Mother’s Day is that special occasion when we show appreciation for the women who have shaped our lives with their love, guidance, and occasional eye rolls at our questionable life choices. While flowers and cards are lovely traditional gifts, nothing says “I love you” like a thoughtfully prepared meal. This year, consider canceling the restaurant reservations and creating a memorable culinary experience at home.
Dads (and partners), this is your moment to step up to the plate, literally. You don’t need to be a culinary genius to create something special. Start the day with a simple yet impressive dish like French toast topped with fresh berries, or make classic eggs Benedict. There’s something undeniably charming about waking up to the smell of coffee and breakfast without having to lift a finger.
To surprise Mom with an elegant homemade dinner, make Fettuccine with Garlic Shrimp. It’s affordable, easy, and impressive. The beauty is in the effort, not the perfection. Mom will appreciate the gesture, even if the kitchen looks messy afterward.
Make sure to include the kiddos in the kitchen. Here are 21 Fun Foods to Make with Kids for Mother’s Day from BuzzFeed. From a sweet, heart-shaped eggs and toast breakfast to flower-shaped tea sandwiches, you got this, Dad.
Don’t underestimate the power of a pretty drink to elevate your Mother’s Day meal. Create visually appealing beverages like strawberry-basil lemonade served in elegant glassware or mimosas garnished with fresh fruit skewers. For non-alcoholic options, make any one of these dazzling 30 Mocktail Recipes You’ll Want to Mix Up All the Time from Food Network. Remember, we eat (and drink) with our eyes first.
No celebration is complete without something sweet to cap it off. Choose a dessert that reflects Mom’s taste preferences whether she’s a chocolate enthusiast, a fruit dessert devotee, or a fan of classic baked goods. Our Cream Cheese and Berry Tart is a fun dessert to make, and the only thing that needs baking is the pie crust. Once the crust is baked and cooled, all you have to do is assemble the pie and put it in the fridge until you’re ready to dig in! Or, if Mom is more into cake, you may want to bake our Hummingbird Cake. This classic southern cake is a springtime favorite, featuring tropical fruit flavors and nuts.
Or take your pick from these 40 Mother’s Day Desserts That Are So Easy to Make from Woman’s Day, then head to the pantry and grab the sugar, cooking oil, and other baking staples. Dad, if you’re feeling extra chef-y, try The Best and The Easiest Classic Crème Brûlée from Averie Cooks. And as a bonus, you get to use a torch! (Just use the right kind of torch. It’s linked in the recipe.)
While the food is important, the most meaningful gift is your presence and attention. Create an atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection. Put away the phones, play Mom’s favorite music softly in the background, and share favorite memories or express gratitude for specific ways she has impacted your lives. After all, the most memorable flavors are often tied to the moments of joy shared around the table.