Thanksgiving fruit desserts are truly the highlight of our holiday meals! There’s just something about the burst of flavors from fresh fruits like berries, apples, and pears that adds a delightful twist to the traditional spread. I remember growing up, my grandmother would whip up her famous fruit pie every year, and the smell of it baking would fill the whole house with warmth and joy. It was our family’s special tradition, and I can still picture everyone gathered around the table, eagerly waiting for a slice. Trust me, these Thanksgiving fruit desserts are not just a treat; they bring everyone together in a sweet celebration of the season!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 cup diced apples (peeled and cored)
- 1 cup diced pears (peeled and cored)
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust based on fruit sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (adds warmth and spice)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the filling)
- 1 pre-made pie crust (for a quick and easy base)
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Fruit Desserts
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for getting that perfect golden crust!
- While the oven heats up, grab a large bowl and combine your mixed berries, diced apples, and diced pears. You’ll want to mix them gently to avoid smashing the berries.
- Next, sprinkle in the sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch over the fruit. Give it a good stir until everything is well coated and the juices start to mingle. This is where the magic begins, and trust me, the aroma will be heavenly!
- Now, carefully pour the luscious fruit mixture into the pre-made pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Don’t be shy; let those fruits shine!
- Pop it in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fruit is bubbly and the crust is beautifully golden brown. Yum!
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a bit before slicing. This helps the filling set up nicely, making it easier to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, so you won’t spend all day in the kitchen.
- Uses fresh fruit for vibrant flavors that everyone will adore.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, adding a colorful touch to your dessert table.
- Can be made in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the holiday.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to faces young and old!
Tips for Success
- Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruits you’re using; some fruits may need a little more or less.
- Let the dessert cool completely before slicing; this helps the filling set up nicely, making for cleaner cuts.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the dessert even more.
- If you want an extra touch, a sprinkle of cinnamon on top just before serving adds a lovely aroma!
Serving Suggestions
These Thanksgiving fruit desserts are incredibly versatile! You can pair them beautifully with a hearty turkey or glazed ham, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors. They also make a stunning festive centerpiece on your dessert table, drawing everyone in with their vibrant colors. If you want to elevate the experience, consider serving them alongside a rich scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for that extra indulgence. Trust me, it’s a match made in holiday heaven!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover Thanksgiving fruit desserts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can also freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. To reheat, pop a slice in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This way, you’ll bring back that delightful warmth and flavor, making it feel as fresh as the day you baked it!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this information is approximate. For each slice of this delicious Thanksgiving fruit dessert, you’re looking at about 180 calories, 7g of fat, 2g of protein, and 28g of carbohydrates. It’s a sweet treat that still fits nicely into a balanced meal. Enjoy with moderation and delight!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen fruit?
Absolutely! Frozen fruit works great in this recipe, just keep in mind that it might release a bit more juice than fresh fruit. If you go this route, you might want to adjust the sugar slightly to balance the flavors.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
No problem! Just swap out the pre-made pie crust for a gluten-free version, or you can make a simple almond flour crust at home. It’ll still deliver that delicious fruit filling you love!
What other fruits can I use?
Feel free to experiment! Peaches, cherries, or even cranberries can be fantastic additions or substitutes. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on how sweet or tart they are.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the fruit mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake the pie on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture and flavor.
How do I know when the pie is done?
Look for that bubbly filling and a golden crust! If the crust starts browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning while the filling continues to cook. Enjoy the sweet scent wafting through your kitchen as it bakes!

Thanksgiving Fruit Desserts: 5 Memorable Joyful Recipes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious selection of fruit desserts perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed berries
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1 cup diced pears
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 pre-made pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the berries, apples, and pears.
- Add sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch to the fruit mixture.
- Stir until well combined.
- Pour the fruit mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the fruit is bubbly and the crust is golden.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Can be made a day in advance.
- Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of the fruits.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: thanksgiving fruit desserts