Easter Brunch Roundup: 18 Recipes for a Perfect Spring Table

 

Celebrate Easter with 18 fresh, flavorful recipes for brunch, sides, mains, desserts, and drinks. From fruity scones to sparkling beverages, this roundup has everything your spring table needs.

Easter has always been one of my favorite holidays.  I have such great childhood memories of pastel Easter dresses, egg hunts, and then there's the food.  I love the light, fresh flavors of spring—the first strawberries of the season, pastel treats, and dishes that bring color and life to the table. Over the years, I’ve gathered a mix of sweet and savory recipes that are perfect for Easter brunch, whether you’re hosting a crowd or enjoying a quiet morning at home.

This year, I wanted to share a curated collection of my favorite recipes that make planning an Easter table easy, fun, and full of flavor. From brunch sweets and scones to colorful salads, savory mains, indulgent desserts, and sparkling drinks, there’s something here for everyone.

Enjoy!

These are the first recipes your guests will see, and they set the tone for a festive brunch. Soft, flavorful, and perfect alongside coffee or tea.

• Raspberry White Chocolate Dream Scones  – Soft, buttery, and filled with sweet raspberries and creamy white chocolate, these scones are the perfect centerpiece for your Easter brunch table.
• Strawberry Hot Cross Buns  – A seasonal classic with a berry twist.
• Plum & Mascarpone Crostini  – Elegant, creamy, and ideal for brunch tables.
• Lemon Tea Bread  – Light, citrusy, and perfect alongside morning coffee or tea.

Bright, colorful, and fresh—these dishes add texture, flavor, and a pop of spring to your table.

• Fresh Strawberry Spinach Salad with Feta & Walnuts  – This fresh strawberry spinach salad is bright, colorful, and packed with sweet and savory flavor—perfect for bringing a pop of spring to your table.
• Asparagus and Avocado-Herb Dressing  – Creamy, vibrant, and perfectly spring.
• Herb Roasted Carrots  – Sweet, tender, and aromatic with fresh herbs.
• Romaine and Apricot Salad  – Crunchy, fruity, and refreshing.

Keep the table balanced with flavorful, approachable mains that complement your sides and sweets.

• Pineapple Glazed Roasted Pork Tenderloin  – Juicy, flavorful, and finished with a sweet pineapple glaze, this pork tenderloin makes an easy yet impressive centerpiece for Easter brunch.
• Grilled Chicken Spring Vegetable Salad  – Light, healthy, and packed with seasonal vegetables.

End the brunch on a sweet note with these spring-inspired treats. Colorful, flavorful, and perfect for sharing.

• Strawberry Angel Cake  – Light, fluffy, and topped with fresh strawberries, this angel cake is the kind of dessert that feels made for spring celebrations.
• Carrot Snack Cake  – Sweet, spiced, and a classic Easter favorite.
• Chocolate Coconut Tart  – Rich, indulgent, and simple to make.
• Banana Bundt Cake  – Moist, comforting, and family-friendly.
• Blackberry Lemon Poppyseed Muffins  – Sweet, tangy, and spring-inspired.

Refreshing beverages complete your table and make brunch feel festive.

• Raspberry Moscato Punch  – Sweet, bubbly, and beautifully pink, this raspberry Moscato punch is a fun and festive drink for your Easter table.
• Pear Sparklers  – Lightly sparkling and celebratory.
• Orange Iced Tea  – Citrus-forward and refreshing.

If you loved these Easter brunch ideas, you might also enjoy some other seasonal favorites from the blog. Try pairing a few of these recipes with another simple spring meal or dessert to create your perfect table:

→ Strawberry Cornmeal Skillet Cake
→ Asparagus and Tomato Frittata
→ Carrot & Apple Matchstick Salad

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

 

   

Tropical Strawberry Coconut Muffins – Fresh, Fruity & Perfectly Fluffy

Bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen with these Tropical Strawberry Coconut Muffins! Bursting with juicy strawberries, nutty coconut, and bakery-perfect fluffiness, they’re the ultimate fruity treat for breakfast or snacking.

 

Tropical Strawberry Coconut Muffins – Fresh, Fruity & Perfectly Fluffy

There’s something magical about baking with strawberries and coconut—the way the berries release their sweet juiciness as they bake, while the coconut turns toasty and fragrant, filling the kitchen with a tropical aroma that feels like sunshine in muffin form. These Tropical Strawberry Coconut Muffins – Fresh, Fruity & Perfectly Fluffy are the kind of treat that instantly brightens your morning, whether you’re savoring one with a hot cup of tea or packing them for an afternoon snack.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. Just a handful of pantry staples, a splash of creamy coconut milk, and a pile of fresh strawberries come together to create muffins that are light, tender, and full of flavor. The coconut adds a hint of natural sweetness and a little chew, perfectly complementing the juicy bursts of berry. Sprinkle a few extra strawberries and flakes of coconut on top before baking, and you’ll get that irresistible bakery-style look and taste—without leaving home.

Perfect for a weekend bake, a spring brunch, or simply when you need a little tropical escape, these muffins are a reminder that sometimes the simplest flavors bring the most joy.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients I Need?

You don’t need anything fancy to whip up these muffins—just simple ingredients you may already have on hand:

• Egg – binds everything together and helps with structure.

• Full-fat coconut milk – adds richness and a subtle tropical flavor.

• Canola oil – keeps the muffins moist and tender.

• Vanilla extract – a touch of warmth and sweetness.

• All-purpose flour – the base of your muffin batter.

• Sugar – just enough to balance the tartness of the strawberries.

• Baking powder – gives your muffins their fluffy rise.

• Salt – enhances the flavors.

• Fresh strawberries – juicy, sweet, and bursting with flavor.

• Unsweetened flake coconut – adds texture and toasty, tropical notes.  (I use this one)

What Equipment I Need to Bake the Perfect Muffins

• Mixing bowls – one large for the wet ingredients and one medium for the dry.

• Whisk & spatula – for combining ingredients without overmixing.

• Muffin tin (6-well, standard size) – the perfect fit for this small-batch recipe.

• Non-stick cooking spray (or muffin liners) – to prevent sticking.

• Measuring cups & spoons – accuracy is key in baking.

• Cooling rack – to let the muffins rest and set properly after baking.

Substitutions

Sometimes you don't have an ingredient.  Below are some substitutes to help you out.

• Coconut milk → You can use regular whole milk or almond milk if you don’t have coconut milk on hand.

• Canola oil → Swap with melted coconut oil, vegetable oil, or even light olive oil.

• All-purpose flour → A 1:1 gluten-free baking blend can be used for a gluten-free version.

• Sugar → Replace with coconut sugar or light brown sugar.  You may also use a sugar substitute if you prefer.

Variations

Want to mix it up a bit. Try one of these variations.

• Chocolate Twist – Add ½ cup white chocolate or dark chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

• Nutty Crunch – Stir in ¼ cup chopped pecans or macadamia nuts for texture.

• Citrus Boost – Add 1 teaspoon of fresh lime or orange zest to the batter for a zingy tropical note.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Don’t overmix the batter. Stir gently until just combined—this keeps the muffins soft and fluffy.

• Use ripe strawberries. The sweeter and juicier the berries, the better the flavor.

• Reserve some toppings. Sprinkling a few extra strawberries and coconut flakes on top before baking makes them look bakery-worthy.

• Watch the bake time. All ovens are different, so check at the 18-minute mark. They’re done when a toothpick comes out clean.

• Storage tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

🌺 Set the Mood

These muffins aren’t just a bake—they’re a little getaway. Imagine warm sunshine streaming through your kitchen window, a gentle breeze carrying the scent of toasted coconut, and a plate of these golden, fluffy muffins waiting on the table. Pair them with a cup of hot tea in the morning, or serve alongside iced lattes and fresh fruit for an easy weekend brunch spread.

They also make the sweetest addition to spring and summer gatherings—think baby showers, Mother’s Day breakfasts, or a cozy weekend picnic. The tropical flavors of strawberry and coconut feel like a vacation in every bite, turning even an ordinary Tuesday into a moment of joy.

So light a candle, put on your favorite relaxed playlist, and let these muffins transport you somewhere warm, bright, and delicious.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

💬 Let’s Chat!

Have you tried these muffins? What are your favorite flavors?  Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @SliceofSouthern—I’d love to see how yours turned out!

Island Grilling Night - Citrusy Garlic Steak with Fresh Mango Salsa – Bold, Juicy, Unforgettable

Fire up your grill for Island Grilling Night with my Citrusy Garlic Steak with Fresh Mango Salsa.  It’s bold, breezy, and bursting with tropical flavor—your perfect summer dinner idea!

Citrusy Garlic Steak with Fresh Mango Salsa – Bold, Juicy, Unforgettable

Lately, I’ve been in an island flavor kind of mood—craving bright citrus, juicy tropical fruit, and a touch of heat. Our wedding anniversary is coming up in August, and every year around this time, I find myself reminiscing about that magical trip to Hawaii. The warm breeze, the ocean views, the bold, vibrant food—it all left a lasting impression. And while this dish has a Cuban flair, it still brings me right back to that tropical feeling we love so much.

This Citrusy Garlic Steak with Fresh Mango Salsa is a delicious mash-up of bold island flavors. The steak gets a garlicky-citrus rub inspired by Cuban seasoning blends—zesty, savory, and perfect for the grill. Then it’s topped with a mango salsa that’s bright, sweet, and spicy, just like the fruit stands we used to pass in North Shore. It’s a little bit of Cuba, a little bit of Hawaii, and 100% a summer dinner worth repeating.

Whether you're dreaming of your next island vacation or just looking to spice up steak night, this recipe brings a fresh, tropical twist to the table. Bold, juicy, and unforgettable—just the way summer should taste..

Enjoy!

🛒 What You’ll Need – Island Grilling Night Shopping List

Produce

• 2 large or 3 small ripe mangoes

• 2 jalapeños

• ½ medium red onion

• ½ lime

• Fresh cilantro (about ½ cup loosely packed leaves)

• Red Bell Pepper

Meat

• 1 to 1½ lb sirloin steak

Pantry & Seasonings

• Olive oil

• Kosher salt

• Trader Joe’s Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend (or similar citrus-garlic blend)

🍍 Perfect Pairings – Optional Sides & Sips for Your Island-Inspired Feast

Whether you're going all-out for a tropical dinner party or just adding a few extras to your plate, these sides and drinks bring the vibe full circle:

Sides

• Coconut Lime Rice – Creamy, fragrant, and the perfect bed for that mango salsa.

• Grilled Pineapple Spears – Lightly charred and caramelized for a sweet finish.

• Crispy Plantain Chips – Great for scooping up extra salsa.

• Avocado-Cucumber Salad – Cool and creamy with a citrusy vinaigrette.

• Black Beans with Garlic & Cilantro – Savory and grounding with island flair.

• Toasted Hawaiian Rolls – A fun, buttery nod to Hawaiian BBQ.

Drinks

• Sparkling Limeade – Refreshing and tart with a fizzy finish.

• Virgin Piña Coladas or Mojitos – Coconut, mint, and citrus—pick your favorite island classic.

• Tropical Iced Tea – Brew black tea with pineapple juice and a hint of mint.

• Fresh Mango Smoothies – Especially fun if you're serving this as a summer brunch-for-dinner.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Need to make a few adjustments? These simple substitutions will keep the bold, juicy, tropical flavors front and center:

• Steak Substitute:
  Try flank steak or skirt steak if sirloin isn’t available. Just adjust the cook time and slice thinly against the grain.

• Seasoning Swap:
  No Trader Joe’s Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Blend? Use a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, cumin, and a little orange and lime zest.

• Fruit Alternative:
  Can’t find ripe mangoes? Use pineapple or papaya for a similar tropical sweetness and texture.

• Herb Option:
  Swap parsley or mint for cilantro if you’re not a fan—both still keep things fresh and vibrant.

• Heat Level Adjustment:
  Use Fresno chiles or even poblano peppers instead of jalapeños for less spice and more crunch.

Variations

This bold and juicy steak with mango salsa is just the beginning—here are a few tasty ways to spin it based on what you’re craving or how you’re serving it:

• Tropical Steak Tacos:  Slice the steak thin and tuck it into warm corn tortillas with mango salsa, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of lime crema or chipotle mayo. Instant taco night with an island twist!

• Island Steak Bowls:  Serve the steak and salsa over a bed of coconut rice, quinoa, or mixed greens. Add black beans, avocado slices, and a handful of crushed plantain chips for crunch.

• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp Option:  Not in a steak mood? This mango salsa pairs just as beautifully with grilled chicken thighs or citrus-marinated shrimp. Perfect for a lighter or seafood-forward dinner.

• Make It a Salad:  Turn everything into a hearty salad! Slice the steak over a bed of romaine or baby greens, top with mango salsa, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette for a fresh, vibrant meal.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

A few simple tips to help you get the most flavor and ease out of this tropical dinner:

• Let the Steak Rest:  After searing, let the steak rest for at least 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices and gives you a more tender bite.

• Choose Ripe Mangoes:  Look for mangoes that give slightly when pressed and smell sweet at the stem. .

• Prep Ahead for Ease:  You can make the mango salsa up to a few hours in advance—just cover and chill. The flavors only get better!

• Watch the Heat:  Want more or less spice? Keep some jalapeño seeds for extra heat, or substitute with bell pepper for a milder bite. You’re in control.

• Cast Iron for the Win:  A hot cast iron skillet gives you that perfect steak sear and crust. No grill? No problem—this pan brings the heat indoors.

HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to emails at the top of this page and follow along on Facebook,  and Pinterest for all of the latest updates.

Golden Nugget Muffins (Small Batch)

Yum

Spring has sprung and I'm lovin' it!

The temperature is moderate, the birds are singing, and there are butterflies everywhere!  Springtime has definitely come to Southern California!  We had such a raining winter season that it caused a superbloom here.  The flowers are popping, and all the trees are budded out.  We even found hidden bulbs in our backyard this year that produced daffodils we didn't even know we had!  And let me tell you about the butterflies!  Oh my gosh....we have soooooooooooo many butterflies it is amazing.  They claim that all the rain caused a super crop of monarch butterflies and they are just flying everywhere on their migration north.  Amazing and beautiful!

Golden Nugget Muffins (Small Batch)

All this great revival of life has made me so happy!  I'm also happy because of the produce that has popped up in the grocery store.  Yes! to springtime fruits!  Berries are in season as well as these beautiful golden nugget tangerines.  I found these gems a few years ago at out local farmer's market and have been eating them every year since.  I think they are the sweetest tangerines around.  They are in their peak season from March through May so grab them while you can.  

Since I bought a ton of these tangerines on my last trip to the grocery store I thought I would make some wonderful muffins featuring these beauties this weekend.  What's better for a Spring breakfast than some hot muffins bursting with the sweet bits of juicy tangerines.  Nothing!  At least for today!!!

What if I can't find Golden Nuggets?  If you can't find Golden Nuggets you can use any sweet tangerine that you like.  I highly suggest you look for these thought because they are shockingly delicious and you need them in your life!

What items do I need?  

• Mixing bowl - you will need a good mixing bowl to make the muffins.  I like porcelain or glass bowls.  This is one that I use as a mixing bowl as well as a salad serving bowl.
• Wooden spoons - perfect for mixing all your ingredients together.
• Paring knife - You will need a good small knife to cut the tangerine bits. I love this one.
• Muffin Pan - This recipe make 6 muffins and I use these pans the most.
• Orange Extract - I use Nielsen Massey Pure Orange Extract.  The flavor is outstanding!  If you want to use vanilla instead that will work in a pinch however, the orange flavor will not be as prominent.

This recipe makes a small batch of 6 muffins which is perfect for a weekend treat.  If you want to make 12 muffins, so you can eat them during the week, just double the recipe.  These will easily keep covered at room temperature for 3-4 days, and freeze wonderfully.

I use my base muffin recipe here that can be made into a gazillion different muffins.  It's a slightly sweeter muffin and with tender bits of tangerine running through them.  It's heaven!

Take time to enjoy the spring bounty of fruits and vegetables available right now starting with these muffins.

Enjoy!

Other Springtime Treats using Oranges/Tangerines:

• Tangerine Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry
• Orange Salad with Arugula and Spinach
• Simple Asian Salad
• Orange Iced Tea
• Blood Orange and Pear Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Golden Nugget Muffins (Small Batch)

serves 6

1 egg
1/2 cup 2% milk
1/4 cup Canola Oil
1 1/2 Cups all purpose flour
1/2 Cup sugar
2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. salt

1/2 t. Orange extract (such as Nielsen Massey)

1 t golden nugget zest

1 golden nugget, peeled and chopped into small bites

Place egg, milk and oil in a large mixing bowl and whisk together until light. Add flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the citrus zest and orange extract. Stir just until moistened. Don’t overmix…batter should be lumpy and a little thick. Fold in chopped golden nugget bits.

Spray a non-stick muffin pan with cooking spray. Divide batter among 6 muffin cups filling most of the way full.

Bake at 425 degrees for 20-25 min. Allow to cool 10 minutes.  Serve.


This post contains affiliate links to items you can purchase, in which I get a small amount of compensation for at no cost to you. I bring you items that I actually use that are of great quality that I can pass along suggestions to you.