Ah, Thanksgiving! The time of year when we gather with loved ones, share hearty meals, and of course, indulge in delightful desserts. But let’s be real—who wants to stress over complicated recipes when you can whip up easy desserts for Thanksgiving? Trust me, I’ve been there, juggling turkey and mashed potatoes while trying to perfect a fancy pie. That’s why I adore these simple recipes that bring joy without the fuss. They’re not just quick to make; they’re also crowd-pleasers that leave everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make this holiday deliciously memorable with some effortless sweet treats!
Ingredients for Easy Desserts Thanksgiving
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This will be the base of our dessert, giving it structure and a lovely texture.
- 1 cup sugar – Sweetness is key, and this will help balance out the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup butter – Always go for unsalted butter; it adds richness without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree – The star ingredient that brings moisture and that warm fall flavor we all love.
- 2 large eggs – They help bind everything together and add a touch of fluffiness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of this will elevate the flavor and make everything taste even better!
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – This is our leavening agent, ensuring our dessert rises just right.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A warm spice that’s quintessential for Thanksgiving flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Just a hint adds a lovely depth and warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
How to Prepare Easy Desserts Thanksgiving
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key to making sure your dessert bakes evenly and comes out perfectly!
- While the oven is warming up, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together until they’re well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure the butter is nice and creamy before you add the pumpkin; this helps everything blend beautifully!
- Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will keep your dessert nice and fluffy!
- Next, grease your favorite baking dish (an 8×8 inch pan works great) and pour in the batter, spreading it evenly. Look at that gorgeous color!
- Pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Wow, the smell will be heavenly!
- Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool in the pan for a bit before transferring to a wire rack. Patience is key here—let it cool completely before serving so all those delightful flavors have time to settle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super quick to prepare—just 15 minutes of hands-on time, so you can focus on the turkey and other sides!
- Delicious flavors that scream Thanksgiving, thanks to the pumpkin and warm spices—your guests will be raving!
- Crowd-pleasing appeal; everyone loves a good dessert, and this one is sure to be a hit at your holiday table.
- Versatile enough to serve warm or at room temperature, making it easy to fit into your serving schedule.
- Perfect for leftovers—if there are any! It stays moist and flavorful for days.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, making it an effortless choice.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. This helps it cream together nicely with the other ingredients, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix your batter! Stir just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense dessert, and we want it light and fluffy.
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cloves or ginger along with the cinnamon and nutmeg. It’ll elevate those warm fall spices even more!
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter, you’re good to go!
- If you want to make this dessert ahead of time, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container once it has cooled. Just reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving!
- Lastly, don’t forget the whipped cream on top! It adds that perfect creamy contrast to the warm, spiced dessert and makes it feel extra special.
Variations of Easy Desserts Thanksgiving
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Stir in about 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, chocolatey twist that everyone will adore!
- Spiced Up: Want to kick it up a notch? Add half a teaspoon of ground ginger or cloves for a more complex flavor profile that dances on your palate.
- Nuts for Nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft, moist texture of the dessert.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over the top once it’s cooled for an extra layer of sweetness and a nod to classic fall flavors.
- Fruit Fusion: Try mixing in some dried cranberries or raisins for a pop of tartness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- Cheesecake Swirl: For a decadent twist, dollop some cream cheese mixture (just cream cheese, sugar, and a bit of vanilla) on top of the batter before baking and swirl it in for a cheesecake effect!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each slice of this delicious dessert, which serves 8:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 15g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients. Depending on specific brands or any variations you might add, the nutritional content may vary slightly. But overall, you can enjoy this tasty treat without too much guilt! Perfect for a Thanksgiving feast!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious dessert ready, let’s talk about how to make your Thanksgiving spread even more inviting! Here are some simple yet satisfying ideas to serve alongside your easy desserts for Thanksgiving:
- Whipped Cream or Cool Whip: A classic pairing! Serve a generous dollop on top of each slice for that creamy contrast—trust me, it elevates the whole experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Warm dessert with cold ice cream? Yes, please! The melting ice cream creates a delightful mix of flavors and temperatures.
- Spiced Nuts: Offer a small bowl of spiced pecans or walnuts on the side. They add a nice crunch and a bit of savory to balance out the sweetness of the dessert.
- Fresh Fruit: Slices of apple or pears can brighten the plate and add a refreshing touch. Plus, they’re seasonal and look beautiful!
- Coffee or Tea: Brew a pot of your favorite coffee or a cozy herbal tea to accompany the dessert—nothing beats a warm beverage with a sweet treat!
- Cheese Platter: A small cheese board with creamy brie or sharp cheddar can offer a delightful contrast to the sweet flavors of your dessert.
These serving suggestions will not only enhance your dessert but also create a delightful dining experience that invites everyone to linger at the table just a little longer. Enjoy the holiday vibes!
FAQ About Easy Desserts Thanksgiving
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just roast it until tender, scoop out the flesh, and puree it. It adds a lovely, fresh flavor to your dessert!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cool before sealing it up. Trust me, it still tastes great!
Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. For the eggs, a flaxseed or chia seed substitute works well!
What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can use mashed sweet potatoes or even applesauce. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor and texture.
Is it possible to freeze this dessert?
Definitely! Once it’s completely cooled, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve got some delicious easy desserts for Thanksgiving, it’s important to know how to store leftovers properly so you can enjoy every last bite! Here’s how to keep your treats fresh:
- Storing Leftovers: Once your dessert has completely cooled, slice it into portions and place them in an airtight container. This helps maintain moisture and prevents it from drying out. You can also wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap if you prefer.
- Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember to let it cool down completely before sealing it up to avoid condensation.
- Freezing: If you want to savor your dessert even longer, you can freeze it! Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, they’ll keep for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label your container with the date!
- Thawing: To enjoy your frozen dessert, simply move a slice to the refrigerator the night before you want to eat it. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave; just heat in short intervals (15-20 seconds) until warmed through.
- Reheating: If you love your dessert warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place your slice on a baking sheet. Warm it for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat—just be cautious not to overdo it, as it can dry out!
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your easy desserts for Thanksgiving days after the celebration, keeping the festive spirit alive with every bite!
Print
easy desserts thanksgiving: 7 simple treats to wow guests
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A collection of easy dessert recipes for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat butter, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream.
- You can add chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: easy desserts thanksgiving
