Thanksgiving may be all about the big feast later in the day, but starting the morning with a warm, festive breakfast sets the tone for the celebration ahead. Whether you’re hosting family, preparing for guests, or simply want to enjoy something special before the turkey goes in the oven, these 10 easy Thanksgiving breakfast recipes are the perfect way to begin the holiday.
From cozy baked goods to savory dishes, these breakfast ideas bring seasonal flavors like pumpkin, cranberry, and cinnamon to the table. Imagine waking up to the smell of pumpkin spice pancakes stacked high and drizzled with maple syrup, or indulging in cranberry orange muffins that balance sweet and tart in every bite. Both options are quick, comforting, and sure to please a crowd.
If you’re looking for something more hearty, try a Thanksgiving breakfast casserole packed with eggs, sausage, cheese, and veggies — it’s filling, easy to prep ahead, and feeds a group without fuss. For a sweeter start, cinnamon apple coffee cake or pecan sticky buns bring that irresistible holiday warmth that pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee.
For families who love grab-and-go options, pumpkin scones with glaze or cranberry oatmeal bars are excellent choices. They can be made the night before, saving you time on a busy holiday morning. And for something savory yet simple, a turkey and cheese breakfast sandwich offers a fun nod to the holiday centerpiece while keeping things easy.
Finally, if you love a touch of elegance, maple-glazed brioche French toast or a festive cranberry walnut bread will make your breakfast table feel extra special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
The best part about these easy Thanksgiving breakfast recipes is how flexible they are. Many can be prepared in advance, giving you more time to focus on the holiday feast. They also use seasonal ingredients that highlight the cozy flavors of fall, making your morning meal feel just as celebratory as the dinner to come.
So this Thanksgiving, don’t skip breakfast — start the day with a dish that’s as festive and delicious as the holiday itself. These 10 recipes are simple, crowd-pleasing, and the perfect way to fuel up for a day of gratitude, family, and, of course, plenty of food.
Pumpkin Pancakes
These pumpkin pancakes are also delicious served with butter or whipped topping and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Freeze any extras in a single layer on a cookie sheet, then store in a freezer bag. They’re great fresh out of the toaster!
Apple-Sage Sausage Patties
Apple and sausage naturally go together. Add sage, and you’ve got some standout patties. They’re freezer friendly, so I make them ahead and grab when needed. —Scarlett Elrod, Newnan, Georgia
Cranberry Cream Cheese French Toast
My friend makes this French toast bake with blueberries, but I make mine with cranberry sauce. Either way, it’s divine. It makes a great brunch dish.
Apple Pie Steel-Cut Oatmeal
I absolutely love this slow-cooked oatmeal. The steel-cut oats have so much flavor and texture. My family sprinkles toasted pecans on top whenever possible
Roasted Vegetable and Chevre Quiche
Roasting the veggies in this rich yet bright quiche intensifies their flavors. The addition of fresh goat cheese lends a wonderful creamy tanginess.
Poached Eggs & Polenta
We have a bed and breakfast in Gettysburg where I serve creative dishes like these poached eggs with polenta, our twist on eggs Benedict
Pecan Bacon
Crispy, sweet bacon dresses up any breakfast. When my girls see this, they call it “special breakfast.” The big flavor punch just may surprise you
Cinnamon Apple Cider Monkey Bread
I use the cold-weather staple apple cider—plus apples and more cinnamon—to turn plain cinnamon rolls into monkey bread. My boys love the sticky sweetness.
Caramel-Pecan Pumpkin Pull-Aparts
We love sticky buns made with my husband’s angel biscuit dough, caramel and pecans. For a twist, try apple butter or applesauce instead of the pumpkin. —Carolyn Kumpe, El Dorado, California
Pumpkin Scones
After trying a pumpkin scone at a coffee house, I was inspired to look for a recipe to try at home. The glaze nicely complements the pumpkin flavor.
