Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing laughter, and indulging in delicious food. But what if you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s also dairy-free? That’s where my Dairy-Free Thanksgiving Dessert comes in! This creamy, pumpkin-filled treat is not only a showstopper, but it’s also incredibly simple to make. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you’ll create a velvety filling that’s perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings without any dairy. Trust me, this dessert will have everyone asking for seconds, and you’ll be the hero of the holiday! So, let’s dive into this festive recipe that everyone can enjoy!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, grab a medium saucepan and pour in the 2 cups of almond milk and 1 cup of coconut cream. Heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it starts to warm up but isn’t boiling yet.
- Next, sprinkle in 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Now, here’s the fun part: whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth. You want to make sure there are no lumps, so whisk like you mean it!
- Once it’s all combined, stir in the 1 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Keep stirring until everything is beautifully blended.
- Now, let’s get that mixture cooking! Keep it on the heat, stirring constantly, for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll notice it start to thicken up, which is exactly what we want!
- Once it reaches a lovely, creamy consistency, pour the mixture into your favorite pie crust. I love using a gluten-free crust here, but you can use whatever you fancy. Then, pop it into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to set up nicely.
- When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and enjoy it chilled. For that extra touch, feel free to top it with some dairy-free whipped cream. Trust me, it’s a slice of heaven!
Nutritional Information
Each slice of this delightful Dairy-Free Thanksgiving Dessert is packed with flavor while keeping things light. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 20g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But rest assured, you’re indulging in a delicious treat that fits perfectly into your holiday spread without any guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick and easy to make—perfect for busy Thanksgiving preparations!
- This dessert is rich and creamy, delivering all the fall flavors you crave without any dairy.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that caters to various dietary needs, making it suitable for vegan guests.
- The pumpkin flavor shines through, bringing that cozy, holiday vibe to your dessert table.
- It can be made ahead of time, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities with family and friends.
- Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings, like dairy-free whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Dairy-Free Thanksgiving Dessert turns out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips I swear by:
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter filling, feel free to add a bit more sugar. Just do it gradually, tasting as you go, so you can find that perfect balance!
- Chill time is key: Don’t rush the refrigeration step. Letting it set for at least 4 hours (or even overnight if you can wait) makes for a creamier texture that’s absolutely dreamy.
- Experiment with spices: Want to amp up those fall flavors? Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the mixture when you stir in the pumpkin puree. It adds a lovely warmth!
- Top it off: For an extra special touch, consider garnishing with crushed pecans or a sprinkle of pumpkin spice right before serving. It brings a festive flair and a delightful crunch!
- Use quality ingredients: Since this dessert is all about the flavors, using good-quality almond milk and coconut cream can really elevate your dish. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Gluten-free crust: If you’re using a gluten-free crust, make sure it’s one that holds up well in the refrigerator. Some crusts can get soggy, so look for one that’s sturdy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to impressing everyone at your Thanksgiving table with this delightful dairy-free dessert!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, here are some fun variations to make this Dairy-Free Thanksgiving Dessert even more delightful:
- Spice it up: Add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the pumpkin mixture for an extra kick of flavor. It’ll really bring that cozy fall essence to the forefront!
- Chocolate lovers: Drizzle some dairy-free chocolate sauce over each slice before serving or fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the filling for a luscious twist.
- Nutty goodness: Stir in some finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
- Fruit infusion: Mix in a half cup of pureed apples or pears along with the pumpkin for a fruity twist that adds a new depth to the dessert.
- Coconut flair: If you love coconut, top your dessert with toasted coconut flakes for a delicious crunchy topping that complements the coconut cream beautifully.
- Layer it: Create a layered dessert by alternating the pumpkin filling with a layer of dairy-free chocolate mousse or a berry compote in individual cups for a stunning presentation!
Feel free to mix and match these variations based on your taste preferences and what you have on hand. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, so get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Dairy-Free Thanksgiving Dessert is super simple! Once it’s fully chilled and set, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days, which is perfect for enjoying those leftover slices after the holiday feast!
If you have any leftover pie crust, you can store that separately as well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from getting stale.
Now, if you’re planning to serve it later or want to save some for another occasion, you can also freeze it. Just slice it up, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and pop them into a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer a slice to the fridge the night before to let it thaw, or you can leave it out at room temperature for about an hour before serving. No reheating is necessary—this dessert is best served chilled!
By following these storage tips, you’ll ensure that your delicious dairy-free dessert remains as delightful as the day you made it. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! While I love almond milk for its creaminess, you can use any dairy-free milk you prefer, like oat or soy milk. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the flavor and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Just make sure to use a gluten-free pie crust, and you’re all set. This dessert will be a hit with everyone, regardless of their dietary needs!
How do I adjust the sweetness to my taste?
Feel free to taste the mixture before it sets. If you think it needs a bit more sweetness, just add a little more sugar gradually until you reach your desired flavor. Just remember to whisk it well!
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert actually benefits from being made in advance. Just let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or even overnight, for the best texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for coconut cream?
If you’re not a fan of coconut cream, you can use silken tofu blended until smooth for a different texture. It won’t have the same coconut flavor, but it will keep it dairy-free and creamy!
Dairy Free Thanksgiving Dessert: 5 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delicious dairy-free dessert perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1 cup coconut cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine almond milk and coconut cream over medium heat.
- Add sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
- Stir in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- Cook until mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour into a pie crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Serve chilled, optionally topped with dairy-free whipped cream.
Notes
- Use a gluten-free crust if needed.
- Adjust sugar to taste.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop and Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: dairy free thanksgiving dessert
