Make-Ahead Breakfast Recipes for Easier Mornings
Looking for make-ahead breakfast recipes that will simplify your morning routine? Try these easy and healthy breakfast ideas the whole family will enjoy at home or on-the-go. Muffins, waffles, parfaits and more!
Did you have breakfast this morning? I hope you answered, YES! If not, were you simply too busy? Perhaps, you forgot?
These days, I tend to draw out my morning coffee in front of the TV, then quickly put together a few ingredients in a shaker to drink at my desk. I try to switch up my breakfast routine from time to time, but sometimes I’m in a hurry and need an option that’s easy, yet satisfying. Lately, it’s become my breakfast go-to. (Read to the bottom where I share my easy breakfast shake recipe.)
The rest of my family? Their schedules are crazier than mine, often heading out the door before I’m even up. That’s what happens when your kids become adults and you no longer have to see them out the door (unless you want to). I’ve gotten over those mom-guilt feelings too, in case you’re wondering.
Besides, my “boys” are matter-of-fact when it comes to their workday morning routines. No dilly-dallying, discussions or nonsense. So, I sometimes sleep later (when I can), knowing I have quick, easy and healthy breakfast options ready and waiting for them. And, when they’re in a big rush, they can take them on-the-go.
So, whether your kids are home for summer break, gearing up for back to school, or you’re looking for something quick and easy for the whole family, my collection of make-ahead breakfast recipes will have you covered. Breakfast meal prep is where it’s at! Some recipes are gluten free too, so be sure to look for those options if you have dietary restrictions or preferences in your family.
Make-Ahead Breakfast Ideas
Below you’ll find a variety of make-ahead breakfast ideas, including muffins, waffles, bars, parfaits and more. Some are freezer-friendly and marked as such. Be sure to check out all of my breakfast and brunch recipes if you’re looking for even more options.
Wholesome Blueberry Oat Breakfast Muffins
These Blueberry Oat Muffins are slightly sweetened with honey and packed full of protein and fibre. If you want a simple way to take blueberry oatmeal on-the-go, these muffins are it. We like them warmed up and paired with a cup of coffee or tea. [Freezer-friendly and Gluten-free]
Coconut Quinoa Breakfast Pudding
Looking for something new to eat in the morning that’s filling and satisfying? Try this Coconut Quinoa Breakfast Pudding. I like topping mine with a little cereal cream, a few chopped almonds and a bit more cinnamon. Yes, dessert for breakfast! [Gluten-free]
Raspberry Coconut Chia Breakfast Pudding
One of the make-ahead breakfast treats we’ve come to enjoy is Chia Breakfast Pudding. Simply whip up a batch the night before and enjoy it in the morning or as a snack later in the day. Delicious and nutritious! [Gluten-free]
Chocolate Oatmeal Breakfast Bars
These Chocolate Oat Breakfast Bars are perfect for busy mornings. Made with simple ingredients like wholesome rolled oats, hearty nuts, dark cocoa, coconut and nut butter sweetened with a bit of honey and maple syrup. You’ll love these make-ahead breakfast bars you can pop in the freezer. [Freezer-friendly and Gluten-free]
Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits
Yummy layers of Greek yogurt, jam, muesli and fresh strawberries make up these Yogurt Parfaits. An easy and delicious breakfast you can take on-the-go! Want one? [Gluten-free]
Pumpkin Oat Muffins
These Pumpkin Oat Muffins are packed with good things like protein and fibre without compromising taste. So moist and flavourful, you can thank the pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger for that. A delicious portable breakfast option! [Freezer-friendly]
Cranberry Orange Oat Muffins
These Cranberry Orange Oat Muffins are wholesome and delicious. A bit tangy, with delicate notes of orange, cinnamon and cloves, all topped off with a sweet citrus glaze. [Gluten-free and Freezer-friendly]
Yogurt Panna Cotta
This Yogurt Panna Cotta is sweetened with a bit of lavender and chai maple syrup, then topped with homemade oat crumble and fresh fruit. I like to think of it as breakfast dessert, yet healthier. Whip up some jars to have ready in the fridge! [Gluten free and granola is Freezer-friendly]
Baked Zucchini Donuts
Love donuts? Make a batch of healthier Baked Zucchini Donuts with vanilla glaze to enjoy in the morning. So moist and flavourful, plus an easy and delicious way to use up zucchini from your garden! [Freezer-friendly and Gluten-free]
Cranberry Spice Scones
These Cranberry Spice Scones are moist inside, with sugary crisp edges. You’ll love the combination of tart cranberries along with warm spices of cinnamon, ginger, cloves and nutmeg. Prepare dough ahead, freeze, then freshly bake in the morning. Or, if you’re in a hurry, bake ahead, freeze and grab as needed. [Freezer-friendly]
Classic Waffles
Finally, these Classic Waffles are crispy on the outside, light and fluffy on the inside, along with a scrumptious buttery taste. One of my family’s favourites! I enjoy the gluten free version. [Freezer-friendly]
More Make-Ahead Breakfast Recipes
We also enjoy overnight oats, breakfast egg muffins and more. Have a favourite?
Meal Prep Breakfast Tips
- Freezer-friendly, make-ahead breakfast options should be stored in airtight containers or freezer bags with the air pushed out. Pull out the night before or reheat in the microwave or toaster oven.
- Layer parchment or waxed paper between waffles before freezing. We prefer reheating ours in the toaster, then a bit in the microwave to prevent from getting too toasty. It really depends on the thickness of your waffles.
- Slice quick bread prior to freezing for easy access.
- Store quinoa pudding, yogurt parfaits and panna cotta in airtight jars in the fridge and consume within a few days. Perfect make-ahead breakfast to go!
- Pick a couple of these make-ahead breakfast ideas for the week and prepare on the weekend or when you have more time.
Some links used in this post are affiliates. Please refer to my disclosure policy for more information.
Morning Shake or Smoothie Options
What’s in my morning shake that I mentioned above? To my BlenderBottle, I usually add 2 ice cubes, 1 cup unsweetened almond/coconut milk, ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon chia seeds, ½ scoop Vega Protein & Greens, ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder and top it off with water. Then I shake it up and let it sit for a few minutes until the chia softens. I love that it keeps me full until lunchtime! I play around with different combinations from day to day, including collagen peptides, coconut yogurt, cashew milk, hemp protein powder, maca powder and more.
For a quick smoothie option, I also like to have Evive smoothie cubes in the freezer too. Be sure to use my discount code included in the post when ordering!
Did you try any of these make-ahead breakfast recipes? I’d love to know what you think! Share a photo on Instagram tagging @satoridesignforliving or leave a comment below.
Be sure to check back as I’ll be adding even more to this recipe collection!
Want more delicious recipes and ideas like these sent directly to your inbox? Be sure to SUBSCRIBE.
Wishing you a sunshiny day,
These breakfast recipes and ideas were originally published July 2020 and updated with new ideas and photos July 2022.