9 Easy Christmas Breakfast Ideas to Treat Yourself and Your Family

Christmas morning holds a special place in the hearts of Nigerian families. It’s a time when the aroma of festive cooking fills the air and the joy of togetherness sets the tone for the day. While the afternoon or evening is reserved for the grand feast that is usually meticulously planned days in advance, breakfast on Christmas morning deserves its own moment of glory.

Christmas morning makes room for dishes that are more indulgent, celebratory, and reflective of the season. Instead of having cereal, or bread and butter for breakfast, you could swap for something a little more fancy and a little more festive like pepper soup, french toast. fried or jollof rice. And if you’re the type to celebrate Christmas in a chill, no fuss way, breakfast options like fruit salads or overnight oats will tickle your fancy.

It doesn’t matter if you’re going all out or keeping things simple, here are some easy-to-make Christmas breakfast ideas that are guaranteed to delight your taste buds.

A quintessential part of the Nigerian breakfast menu, yam and egg sauce is a timeless classic. Although yam has become somewhat of a luxury due to its rising cost, Christmas morning is the perfect excuse to indulge. This hearty meal is simple yet satisfying, with soft boiled yam slices paired with a rich, spicy egg sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could add a twist by incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or a sprinkle of crayfish into the egg sauce for an even better flavour profile.

Chicken pepper soup is a warm and comforting dish that feels like a Christmas hug in a bowl. Its spicy, aromatic broth is perfect for a chilly harmattan morning, especially if you’re entertaining guests or need a light yet satisfying start to the day.

This dish is surprisingly easy to make; simply combine chicken, pepper soup spices, fresh pepper, and herbs, and let it simmer to perfection. It’s also customisable—add potatoes, yam or plantains for a heartier, filling version. Or you could keep it light for those saving stomach room for the main feast later in the day.

Yes, these staples of the Nigerian kitchen can also work as breakfast options! Reheat leftover fried or jollof rice from the night before, or prepare a quick version if you’re craving that smoky, rich flavour. Pair it with a side of fried plantains and some grilled chicken, and you’ve got a festive breakfast plate that’s quick, filling, and utterly delicious.

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Hold on, I know what you’re thinking, pounded yam for breakfast? Absolutely! It is a meal that people actually have during Christmas. Granted, it requires a lot of effort to make, especially if you choose to manually pound your yam with mortar and pestle. Christmas is actually one of the rare times you have to put all this effort into making breakfast. Most offices are closed and people are indoors celebrating with their families, so you have all the time to create your perfect breakfast. 

Efo riro, with its mix of spinach, assorted meats, and spices, pairs beautifully with soft, freshly pounded yam. And if you’re not up for the physical workout of pounding yam, there’s always the option of using a stand mixer to make an instant version, which is quicker but just as satisfying.

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For a more continental vibe, waffles and pancakes are fantastic options. These are versatile and easy to customise for the season. Add a pinch of cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg to your batter to add a traditional spicy flavour. Or you could add freshly squeezed lemon juice to the batter for a slightly fruity citrusy taste. Topping options for waffles and pancakes are endless. Some options are bananas, strawberries, bacon, sausages, and honey drizzles. For an extra indulgent touch, a scoop of your favourite ice cream to this Christmas breakfast. 

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For the gym bros and girls, and any other person who is sticking to healthy eating and doesn’t want to stray too far from it, having overnight oats is another great option. This no-cook breakfast is as easy as it gets—combine oats with milk or yogurt, add your favourite sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and let it sit in the fridge overnight.

On Christmas morning, top it with fresh fruits, nuts, or seeds for a wholesome and delicious meal. You can even warm it up if you prefer something warm and cosy. Oats are already a great source of fiber, and adding these toppings will also boost its nutritional value.

French toast is a quick breakfast that can be festive without requiring much effort. Simply whisk eggs, milk, sugar, and a touch of vanilla or cinnamon, dip slices of bread into the mixture, and fry them until golden. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of syrup, or fresh fruits.

Christmas mornings are often chaotic, and if you’re pressed for time but still want something visually appealing and tasty, a yoghurt parfait is the way to go. You only need 5 minutes and a handful of ingredients to make this dish. For a creamy yogurt parfait, layer Greek yoghurt or any yogurt of your choice with granola, fresh fruits, and a drizzle of honey for a breakfast that’s light yet satisfying. This is also a great side dish to pair with more elaborate meals or for when you’re nibbling as you cook the main feast.

Sometimes, simplicity is key. A fruit salad is refreshing, and incredibly easy to whip up. Use a mix of seasonal fruits like pineapple, watermelon, apples, and bananas, or add some tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas. You can also make a salad dressing by mixing lemon juice, lime juice, maple syrup, grated ginger, mint leaves, and sea salt for an extra zing. It’s the perfect option for a quick breakfast or as a side dish to balance out heavier options.

Christmas morning breakfasts are as diverse as the families that celebrate the season. If you’re trying traditional Nigerian dishes like yam and egg sauce or opting for lighter, Western-inspired meals, the key is to make it special and enjoyable. With these easy-to-make ideas, you’ll start your day on a festive note that carries through to the rest of the celebrations. After all, the joy of Christmas lies not just in the food but in the memories made while sharing it with loved ones.