Oh, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when we gather around the table, surrounded by family, friends, and the warm aroma of delicious food. And let me tell you, the desserts are the stars of the show! There’s something so special about sharing sweet treats, from pumpkin pie to pecan bars, that just makes the holiday feel complete. When I think of *desserts Thanksgiving*, I can’t help but smile, remembering the joy they bring to our celebrations. This is the moment when we indulge in creamy, spiced flavors that wrap us in a cozy embrace. So, if you’re looking to impress your guests with a dessert that’s both delightful and easy to make, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into a recipe that’s sure to become a cherished part of your Thanksgiving tradition.
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
How to Prepare Desserts Thanksgiving
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 even cooking throughout your dessert. If you don’t preheat, you might find that the batter doesn’t rise properly or ends up with a weird texture. Trust me, starting with a hot oven is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown finish!
Mix Wet Ingredients
Now, let’s get those wet ingredients together! In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes, and wow, it smells amazing! Then, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. The pumpkin will add that beautiful color and flavor, making your dessert irresistible.
Combine Dry Ingredients
While that’s coming together, grab another bowl for the dry ingredients. Combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Give it a good whisk to ensure everything is mixed evenly. This step is essential because it helps distribute the leavening agents and spices, ensuring every bite has that delicious flavor.
Combine Mixtures
Now comes the fun part! Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. I like to do this in thirds, mixing gently until just combined. Don’t overmix—let those ingredients come together without getting too worked up! Once it’s looking good, fold in the chopped walnuts. They add a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft, spiced batter.
Bake the Mixture
Pour your beautifully mixed batter into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into that preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. I always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go! The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for dessert.
Cool and Serve
Once it’s done baking, take it out and let it cool in the dish for about 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps the dessert set up perfectly. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and don’t forget to top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for that extra touch of heaven. Your guests will be raving about it long after the last bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super quick to prepare, giving you more time to enjoy the holiday festivities!
- The flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg create a warm, cozy taste that’s perfect for Thanksgiving.
- With just a handful of ingredients, it’s an easy recipe that anyone can master—no baking expertise required!
- This dessert is not only delicious but also looks gorgeous on the table, making it a stunning centerpiece.
- It’s versatile—serve it warm, chilled, or with your favorite toppings like whipped cream or ice cream!
- Your house will smell heavenly as it bakes, creating that inviting holiday atmosphere we all love.
- Perfect for sharing, it yields 8 generous servings, so you can easily feed a crowd!
- This recipe can easily be doubled, making it ideal for larger gatherings or holiday feasts.
Tips for Success
- Soften Your Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before you start mixing. This helps achieve that light and fluffy texture when creaming with sugar. If you forget to take it out in advance, just pop it in the microwave for about 10 seconds—just don’t let it melt!
- Fresh Spices Matter: Using fresh ground spices like cinnamon and nutmeg can take your dessert to the next level. They pack way more flavor than those old jars sitting in the back of your pantry. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, and we want that lovely, cake-like fluffiness! It’s all about being gentle.
- Check for Doneness: Remember to use a toothpick to check if it’s done baking. Insert it into the center, and if it comes out clean, it’s ready! If there’s a bit of batter stuck to it, give it a few more minutes. Better safe than sorry!
- Let It Cool: Allowing the dessert to cool for a bit before serving helps it set properly. Plus, it’s easier to slice when it’s not piping hot! You want those perfect pieces for your Thanksgiving table.
- Get Creative with Toppings: While whipped cream and ice cream are classic choices, consider adding caramel sauce, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra special touch. It’s all about making it your own!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the deliciousness packed into each serving of this festive dessert! Keep in mind that these values are typical estimates per piece, so adjust accordingly if you decide to indulge a bit more or share with friends.
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 3g
These numbers make it easy to enjoy your dessert guilt-free while savoring the flavors of Thanksgiving. Just remember, everyone’s needs are different, so feel free to adjust your portions to fit your dietary preferences. Happy indulging!
FAQ Section
Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, just roast it, scoop out the flesh, and puree it until smooth. It gives a lovely homemade touch to your dessert. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture!
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you’re not a fan of walnuts or have a nut allergy, feel free to substitute with chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even sunflower seeds! They’ll all add a delightful twist to the flavors.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, or in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up! You can also freeze it for longer storage—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake it a day in advance and keep it covered at room temperature. Just remember to let it cool completely before wrapping it up. It’s perfect for making your Thanksgiving prep a little easier!
What’s the best way to serve this dessert?
I love serving it warm with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce or sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top. It’s all about making it feel festive!
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe is easy to double. Just use a larger baking dish and keep an eye on the baking time, as it may take a bit longer in a larger quantity. More delicious dessert for everyone!
Desserts Thanksgiving: 7 Irresistible Treats for Joy
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious desserts perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix butter and sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs and mix well.
- Stir in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Fold in chopped walnuts.
- Pour the 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 or ice cream.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: desserts, thanksgiving, pumpkin dessert
