While it is tempting to toss a couple of pieces of toast into the toaster to stave off the hunger pangs until dinnertime, why not try something with a little more of the Christmas spirit this year? The menu need not be extravagant, and the major components can often be made days or weeks in advance.
Yeast Breads
Evoke memories of your family's Christmas past with some of these traditional Yuletide bread recipes from the old country. Well wrapped, yeast bread can be made frozen for up to 8 weeks with little or no loss of quality. On Christmas morning, place the frozen loaf directly into a preheated 300 degree F (150 degree C) oven for 30 to 45 minutes. Eat hot out of the oven. These are simple enough to serve with coffee or hot cocoa while the little ones are exploring the packages under the tree.
Casseroles
If you will be traveling to Grandma's later in the day, your family may require a more substantial breakfast to keep their good temper. Try one of these hearty breakfast casseroles:
Quick Breads
Baking for a family of nibblers? Try a little pumpkin butter with any one of these delectable muffins, scones, or fruit breads. All can be baked and frozen at least a week in advance. Warm them up on Christmas morning in a preheated 300 degree F (150 degree C) oven: allow approximately 30 minutes to warm a frozen coffeecake, and 10 to 20 minutes for muffins.
Pies
Make everyone's day a little brighter: begin the day with pie. Most baked whole pies can be frozen for up to 6 months. There are some exceptions: pumpkin pie should be used within six weeks, and cream and custard pies should not be frozen at all. A few important notes for making pies to freeze: brush the bottom crust with melted shortening before filling; when completely cooled, seal well with plastic wrap or foil; and protect the pies from being squished by heavy objects while in the freezer. When you are ready to defrost, pop the frozen pie into a preheated 375 degree F (109 degree C) oven for about 45 minutes.
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