Setting the table for Easter 2026

Easter brunch in the South is about family and a table that feels full without being fussy. For 2026, I'm leaning into traditions that allow for a slower morning—less time hovering over the stove and more time sitting with guests.

For generations, Easter brunch has been a cornerstone of Southern gatherings. It began, as many things do, with celebrating the end of Lent and the arrival of spring. It wasn't always as elaborate as it is now, of course. Early celebrations were simpler, focusing on what families had available after a long winter. But the spirit of hospitality has always been at its heart.

Southern hospitality is often described as gracious, welcoming, and generous—and for good reason. It's about making people feel comfortable and cherished. To embody that this Easter, think about the details: a beautifully set table, a comfortable atmosphere, and food that nourishes both body and soul. I've been working on a menu that blends those beloved classics with a few fresh ideas, aiming for a brunch that’s both familiar and a little surprising.

Outdoor Easter brunch table setting with Southern dishes & pastel decor - 2026

Ham and main course alternatives

Let's be honest, for many of us, ham is Easter. But the world of ham is surprisingly diverse. Country ham, cured for a longer period, has a saltier, more intense flavor. City ham is typically wet-cured and milder. Spiral-cut hams are convenient, but sometimes lack that deep, smoky flavor you get from a whole ham.

I usually go for a brown sugar glaze to get that dark, caramelized crust, though a pineapple glaze is better if you want something sharp to cut through the fat. If you have a smoker, use it—the depth of flavor beats anything from a standard oven.

For those looking for alternatives, a roasted leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic is a beautiful choice. Salmon en croute, baked in a flaky pastry crust, feels special and elegant. Or, for a more casual option, a hearty quiche Lorraine or a vegetable-filled frittata can be incredibly satisfying. I always recommend sourcing your meat from a local butcher when possible; you’ll taste the difference in quality and be supporting your community.

Brown Sugar & Peach Glazed Ham

You will need:

Instructions

  1. Scoring the ham allows the glaze to penetrate deeper, adding more flavor. Use a sharp knife to carefully create a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. Be careful not to cut through the bone.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, peach preserves, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, and cloves. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the glaze is smooth. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Don't boil the glaze, just gently heat it to combine.
  3. Place the ham, cut-side down, in a roasting pan. Brush the entire ham with a generous amount of the glaze. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for the calculated time (10-12 minutes per pound). Basting every 30 minutes ensures a beautifully glazed and moist ham. Use all of the glaze during the basting process.
  4. Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C), remove it from the oven. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful ham. Garnish with fresh peach slices for a beautiful presentation.

Notes

For a deeper peach flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of peach extract to the glaze. If your ham is already fully cooked, reduce the baking time to simply warm the ham through and set the glaze. A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring the ham is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Sides that outshine the ham

The sides are where you can really let your creativity shine. Mac and cheese is a Southern staple, but don’t just open a box. A béchamel-based mac, baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping, is a game-changer. Collard greens, slow-cooked with smoked ham hocks, are another must-have, though my grandmother always insisted on a dash of vinegar to brighten them up.

Potato salad is another classic, but there are endless variations. I prefer a German-style potato salad with a vinegar-based dressing, but a creamy Southern version is also delicious. Don't be afraid to step outside the box, though. Asparagus with a light hollandaise sauce feels very spring-like. Roasted Brussels sprouts with pecans and maple syrup offer a delightful sweet-and-savory combination.

A vibrant spring salad with strawberries, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds a touch of freshness. My Aunt Clara always made a cucumber and tomato salad with a simple vinaigrette – it was always the first dish to disappear. Balancing flavors and textures is key. Something creamy, something crunchy, something bright, something savory. That's my rule of thumb.

I remember one Easter when my cousin accidentally added a whole bottle of hot sauce to the potato salad. It was a disaster, but we all laughed about it for years. Sometimes, the imperfections are what make the memories.

  • Baked mac and cheese with a béchamel base and breadcrumb crust
  • Collard Greens (slow-cooked with smoked ham hocks)
  • Potato Salad (German-style or creamy Southern)
  • Asparagus with Hollandaise
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pecans and Maple Syrup
  • Spring Salad with Strawberries and Goat Cheese

Elevated Southern Sides

  1. Deviled Eggs - A teaspoon of dill pickle brine added to the yolk mixture brightens the flavor and cuts through the richness.
  2. Macaroni and Cheese - A grating of fresh nutmeg into the cheese sauce adds a subtle warmth and complexity.
  3. Collard Greens - A dash of Crystal hot sauce (or your preferred Louisiana-style sauce) enhances the savory depth and provides a gentle kick.
  4. Potato Salad - A sprinkle of smoked paprika, beyond standard paprika, imparts a smoky flavor reminiscent of a backyard barbecue.
  5. Green Bean Casserole - A tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce added to the cream of mushroom soup base deepens the umami flavor.
  6. Sweet Potato Casserole - A pinch of cayenne pepper balances the sweetness and adds a subtle heat.
  7. Biscuits - Incorporate a tablespoon of sour cream into the biscuit dough for extra tenderness and a slight tang.

Biscuits are mandatory

Biscuits are simply non-negotiable at a Southern Easter brunch. There are so many ways to go about it. Drop biscuits are quick and easy, perfect if you’re short on time. Rolled biscuits require a little more effort, but the flaky layers are worth it. Sweet potato biscuits add a subtle sweetness and a beautiful color.

The key to flaky biscuits is cold ingredients and minimal handling. Don't overwork the dough! If you're not a biscuit person, cornbread is a fantastic alternative. Sweet cornbread is a Southern classic, but savory cornbread with jalapenos and cheese is also delicious. Yeast rolls, warm from the oven, are always a crowd-pleaser.

Don't forget the accompaniments! Homemade jams and butters elevate everything. Peach preserves, strawberry jam, and a simple honey butter are essential. I’ve been experimenting with a lavender-infused honey butter lately, and it’s been a hit. Serving warm bread is crucial; no one wants a cold biscuit.

Perfect Southern Drop Biscuits: A Step-by-Step Guide

1
Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisking ensures these ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for a light and fluffy biscuit. This creates the foundation for our delicious drop biscuits.

2
Cut in the Butter

Add 1/2 cup (1 stick) of very cold, unsalted butter – cut into small cubes – to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to 'cut in' the butter. The goal is to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Small pieces of butter create steam pockets during baking, resulting in flaky layers.

3
Add the Buttermilk

Gradually add 3/4 cup of cold buttermilk to the flour and butter mixture. Stir gently with a fork until just combined. Do not overmix! A slightly shaggy dough is what you're aiming for. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough biscuits.

4
Drop onto Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a large spoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1-2 inches between each biscuit. The irregular shape is part of the charm of a drop biscuit.

5
Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. A slightly golden color indicates they are done.

6
Serve Warm

Remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Drop biscuits are best enjoyed warm, with a generous slathering of butter, jam, or honey. They’re a perfect accompaniment to any Southern brunch spread.

Pecan pie and seasonal sweets

Easter demands a beautiful dessert spread. Pecan pie is a Southern institution, rich and decadent. Coconut cake, fluffy and moist, is another favorite. Banana pudding, layered with vanilla wafers and fresh bananas, is always a hit with the kids – and the adults, too.

For lighter options, strawberry shortcake with whipped cream and fresh berries is a classic. Lemon bars, tart and tangy, offer a refreshing contrast to the richer desserts. Presentation is key. A tiered dessert stand adds a touch of elegance, and a dusting of powdered sugar always makes things look more appealing.

Don't forget Easter-themed decorations! Chocolate bunnies, decorated eggs, and pastel-colored sprinkles add a festive touch. My mother always made a bird's nest cake with chocolate shavings and candy eggs. It was a family tradition. A simple bowl of fresh berries arranged artfully can be just as effective.

Classic Coconut Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

You will need:

Instructions

  1. Preheating the oven and properly preparing the pan are crucial for even baking and easy cake removal. Ensure the pan is thoroughly greased and floured, paying attention to the corners.
  2. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, avoid overmixing. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
  3. Using softened butter and cream cheese is essential for a smooth and creamy frosting. Allow these ingredients to come to room temperature before starting.
  4. For a lighter frosting, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the cream cheese and butter. This will help prevent lumps.
  5. Adjust the amount of milk in the frosting to achieve your desired consistency. Add more milk for a thinner frosting, and less for a thicker frosting.
  6. Toasting the coconut before adding it to the batter or using it as a garnish enhances its flavor and adds a delightful texture.

Notes

This cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. For a more intense coconut flavor, use coconut extract in addition to the shredded coconut. A sprinkle of lime zest in the frosting complements the coconut beautifully.

Drinks & Details: Completing the Picture

Southern hospitality extends to the beverages, of course. Sweet tea is a must-have, and lemonade is always a refreshing choice. But don't be afraid to offer something a little more sophisticated. Mimosas, made with champagne and orange juice, are a brunch classic. Bellinis, with peach puree, are another elegant option. A sparkling rosé adds a touch of festivity.

Setting the mood is crucial. Play some gentle background music, arrange fresh flowers on the table, and use pretty linens. Comfortable seating is also important – you want your guests to relax and enjoy themselves. Consider the little things: a small vase of flowers on each table, pretty napkins, and a warm welcome.

It's also important to be mindful of dietary restrictions and allergies. Ask your guests in advance if they have any needs, and be prepared to offer alternatives. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way. Be sure to have non-alcoholic options available for those who don’t drink.

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