23 Classic Easter Recipes Your Family Will Love

Easter is a special time to spend with your family and friends. You're looking for delicious Easter recipes that everyone will love. You'll find traditional glazed ham and roasted spring lamb, plus yummy desserts like carrot cake.

These classic dishes will make your Easter celebration even more fun. You'll also discover tasty side dishes and favorite treats that are easy to make. Get ready to hop into the kitchen and start cooking up a happy Easter feast!

1. Traditional Glazed Ham Recipes

Sweet and sticky glaze tops a juicy ham.

Ingredients

• 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and spices.
4. Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over the ham.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the ham.
6. Bake the ham for 15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F.
7. Baste the ham with the pan juices every 20 minutes.
8. Let the ham rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

2. Deviled Egg Delights

Deviled eggs are a classic Easter snack, easy to make and delicious.

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives

Instructions

1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks to a bowl.
2. Mash the yolks with a fork until they are well broken up.
3. Stir in the mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture back into the egg white halves, mounding it slightly in the center.
6. Sprinkle the tops with chives and serve chilled.

3. Spring Vegetable Sides

Simple and delicious spring vegetable sides perfect for Easter.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed spring vegetables
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss spring vegetables with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

4. Decadent Easter Desserts

Indulge in a rich Easter dessert with this decadent chocolate cake.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder and milk until smooth.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
5. Whisk in the vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture, whisking until just combined.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the cakes are cool, you can frost and decorate them as desired.

5. Classic Easter Menu Ideas

Traditional glazed ham is a staple of Easter celebrations.

Ingredients

• 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
3. Place the ham in a roasting pan and score the fat in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze mixture evenly over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Bake the ham for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
6. Baste the ham with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.
7. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

6. Homemade Hot Cross Buns

Traditional sweet buns marked with a cross, typically served on Easter.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup dried currants
• 1/2 cup candied citrus peel
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast, stirring to dissolve.
2. Add the sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the melted butter, egg, currants, citrus peel, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the dough, mixing until a sticky ball forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, shape into buns, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Use a sharp knife or pastry brush to create a cross on top of each bun.
9. Bake the buns for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Allow the buns to cool on a wire rack before serving.

7. Easter Ham Glaze Variations

Sweet and sticky Easter ham glaze variations to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in apple cider vinegar, thyme, cloves, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the ham on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and score the fat in a diamond pattern.
6. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
7. Bake the ham for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
8. Baste the ham with the glaze every 20 minutes during cooking.
9. Remove the ham from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

8. Roasted Spring Lamb Recipes

Tender and flavorful roasted spring lamb perfect for Easter celebrations.

Ingredients

• 1 (1.5-2 pound) boneless lamb leg
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the lamb leg, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the lamb in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast the lamb for 20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove the lamb from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

9. Easy Easter Side Dishes

Delicious spring vegetables highlight these easy Easter side dishes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh asparagus
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve hot and enjoy.

10. Fresh Fruit Salads

A revitalizing and healthy fruit salad perfect for Easter gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup strawberries
• 1 cup grapes
• 1 cup pineapple
• 1 cup kiwi
• 1 orange
• 1 apple
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Wash and chop all the fruits into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped fruits.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey and lemon juice.
4. Pour the honey-lemon mixture over the fruits and toss to coat.
5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve the fruit salad cold and enjoy.

11. Easter Brunch Inspiration

Delicious Easter brunch dishes to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh strawberries
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add the strawberry puree, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

12. Quiche and Frittata Recipes

Quiche is a classic Easter dish made with eggs and cheese baked in a pie crust.

Ingredients

• 1 9-inch pie crust
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced ham
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, diced ham, and diced bell peppers.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the pie crust.
6. Bake the quiche for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

13. Carrot CakeCreations

Delicious carrot cake with cream cheese frosting and crunchy walnuts.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then beat in vanilla extract.
5. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add flour mixture and beat until just combined.
6. Stir in carrots and walnuts.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. To make frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
11. Beat in vanilla extract, then gradually add powdered sugar and beat until smooth and creamy.
12. Once cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread frosting on top.
13. Place second cake layer on top and frost top and sides of cake with remaining frosting.

14. Coconut Macaroon Nests

Chewy coconut macaroons shaped into nests and filled with chocolate eggs.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• Easter-themed sprinkles or edible decorations

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Use your fingers to shape each ball into a nest shape, making an indentation in the center.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
8. Allow the macaroons to cool completely on the baking sheet.
9. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
10. Fill each macaroon nest with a small amount of melted chocolate and top with Easter-themed sprinkles or edible decorations.

15. Easter Basket Treats

Delicious Easter basket treats to fill your holiday with sweetness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk chocolate chips
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup pastel-colored candy pieces
• 1/4 cup sprinkles
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut
• 1 tablespoon shortening

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the shortening to thin the chocolate.
4. Spoon the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Immediately sprinkle with pastel-colored candy pieces and sprinkles.
6. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the top of the milk chocolate layer.
8. Sprinkle with shredded coconut.
9. Refrigerate until set, about 30 minutes.
10. Break into pieces and fill Easter baskets.

16. Hearty Easter Casseroles

Traditional Easter casserole filled with ham and vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup pasta of choice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add frozen peas and carrots, and cook until thawed.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, diced ham, and shredded cheese.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and dried thyme.
7. Pour milk mixture over pasta mixture and stir until well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Transfer mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

17. Roasted Asparagus Recipes

Roasted asparagus is a simple yet delicious Easter side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh asparagus
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Trim the ends of the asparagus and place on the baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with garlic.
7. Serve hot and enjoy.

18. Lemon Bars and Pies

Tangy lemon filling on a bed of shortbread crust, a classic dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the shortbread crust by whisking together flour, confectioners' sugar, and granulated sugar in a medium bowl.
3. Add softened butter to the bowl and mix until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon filling by whisking together eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a large bowl.
6. When the crust is ready, remove it from the oven and pour the lemon filling over the warm crust.
7. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set.
8. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into bars and serving.

19. Easter Dinner Rolls

Soft and fluffy Easter dinner rolls perfect for the holiday.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of warm water
• 2 teaspoons of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast
• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon of milk

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast, let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl, mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it slightly into a disk shape.
7. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
8. Brush the tops of the rolls with beaten egg and milk mixture.
9. Bake the rolls for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
10. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving.

20. Green Bean Almondine

Quickly sautéed green beans with sliced almonds and garlic.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 3-5 minutes.
2. Drain the green beans and set them aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the sliced almonds to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until lightly toasted.
6. Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss with the garlic and almonds.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.

21. Strawberry Shortcake Recipes

Delicious strawberry shortcake with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups sliced strawberries
• Whipped cream

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender to work it into the dry ingredients.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs.
5. Add the cream mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until the dough comes together.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times.
7. Roll the dough out to about 1 inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds.
8. Place the rounds on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Split the shortcakes in half horizontally using a serrated knife.
10. Spoon sliced strawberries over the shortcakes and top with whipped cream.
11. Serve immediately and enjoy.

22. Creamy Easter Potato Salads

Creamy Easter potato salad, a classic side dish perfect for the holiday.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 2 tablespoons grated onion

Instructions

1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and let them cool to room temperature.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, parsley, dill, mustard, horseradish, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooled potatoes, chives, and onion to the bowl and stir until they are well coated with the dressing.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Serve the salad chilled, garnished with additional parsley or chives if desired.

23. Bunny-Shaped Sugar Cookies

Classic Easter treat featuring adorable bunny-shaped sugar cookies.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Use a bunny-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies.
8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Decorate the cooled cookies with colored sugar or sprinkles.

Conclusion

You'll create unforgettable Easter memories with these classic recipes. For example, serving a traditional glazed ham with roasted asparagus will impress your guests, just like Sarah did at her family's Easter gathering, where everyone loved her signature dish and asked for the recipe. Try it and enjoy the compliments!