Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when we gather with loved ones, share stories, and, of course, indulge in delicious food. For me, the dessert table is the heart of the celebration! There’s just something special about the warm aromas of spices wafting through the kitchen that makes my heart sing. This pumpkin dessert is a standout in my collection of *dessert recipes for Thanksgiving*. It’s not just easy to make—it’s packed with all those cozy flavors we love: cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger. And trust me, your guests will be begging for seconds! I remember the first time I made it; I couldn’t believe how quickly it disappeared. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create a dessert that will have everyone raving at your Thanksgiving feast!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
How to Prepare Dessert Recipes Thanksgiving
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your dessert bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy. Trust me, you don’t want to rush this part!
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and those wonderful spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This mix is where all the magic begins! Combining these dry ingredients first helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout the batter.
Cream Butter and Sugar
Now, grab another bowl and add your softened butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer or a good old-fashioned whisk, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. It’s like a warm hug for your dessert!
Combine Wet Ingredients
Next up, add in that delightful pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract to your creamed butter and sugar. Mix until everything is well blended. You want it to look smooth and inviting—like a cozy fall day!
Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Slowly and carefully, mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. I like to do this in parts, folding it in gently until it’s just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, and we want it light and airy!
Pour and Bake
Once everything’s beautifully mixed, pour the batter into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, you’re golden!
Cooling Process
Lastly, let your dessert cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling is crucial; it helps the flavors settle and enhances the texture. You’ll want to let it cool completely before diving in, but I know, it’s tough to wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time—ready in just 15 minutes!
- Super easy to make, even for beginner bakers.
- Packed with rich, warm flavors of fall.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings—everyone will love it!
- Deliciously moist and satisfying with every bite.
- Pairs beautifully with whipped cream for an extra treat.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this delightful pumpkin dessert is estimated to have about 180 calories. You’ll also find around 7g of fat, 3g of protein, and 25g of carbohydrates, making it a satisfying treat for your Thanksgiving table. Plus, it contains 10g of sugar and 1g of fiber, helping to keep your sweet tooth happy! Remember, these are estimates, and actual values may vary based on your specific ingredients and serving sizes.
Tips for Success
To make this pumpkin dessert truly shine, I recommend using high-quality pumpkin puree—homemade if you can swing it! It really amps up the flavor. Also, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature; this helps achieve that lovely creamy texture when you mix it with sugar. A quick tip: don’t overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added; just fold until combined to keep it light and fluffy. Lastly, let it cool completely before cutting into it. This not only makes slicing easier but enhances the flavor as well. Enjoy your baking adventure!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! You can use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. Just make sure to roast and blend the pumpkin until it’s smooth. It adds a wonderful freshness to the dessert, and I love using it when I have the time!
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This pumpkin dessert is perfect for making a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. This gives the flavors a chance to meld beautifully!
What toppings do you recommend?
Oh, the toppings are where you can get creative! I recommend serving it with a generous dollop of whipped cream, maybe some caramel drizzle, or even chopped nuts for a crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top never hurts either!
How should I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze individual pieces, just wrap them well!
Can I substitute any ingredients?
Sure! If you need to make substitutions, you can swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend if necessary. You can also use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that substitutions might change the texture slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your delicious pumpkin dessert, let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, which is perfect for snacking after your Thanksgiving feast! If you have leftovers and want to save them for later, you can freeze individual pieces. Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat—enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for a delightful treat!
Print
Dessert Recipes Thanksgiving: 7 Cozy Treats to Savor
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert recipe perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar.
- Add pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla to the butter mixture.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
- Pour batter into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream on top.
- Can be made a day in advance.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: dessert recipes thanksgiving
