27 Festive Mediterranean Christmas Brunch Recipes (With 3 Menu Plans)

Christmas morning is a time for joy, family, and wonderful food. A special brunch brings everyone together. This collection of 27 Mediterranean recipes is full of bright colors, fresh flavors, and easy dishes. You will find ideas for platters, eggs, sides, and sweet desserts.

I will also share three simple menus: Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern. These tips and recipes will help you create a stress free and delicious Christmas meal that everyone will love.

Helpful Tips for a Calm Christmas Brunch

The key to a happy holiday brunch is to enjoy your own party. Here are five easy tips to help you relax.

Make Food Ahead of Time: Many dishes can be made a day or two before. Desserts like baklava, salads, and meatballs often taste even better after sitting for a while.

Choose Easy Egg Dishes: Instead of making eggs one at a time, bake a big egg casserole or frittata. You can prepare it the night before and just bake it in the morning.

Create a Colorful Table: Use lots of colorful fruits and vegetables. Fresh herbs like rosemary or mint make pretty decorations. Try to have a mix of hot and cold, sweet and salty foods.

Welcome Guests with a Snack: Have a simple platter ready when guests arrive. A cheese board or a tray with dips and olives lets people snack while you finish any last minute cooking.

Set Up a Drink Station: Keep drinks easy. Put coffee, orange juice, and bottles of water on a small table. Let everyone serve themselves.

Three Simple Christmas Brunch Menus

You can mix and match any recipes below. But if you want a planned menu, here are three ideas from different parts of the Mediterranean.

A Greek Christmas Brunch Menu

This menu has the fresh, herby tastes of Greece.

• Starters: A mezze tray with stuffed grape leaves, tzatziki sauce, and feta cheese.
• Main Dish: A vegetarian egg casserole or Spanakopita (spinach pie).
• Special Touch: Soutzoukakia (Greek baked meatballs).
• Dessert: Baklava or Greek Honey Cake.

An Italian Christmas Brunch Menu

This menu brings the cozy, rich flavors of Italy to your table.

• Starters: Antipasti skewers and a cheese board.
• Main Dish: A spinach frittata.
• Special Touch: Italian chicken meatballs or roasted vegetables.
• Dessert: Italian Apple Cake or Apple Strudel.

A Middle Eastern Christmas Brunch Menu

This menu is full of bright spices and shareable dishes.

• Starters: A big brunch board with falafel and grape leaves.
• Main Dish: Shakshuka (eggs in tomato sauce).
• Sides: Tabouli salad and lentil salad.
• Dessert: Baklava and Egyptian Butter Cookies.

The Complete List of 27 Recipes

Here are all 27 recipes for your perfect Christmas brunch. Each one is explained in a simple, easy to follow way.

Category 1: Party Platters

More than just snacks, platters are a beautiful and easy way to feed a crowd.

Recipe 1: The Ultimate Mezze Platter

A beautiful, shareable board packed with a variety of Mediterranean dips, cheeses, and veggies.

Ready in: 20 minutes
Serves: 8-10 people

What you need:

• 1 cup hummus
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce
• 1 cup marinated olives
• 1 cup stuffed grape leaves (store bought is fine)
• 1 block of feta cheese, cubed
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• Warm pita bread, cut into triangles

How to make it:

1. Find a very large wooden board or platter.
2. Place small bowls of hummus and tzatziki on the board.
3. Arrange the olives, grape leaves, feta, tomatoes, and cucumber slices in little piles around the bowls.
4. Fill in any empty spots with the pita bread triangles.
5. Serve immediately.

Why everyone loves it: It is colorful, fun, and lets everyone choose their favorite bites. No cooking is required.

Recipe 2: Simple Smoked Salmon Platter

An elegant platter featuring smoked salmon, cream cheese, and classic toppings.

Ready in: 15 minutes
Serves: 6-8 people

What you need:

• 8 ounces sliced smoked salmon
• 1 cup labneh or plain cream cheese
• 1/4 cup capers
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Fresh dill for garnish
• Optional: 1 bagel, sliced thin and toasted

How to make it:

1. On a large plate or board, arrange the smoked salmon slices.
2. Place a bowl of labneh or cream cheese on the side.
3. Sprinkle the capers and red onion slices over the salmon.
4. Add the lemon wedges and toasted bagel slices (if using) around the edge.
5. Garnish with fresh dill.

Why everyone loves it: It looks fancy but is incredibly easy to assemble. The salty salmon with creamy cheese is always a hit.

Recipe 3: Mediterranean Brunch Board

A hearty platter with all the components of a Mediterranean breakfast.

Ready in: 30 minutes (if making falafel)
Serves: 6 people

What you need:

• 12 falafel patties (homemade or store bought)
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup Kalamata olives
• 1 block of feta cheese
• 1 cup labneh or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Warm pita bread

How to make it:

1. Prepare or heat the falafel according to package directions.
2. On a large board, arrange the falafel, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and feta.
3. Place labneh or yogurt in a small bowl. Drizzle the honey on top.
4. Add warm pita bread to the board and serve.

Why everyone loves it: It is a complete meal on a board. The warm falafel with cool veggies and creamy labneh is delicious.

Recipe 4: Cheese and Charcuterie Board

A simple guide to building the perfect cheese and meat board.

Ready in: 15 minutes
Serves: 8-10 people

What you need:

• 3-4 types of cheese (like cheddar, brie, and goat cheese)
• 2-3 types of cured meat (like salami and prosciutto)
• 1 cup nuts (like almonds or walnuts)
• 1 cup dried fruit (like apricots or figs)
• Crackers and sliced baguette
• Optional: jam or honey

How to make it:

1. Place the cheeses on a large board.
2. Arrange the meats in little piles or fold them into rolls.
3. Fill in the spaces with small bowls or piles of nuts, dried fruit, and jam.
4. Finally, add crackers and bread slices around the edges.

Why everyone loves it: It feels special and elegant. Guests can graze and try different combinations of flavors.

Category 2: Appetizers and Small Bites

These small dishes are perfect for guests to enjoy while mingling.

Recipe 5: Easy Antipasti Skewers

All the favorite parts of an Italian antipasti plate, served on a handy skewer.

Ready in: 15 minutes
Serves: Makes 10 skewers

What you need:

• 20 small mozzarella balls
• 20 slices of salami
• 20 marinated artichoke hearts
• 20 cherry tomatoes
• 10 small wooden skewers
• 2 tablespoons Italian dressing

How to make it:

1. On each skewer, thread one mozzarella ball, one slice of folded salami, one artichoke heart, and one cherry tomato. Repeat.
2. Lay the finished skewers on a serving plate.
3. Drizzle lightly with Italian dressing before serving.

Why everyone loves it: These are fun to eat and no plates are needed. You can make them a few hours ahead.

Recipe 6: Layered Hummus Dip

Hummus turned into a stunning, shareable centerpiece.

Ready in: 20 minutes
Serves: 8 people

What you need:

• 2 cups hummus
• 1/2 pound ground lamb or beef, cooked with 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Chopped parsley for garnish

How to make it:

1. Spread the hummus smoothly in the bottom of a wide, shallow bowl.
2. Top with the cooked spiced meat.
3. Sprinkle with tomatoes, red onion, and pine nuts.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with parsley. Serve with pita chips.

Why everyone loves it: It takes simple hummus to a whole new level. The layers look impressive and taste amazing.

Recipe 7: Baked Feta with Tomatoes

Warm, creamy feta cheese baked with sweet cherry tomatoes.

Ready in: 30 minutes
Serves: 6 people

What you need:

• 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Black pepper to taste
• Crusty bread for serving

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small baking dish, place the feta block in the center. Surround it with cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle everything with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano and pepper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is soft.
5. Serve warm with crusty bread for dipping.

Why everyone loves it: It is a warm, gooey, and savory dish that comes together with almost no effort.

Recipe 8: Loaded Baked Brie

A warm, creamy brie cheese topped with sweet jam and crunchy nuts.

Ready in: 20 minutes
Serves: 6-8 people

What you need:

• 1 wheel (8 oz) brie cheese
• 1/4 cup fruit jam (like fig or raspberry)
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Crackers for serving

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place the brie wheel on a small, oven safe dish.
3. Top the brie with the jam, nuts, and thyme.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is soft and melty.
5. Serve immediately with crackers.

Why everyone loves it: The combination of melted cheese, sweet jam, and crunchy nuts is irresistible. It feels like a treat.

Recipe 9: Spanish Garlic Shrimp (Gambas al Ajillo)

Juicy shrimp cooked in a sizzling garlic and olive oil sauce.

Ready in: 15 minutes
Serves: 4 people

What you need:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1/2 a lemon
• Chopped parsley for garnish
• Bread for serving

How to make it:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and a pinch of salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
4. Turn off the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley.
5. Serve immediately with bread to soak up the delicious oil.

Why everyone loves it: It is fast, flavorful, and feels like a restaurant quality dish. The garlic oil is so good for dipping.

Recipe 10: Roast Rack of Lamb

A special occasion dish that is easier to make than it looks.

Ready in: 1 hour (plus marinating)
Serves: 4 people

What you need:

• 1 rack of lamb (about 1.5 lbs)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

How to make it:

1. Mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub it all over the lamb. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the fridge.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F.
3. Place the lamb rack in a baking dish, bone side down.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes for medium rare.
5. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing into chops and serving.

Why everyone loves it: It makes Christmas brunch feel incredibly special and celebratory.

Recipe 11: Greek Baked Meatballs (Soutzoukakia)

Spiced, football shaped meatballs baked in a rich tomato sauce.

Ready in: 50 minutes
Serves: 6 people

What you need:

• For meatballs: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp cumin, salt, pepper.
• For sauce: 2 cups tomato sauce, 1/2 cup water, 1 tbsp olive oil.

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix all meatball ingredients and shape into oval balls.
2. Place meatballs in a baking dish. Whisk sauce ingredients and pour over meatballs.
3. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and sauce is bubbly.

Why everyone loves it: The meatballs are super moist and flavorful. The sauce makes them perfect for sopping up with bread.

Recipe 12: Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon

Cauliflower florets roasted until golden and tossed with fresh lemon juice.

Ready in: 35 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people

What you need:

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. On a baking sheet, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, and salt.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes, until tender and browned at the edges.
4. Transfer to a bowl. Toss with fresh lemon juice and parsley before serving.

Why everyone loves it: It turns a simple vegetable into a caramelized, flavorful side dish that even veggie skeptics will love.

Category 3: Salads

Fresh, make ahead salads add color and brightness to your spread.

Recipe 13: Mediterranean Orzo Salad

A pasta salad with small orzo pasta, crunchy veggies, and a lemony dressing.

Ready in: 20 minutes
Serves: 8 people

What you need:

• 1 cup orzo pasta, cooked
• 1 cup chopped cucumber
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to make it:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo, cucumber, tomatoes, olives, and feta.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Why everyone loves it: It is a hearty, satisfying salad that can be made hours ahead. The flavors get better as it sits.

Recipe 14: Easy Tabouli Salad

A bright, herby salad made with bulgur wheat and lots of fresh parsley.

Ready in: 40 minutes (includes soaking time)
Serves: 6 people

What you need:

• 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
• 1 1/2 cups boiling water
• 2 bunches fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 3 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to make it:

1. Place bulgur in a bowl. Pour boiling water over it. Cover and let sit for 30 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
2. Add parsley, mint, tomatoes, and green onions to the bulgur.
3. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over salad and mix well.
4. Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Why everyone loves it: It is incredibly fresh and light. It is the perfect balance to richer dishes on the brunch table.

Recipe 15: Simple Greek Salad

Chunky chopped vegetables and feta cheese with a simple dressing.

Ready in: 10 minutes
Serves: 6 people

What you need:

• 3 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cucumber, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 block feta cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt to taste

How to make it:

1. In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
2. Gently stir in the feta cheese cubes.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano and salt. Toss very gently and serve.

Why everyone loves it: It takes only 10 minutes to make. It is crunchy, salty, and refreshing.

Recipe 16: Orange Pomegranate Salad

Sweet oranges and crunchy pomegranate seeds make a refreshing, festive salad.

Ready in: 15 minutes
Serves: 6 people

What you need:

• 4 large oranges, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• A handful of fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste

How to make it:

1. Arrange the orange slices on a platter.
2. Scatter the pomegranate seeds, red onion slices, and mint leaves over the oranges.
3. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a tiny pinch of salt. Serve immediately.

Why everyone loves it: The colors are perfect for Christmas. It is sweet, juicy, and cleanses your palate between bites.

Recipe 17: Brown Lentil Salad

A hearty, protein packed salad that is served cold.

Ready in: 40 minutes
Serves: 6 people

What you need:

• 1 1/2 cups brown lentils, rinsed
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup chopped parsley
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to make it:

1. Cook lentils according to package directions until tender. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled lentils, red onion, and parsley.
3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour over lentils and mix well.
4. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Why everyone loves it: It is a filling and healthy salad with great texture. It is perfect for vegetarians and can be made a day ahead.

Category 4: Egg Dishes

Everyone expects eggs at brunch. These dishes are all easy and full of flavor.

Recipe 18: Mediterranean Style Egg Casserole

A hearty egg bake loaded with vegetables and can be made the night before.

Ready in: 1 hour (plus overnight resting)
Serves: 8 people

What you need:

• 10 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped black olives
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to make it:

1. The night before, grease a baking dish. Whisk eggs and milk. Stir in all other ingredients.
2. Pour into the dish, cover, and refrigerate.
3. In the morning, bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until set. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

Why everyone loves it: This is the ultimate make ahead dish. You just pop it in the oven Christmas morning.

Recipe 19: Spinach and Feta Frittata

A simple baked egg dish that is like a thick omelette.

Ready in: 35 minutes
Serves: 6 people

What you need:

• 8 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In an oven safe skillet, cook onion in olive oil until soft. Add spinach until wilted.
3. Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour over veggies in the skillet. Sprinkle feta on top.
4. Cook on stove for 2 minutes, then transfer to the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes until set.

Why everyone loves it: It is easy, packed with protein, and you can slice it like a pie. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Recipe 20: Breakfast Egg Muffins

Eggs baked in a muffin tin with mix ins like cheese and ham.

Ready in: 25 minutes
Serves: Makes 12 muffins

What you need:

• 8 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar)
• 1/2 cup diced ham or cooked bacon
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 12 cup muffin tin.
2. Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheese, ham, and chives.
3. Pour the mixture evenly into the muffin cups.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes until the eggs are puffed and set.

Why everyone loves it: They are portable, easy to make in batches, and perfect for kids and adults. Great for grab and go.

Recipe 21: Shakshuka

Eggs poached in a spiced, chunky tomato sauce.

Ready in: 35 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people

What you need:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 6 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Crusty bread for serving

How to make it:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet. Cook onion and bell pepper until soft. Add garlic and spices for 1 minute.
2. Pour in crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Make 6 wells in the sauce. Crack an egg into each well.
4. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-8 minutes, until egg whites are set.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve with bread.

Why everyone loves it: It is a one pan wonder that feels rustic and special. The sauce can be made a day ahead.

Category 5: Hearty Sides

These dishes add substance and traditional flavors to your meal.

Recipe 22: Classic Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

A flaky, savory pie filled with spinach and feta cheese.

Ready in: 1 hour 15 minutes
Serves: 9 people

What you need:

• 1 package phyllo dough, thawed
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 pounds fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped
• 12 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Brush a baking dish with oil.
2. Mix spinach, onions, feta, eggs, and dill. Season lightly.
3. Layer 8 phyllo sheets in the dish, brushing each with oil. Spread filling on top.
4. Top with remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each with oil. Tuck in edges.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden. Cool 15 minutes before cutting.

Why everyone loves it: It is incredibly impressive. The contrast between the crispy crust and soft filling is magical.

Recipe 23: Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)

Grape leaves stuffed with a lemony rice and herb mixture.

Ready in: 1 hour
Serves: Makes about 30 dolmas

What you need:

• 1 jar grape leaves, rinsed
• 1 cup white rice
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 cups vegetable broth

How to make it:

1. Mix uncooked rice, dill, mint, olive oil, and juice of 1 lemon.
2. Place a grape leaf shiny side down. Put a teaspoon of rice mix near the stem. Fold sides and roll up tightly.
3. Place rolls seam side down in a pot. Pour broth and remaining lemon juice over them.
4. Cover with a plate to weigh them down. Simmer for 45 minutes until rice is cooked. Let cool and serve.

Why everyone loves it: They are tangy, flavorful, and perfect for a platter. They taste even better the next day.

Recipe 24: Italian Oven Roasted Vegetables

Colorful, tender, and caramelized vegetables that go with everything.

Ready in: 40 minutes
Serves: 6-8 people

What you need:

• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 3 carrots, cut into sticks
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. On a baking sheet, toss all vegetables with oil, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 30-35 minutes, stirring once, until tender and browned.

Why everyone loves it: Roasting makes vegetables taste sweet and amazing. This dish is healthy, colorful, and so easy.

Recipe 25: Roasted Eggplant with Pomegranate

Beautiful roasted eggplant topped with pomegranate seeds and tahini.

Ready in: 45 minutes
Serves: 6 people

What you need:

• 2 large eggplants, cut into 1 inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 cup tahini sauce
• Chopped parsley for garnish

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss eggplant cubes with oil and salt.
2. Roast for 30-35 minutes until very soft and caramelized.
3. Transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle with tahini and top with pomegranate seeds and parsley.

Why everyone loves it: The colors are stunning. The creamy eggplant with crunchy, juicy pomegranate is a fantastic mix.

Category 6: Breads and Desserts

Sweet endings and homemade breads make the meal complete.

Recipe 26: Homemade Baklava

Sweet, flaky, and nutty pastry soaked in honey syrup.

Ready in: 1 hour 30 minutes
Serves: Makes 24 pieces

What you need:

• 1 package phyllo dough, thawed
• 1 1/2 cups melted butter
• 4 cups finely chopped nuts (walnuts/pistachios)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Syrup: 1 cup honey, 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, 1 cinnamon stick

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch dish.
2. Mix nuts with cinnamon. Layer 8 buttered phyllo sheets in dish. Sprinkle with nuts. Repeat, ending with 8 phyllo sheets on top. Cut into diamonds.
3. Bake for 50 minutes until golden.
4. While baking, simmer all syrup ingredients for 10 minutes. Cool slightly.
5. Pour cool syrup over hot baklava. Let sit for 4 hours or overnight.

Why everyone loves it: It is a legendary dessert that keeps for days. The mix of crispy layers, spiced nuts, and sweet syrup is unforgettable.

Recipe 27: Egyptian Butter Cookies

These cookies melt in your mouth. They only need three ingredients.

Ready in: 25 minutes
Serves: Makes 24 cookies

What you need:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
• 2 cups all purpose flour

How to make it:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Beat butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Gently mix in flour.
3. Roll dough into 1 inch balls. Place on baking sheet. Press gently with a fork.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes until bottoms are lightly golden.
5. Cool for 5 minutes, then roll in powdered sugar. Cool completely and roll again.

Why everyone loves it: They are unbelievably simple, buttery, and delicate. They are a great last minute dessert.

Final Thoughts on Your Christmas Brunch

I hope this complete guide gives you all the tools and inspiration you need for a wonderful Mediterranean Christmas brunch. Remember, the best part of the holiday is enjoying time with your loved ones. By planning ahead and choosing these simple, flavorful recipes, you can be a part of the fun instead of being stuck in the kitchen all morning.

Now it is your turn. Which of these Christmas brunch ideas are you going to try first? I would love to hear in the comments below. Happy cooking and Merry Christmas