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Christmas Breakfast Ideas With Cheese
Christmas Breakfast Ideas With Cheese
Make a festive spread to remember with our Christmas breakfast ideas with cheese. From sweet to savory, this list will have you covered!
Savory Options
- Cheesy egg and sausage casserole
A hearty baked dish layered with eggs, breakfast sausage, and loads of shredded cheddar or Gruyère. - Cheese-stuffed croissants
Flaky croissants filled with brie, cream cheese, or Gruyère, baked until golden. - Spinach and cheese breakfast strata
A layered bread casserole with spinach, eggs, and a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella. - Cheddar and chive scones
Fluffy scones packed with sharp cheddar and a touch of fresh chives. - Caprese breakfast sandwich
Fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on a toasted English muffin. - Ham and cheese puff pastry pockets
Puff pastry filled with diced ham, cream cheese, and Swiss or Gruyère. - Cheesy potato hash
Crispy potatoes tossed with melty cheddar or Pepper Jack and topped with poached eggs. - Baked brie and cranberry pastry cups
Mini puff pastry cups filled with brie, cranberry sauce, and a sprinkle of pecans. - Cheese and herb frittata
A simple yet elegant egg dish with goat cheese, feta, or ricotta and fresh herbs. Mix in a little pumpkin butter into the egg filling. - Everything bagel breakfast pizza
Bagel halves topped with cream cheese, scrambled eggs, cheddar, and bacon crumbles.
Sweet Cheese-Inspired Options
- Ricotta pancakes with honey
Light and fluffy ricotta pancakes drizzled with honey and topped with fresh berries. - Cheesecake-stuffed French toast
Thick slices of bread filled with sweetened cream cheese and dusted with powdered sugar. - Cheese Danish pastries
Classic puff pastry filled with sweetened cream cheese and topped with fruit or jam. - Apple and brie Puff pastry braid
A stunning breakfast centerpiece filled with brie, thinly sliced apples, and a touch of cinnamon sugar. - Savory- sweet cheese board
A breakfast twist on a charcuterie board featuring soft cheeses, fruits, nuts, bagels, and spreads.
Our Top Tips for a Festive Spread
We’ve broken these up into menu and general tips:
Tips for a Great Christmas Breakfast Menu
- Plan a balanced menu: Include a mix of sweet and savory items. For example, pair pancakes or pastries with egg-based dishes or casseroles. Add a variety of textures: crispy (bacon, croissants), creamy (yogurt, cheeses), and fluffy (waffles, frittatas).
- Incorporate holiday colors: Use red and green ingredients like cranberries, pomegranates, strawberries, spinach, and basil to create a festive look. Garnish dishes with edible holiday touches such as rosemary sprigs or powdered sugar “snow.”
- Have that one showstopper dish: Make one centerpiece dish, like a baked brie wreath or a Christmas tree-shaped pull-apart bread, to wow your guests.
- Prepare ahead: Choose recipes that can be made or prepped the night before, like breakfast casseroles, overnight oats, or muffin batter. Lay out serving dishes, utensils, and decorations the evening prior.
- Incorporate cheese: We are biased, but….everyone loves cheese! Right? Check out our full range here.
- Serve seasonal drinks: Prepare a festive beverage menu featuring items like cranberry mimosas, eggnog, or spiced apple cider.
- Keep portions small: Offer bite-sized portions for variety and ease, such as mini quiches, slider-style breakfast sandwiches, or muffin tin casseroles.
- Use decorative serve ware: Go for holiday-themed plates, napkins, and serving trays to tie the theme together.
- Have DIY options: Set up stations:
- Bagel bar: Include cream cheese, smoked salmon, sliced veggies, and festive toppings.
- Pancake or waffle station: Offer syrups, fresh fruit, whipped cream, and sprinkles.
- Hot chocolate bar: Provide cocoa, marshmallows, whipped cream, peppermint sticks, and chocolate shavings.
General Tips for a Great Christmas Breakfast
- Make it interactive: Include a group activity to enhance the experience, like decorating Christmas cookies or building a gingerbread house after breakfast.
- Label dishes: Add small cards to identify each dish, mainly if you include allergy-friendly or gluten-free options.
- Add personal touches: Include handwritten thank-you notes or mini Christmas crackers at each place setting to make guests feel special.
- Don’t forget the kids: Offer kid-friendly options like fruit skewers, yogurt parfaits, or Christmas-shaped pancakes with fun toppings.
The Best Sides With Boneless Smoked Ham
The Best Sides With Boneless Smoked Ham
Make a classic festive meal with our list of the best sides with boneless smoked ham. Nothing screams holiday time louder than juicy, tender ham. Well, maybe turkey does, but they’re both pretty festive.
9 Ideas for Sides with Boneless Smoked Ham
Here’s a list of what we think goes really well with our boneless smoked ham:
- Garlic mashed potatoes: Boil potatoes with garlic until tender, then mash with butter and milk for a creamy texture—season with salt and pepper.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy. Drizzle with a homemade balsamic glaze made by reducing balsamic vinegar and honey.
- Honey-glazed carrots: Steam or boil carrots until tender, then toss in a simple glaze made with melted butter and honey. Season to taste.
- Crispy roasted sweet potatoes: Cube sweet potatoes, toss them with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper, and roast at a high temperature until crispy and tender.
- Green bean almondine: Steam or blanch green beans, then sauté them in butter with sliced almonds and a splash of lemon juice.
- Cranberry sauce: Simmer fresh cranberries with sugar, orange juice, and zest until the berries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Buttered corn on the cob: Boil corn until tender and drizzle with melted butter, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Cheese and herb stuffing: Combine cubed bread, shredded cheese, sautéed onions, sage, and chicken broth, then bake until golden and crispy.
- Garlic bread: Spread a mixture of softened butter, garlic, and parsley on French bread, then bake until golden and fragrant.
How To Reheat Boneless Smoked Ham for Christmas
To heat a cooked boneless smoked ham, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 325°F (165°C). This is the optimal temperature for warming the ham without drying it out.
- Prepare the ham: Remove the ham from any packaging and place it in a roasting pan. If you like, you can add a little liquid (such as water, broth, or apple juice) to the bottom of the pan to help keep the ham moist during heating.
- Cover the ham: Cover the pan with aluminum foil to retain moisture and prevent the ham from drying out.
- Heat the ham: Place the ham in the oven and heat for about 10-15 minutes per pound, depending on the size. For example, a 5-pound ham will need about 50-75 minutes to heat through.
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The ham should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) when fully heated.
- Optional glazing: If you want to add a glaze (such as honey, brown sugar, or maple syrup), brush it on the ham during the last 20-30 minutes of heating and return it to the oven uncovered to allow the glaze to caramelize.
- Rest before serving: Let the ham rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing and serving.
This method gives you juicy ham that is loaded with flavor and warmed through.
Seasonal Cheese Pairings: What to Enjoy Each Season
Seasonal Cheese Pairings: What to Enjoy Each Season
Seasonal cheese pairing comes naturally if you think about it. Each season has its own set of classic tastes and textures that can be linked to specific cheeses. Knowing which ingredients complement which cheese helps you create an unforgettable experience.
Here’s a guide to cheese pairings that bring out the best of each season, with ideas to inspire your table year-round.
Spring: Fresh and Zesty
Spring is a time for renewal, and fresh flavors dominate as gardens burst to life. Soft cheeses like chèvre (goat cheese), ricotta, and mozzarella work beautifully with spring’s bounty. Chèvre’s tangy notes blend perfectly with ingredients like sweet, dried strawberries or fresh peas.
Pairing idea: A spring cheese board with chèvre, strawberries, sugar snap peas, mixed nuts, and a drizzle of honey. Add a handful of toasted almonds or a few sprigs of mint for added freshness. Pretty-up your board with edible spring flowers like nasturtiums.
For something more savory, layer ricotta or goat’s cheese on toast and top it with sliced radishes, cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of sea salt. The peppery bite of radish against creamy ricotta creates a balanced flavor that screams spring.
Summer: Bright and Juicy
Summer’s bounty brings vibrant, juicy produce that begs to be paired with creamy, mild cheeses. Yogurt cheese and double cream gouda are excellent choices for hot-weather dishes. Yogurt cheese’s creamy, milky interior pairs beautifully with tomatoes and fresh basil. Gouda, on the other hand, is tastyb with rich, sun-ripened fruits like watermelon and peaches.
Pairing idea: Make a summery salad by tossing chunks of juicy watermelon, gouda, fresh mint, and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds.
For an extra touch, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top.
Alternatively, use yogurt cheese in a simple Caprese salad (instead of traditional fresh mozzarella) with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve with crusty bread for a Mediterranean-inspired pairing perfect for balmy summer evenings.
Fall: Earthy and Warm
As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, it’s time to embrace hearty, earthier flavors. Garlic cheddar, gruyère, and blue cheese all complement the cozy, nutty taste of fall produce. Apples, pears, figs, and nuts are natural companions to these cheeses, enhancing their rich, layered flavors.
Pairing idea: For a seasonal cheese board, pair the cheddar with apple butter, pumpkin butter, cinnamon almonds, and a dollop of fig jam. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors is autumn on a plate.
Another idea is to make a warm, gooey gruyère fondue with cubed roasted squash, mushrooms, and hearty bread on the side.
The earthy, caramelized flavors of the roasted vegetables add a rustic depth to the creamy cheese.
Winter: Rich and Indulgent
Winter calls for cheeses with deep, robust flavors that match the season’s indulgence. Provolone, camembert, and pecorino offer comforting richness that works well with winter fruits like pomegranates, citrus, cranberries, and dried figs.
Warming spices like cinnamon and cloves also add holiday charm to cheese pairings.
Pairing idea: Baked camembert topped with blackberry pecan syrup, toasted cashews, and a drizzle of honey is a classic winter dish that combines sweet, tart, and creamy textures. Serve with sliced baguette for a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.
Or, try a wedge of pecorino with blood orange slices, arugula, and a light vinaigrette for a simple yet luxurious winter salad that balances the cheese’s sharpness with citrusy brightness.
Bringing It All Together
Cheese pairings don’t have to be complicated—let the season’s ingredients guide you.
From fresh spring berries to hearty winter nuts and fruit, seasonal pairings allow you to enjoy cheese at its peak and celebrate the flavors of each season.
Experiment with local produce and some of our cheeses, and you’ll discover new combinations that make each season a little more delicious.
Sweet Fire Goat Cheese (4.5 oz)
Sweet Fire Goat Cheese
This original flavor brings the concept of pepper jam & cheese to this fresh chèvre. While habanero brings the heat, this creamy goat cheese calms it down – all in one bite. Simply open and unmold the cup upside down to let the blackberry habanero syrup coat the goat cheese. Mackenzie Creamery, a local business right here in Ohio continues to win awards and has been cited in The New York Times, Town and Country Magazine, and Cleveland Magazine as one of the best goat cheses in the country. 
Bread Cheese (8-10 oz)
Bread Cheese
Bread Cheese, also known as “baked cheese” is baked to give the cheese a toasted crispy crust. Keto friendly! You could make it less keto friendly by dipping in syrup, slathering it in jam, or alongside your favorite chocolate.
A Delicious Holiday Brunch Buffet for Everyone
The holidays are upon us, which hopefully means lots of family sleepovers! If everyone is up and at ’em at different times of the morning, it’s tough to make the perfect hot and made-to-order breakfast for everyone. Take a look at some of these ideas for a five-star brunch experience for your guests in the comfort of your home.
Charcuterie and Snack Inspiration
Always looking for inspiration, we have been eyeing the Instagram accounts of some very creative charcuterie artists. We can see some of our products working themselves into these beautiful presentations quite nicely!
Celebrate National Hot Chocolate Day!
Today, January 31st is National Hot Chocolate Day!
We thought you’d like to read some of our fun ideas for creating delicious hot chocolates. Whether you’re looking for topping ideas or a way to celebrate the day we have got you covered.
The Best Hot Chocolate
One of our favorite ways to make hot chocolate is to grate real chocolate into hot milk. You can try this with lots of different types and flavors of chocolate to find the best one for you.
Otherwise, the best hot chocolate is the one that you love! Try a few to find one that works best for you. Do you prefer it with hot milk or mixed with water? You could even try plant-based milks for a different flavor.
Play with toppings and syrups
You name it, it could be delicious on top of a hot chocolate! We’re sure someone has even tried crispy bacon bits on top of their whipped cream! So this is the time to get creative and experiment with something new.
There are the classics: marshmallows, cream, chocolate sprinkles. But you could also add cinnamon, sauces, nuts, marshmallow fluff, dried fruits, coconut shavings, or cereals. For extra decadence, try popping a chocolate truffle on the top and letting it melt in. You could even put a scoop of ice cream on the top for extra creaminess. If you add marshmallow fluff, try crisping it with a kitchen blow torch for a s’mores effect!
For extra flavor with your chocolate, you can pour in something a little extra. There are so many syrups available now and loads of them would be delicious in a hot chocolate. Try classics like peppermint, salted caramel or vanilla. You could even try making your own syrups at home with your favorite flavors. We highly recommend trying a bay syrup with your hot chocolate for a grown up twist. add a little of your favorite spirit. Whiskey or brandy work well but our favorite would have to be Irish Cream. You could try even flavored vodkas instead of syrup.
Friday Night Celebrating National Hot Chocolate Day
It’s a Friday so we think tonight is the perfect chance to gather some friends together, get cozy with a mug of hot chocolate and even a movie or even some board games. Why not have a competition to see who can create the most delicious and inventive hot chocolate? If you’ve got little ones they’re sure to enjoy a little sweet treat. You could use lower sugar hot chocolate to include them without it being too unhealthy.
If you want to celebrate in true Shisler’s Cheese House style, you’ll need our signature mug to enjoy your hot chocolate in. We even sell it as a gift set with some chocolates if you are a true chocoholic!
How are you celebrating National Hot Chocolate Day? Let us know in the comments below.
National Hot Toddy Day: Make One Today
Did you know that January 11th is National Hot Toddy Day?
If you’ve never had one of these classic drinks, read on to find out more about where it originated and how to make one for yourself at home.
A hot toddy is a warm cocktail of liquor, honey, water, herbs and spices. It’s perfect for curling up with on a winter’s day and some regard it as the perfect cure for a cold!
National Hot Toddy Day: The History
The history of the drink, along with its recipe, is contested. The word toddy comes from India, where it meant a drink made from fermented palm tree sap. The British adopted the idea and began to combine hot water with scotch whisky to warm up cold pub goers. The other story goes that an Irish doctor named Robert Bentley Todd began ordering his patients to drink a combination of hot brandy, cinnamon and sugar water. It then made its way across to us in America, where variations with rum and brandy were all made.
National Hot Toddy Day: The Recipe
The Classic
Makes 2
50ml whisky
3 tsp honey
1 cinnamon stick
1 lemon
2 cloves
Whisk the honey and whisky together, split between two heatproof glasses or mugs. Add half of the cinnamon stick to each and then top each of the mugs with 100ml boiling water. Add a splash of lemon juice to each, then taste and add more honey or lemon to your taste. Finish each drink with a slice of lemon studded with a clove.
Variations
Some people like to add tea to their hot toddies. Try it with earl grey for a lovely addition. You could use a teabag but the best thing is loose leaf tea in an infuser. If you want to add a bit of Canadian flavor, try replacing the honey with maple syrup.
You can use almost any spirit you like, but the best are usually whisky, rum or brandy. Try varying your spices too to enjoy different flavors. Pop in a cardamom pod or some star anise. You could also swap the lemon for orange!
National Milk Day
Not to worry if hot toddies aren’t your thing because today is also National Milk Day! Without milk we wouldn’t have our delicious cheese, so it’s definitely a day that we’re going to celebrate (albeit it with a hot toddy!). If you need to warm up but don’t need the liquor then a mug of hot milk with a teaspoon of vanilla bean paste and a pinch of grated nutmeg is the perfect thing. Nutmeg is actually proven to make you drowsy so it’s excellent if you’re heading off to bed for a good sleep. If it’s the morning, leave it out and simply enjoy a cosy moment to yourself.
Will you be making one this National Hot Toddy Day? Let us know in the comments below!
Easter Gifts For The Whole Family!
The time of year for celebration is upon us again! With Easter coming up this weekend, we have put together a list of delicious Easter gifts that you can buy right here at Shisler’s Cheese House. Read on to find out all about our gift options and how to make this Easter extra special.
Our Easter gift baskets are perfect for sharing with loved ones. You can purchase them online or in store. We can even deliver them straight to your family and friends to make gift giving as easy as possible. Inside you will find Marble Cheese, Dried Fruit Chips, Yogurt Pretzels, Heggy’s Chocolates, Wild Maple Walnut Syrup, and Muddy Trail Mix.
We created this mix of treats to make sure that everyone will love our gift basket. There’s chocolate for those with a sweet tooth and marble cheese for savory lovers, with dried fruit and trail mix to keep your energy up after all of the Easter fun.
If you’re looking to give a chocolate gift, then you need to look no further than Heggy’s Solid Chocolate Bunnies. These are a real treat with 20 oz of chocolate. They are available in both milk and white chocolate, so you can pick one up for everyone in the family.
If you are looking for some more grown-up chocolate options, check out our whole chocolate section. You’ll find dozens of products that will cater to every taste. Grab some Brazilian coconut or chocolate truffles for those friends that always want to try something new. You could take some Heggy’s milk chocolate turtles into work and share some Easter joy with your colleagues, but they’re certainly popular with the children as well! We offer sugar-free treats for anyone with a restricted diet.
We also have a range of other gift baskets for every taste. Pick from a simple selection of cheeses all the way up to a huge selection of locally sourced delicious treats. If you have your own Easter gifts in mind, we can create a custom basket for you. Custom baskets can include anything currently available on the website. This is perfect if you know someone who would prefer cheese and pickles to chocolate, even at Easter. You could create a box full of dark chocolate treats or even pick our healthier options such as our sugar-free chocolates. Call us today for a quote!
If you are ordering online, please check our shipping policy to ensure that your gifts will reach you in time. If you can, pop into the store. We love to meet our customers face to face and help you find the perfect Easter gifts.
We want to wish all of you a fantastic Easter weekend. How will you be celebrating? Let us know in the comments!
