In my opinion, sharing a meal on Mother’s Day should be a celebration, not another stressful menu-planning exercise! I’ve collected some of my favorite no-fail, make-ahead recipes that are perfect for Mother’s Day Brunch, and because they’re gluten-free, dairy-free friendly and mostly vegetarian, it doesn’t matter who joins you around the table – there will be something for everyone!

With a menu like this one, you’ll be able to enjoy any festivities the day has in store!

😍 Mother’s Day Brunch Make-Ahead Favorite: Bakery Style Muffins

Allow me to introduce you to the Bakery-Style muffin of your dreams. Or at least, it’s definitely mine. Perfect for suprising the mom in your life with something special, these jumbo muffins will look like they rolled straight out the door of your local bakery and onto your brunch table. Lots of lemon, less sugar than your usual muffin and did I mention they’re gluten-free? Make some ahead of time and freeze, or serve them fresh. Melt in your mouth softness with just the right amount of zing.

⏲️ Mother’s Day Brunch Must-Have: Canadian Bacon and Egg Breakfast Cups

These delicious cups take all of 5 minutes to get in the oven which is the name of the game when you don’t want to be slaving away in the kitchen while guests are over!

Eggs however you like them (I like my yolks a little runny!) are baked in cups of Canadian bacon and topped with a sprinkling of your favorite cheese.  I limit my cow’s milk intake, and love the goat’s milk cheeses I get from Trader Joe’s. I use the cheddar here, but use whatever you like! You may want to come back to this recipe after Mother’s Day as well…

🍽️ For The Mother’s Day Brunch That’s Basically Lunch: Roasted Carrot and Avocado Salad

If your brunch has quickly turned into an early lunch, this salad comes to you straight from the table of one of my favorite restaurants in New York City, ABC Kitchen. It became NYC famous in 2012, and those who know, know. Flavor? Yes! Texture? Yes! And the perfect marriage of roasted vegetables and crispy fresh salad staples.

Sweet carrots get a quick roast with lots of herby spices, then are paired with cool and creamy avocado and yogurt, leafy greens, a bright vinaigrette and crunchy topping. It’s pretty addictive and will leave you coming back for more. And more.