As Mother’s Day approaches, many of us are scrambling to come up with a special menu to treat our beloved mothers. Whether you’re a culinary whiz or a kitchen novice, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious and heartfelt recipes that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
From classic breakfast dishes like Eggs Benedict and Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes to decadent desserts like Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake and Tiramisu with Mascarpone Cream, our Mother’s Day recipe roundup has something for everyone. And don’t worry if you’re short on time – many of these recipes can be prepared in advance or are quick and easy to make.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these mouthwatering dishes and provide step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and helpful tips to ensure your Mother’s Day celebration is a culinary success. So sit back, relax, and get ready to treat your mom (or mom-to-be) like royalty!
Classic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise Sauce
Experience the quintessential brunch dish with this simple recipe for Classic Eggs Benedict, topped with a rich and creamy Hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs, poached
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 4 slices of Canadian bacon or ham
– 1 cup of Hollandaise sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 1/2 cup of egg yolks
– 1/2 cup of melted butter
– 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the English muffins.
2. Cook the Canadian bacon or ham until crispy.
3. Poach the eggs by cracking them into a pot of simmering water. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
4. Assemble the Eggs Benedict by placing a toasted English muffin half on a plate, topping with a slice of Canadian bacon or ham, and finishing with a poached egg.
5. Drizzle the Hollandaise sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake
Nothing beats the taste of sweet strawberries piled high on fluffy biscuits, topped with whipped cream. This classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until crumbly.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1 inch thickness.
6. Cut into rounds or squares and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Allow biscuits to cool completely before topping with sliced strawberries and whipped cream (optional).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Savor the sweet and fluffy goodness of these classic buttermilk pancakes, drizzled with pure Canadian maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with pure Canadian maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Creamy Avocado and Bacon Omelette
A decadent breakfast or brunch option that combines the richness of avocado with the smoky flavor of bacon, all wrapped up in a fluffy omelette.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt until well-beaten.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook until the edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the diced avocado and crumbled bacon over half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the cheese is melted and the eggs are cooked through.
7. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate and garnish with chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake
Experience the ultimate chocolate indulgence with this classic recipe that yields a gooey, fudgy center surrounded by a crispy exterior. Perfect for satisfying any chocolate craving!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 6 ounces (170g) best-quality dark chocolate chips, chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, melt chocolate in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Whisk eggs into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared ramekins, filling to the top.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in ramekins for 1 minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fresh Berry and Yogurt Parfait
Start your day with a light and refreshing treat that’s perfect for warm weather. This simple parfait recipe combines the sweetness of fresh berries, tanginess of yogurt, and crunch of granola for a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the mixed berries.
4. Sprinkle with half of the granola.
5. Repeat the layers: yogurt, berries, and granola.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve: Immediately, chilled or at room temperature.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
This classic recipe is a staple of Italian-American cuisine, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. Serve it with linguine or fettuccine for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and let it melt. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Serve the shrimp with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon
A classic French dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in, this slow-cooked beef bourguignon is rich and flavorful, with tender beef, mushrooms, and vegetables in a red wine broth. This recipe simmers all day to bring out the best flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add mushrooms; cook until tender.
3. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return beef to pot; cover and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Remove bay leaves; season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Lemon Blueberry Scones
These tender scones are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the sweetness of fresh blueberries, making them a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Gently fold in blueberries.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each scone.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce
This classic Scandinavian-inspired dish is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as an impressive main course. The bright, citrusy flavor of the dill sauce complements the rich taste of grilled salmon beautifully.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or spray for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, dill, lemon juice, and honey.
5. Serve grilled salmon with dill sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and moist Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken recipe. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Warm, gooey cinnamon rolls slathered with a tangy cream cheese frosting – what’s not to love? This recipe yields soft, fluffy buns packed with sweet and spicy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water, melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled.
4. Punch down the dough and roll out into a 12×15-inch rectangle.
5. Spread cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar to taste
Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls before serving.
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your classic Caprese salad with a rich balsamic glaze that adds depth and complexity to the fresh flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar, sugar, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 5 minutes or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
3. Arrange tomato slices on a platter or individual plates. Top with mozzarella cheese slices.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad, followed by olive oil.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including reduction time for the balsamic glaze)
Roasted Vegetable Quiche
Roasted Vegetable Quiche Recipe
Summary: This quiche recipe showcases a delicious combination of roasted vegetables and savory eggs, perfect for brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. Arrange the roasted vegetables evenly over the crust, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables.
6. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top of the quiche.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the center is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Banana Bread with Walnuts
This classic banana bread recipe gets a delightful twist with the addition of crunchy walnuts. The result is a sweet and satisfying loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool on wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Savor the flavors of Italy with this vibrant and delicious pesto pasta dish, featuring sun-dried tomatoes as a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked pasta to the pesto sauce and toss until well coated.
5. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tiramisu with Mascarpone Cream
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy and decadent Tiramisu, featuring mascarpone cream as its star ingredient. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or whenever you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups heavy cream, whipped
– Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the brewed coffee and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese with the softened butter until smooth.
4. To assemble the Tiramisu, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a serving dish. Top with a layer of mascarpone cream, followed by a sprinkle of cocoa powder. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of mascarpone cream on top.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None required. Assembly and chilling time: 3 hours or overnight.
Baked Brie with Honey and Nuts
Elevate your gatherings with this effortless yet impressive appetizer: baked brie paired with the warmth of honey and crunch of nuts. Perfect for a cozy evening or a festive get-together, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (8 oz)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, pecans)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the brie wheel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle honey over the brie, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle chopped nuts evenly over the honey.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the nuts and brie.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is softened and the honey is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Caper Sauce
This classic Italian dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a zesty lemon caper sauce. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Cook chicken in butter over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; add garlic, lemon juice, and capers. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve chicken breasts with Lemon Caper Sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramel Apple Pie
This sweet and tangy pie combines the crisp flavors of autumn with the richness of caramel, perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a slice (or two) in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sugar
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pie crust
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until coated.
3. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Fill pie crust with apple mixture and drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
7. Drizzle caramel sauce over warm pie.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Make Mother’s Day unforgettable with these delicious recipes. Start your day off right with Classic Eggs Benedict or Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes. For a sweet treat, try Homemade Strawberry Shortcake or Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake. If mom loves brunch, go for Creamy Avocado and Bacon Omelette or Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi. End the meal on a high note with Lemon Blueberry Scones or Tiramisu with Mascarpone Cream. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to impress mom and make her feel special.