What Dessert Goes with Brunch?
Brunch is that magical meal where breakfast meets lunch—relaxed, indulgent, and best shared with friends and family. But what’s brunch without a little sweetness? In this article, we’ll explore the best desserts to pair with your brunch spread, from light and fruity treats to warm, comforting bakes. Plus, we’ll share two irresistible recipes: Deep-Fried Banana Fritters and a gooey Cinnamon Roll Cake, perfect for your next brunch gathering. Get ready to discover new ideas, tips, and answers to common brunch dessert questions.
Why Desserts Are Essential for Brunch
What Makes a Dessert Perfect for Brunch?
Brunch desserts aren’t just about sweetness—they’re about balance. A perfect brunch dessert should complement the savory flavors on your table, like eggs, avocado toast, or smoked salmon bagels. Light options like fruit parfaits add freshness, while baked goods bring cozy, comforting vibes.
The Appeal of Sweet Brunch Treats
Why include desserts at brunch? Simple! Brunch is about indulgence. Whether it’s a stack of waffles with syrup or a flaky croissant, sweet treats are part of the charm. Plus, desserts pair beautifully with brunch drinks—think coffee, tea, or a refreshing fruit spritzer.
Types of Desserts That Shine at Brunch
When choosing what dessert goes with brunch, consider these crowd-pleasers:
- Light & Fresh: Yogurt parfaits, fruit tarts, lemon bars
- Warm & Comforting: Cinnamon rolls, coffee cake, baked oatmeal
- Mini & Shareable: Mini muffins, donuts, or dessert boards
Tips & Insights for Choosing Brunch Desserts
Pairing Desserts with Brunch Flavors
When deciding what dessert goes with brunch, think about balance. Sweet treats should complement the savory flavors of classic brunch dishes. For example:
- Pair citrus tarts with rich, creamy dishes like eggs Benedict.
- Match warm pastries with fruit-forward brunch plates.
- Offer chocolate desserts alongside bold coffee-based drinks.
Brunch desserts don’t have to be heavy—they just need to enhance the overall experience. A good mix of textures and flavors ensures everyone finds something they love.
Seasonal Dessert Ideas for Brunch
Seasonality can make your brunch feel extra special. Plus, using fresh ingredients means better flavors:
- Spring: Strawberry shortcake or lemon bars
- Summer: Peach cobbler or mixed berry parfaits
- Fall: Pumpkin bread or apple cinnamon muffins
- Winter: Warm sticky date pudding or chocolate lava cake
In fact, some of the most delightful Brunch Appetizers – Easy & Delicious Ideas for Your Next Gathering also incorporate seasonal flavors—pairing these appetizers with complementary desserts creates a cohesive menu.
Desserts for Different Occasions
The best dessert for brunch depends on your gathering:
- Casual brunch with friends: Keep it simple with mini muffins or scones.
- Holiday or special brunch: Showcase a centerpiece dessert like a fruit tart or bundt cake.
- Family-friendly brunch: Choose crowd-pleasers like cookies or banana fritters (like the recipe we’ll share later!)
No matter the occasion, what dessert goes with brunch depends on your guests’ preferences—so aim for variety and fun!
Popular Brunch Dessert Options & Ideas
Light & Fresh Desserts for Brunch
If you prefer a lighter touch, these options are refreshing without being too sweet:
- Yogurt parfaits with fresh berries and granola
- Fruit tarts with a crisp crust and creamy filling
- Lemon bars, tangy and perfect with a cup of tea
Light desserts are ideal when balancing a rich brunch spread—especially if your table includes hearty items like quiche or avocado toast.
Warm & Comforting Brunch Desserts
Nothing beats a warm, sweet bite during brunch. These comforting options are always crowd-pleasers:
- Coffee cake with a crumbly cinnamon topping
- Baked oatmeal with apples and walnuts
- Cinnamon rolls, soft and gooey (like our recipe coming up!)
As highlighted in the article Brunch Desserts – Sweet Treats to Elevate Your Brunch Table, warm desserts are perfect for cozy gatherings and bring a homemade charm to your table.
Creative Twists on Classic Desserts
Get playful with your brunch desserts by trying these creative takes on classics:
- Mini cheesecakes topped with fresh fruit
- Pancake muffins with a maple glaze
- Dessert boards with an assortment of mini treats—cookies, macarons, and fruit skewers
Deep-Fried Banana Fritters
Why Banana Fritters Are the Perfect Brunch Dessert
When you’re wondering what dessert goes with brunch, you can’t go wrong with these Deep-Fried Banana Fritters. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside—a perfect match for your brunch spread. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy mornings or last-minute brunch guests.
Banana fritters are loved for their versatility. Serve them with honey, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a delightful treat. They pair wonderfully with coffee or fresh fruit smoothies, balancing sweet and savory flavors on your brunch table.
🛒 Ingredient List
- 3 large ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup milk (or coconut milk for a twist)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar (for garnish)
👩🏻🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation
- Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix in the milk until you get a thick, smooth batter.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Test with a small drop of batter—it should sizzle and float.
- Fry the Fritters: Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches.
- Drain & Garnish: Remove fritters and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
💡 Notes & Tips:
- Use overripe bananas for extra sweetness.
- For a crispy texture, fry in small batches.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
🥣 Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Protein: 2g
- Calories: 250
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 10g
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Serving: 4 (about 12 fritters)
Cinnamon Roll Cake
Why Cinnamon Roll Cake Belongs on Your Brunch Table
If you’ve ever wondered what dessert goes with brunch, this Cinnamon Roll Cake is your answer. It’s everything you love about cinnamon rolls—warm, gooey, and full of cozy flavors—transformed into an easy-to-share cake. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, especially when paired with coffee or tea. Plus, it’s a make-ahead wonder, so you can enjoy your brunch without rushing around.
🛒 Ingredient List
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
👩🏻🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation
- Make the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.
- Create the Cinnamon Swirl: In a separate bowl, blend the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until creamy.
- Layer and Swirl: Pour the cake batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon mixture on top, then use a knife to swirl it into the batter.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly.
- Add the Frosting: Whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the warm cake.
💡 Notes & Tips:
- Let the cake cool for 5 minutes before adding frosting for the perfect gooey texture.
- Make ahead: Store the baked cake (unfrosted) overnight and frost just before serving.
- Add chopped pecans to the cinnamon swirl for extra crunch.
🥣 Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 4g
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Serving: 8 slices
Before we wrap up, if you’re planning your entire brunch spread, you might want to explore some hearty options from our Main Dishes collection. Or, if you’re craving more sweet ideas, check out our Snacks, Desserts & Bites for even more inspiration to pair with your brunch desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What dessert goes with brunch if I need something quick and easy?
If you’re short on time, go for simple desserts like yogurt parfaits, fruit salad, or mini muffins. These are quick to prepare and pair beautifully with savory brunch dishes.
Can I make brunch desserts the night before?
Absolutely! Desserts like cinnamon roll cake or banana bread taste even better the next day. Simply store them in an airtight container and reheat slightly before serving.
What dessert goes with brunch for a spring or summer menu?
For warmer seasons, choose light, fruit-based desserts like lemon bars, strawberry shortcake, or berry tarts. These fresh options add a bright touch to your brunch table.
Are there healthy dessert options for brunch?
Yes! You can keep it light with chia seed pudding, fruit platters, or banana fritters made with whole wheat flour. Healthy doesn’t have to mean boring—it can still be delicious!