thanksgiving dessert recipes to Enchant Your Holiday Feast

Name: thanksgiving dessert recipes to Enchant Your Holiday Feast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour; 1 cup of sugar; 1/2 cup of butter; 1 cup of pumpkin puree; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon of baking powder; 1 teaspoon of cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon of salt

November 18, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when the air is filled with the aroma of roasted turkey, and the warmth of family and friends surrounds us. But let’s be real—what’s Thanksgiving without a stunning dessert to cap off the feast? I still remember my first pumpkin pie—I was just a kid, but it felt like a slice of heaven. Those sweet spices, creamy filling, and flaky crust made my heart skip a beat! That’s why I’m thrilled to share these *thanksgiving dessert recipes* with you. They’re not just delicious; they’re a way to create those unforgettable moments around the table, celebrating love, gratitude, and, of course, a little indulgence. Trust me, your loved ones will be begging for seconds! Let’s dive in, shall we?

Ingredients for Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes

2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 cup of granulated sugar
1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
1 cup of pumpkin puree (make sure it’s pure, not the spiced pie filling!)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon of salt

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delightful dessert! It’s all about the rhythm of mixing and baking—so grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your dessert bakes evenly. A hot oven means the batter will rise beautifully, creating that wonderful texture we all love!

Cream Butter and Sugar

Now, in a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Trust me, this is where the magic begins! Creaming incorporates air into the mixture, giving your dessert that lovely, tender crumb.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. The order matters here—this way, you’ll create a smooth and well-blended mixture that’s packed with flavor!

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures that the baking powder and spices are evenly distributed, which is key to achieving that perfect rise and flavor throughout.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, it’s time to incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Do this gradually, folding the flour mix into the pumpkin blend until just combined. Be gentle here—you don’t want to overmix, or you’ll lose that tender texture!

Bake the Dessert

Pour the batter into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!

Cooling and Serving

Once it’s done baking, let it cool in the dish for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack. It’s crucial to let it cool completely before cutting—this helps it set properly. And don’t forget, a dollop of whipped cream on top is a must for that extra indulgence! Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick prep time—just 15 minutes to get everything ready!
Delightful flavors of pumpkin and warm spices that scream Thanksgiving.
Perfect for feeding a crowd with 12 generous servings.
It fills your home with an irresistible aroma while baking.
Easy to make, so even beginner bakers will shine!
Versatile enough to serve as dessert or a sweet breakfast treat.
Can be made ahead of time and stored, freeing you up on the big day.
Pairs beautifully with whipped cream, adding that extra touch of indulgence.
It’s a comforting dessert that brings everyone together around the table.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to bake this delicious Thanksgiving dessert, here are a few tips to ensure it turns out perfectly! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps them mix in better and leads to a fluffier texture.
Don’t Skip the Spices: Fresh spices can elevate the flavor. If you have whole nutmeg, grate it fresh for an unbeatable taste!
Storage Tips: If you’re making this ahead of time, you can wrap the cooled dessert tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Mixing Technique: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, fold gently rather than stirring vigorously. This keeps the batter light and airy!
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your dessert as it bakes. Ovens can vary, and the last thing you want is a dry dessert! Start checking for doneness a few minutes early.
Experiment with Toppings: While whipped cream is a classic, think about adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for a delightful twist.
Make it Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Just be sure to double-check that your baking powder is gluten-free too!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Thanksgiving dessert that’s not just good, but truly unforgettable. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a quick note: nutritional values can vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, so the information provided here is approximate and not exact. For a typical serving size of one slice, you can expect around 180 calories, with 12g of sugar and 7g of fat. Remember, these values can change, so feel free to adjust based on your preferences and any ingredient substitutions you make. Happy indulging!

FAQ About Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes

Can I substitute the pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If you can’t find pumpkin puree, sweet potato puree works wonderfully too. Just make sure it’s pure and not a spiced filling. You can also try using mashed banana for a unique twist, but the flavor will be different.

What if I don’t have baking powder?
No worries! You can make a substitute by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice for every teaspoon of baking powder needed. This combo will give your dessert that lovely rise!

How can I make this dessert healthier?
If you want to lighten it up, consider reducing the sugar by a third or using a sugar substitute. You can also replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. It’ll still be delicious but a tad healthier!

Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, you can make it a day or two ahead of time! Just let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. This way, you’ll free up time on Thanksgiving Day!

How should I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving again. It’s just as tasty the next day!

Can I freeze this dessert?
Definitely! Wrap the cooled dessert tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, and it’ll taste freshly baked!

What toppings do you recommend?
I love serving this dessert with a generous dollop of whipped cream—it’s a classic! But feel free to get creative with toppings like caramel sauce, chopped pecans, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for that extra festive touch!

With these FAQs, I hope you feel more confident diving into your Thanksgiving dessert adventure. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and delicious aromas!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful Thanksgiving dessert, let’s talk about how to take it to the next level when it comes to serving! The right accompaniments can really enhance the experience and make your dessert the star of the show.

Whipped Cream: This is a classic for a reason! A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the rich pumpkin flavors beautifully. You can even add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra festive flair.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice can elevate your dessert from delicious to decadent. The sweet, buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with pumpkin!
Ice Cream: For a warm and cold contrast, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. Seriously, the creaminess of the ice cream against the warm pumpkin cake is a match made in heaven!
Chopped Nuts: If you’re looking for a bit of crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top. They add a lovely texture and a nutty flavor that complements the spices in the dessert.
Fruit Compote: A warm cranberry or apple compote can add a delicious tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake. Plus, it adds a lovely pop of color to your plate!
Festive Garnishes: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your presentation! Fresh mint leaves, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even edible flowers can make your dessert look as good as it tastes.
Hot Beverages: Pair your dessert with a warm drink like spiced apple cider, hot chocolate, or even a cozy chai tea. These beverages bring a comforting warmth to the table, making your dessert experience even cozier.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll not only wow your guests with the dessert itself but also create a memorable Thanksgiving spread that everyone will talk about long after the last slice is gone. Enjoy the celebrations!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.