10 Pastry Recipes for Brunch

Looking to celebrate the new year with a delicious brunch that will bring everyone together around the table? Here are a few pastry ideas that’ll make for a memorably sweet brunch! Brioche buns, scones or turnovers, there’s something for everyone.

1. Sweet Rolls and Buns

Among the baked goods enjoyed at breakfast, sweet rolls and sweet buns remain a classic. Try these classic cinnamon buns, topped generously with icing. If you’re hosting in the morning, you can bake this recipe the night before to give the dough time to rise.

Cinnamon buns
View the Recipe: Cinnamon Buns
Small chocolate-cranberry brioche buns
View the Recipe: Small Chocolate-Cranberry Brioche Buns

2. Scones

Whether you prefer them at tea time like the British or enjoy them at breakfast, scones are universally loved for their light and crumbly texture. They’re easy to make and can include a variety of flavours, like our sweet and savoury versions seen here.

Jammy scones
View the Recipe: Jammy Scones
Classic Oka scones
View the Recipe: Classic Oka Scones

3. Swirls

This delightful dessert is so easy to make, be sure to invite the kids to help out. Prepare the swirls using a sheet of store-bought puff pastry and a mixture of maple syrup and cream, and then serve them warm with a touch of cream for added decadence.

Maple swirls
View the Recipe: Maple Swirls

4. Muffins

For occasions both big and small, whether as a snack or breakfast, muffins are always a surefire hit. This festive recipe combines apple and cranberries, and it is easy to prepare for a stress-free brunch. Top with an almond-oat garnish before baking for added crunch.

Apple Cranberry Crumble Muffins
View the Recipe: Apple Cranberry Crumble Muffins

5. Galettes

At this time of year, the Galette des Rois is a January 6 (Epiphany Day) tradition. This version using store-bought puff pastry and an almond cream filling is absolutely easy to make. Be sure to bake it until golden brown to ensure a crisp texture. A ready-to-eat almond and hazelnut version is also available at your nearest IGA store.

Galette des Rois with almond cream
View the Recipe: Galette des Rois with Almond Cream

6. Cookies

With their crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture, shortbread cookies are a popular choice any time of day. They’re beloved due to their buttery taste, easy prep and short ingredient list. You can also shape them with any cookie cutter you like and get creative with decorative elements.

Holiday sprinkle shortbread cookies
View the Recipe: Holiday Sprinkle Shortbread Cookies

7. Pies and tarts

Whether sweet or savoury, pies and tarts are the perfect addition to the holiday table. A New Year’s brunch is the perfect opportunity to serve a tarte Tatin, the upside-down tart with caramelized apples. It’s a comforting and fruity dessert that will be a hit with everyone around the table.

Tarte tatin
View the Recipe: Tarte Tatin

8. Turnovers

These versatile pastries that can accommodate either a sweet or savoury filling are a delightful addition to brunch. Whatever your preference, zero in on puff pastry because it’s ready to bake. Here are two suggestions for you, one with apples and cheese, the other with mushrooms, to suit all tastes.

Apple and spanish cheese turnovers
View the Recipe: Apple and Spanish Cheese Turnovers
Creamy Mushrooms in Puff Pastry
View the Recipe: Creamy Mushrooms in Puff Pastry