a few ideas for main course dishes that can be made the night before Christmas:
Lasagna
Lasagna is a classic make-ahead dish that can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning. Simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake until hot and bubbly.
Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a popular side dish that can be made ahead of time. Simply boil diced potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and milk. Store in an airtight container overnight and reheat in the morning.
Desserts
No Christmas meal is complete without dessert. Here are a few ideas for delicious desserts that can be made the night before:
Apple Crisp
Apple crisp is a classic dessert that can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning. Simply peel and slice apples, mix with sugar and flour, and top with an oat and brown sugar crumble. Refrigerate overnight and bake until hot and bubbly.
Make-Ahead Cheesecake
Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert that can be made ahead of time. Simply mix together the ingredients, pour into a baking dish, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake until set and top with fruit or nuts.
Beverages
In addition to food, you can also prepare beverages the night before Christmas. Here are a few ideas:
Hot Cocoa Mix
Hot cocoa is a popular wintertime drink that can be prepared ahead of time. Simply mix together cocoa powder, sugar, and marshmallows, and store in an airtight container overnight. In the morning, simply add hot water and enjoy.
Make-Ahead Coffee
If you’re a coffee lover, consider making a batch of coffee the night before. Simply brew a pot of coffee and store in an airtight container overnight. In the morning, simply reheat and serve.
Conclusion
Preparing some dishes the night before Christmas can make your holiday morning more enjoyable and less stressful. Whether you’re making breakfast, main course dishes, desserts, or beverages, there are many delicious and convenient options to choose from. By taking some time to prepare ahead, you can focus on enjoying the holiday with your loved ones, rather than spending all morning in the kitchen.
Remember, the key to a stress-free Christmas morning is to plan ahead and be prepared. By making some dishes the night before, you can ensure a delicious and enjoyable holiday meal, without all the hassle and stress.
What are some popular Christmas breakfast ideas that can be prepared the night before?
Preparing a delicious Christmas breakfast the night before can save you time and stress on the big day. Some popular ideas include overnight French toast, breakfast strata, and cinnamon rolls. These dishes are perfect for a crowd and can be easily customized to suit your family’s tastes. You can also consider making a batch of muffins or scones the night before to serve alongside your main breakfast dish.
When choosing a recipe, consider the ingredients and cooking time required. You’ll want to select a dish that can be refrigerated or frozen overnight and then baked or cooked in the morning. Be sure to read through the recipe carefully and make a list of any ingredients or supplies you’ll need to have on hand. With a little planning, you can create a magical Christmas breakfast that your family will cherish for years to come.
How do I make overnight French toast?
Making overnight French toast is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients. Start by slicing a loaf of bread into thick slices and placing them in a baking dish. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and your choice of spices and flavorings, such as cinnamon and vanilla. Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Bake the French toast for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and puffed. Serve warm with your choice of toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream. You can also customize the recipe by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or other mix-ins to the egg mixture.
Can I make Christmas breakfast casseroles ahead of time?
Yes, many Christmas breakfast casseroles can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen overnight. These casseroles typically consist of a mixture of bread, eggs, cheese, and vegetables, which are combined in a baking dish and baked in the morning. To make a casserole ahead of time, prepare the ingredients as directed in the recipe, but don’t bake it until the morning.
When making a casserole ahead of time, be sure to follow safe food handling practices. Refrigerate the casserole at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below, and consume it within a day or two. If you’re freezing the casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake it in the morning. You can also consider making individual portions of the casserole, which can be refrigerated or frozen and baked in the morning.
How do I keep Christmas breakfast pastries fresh overnight?
To keep Christmas breakfast pastries fresh overnight, it’s essential to store them properly. If you’re making sweet pastries, such as cinnamon rolls or Danish, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’re making savory pastries, such as quiches or strata, you may need to refrigerate them overnight to prevent spoilage.
When storing pastries overnight, be sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources. You can also consider freezing the pastries, which will help preserve their texture and flavor. To freeze pastries, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and put the sheet in the freezer. Once the pastries are frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage.
What are some make-ahead Christmas breakfast drinks?
There are several make-ahead Christmas breakfast drinks that you can prepare the night before. One popular option is hot chocolate, which can be made in large batches and refrigerated overnight. You can also make a batch of coffee or tea and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. If you’re looking for a more festive drink, consider making a batch of eggnog or peppermint mocha, which can be refrigerated overnight and served in the morning.
When making make-ahead Christmas breakfast drinks, be sure to follow safe food handling practices. Refrigerate the drinks at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below, and consume them within a day or two. You can also consider making individual portions of the drinks, which can be refrigerated or frozen and served in the morning.
Can I make Christmas breakfast sausage or bacon ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Christmas breakfast sausage or bacon ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it overnight. To make sausage or bacon ahead of time, cook it as directed in the recipe, then let it cool completely. Once the sausage or bacon is cool, you can refrigerate or freeze it for later use.
When reheating sausage or bacon, be sure to follow safe food handling practices. Reheat the sausage or bacon to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and serve it hot. You can also consider making individual portions of the sausage or bacon, which can be refrigerated or frozen and reheated in the morning.
How do I reheat Christmas breakfast dishes in the morning?
Reheating Christmas breakfast dishes in the morning is a simple process that requires just a few minutes of your time. To reheat a dish, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), then place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until it’s hot and steaming. You can also reheat dishes in the microwave or on the stovetop, but be sure to follow safe food handling practices to avoid overheating or burning the food.
When reheating Christmas breakfast dishes, be sure to check the temperature of the food to ensure it’s safe to eat. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the dish, and make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving. You can also consider making individual portions of the dish, which can be reheated in the morning and served hot.