The Ultimate Guide to Easter Day Recipes: 25+ Choices to Plan the Perfect Easter Sunday

Easter is one of the most beloved holidays celebrated by Christians worldwide. At its heart, Easter commemorates renewal, rebirth, and Jesus Christ's resurrection. But for many families, Easter also means gathering around the dinner table to partake in delicious seasonal fare. The Easter recipes featured in this guide have been passed down through generations, carrying on time-honored traditions that bring loved ones together each spring.

Now let the hunt for the perfect Easter feast begin! The first recipe awaits...

Beverages

Whether curling up by the fire or hosting friends this Easter, set the mood right from the start with festive drinks. These holiday libations range from cozy warmers perfect for chilly spring mornings to refreshing sippers that hit the spot throughout the day. Children and adults alike will delight in options both classic and creative. From spiced cider simmering with seasonal flavor to milkshakes decked with fun marshmallow chicks, your crowd is sure to find something suited to their tastes. A showstopping cocktail, too, adds just the right touch of whimsy for grown-up gatherings. Now, raise your cup as we toast to the joy of being together this Easter season.

1. Hot Cross Buns Spiced Cider

Nothing says comfort like a mug of hot spiced cider on a chilly spring day. Amp up the seasonal flavor in this cozy crowd-pleaser with softened hot cross buns swirling in the warming blend.

Ingredients

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 8 whole cloves
• 4 allspice berries
• 2 hot cross buns, cut into pieces

Instructions

1. Pour the cider into a large pot and add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice berries. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

2. Once simmering, add the pieces of hot crossbun to the cider. Let the buns warm through in the hot cider, for about 5 minutes.

3. Remove from heat and let the buns and spices steep in the cider for 20-30 minutes.

4. Strain out the buns and spices before serving the warm spiced cider. You can garnish individual servings with extra pieces of hot cross bun if desired.

5. Enjoy the cozy Hot Cross Buns Spiced Cider! The flavors of warm spices and the familiar fruity sweetness of hot cross buns make this a comforting autumn/winter drink.

Notes: You can adjust the spices to taste. Play around with adding more or less of each spice. For a creamier version, you can also add a splash of cream or half-and-half to individual servings. Enjoy hot or cold over ice.

2. Peeps Marshmallow Milkshake

Kids and kids at heart will delight in this nostalgic Easter milkshake. Fluffy marshmallow sweetness blends with the creamy surprise of mini Peeps to create an indulgent treat perfect for celebration.

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup ice cream (vanilla, or flavor of your choice)
• 4-6 Peeps marshmallow chicks or bunnies
• Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Tear the Peeps into small pieces and place them in a blender.

2. Add the milk and ice cream.

3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.

4. Pour into chilled glasses and top with whipped cream if desired.

5. Serve immediately with straws.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can substitute half the milk with cream or half-and-half.
• Vary the ice cream flavor based on the Peeps flavors - vanilla for original, chocolate for chocolate Peeps, etc.
• For grown-up versions, you can add a splash of liqueur-like Baileys or Kahlua.
• Freeze leftover Peeps to slightly thaw before adding to the blender for smoother blending.

3. Dirty Bunny Cocktail

While children hunt for colored eggs, adults can partake in whimsical imbibing. This playful cocktail blends vodka, citrus and fruit flavors to nod to the frolicking spirit of a bunny on Easter morn. Garnish with a cherry "nose" for festive sipping.

Ingredients

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlua)
• 1 oz Irish cream liqueur (like Bailey's)
• Chocolate syrup
• Whipped cream
• Mini powdered donuts or marshmallow Peeps

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and Irish cream. Shake vigorously.

2. Rim a cocktail glass with chocolate syrup. Pour the shaken cocktail into the glass.

3. Top with a dollop of whipped cream.

4. Garnish with powdered donuts or Peeps tucked into the whipped cream to resemble bunny ears.

5. Enjoy the boozy, cream-filled cocktail!

Notes

• For a less sweet version, reduce the Irish cream to 1/2 oz.
• Substitute fruit liqueurs like peach or raspberry for some of the vodka.
• Top with crushed candy like Andes mints instead of donuts/Peeps.
• Layer ingredients instead of shaking for a layered "dirty bunny" look.

This indulgent cocktail combines the flavors of coffee, cream, and chocolate for a decadent treat that looks just like a little bunny enjoying springtime. 

4. Easter Sunday Mimosas

Bring some sophistication to brunch by serving rounds of Prosecco topped with orange or grapefruit juice for seasonal sippability.

Ingredients

• Prosecco or other sparkling white wine chilled
• Orange juice, chilled
• Grapefruit juice, chilled (optional)

Garnishes

• Orange slices
• Grapefruit slices
• Maraschino cherries

Instructions

1. Fill champagne flutes 3/4 full with Prosecco.

2. Top off with 2-3 oz orange juice.

3. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry, skewering through the orange slice.

4. For grapefruit mimosas, use grapefruit juice in place of orange.

5. Serve chilled mimosas to guests for a festive Easter toast.

Tips

• Use premium Prosecco and freshly squeezed juices for the best flavor.
• Consider making carafes of premixed juices for ease of serving.
• Garnishes like citrus slices or berries add festive color. Enjoy responsibly!

5. Grape Jelly Martini

An indulgent twist on the classic Martini mixes vodka with sweet grape jelly jam for a playfully festive treat.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup grape jelly or jam
• 2 tablespoons water
• 6 ounces vodka
• Ice
• Grape jelly for rim (optional)

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, heat grape jelly, and water until the jelly is dissolved into a smooth syrup. Let cool.

2. Rim a martini glass with grape jelly if desired.

3. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka and 2 tablespoons grape jelly syrup.

4. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.

5. Strain into a prepared martini glass.

6. Garnish with fresh grapes or lemon twist.

7. Enjoy the playful twist on a classic! The tart grape sweetness pairs perfectly with crisp vodka.

This festive martini puts a fun spin on spring cocktails. Perfect for Easter brunch or any celebratory occasion.

6. Blueberry Lemonade Punch

Sweet berries and tart citrus merge into a thirst-quenching beverage that looks as bright as new springtime blooms.

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 1 1/2 cups lemon juice
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 3 cups blueberries
• Ice
• Sliced lemons and berries for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pitcher, combine water, lemon juice and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves.

2. Add blueberries and lightly muddle or crush berries.

3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

4. When ready to serve, add ice.

5. Pour into glasses filled with additional ice.

6. Garnish with lemon and berry slices.

7. Serve cold and enjoy the vibrant color and fresh flavors!

The sweet-tart lemonade mingles with pops of juicy blueberry in this festive Easter drink. Perfect for welcoming spring guests! Make ahead for easy entertaining.

7. Hot Cross Bun Eggnog

Warm, spiced eggnog gets an infusion of flavor and texture from softened hot cross buns mingling in the creamy brew.

Ingredients

• 1 quart eggnog
• 2 hot cross buns, crumbled
• 1/4 cup dark rum (optional)
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice to taste

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, heat eggnog just until warm but not boiling.

2. Slowly stir in crumbled hot cross buns until fully incorporated.

3. Add rum if using. Stir to combine.

4. Ladle eggnog into mugs and top with a dusting of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

5. Serve warm, enjoying the boozy warmth and tender bun pieces mingled throughout.

The spices and soft bun pieces infuse seasonal flavor into creamy eggnog. A cozy drink to enjoy by the fire on a chilly spring day. Feel free to adjust cinnamon, nutmeg, and rum to taste.

Appetizers

Whether you're hosting an intimate Easter brunch or swinging open your doors for friends and family, start your holiday celebrations off right with festive appetizers. These light bites perfectly capture the joyous spirit of springtime as well as the splendor of Easter feasts past. From savory little indulgences like ham pinwheels to sweet surprises like Peep tartlets, your guests of all ages will be delighted. Get your party off to the greatest of starts by choosing a few recipes from this selection to adorn your spread. 

1. Deviled Egg Cupcakes

Matcha-dyed deviled egg "cupcakes" made even more fun with candied bacon "sprinkles" will have everyone wanting seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• Eggs for cake
• 1 dozen hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• Paprika for garnish

Filling

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare cake batter as directed on the box, using eggs. Fill paper-lined muffin cups 3/4 full.

2. Bake according to box directions until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

3. Mix filling ingredients together and pipe or spoon into egg halves.

4. Cut off domed tops of cupcakes and hollow-out centers, leaving a 1/4 inch rim.

5. Place filled egg halves cut side up in the hollowed-out cupcakes.

6. Frost the tops of the cupcakes with frosting, if desired.

7. Sprinkle paprika over the filling in the eggs.

2. Ham and Brie Pinwheels

Savory pinwheels filled with creamy brie and chopped ham make for the perfect handheld appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz) package refrigerated crescent rolls
• 4 oz brie cheese, rind removed, cubed
• 4 oz sliced ham, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Fresh chopped chives for garnish

Instructions

1. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles.

2. In a small bowl, gently mix together the brie, ham, and Dijon mustard.

3. Place about 1 tablespoon of the ham and brie mixture at the wide bottom of each crescent roll triangle.

4. Roll up tightly from the wide bottom to the pointed end.

5. Place seam side down on a baking sheet.

6. Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown.

7. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

8. Garnish pinwheels with chopped fresh chives.

Serve warm. These pinwheels pair beautifully with a blended champagne or Prosecco for an elegant appetizer.

3. Asparagus Crostini with Goat Cheese

Toast points topped with herbed goat cheese and tender asparagus spears are a light, lovely way to welcome spring.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• Olive oil
• Sea salt and black pepper
• 8-10 slices baguette or French bread
• 4-6 oz goat cheese, softened
• Lemon zest

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Toss asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

3. Roast on a baking sheet for 10-12 minutes, until tender. Allow to cool slightly.

4. Brush bread slices with olive oil and season with salt. Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until crispy.

5. Spread goat cheese evenly on toasted bread slices.

6. Chop roasted asparagus into 1-inch pieces and arrange on top of goat cheese.

7. Garnish with lemon zest.

8. Serve crostini garnished with extra lemon zest and black pepper.

The creamy goat cheese pairs beautifully with the tender roasted asparagus for a flavorful spring appetizer.

4. Easter Egg Salad Tartlets

Hardboiled egg salad tucked into mini pastry shells becomes even more adorable with the addition of food coloring for speckled "eggs."

Ingredients

• 1 pkg refrigerated pie crust
• 8 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp relish
• 1 tsp mustard
• Paprika for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a muffin tin with pie crust circles.

2. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely.

3. In a bowl, mix eggs, mayonnaise, relish, and mustard until combined.

4. Fill each pie crust with about 2 tbsp of egg salad.

5. Use the back of a spoon to shape it into a rounded mound.

6. Dust tops lightly with paprika. Garnish edges with olives to resemble little eggs if desired.

7. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips

• For mini tartlets, use a mini muffin tin.
• Add diced celery, onions, or herbs to egg salad.
• Top with hard-boiled egg half before serving.

These cute little tartlets are perfect for Easter appetizers, brunch, or dessert buffets.

Main Dishes

The centerpiece of any festive Easter dinner begins with traditional main dishes that are perfectly suited for sharing with family and guests. Whether opting for a spiral sliced ham or herb-crusted leg of lamb as the savory centerpiece, these hearty entrées will make everyone feel they are celebrating in style.

1. Baked Ham with Pineapple-Mustard Glaze

A holiday staple, this gamier cut of pork transforms into a sweet-and-savory showstopper under a glossy glaze made from pineapple juice, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Serve in slices for an elegant main or carve for a carved meat buffet.

Ingredients

• 1 fully cooked bone-in ham (5-7 lbs)
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp orange juice

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.

2. Score the ham diamond pattern about 1/4 inch deep. Place in a roasting pan.

3. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, mustard, and orange juice until smooth.

4. Spread glaze generously over the entire ham.

5. Arrange pineapple slices in a pinwheel pattern overglaze.

6. Bake uncovered for 1-1/2 to 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until the pineapple is browned and the glaze is caramelized.

7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra glaze.

The sweet-tart pineapple contrasts nicely with the tangy mustard glaze. This ham makes a beautiful centerpiece for any holiday meal.

2. Roasted Leg of Lamb with Mint Pesto

Herbs of spring infuse tender cuts of lamb with fresh flavor. Roasted until perfectly pink inside, this protein is given a vibrant coating involving mint, basil, garlic, and pine nuts to take center stage at the feast.

Ingredients

• 3-4 lb bone-in leg of lamb
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Sea salt and pepper

Mint Pesto

• 2 cups packed fresh mint leaves
• 1 cup packed fresh basil
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Trim excess fat from lamb.

2. Mash together garlic and olive oil; season lamb generously with salt and pepper.

3. Roast lamb for 1-1.5 hours until internal temp reaches 135°F for medium-rare.

4. While roasting, make the pesto by blending ingredients until smooth.

5. Remove lamb from oven, tent with foil, and let rest 15 minutes before slicing.

6. Serve lamb with a dollop of mint pesto on each slice. Enjoy fresh herbs, tender lamb, and crunchy pine nuts in every bite.

The vibrant pesto offers a cooling complement to the rich, roasted lamb. The subtle mint really shines through.

3. Easter Casserole with Greens, Eggs and New Potatoes

A vegetables-loaded casserole makes the most of seasonal produce with tender potatoes, asparagus, and spinach baked until crispy on top in a creamy sauce dotted with hard-boiled eggs.

Ingredients

• 1 lb new red potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 5 cups fresh spinach
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13 baking dish.

2. Layer 1/3 each of the potatoes, asparagus, and spinach in the dish. Top with 1/3 of the egg slices.

3. In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, dill, salt and pepper. Pour 1/3 of the sauce over the layered veggies.

4. Repeat layering and sauce until all ingredients are used, ending with sauce.

5. Bake for 45-55 minutes until bubbly and potatoes are tender.

6. Let sit 10 minutes before serving hot. Garnish with extra dill if desired.

A nutritious and colorful bake that celebrates the arrival of spring. It's sure to become an Easter family favorite.

4. Sunday Best Mac and Cheese

For those whose hearts lie with comfort food, this indulgent classic macaroni bake ratchets up the cheesy, bubbliness with three types of melting cheese and a crispy herb breadcrumb topping.

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 tsp dry mustard
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded gruyere or Swiss cheese
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

1. Pre-heat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 baking dish.

2. Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. In a saucepan, make a roux by melting 3 tbsp butter and stirring in the flour. Cook for 1 minute.

4. Whisk in milk, mustard, and paprika. Bring to a simmer until thickened.

5. Remove from heat and stir in 2/3 of each cheese until melted and smooth. Add macaroni and mix well.

6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with remaining cheese.

7. In a small bowl, combine panko, 2 tbsp melted butter, parsley, and thyme. Sprinkle over cheese.

8. Bake for 30 minutes until breadcrumbs are golden brown. Enjoy!

The hearty pasta is elevated with three melty cheeses and fresh herb breadcrumbs for the ultimate comforting casserole.

5. Baked Salmon with Herbed Dill Sauce

Light and vibrant, silky salmon fillets are perfectly cooked until flaky and presented alongside a bright, herby dill cream sauce for an elegant yet easy centerpiece for your table.

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 lbs salmon fillet, cut into 4 pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Sauce

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp snipped fresh dill
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp grated lemon zest
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Dash white pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Pat salmon dry and brush both sides with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Place on prepared sheet. Bake 15-20 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

4. In a small bowl, mix together all sauce ingredients until well blended.

5. Serve baked salmon fillets drizzled with herbed dill sauce.

6. Garnish with extra dill and lemon zest if desired.

The bright, creamy sauce is the perfect complement to the mild, flaky salmon. A light yet satisfying springtime meal.

Slides

What's an Easter feast without an array of side dishes to complement the spotlight entrées? This selection offers both classic vegetables enhanced with special touches as well as homemade bread to soak up every last morsel.

1. Scalloped Potatoes Gratin

Layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked in a silky cheese sauce become an indulgent rendition of this comforting side.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs russet potatoes, very thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cups heavy cream
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded gruyere or Swiss cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 casserole dish.

2. Layer 1/3 of the potatoes in the dish, overlapping slices. Top with 1/3 of the onions.

3. In a medium saucepan, heat the cream, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

4. Pour 1/3 of the hot cream mixture over the layered potatoes and onions. Sprinkle with 1/3 cup cheese.

5. Repeat layering twice more, ending with cheese.

6. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Uncover and bake for 30 more minutes, until bubbly and potatoes are very tender.

7. Allow to rest 10 minutes before serving hot from the oven. Enjoy!

The creamy cheese sauce elevates simple potatoes into an ultimate comfort food gratin.

2. Green Bean Casserole with Fried Onions

A Thanksgiving favorite gets reinvented with an Easter twist by topping green beans and mushroom soup with crispy fried onions.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup vegetable or canola oil for frying
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease an 8x8 baking dish.

2. In a saucepan, combine green beans, soup, milk and pepper. Heat until warm. Pour into dish.

3. In a skillet, heat 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high. Toss onion slices in flour, then fry in batches until golden and crispy. Drain on a paper towel.

4. Sprinkle fried onions evenly over green beans.

5. Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly. Sprinkle with salt before serving.

The crispy fried onions elevate this classic into an indulgent side. A festive twist for any spring meal. 

3. Glazed Carrots

Sweetened with honey and tangy orange zest, these roasted carrot coins are simply irresistible.

.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs carrots, peeled and sliced 1/4 inch thick
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp grated orange zest
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. Toss carrot slices with olive oil and 1/8 tsp salt on a baking sheet.

3. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and lightly browned.

4. In a small saucepan, combine honey, butter, orange zest, and remaining salt. Heat over medium, stirring often, until the butter melts and the mixture is bubbly.

5. Remove carrots from oven and pour glaze over top, tossing to coat evenly.

6. Return to oven and roast for 10 more minutes, flipping once, until carrots are caramelized and glaze is thickened.

7. Enjoy warm! The sweet glaze complements the natural sugars in the carrots.

These glazed carrots are sure to become an instant family favorite side dish. 

4. Yeast Rolls

Soft, fluffy homemade rolls still warm from the oven beckon you to enjoy more of the savory spread.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup lukewarm milk (110°F)
• 1/3 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp instant yeast
• 1/4 cup butter, softened

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup flour, milk, water, sugar, salt and yeast. Beat 2 minutes.

2. Stir in the remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes.

3. Place dough in a greased bowl and cover. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.

4. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape into rolls.

5. Place in a greased 9x13 pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.

6. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake 15-18 minutes until golden brown.

7. Brush tops with melted butter before serving warm.

Freshly baked, these tender rolls make the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Try varying with herbs or spices.

Desserts 

What celebration would be complete without a beautifully crafted array of sweets to end the festive feast on a high note? From cakes and pies to playful creations suited for any Easter basket, these finishing recipes are sure to be crowd-pleasers for both young and old.

1. Poppy Seed Cake

Moist, lemon-scented layers are sandwiched together with a creamy poppy seed filling in this vintage-inspired dessert.

Cake

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 cup milk

Filling

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 4 cups confectioners' sugar
• 1/3 cup poppy seeds
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

Icing

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 4 cups confectioners' sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 9-inch cake pans.

2. Make cake batter by creaming butter and sugar. Beat in eggs then stir in dry ingredients alternately with milk.

3. Divide batter between pans and bake 20-25 minutes until toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

4. Make the filling by beating the butter until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in sugar then fold in poppy seeds and milk.

5. Ice sides and spread filling between layers.

6. Make the icing by beating the butter until fluffy. Beat in sugar then stir in milk, zest, and juice. Ice top.

2. Coconut Macaroon Pie

A nutty, tart shell becomes the base for a rich coconut whipped cream filling studded with chewy macaroons.

Crust

• 1 1/2 cups finely shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup almond flour/meal
• 1/4 cup honey or agave nectar
• Pinch salt

Filling

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 6-8 store-bought coconut macaroons, chopped

Optional Garnish

• Toasted coconut flakes
• Fresh berries

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.

2. Mix crust ingredients until a dough forms. Press into a 9" pie plate. Bake for 15 minutes until set. Cool.

3. Using a mixer, beat cream until soft peaks form. Beat in sugar and vanilla until stiff. Fold in shredded coconut and macaroons.

4. Spoon into crust. Top with coconut flakes or berries if desired.

5. Refrigerate 4 hours before slicing. Enjoy!

Creamy coconut whipped cream meets chewy macaroon bites in this simple no-bake tropical pie.

3. Marshmallow Crispy Eggs

Soft candies formed into festive shapes and coated in crispy rice provide portable sweetness for young ones.

Ingredients

• 1 bag marshmallows
• 6 cups crispy rice cereal
• Food coloring (pink, yellow, green)
• Mini chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cut marshmallows in half. Shape into egg shapes.

3. Add a few drops of food coloring to color marshmallows pastel shades.

4. Place crispy cereal in a large bowl.

5. Working with one at a time, gently press marshmallow eggs into cereal, coating completely.

6. Place on prepared sheet. Press a miniature chocolate chip into each "egg" for detail.

7. Allow to set at least 1 hour before serving.

Kids will love decorating and eating these fun marshmallow treats! The bright colors and realistic detail make them festive for Easter.

4. Peepsmores

A campfire classic gets reimagined indoors with melted peeps and marshmallows sandwiched between graham crackers.

Ingredients

• Peeps marshmallow chicks
• Regular marshmallows
• Graham crackers
• Toothpicks

Instructions

1. Place a peep marshmallow chick and a regular marshmallow on a toothpick.

2. Roast over a gas stove burner or under the broiler until puffed and lightly browned.

3. Place marshmallows on top of a graham cracker.

4. Top with another graham cracker for a sandwich.

5. Eat and enjoy! The gooey peeps combine with toasted marshmallows for an indulgent treat.

6. For a campfire version, roast marshmallows over an open fire before assembling with graham crackers.

5. Chocolate Cream Egg Custard Tarts

Individual egg-shaped tarts filled with silky cream custard show the Easter spirit in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 refrigerated pie crust
• 12 chocolate candy melts or chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll out the pie crust and cut it into 12 egg shapes. Press into mini muffin tins.

2. Bake 10 minutes until light golden. Cool completely.

3. Melt chocolate candy melts. Dip the bottom of each tart shell in chocolate to coat. Place on parchment. Refrigerate until set.

4. Bring cream just to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat.

5. Whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale. Temper in 1/4 cup hot cream.

6. Whisk the egg mixture into the remaining cream. Cook over med heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, 5-8 minutes.

7. Stir in vanilla. Pour into tart shells. Refrigerate for 2 hours.

8. Decorate with extra chocolate if desired. Enjoy these creamy custard tarts!

Kids and adults alike will love these miniature egg-shaped treats for Easter. So cute!

Spread the Easter Cheer with Festive Decor

Beyond the tasty treats and flowing libations, much of an Easter celebration's magic comes from the festive decor that sets the scene. Transform your home into a whimsical wonderland with simple DIY accents that capture the rebirth and renewal of spring. Whether expressing your creativity through colorful eggs, floral centerpieces, or welcoming wreaths, these projects allow you to put your personal touches throughout the holiday spaces. Kids especially will delight in crafting alongside you to help decorate.

So let seasonal spirit lift your spirits as you decorate. Happiness always blooms where creativity takes root - now turn the page to sow your own festive flair!

How to Paint Easter Eggs

1. Hard-boil eggs and allow them to cool completely. This will ensure the dyed color penetrates the shell.

2. Place eggs in small cups or foil pans, separating by color if doing multiple shades. Add dye - liquid or tablets work best dissolved in hot water.

3. Let eggs soak for 10-15 minutes until shells are fully saturated in color. Check and rearrange as needed if some colors are darker than others.

4. For striped or speckled eggs, apply masking techniques before dyeing. Use thin strips of painter's tape or rubber bands wrapped partway as a guide before soaking.

5. Air dry eggs completely on a towel or rack. This usually takes a few hours. Adorn finished eggs by arranging them in an Easter basket along with grass and other decor.

DIY Easter Wreath 

Materials

• 18" grapevine wreath
• Florist wire or raffia
• Silk flowers, grass, leaves
• Craft foam, scissors
• Hot glue, bunny cutouts, eggshells

Instructions

1. Take the grapevine wreath and wrap it neatly with florist wire or raffia to cover the branches.

2. Cut out shapes from craft foam using scissors - think bunnies, chicks, flowers, leaves.

3. Starting at the bottom of the wreath, apply hot glue to attach foam pieces around the frame. Layer with different textures like flowers, grass then leaves.

4. For extra festive touches, glue on bunny cutouts, gold eggshell pieces, or other Easter-themed decor throughout.

5. Hang the finished wreath on your front door to greet guests arriving for spring celebrations!

Flower Arranging with Spring Blooms

Materials

• Tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, mini carnations
• Clear vase
• Floral tape, baby's breath (greenery)

Instructions

1. Choose spring flowers like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths for their bright colors.

2. Trim flower stems on an angle with scissors under water.

3. Place the vase in a central location on your table. Add water until it's 3⁄4 full.

4. Holding flowers together in a bundle, make a trimming by alternating buds head to head around the vase opening.

5. Tuck baby's breath or other greenery in between bouquets to fill in gaps.

6. Use floral tape up the vase to securely hold the arrangement. Trim any excess tape.

7. Display and enjoy your festive spring centerpiece! Change out flowers weekly as needed.

Now your home is ready for celebratory gatherings with a colorful floral touch.

Conclusion

While decorations and food create a festive backdrop, at the heart of Easter are the traditions we celebrate together. The changing of seasons is a cue to reflect on growth, faith, and new beginnings - but also to cherish the loved ones who make each day meaningful. Whether crafting decorations as a family, gathering around the feast, or simply raising a toast, the rituals we share keep our most important relationships blooming year after year. I hope this holiday finds you surrounded by people who bring you joy.

Thank you for taking the time to browse ideas for sprucing up your celebrations. May your Easter Sunday overflow with moments to reminisce as well as make new memories. I wish you all happy times with family and friends as spring renewal comes to life. Enjoy the day!