Easter is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and delicious food. Whether you're hosting a festive brunch, a traditional Easter dinner, or simply looking for some sweet treats to enjoy, here are a few favorite Easter recipes to delight your loved ones:
## 1. Classic Easter Ham
Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in ham (about 8-10 pounds)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Whole cloves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the surface with a sharp knife in a diamond pattern.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar to create a glaze.
4. Brush the glaze over the ham, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. Insert whole cloves into the scored intersections of the diamond pattern for decoration.
6. Cover the ham loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, basting occasionally with the pan juices, until the ham is caramelized and golden brown.
8. Let the ham rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
## 2. Spring Vegetable Frittata
Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Gruyère)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
3. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes and baby spinach to the skillet, and cook until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables in the skillet, making sure they are evenly distributed.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the frittata.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm or at room temperature.
## 3. Easter Bunny Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Royal icing and decorative sprinkles for decorating
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each portion into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use Easter-themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheets.
9. Once cooled, decorate the cookies with royal icing and decorative sprinkles to create Easter bunny designs. Let the icing set before serving.
These Easter recipes are sure to add a touch of joy and deliciousness to your holiday celebration. Whether you're enjoying a festive meal with loved ones or simply indulging in sweet treats, may your Easter be filled with warmth, happiness, and good food!