Welcome to the wonderful world of Thanksgiving desserts! There’s something so magical about gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing stories and laughter over a feast that ends with delicious Thanksgiving desserts. For me, these treats have always been the highlight of the holiday—think warm, fragrant pumpkin pie fresh from the oven, its spices wrapping around you like a cozy hug. Every year, I look forward to the smiles and satisfied sighs that follow that first bite. It’s a tradition that brings us all together, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making your own delightful desserts. Trust me, you’ll want to add these to your Thanksgiving spread—they’re simply irresistible!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 pre-made pie crust
How to Prepare Delicious Thanksgiving Desserts
Preheat the Oven
First things first—let’s get that oven preheating! You’ll want to set it to 425°F (220°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your pie bakes evenly and develops that lovely golden crust. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Mixing Ingredients
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and let’s get to the fun part! Start by combining the pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. I like to use a whisk for this, but a sturdy spoon will do just fine. Make sure everything is well mixed—those spices should be evenly distributed to create that warm, cozy flavor we all adore. Once that’s done, it’s time to add the evaporated milk and eggs. Mix until everything is beautifully combined and smooth. You’re going to love the smell wafting through your kitchen!
Pouring and Baking
Carefully pour that luscious mixture into your pre-made pie crust. I usually set the crust on a baking sheet to catch any drips—just a little precaution to save you from a messy oven! Now, pop that pie in the oven and let it bake at 425°F for the first 15 minutes. This initial high temperature helps set the crust and gives it a delightful crunch. After that, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are firm and the center has just a slight jiggle.
Cooling and Serving
Once your pie is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool. I know it’s hard to resist, but cooling is essential for the filling to set properly. Ideally, let it cool for at least an hour. When you’re ready to serve, don’t forget the whipped cream! A dollop on top adds the perfect creamy touch to this classic Thanksgiving dessert. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious pumpkin pie in no time!
- Easy ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry, making it super convenient.
- Rich flavors: The combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and a buttery crust creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- Perfect ending: This pie makes for a stunning finale to your Thanksgiving meal, leaving everyone asking for seconds.
- Tradition meets simplicity: It’s a classic recipe that honors the tradition of Thanksgiving while being easy enough for anyone to make.
- Crowd-pleaser: I’ve never met anyone who could resist a slice of this pie—it’s a guaranteed hit with family and friends!
Tips for Success
If you want your Thanksgiving dessert to be absolutely perfect, I’ve got some pro tips to share! First and foremost, make sure your pumpkin puree is not too watery. If you’re using homemade puree, draining any excess liquid can make a world of difference in texture and flavor. Nobody wants a soggy pie, right?
Another great tip is to taste your spice mix before adding it to the filling. Feel free to adjust the cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to match your personal preference. This is your pie, after all! If you’re looking for a crust alternative, consider using a graham cracker or gingersnap crust for a fun twist. It adds a delicious crunch and a bit of extra flavor.
Also, keep an eye on your baking times. Ovens can vary quite a bit, so it’s a good idea to check your pie a little early to avoid overbaking. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs when it’s done. Lastly, let it cool completely before slicing for the best presentation. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just an estimate. Each slice of this delicious pumpkin pie typically contains around 320 calories, with 14 grams of fat, including 7 grams of saturated fat. You’ll also find about 20 grams of sugar and 45 grams of carbohydrates per slice. Plus, it packs a modest 5 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber. While it’s a delightful treat, it’s always a good idea to enjoy it in moderation, especially during the holiday season. Remember, balance is key when indulging in those delicious Thanksgiving desserts!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pumpkin pie can be made a day in advance, which makes it perfect for Thanksgiving prep. Just let it cool completely after baking, then cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. It tastes just as delicious the next day!
What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?
If you can’t find pumpkin puree, you can use butternut squash puree or sweet potato puree as a great alternative. Both will give you a similar texture and flavor profile. Just make sure they are pureed well to keep that smooth filling!
How do I store leftovers?
To store any leftover pumpkin pie, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last about 3 to 4 days. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before serving, or you can pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up!
Can I freeze the pumpkin pie?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What can I serve with this pie?
This pumpkin pie is delightful on its own, but I highly recommend serving it with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for that added festive touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover pumpkin pie is super simple! Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, so you can enjoy those delicious Thanksgiving desserts a little longer. If you want to keep it for a while, you can also freeze the pie. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can safely be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw your pie in the refrigerator overnight. For the best experience, serve it at room temperature or warm it up in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Trust me, a warm slice with a dollop of whipped cream is pure bliss!
Print
Delicious Thanksgiving Desserts: 5 Irresistible Favorites
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A selection of delicious desserts perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 pre-made pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Add evaporated milk and eggs; mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40-50 minutes.
- Cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream.
- Can be made a day in advance.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: thanksgiving desserts, pumpkin pie, holiday desserts
