Thanksgiving is such a magical time of year, isn’t it? Families gather around the table, sharing stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food. While pies are a classic staple, I’ve noticed more and more people on the hunt for *Thanksgiving desserts that aren’t pie*. And let me tell you, I totally get it! As much as I adore a good slice of pumpkin or pecan pie, sometimes you just want something a little different. That’s where this chocolate cake comes in! It’s rich, moist, and incredibly satisfying. I remember the first time I whipped it up for a family gathering; it was gone in minutes! Trust me, this dessert is sure to impress your guests and add a sweet twist to your holiday feast.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful chocolate cake that’s perfect for Thanksgiving (or any day, really!). Make sure to gather everything before you start; it makes the process so much smoother!

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cake, giving it structure and a delightful crumb.
• 1 cup of granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! This will help balance the rich chocolate flavor.
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder: Use a good quality cocoa for that deep, chocolatey taste. Trust me, it makes a difference!
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda: This is your leavening agent, helping the cake rise beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt: A little salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 1 cup of buttermilk: This adds moisture and a lovely tang. If you don’t have any, don’t worry! You can make a quick substitute (more on that later).
• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil: Oil keeps the cake super moist. You could also use melted butter for extra flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs help bind everything together and add richness.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: This is the magic ingredient that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips: These little gems add pockets of melty chocolate throughout the cake. Yum!

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Desserts Not Pie

Let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious chocolate cake! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that’ll steal the spotlight at your Thanksgiving table. It’s super easy, I promise!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises perfectly. So, go ahead and set that temperature while you gather your ingredients!

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Use a whisk or a fork to blend them together well. You want everything to be evenly mixed so that your cake has a consistent texture. I just love how the cocoa powder brings a deep, rich color to the mix!

Combining Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients until they’re well combined. The buttermilk adds such a lovely tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cake. Don’t skip on the vanilla; it really enhances the overall flavor!

Merging Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together! Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined—don’t overdo it! A few lumps are totally fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and fluffy!

Adding Chocolate Chips

Here comes the best part—folding in the chocolate chips! Use a spatula and gently incorporate them into the batter. This step is essential because those melted chocolate chips will create delicious pockets of gooey chocolate throughout your cake. Yum!

Baking the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan, making sure it’s spread evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready! The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly, I promise!

Cooling and Serving

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This is important because it helps set the texture. When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and don’t forget to pair it with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for that extra indulgence. Your guests will be raving about this dessert long after the holiday is over!

Tips for Success

To ensure your chocolate cake turns out perfectly, I’ve gathered some of my favorite tips and tricks that I’ve learned along the way. These little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference, so let’s dive in!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: If possible, let your eggs and buttermilk sit out for about 30 minutes before using them. Room temperature ingredients mix together better and help create a fluffier cake!
• Don’t Overmix: Remember, when combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture, and we want that light, moist cake!
• Check Your Oven: Every oven is a little different, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. If you have an oven thermometer, use it to ensure your temperature is spot-on.
• Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving. This helps maintain its structure and makes it easier to slice. Plus, it gives the flavors a chance to develop!
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative! You can add nuts, dried fruit, or even swap out the chocolate chips for white chocolate or peanut butter chips for a different twist.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which I doubt will happen!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for about a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking a delicious chocolate cake that will wow everyone at your Thanksgiving gathering! Enjoy the process and happy baking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you have this scrumptious chocolate cake ready to go, let’s talk about how to elevate your Thanksgiving dessert experience! I love to serve it with a few delicious accompaniments that will make everyone at the table smile.

• Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and airy touch that perfectly balances the rich chocolate flavor. You can even add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for that extra flair!
• Ice Cream: You can’t go wrong with a scoop of vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream alongside your warm cake. The melty goodness is just heavenly! If you’re feeling adventurous, try a salted caramel flavor to add a sweet and salty twist.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of seasonal fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake. They’re like little bursts of joy on the plate!
• Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle some warm chocolate ganache over each slice for a decadent finish that chocolate lovers will swoon over. Just melt some chocolate with heavy cream, and you’ve got yourself a luscious topping.
• Nut Topping: Toasted chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, sprinkled on top can add a wonderful crunch and depth of flavor. They also bring that cozy, holiday vibe to the table!

Mix and match these suggestions to create a dessert spread that’s as delightful as it is delicious. Your guests will be raving about this chocolate cake and its tasty companions long after the last bite has been savored!

Nutritional Information

Let’s take a moment to talk about the nutritional values of this delicious chocolate cake! While it’s certainly a treat, it’s nice to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical values per slice, but keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 20g
• Protein: 4g

So, there you have it! This cake is a delightful treat that balances flavor and satisfaction. Just remember to enjoy it in moderation, and you’ll be all set for a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration!

FAQ Section

Can I make this dessert in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, this chocolate cake is perfect for making a day ahead of time. Just bake it, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container at room temperature. The flavors actually develop more overnight, making it even more delicious! When you’re ready to serve, you can frost it or add your toppings just before presenting it to your guests.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No worries at all! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make your own. Just add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup and then fill it up with milk until you reach the 1-cup line. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, and there you go! This simple substitute will work just as well in your cake, keeping it moist and adding that lovely tang.

Can I use different chocolate chips?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your chocolate choices. You can use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor, or even white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing different types—like semi-sweet and milk chocolate—for a delightful flavor combo. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level might change a bit, so adjust accordingly if you’re adding something super sweet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This chocolate cake comes together in no time, making it a perfect last-minute dessert for your Thanksgiving feast.
• Rich Flavor: With its deep chocolate taste and tender crumb, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Appealing to Non-Pie Lovers: If you have guests who aren’t fans of pie, this cake is the ideal alternative that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Toppings: You can dress it up with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries, allowing for endless serving possibilities!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it a day in advance and let the flavors deepen overnight—it’s a win-win for your holiday prep!
• Decadent Chocolate Chips: The pockets of melted chocolate throughout the cake create an irresistible texture that keeps every bite exciting.

Thanksgiving Desserts Not Pie: 7 Irresistible Alternatives

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious Thanksgiving desserts that are not pie.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of buttermilk
• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla.
4. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour the batter into a greased cake pan.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let it cool before serving.

Notes

• Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• This dessert can be made a day in advance.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: thanksgiving desserts, chocolate cake, holiday desserts, non-pie desserts