Mother's Day brunch with kids

Make a Memorable Mother’s Day Brunch at Home with the Kids

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Mother’s Day doesn’t have to mean a fancy, stress-filled brunch. This year, let the kids get hands-on in the kitchen and show Mom just how much she’s appreciated by creating a heartwarming morning with simple, fun and delicious recipes the whole family can enjoy.

From oatmeal pancakes to yogurt parfaits and fruity mocktails, these easy recipes are sure to bring big smiles and make Mom feel truly loved.

And if you just can't muster up the energy to do this on Mother's Day, don't fret. We're sharing some of our favorite restaurants where you can book a Mother's Day brunch in Tampa Bay!

Oatmeal Pancake Art

Who says pancakes have to be boring? These easy, homemade oatmeal pancakes are not only healthy and delicious, but they're the perfect canvas for creativity! Let kids make shapes like hearts, stars or even funny faces using a squeeze bottle or spoon. Once cooked, top with Mom’s favorite fruits, a swirl of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chocolate chips.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: fresh fruit, chocolate chips, maple syrup, yogurt, whipped cream

Quick Prep:

  1. Blend oats, milk, banana, egg, vanilla, baking powder and salt in a blender until smooth. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
  2. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Pour batter into fun shapes using a spoon or squeeze bottle. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until golden.
  3. Add toppings and serve!

Pro Tip: Let each child create their own pancake masterpiece! You’ll end up with a pancake gallery that makes the perfect Mother’s Day photo-op.

mother's day brunch recipes to make with kids

Parfait Perfection

No cooking required but still delicious! Set up a DIY parfait bar with yogurt, granola, fresh berries and other fun toppings the kids love. The best part? Kids can layer it however they like, mixing and matching. It’s like a mini art project you can eat!

Ingredients:

  • Vanilla or Greek yogurt
  • Granola
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Optional toppings: honey, mini chocolate chips, sprinkles

Quick Prep:

  1. Set out ingredients in small bowls.
  2. Let kids layer yogurt, granola and fruit into cups or jars.
  3. Top with their favorite extras and serve chilled.

Fun Idea: Have kids label each parfait with a cute note like, “You’re the berry best, Mom!” or “Made with love by [child’s name]” for a sweet, personalized touch.

yogurt parfait recipe to make with kids for mother's day brunch

 

Heart-Shaped Toast

Transform ordinary toast into an adorable Mother’s Day treat by using a heart-shaped cookie cutter. Have your little chefs toast the bread and then spread on delicious toppings like peanut butter, jam or avocado. Add sliced fruit in sweet shapes for a finishing touch.

Ingredients:

  • Whole grain or sourdough bread
  • Spreads: peanut butter, cream cheese, avocado or jam
  • Fruit: strawberries, bananas, blueberries

Quick Prep:

  1. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter on bread slices.
  2. Toast slices until golden.
  3. Let kids spread their topping of choice and decorate with fruit slices for a cute, delicious treat.

Pro Tip: For a sweet version, try cream cheese with strawberry slices and a drizzle of honey.

heart toast Mother's day brunch with kids recipe

 

Fruit Skewers

This colorful, no-cook treat is a winner for both little hands and big hearts. Let the kids assemble fruit skewers with a variety of fruits — think strawberries, grapes, pineapple and kiwi. For a bonus, drizzle them with a little chocolate or honey for an indulgent finish.

Ingredients:

  • Wooden or reusable skewer sticks
  • Fruit: strawberries, grapes, pineapple chunks, kiwi, blueberries, watermelon
  • Optional drizzle: chocolate syrup or honey

Quick Prep:

  1. Chop fruit into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Let kids slide them onto skewers in rainbow patterns.
  3. Drizzle with honey or chocolate before serving, or enjoy as is!

Fun Twist: Spell out “MOM” with fruit or arrange skewers in a heart shape on the serving tray.

how to make mother's day brunch with kids - siblings smiling at their fruit skewers

 

Sparkling “Mom-osa” Mocktails

It’s not a celebration without a fun drink! Let the kids mix up some sparkling “Mom-osas” using fresh orange juice and a splash of sparkling water. Add some fresh fruit like berries or slices of citrus, and voilà — Mom’s drink is ready for a toast!

Ingredients:

  • Fresh orange juice (or other juice: mango, peach, cranberry)
  • Sparkling water or lemon-lime soda
  • Fresh fruit: orange slices, berries, mint leaves
  • Ice (optional)

Quick Prep:

  1. Fill a glass with 2/3 juice and 1/3 sparkling water.
  2. Add ice and garnish with fruit.

Bonus Idea: Set up a “Mom-osa” bar with multiple juice options and colorful garnishes so each child can create their own special version.

sparkling MOM-osa for Mother's Day brunch with kids

A Brunch to Remember

The best part of this Mother’s Day brunch isn’t just the delicious food; it’s the laughter, the mess and the memories you’ll create together in the kitchen. With these easy, kid-friendly recipes, your Mother’s Day brunch will be special and full of love.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing moms out there!

For more great recipes and tips, visit danifaig.com.

Originally published in the May 2025 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.