Easter Cooking Without The Last-minute Rush 29 Make-ahead Ideas

Easter cooking doesn’t have to mean a last-minute scramble in the kitchen. Imagine being all set before the holiday even begins, thanks to 29 brilliant make-ahead ideas. That means more time to enjoy the company and less time worrying about what’s happening on the stove. Kick back, relax, and let the Easter festivities unfold with a plan.

German Chocolate Cake

For a dessert that’s sure to impress, German Chocolate Cake is the way to go. With its rich layers and coconut-pecan frosting, it’s a showstopper. Make it ahead and give it time to set, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’s the perfect sweet ending to your Easter celebration.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cake

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re up for something a bit more adventurous, Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls could be your Easter morning triumph. Utilize that sourdough starter for something sweet, twisty, and utterly pleasing. They take a bit of time but planning ahead means warm, gooey rolls ready to be enjoyed by all. They’re a twist on the classic that’s well worth the effort.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Egg Casserole

Nothing says Easter breakfast like a hearty Egg Casserole. It’s a one-dish wonder that you can put together the night before. In the morning, pop it in the oven for a delicious and hassle-free breakfast that feeds a crowd. It’s filled with eggs, cheese, and whatever mix-ins you like.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Shortbread Cookies

For something a little simpler but equally enjoyable, Shortbread Cookies are a go. Their buttery crispness makes them an instant hit, and you can have them ready well before any guests arrive. Dip them in chocolate or keep them plain, either way, they’re a hit. Plus, they pair marvelously with coffee or tea.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies

French Toast Casserole

Turn a breakfast favorite into a crowd-pleaser with French Toast Casserole. Assemble it the night before and let the bread soak up all the sweet, custardy goodness. Bake it in the morning for a decadent breakfast treat that’ll keep everyone at the table happy and full. It’s exactly what lazy mornings call for.
Get the Recipe: French Toast Casserole

Dauphinoise Potatoes

If you’re after that wow factor without spending your entire day in the kitchen, Dauphinoise Potatoes are the answer. Thinly sliced potatoes, cream, and a touch of garlic come together in a dish that’s effortlessly elegant. Bake it before your guests arrive and warm it up when it’s dinner time. Everyone will be asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Mississippi Mud Pie

Mississippi Mud Pie is the decadent dessert that dreams are made of. Make it ahead of time to allow the layers of chocolate to meld together into a slice of heaven. Its rich texture and depth of flavor make it a memorable end to any Easter feast. And really, who can say no to chocolate?
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Corn Casserole

Who doesn’t love a dish that you can easily make ahead? Corn Casserole is your go-to. Simply mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and you’re set for a no-fuss Easter dinner side dish. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and it practically makes itself.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Easy Banana Pudding

Easy Banana Pudding is the perfect end to your Easter feast because it’s light, creamy, and absolutely no bake. Whip it up the night before, let it sit in the fridge, and watch it disappear in minutes. It’s a foolproof dessert that requires minimal effort. The layers of bananas, pudding, and wafers are a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Dinner Rolls

Warm, fluffy, and buttery, Dinner Rolls are the highlights of any holiday table. You can prepare the dough in advance, let it rise, and simply bake it before it’s time to eat. They’re the perfect companion to every dish on the table. Plus, who can resist the smell of freshly baked bread?
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Egg Bites

For those who like starting the day with a good meal, Egg Bites are perfect. They’re packed with protein, easy to customize with your favorite add-ins, and can be made ahead of time. Just heat them up in the morning for a quick and nutritious start to your day. They’re little bites of joy on a hectic morning.
Get the Recipe: Egg Bites

Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole is that classic dish that everyone expects to find on the holiday table. It’s creamy, crunchy, and can be made ahead of time, freeing you up to focus on enjoying the holiday. Just pop it in the oven to reheat before serving. It’s simple, it’s delicious, and it’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Lemon Pie

Bright and tangy Lemon Pie cuts through the richness of a traditional Easter meal with its refreshing flavor. It’s another marvel that you can prepare ahead, letting the flavors deepen overnight. The creamy filling and flaky crust make each slice a delicious experience. Serving it is like sharing a slice of spring.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pie

Hash Browns

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, Hash Browns are a breakfast favorite that can easily be made ahead. Prepare them the day before and simply reheat them in the oven for a quick and easy side. They’re the perfect addition to your holiday breakfast or brunch. Plus, everyone loves a good hash brown.
Get the Recipe: Hash Browns

Peanut Butter Cake

Whip up a Peanut Butter Cake that will have everyone asking for seconds. Its moist layers and creamy frosting can be prepared beforehand, making your Easter day less hectic. This cake balances sweet and salty in every bite and is a sure favorite among peanut butter lovers. It’s the kind of dessert that makes a holiday meal feel special.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

Hashbrown Casserole

Getting everyone to the breakfast table has never been easier, thanks to Hashbrown Casserole. You can throw it together the night before, so all you need is to bake it in the morning. It’s creamy, cheesy, and has a perfect crispy top that everyone loves. Plus, it pairs brilliantly with a cup of coffee and sunrise.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Waking up to the aroma of Homemade Cinnamon Rolls baking is the best start to Easter morning. Prepare the dough beforehand, and give yourself the luxury of popping them in the oven to enjoy fresh, warm rolls. Each bite is a soft, gooey treat that brings smiles all around. It’s like a hug in the form of breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Combining the best of both worlds, Pecan Pie Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make ahead. Its creamy cheesecake layer topped with a rich, nutty pecan pie filling is a testament to dessert innovation. Each slice is a piece of creamy, crunchy perfection. It’s destined to become a new Easter tradition.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Pineapple Casserole

With its unexpected combination of flavors, Pineapple Casserole becomes the conversation starter at any Easter dinner. It’s a breeze to assemble ahead of time, combining sweet pineapple with a rich, cheesy topping. This dish brings a touch of sweetness to your tasty spread. It’s a unique side dish that pleasantly surprises guests every time.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole

Lemon Cookies

Light, tasty, and just the right amount of sweet, Lemon Cookies are a refreshing twist to your dessert spread. You can have the dough ready and chill it until you’re ready to bake. These little bites of sunshine are a hit with both kids and adults alike. They’re the perfect end to your Easter meal, or a sweet snack any time.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies

Waffles

Breakfast or brunch gets a sweet start with Waffles that can be prepped beforehand. Make the batter the night before, and you’re ready for a quick, delicious meal in the morning. They’re perfect for customizing with toppings, so everyone gets exactly what they want. Plus, who doesn’t love a golden, crispy waffle?
Get the Recipe: Waffles

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Starting Easter dinner with the end in mind means having a Pineapple Upside Down Cake ready to flip and serve. Prepare it ahead, and delight in the caramelized pineapple and cherry topping that greets you once it’s time to unveil. This cake is as beautiful to look at as it is to eat. It’s a classic dessert that never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Potato Casserole

Easy and wholesome, Potato Casserole becomes a staple for an Easter meal with its creamy texture and golden crust. Prep it the day before to simply bake and serve on the day. It’s a versatile dish that complements any main and always goes down a treat. Plus, it saves you from the last-minute kitchen rush, letting you enjoy the day.
Get the Recipe: Potato Casserole

Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

Fans of chocolate and peanut butter won’t be able to resist Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert that combines creamy and crunchy textures. When you bring it out after your Easter feast, watch everybody’s eyes light up. Trust me, it’s the showstopper that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

Vegan Nut Roast

Who says traditional holiday dishes can’t be plant-based? Vegan Nut Roast is packed with flavors and textures that satisfy everyone. Prepare it ahead, and simply reheat for a hassle-free Easter centerpiece. It’s hearty, wholesome, and a guaranteed hit among your guests, vegan or otherwise.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Nut Roast

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Imagine cutting into a Salted Caramel Cheesecake that’s been chilling overnight, just waiting for its moment to shine. Its lavish caramel topping, balanced with a hint of salt, makes every bite a dream. It’s creamy, it’s decadent, and it perfectly caps off any meal. Make it the day before, and you’re all set for a stress-free holiday.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie

Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting, hearty dish that makes vegetables the star. Its tasty filling and fluffy potato topping prepare well in advance for a stress-free Easter dinner. It’s a warm, inviting dish that offers a delicious twist on the classic. Plus, it’s bound to win over hearts and stomachs alike.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie

Broccoli Casserole

When looking for a side that’s both easy to make and a crowd-pleaser, Broccoli Casserole fits the bill. It’s creamy, cheesy, and can be popped into the oven right when you need it. This dish adds a splash of green to your table and keeps well, making it perfect for leftovers. A surefire way to get some veggies in your feast without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole

Lemon Bars

Ending on a refreshing note, Lemon Bars offer the perfect tang after a hearty meal. Their bright flavor and soft, custardy filling can be a welcome contrast. Prepare them ahead to let the flavors meld together beautifully in time for Easter. It’s the sort of dessert that has people reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars