Ah, Thanksgiving! A time for family, gratitude, and of course, delicious desserts! I’ve always believed that Thanksgiving desserts kids love can make the holiday even more special. I mean, what’s better than seeing their little faces light up when they dig into something sweet? This is the perfect opportunity to get them involved in the kitchen, mixing, pouring, and of course, licking the spoon! My go-to is a delightful pumpkin dessert that’s not only easy to make but also a total crowd-pleaser. Trust me, with just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dessert that brings everyone together around the table, ready to enjoy the holiday spirit. So, let’s dive into these scrumptious Thanksgiving treats that will keep the kiddos smiling all day long!
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Desserts Kids
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious pumpkin dessert that the kids will absolutely adore. Gather these ingredients before you start cooking, and you’ll be ready to create some magic in the kitchen!
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience or make your own by roasting a fresh pumpkin.
- 1 cup sugar: This sweetener will balance the flavors, giving that delightful sweetness we all love.
- 1 cup whipped cream: Perfect for topping! You can use store-bought or make your own by whipping heavy cream with a bit of sugar.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: These will form the crunchy base of our dessert. You can crush them yourself or buy pre-crushed for ease.
- 1/2 cup melted butter: This helps bind the crust together and gives it a rich flavor. Just melt it in the microwave or on the stove.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A warm spice that adds that cozy, fall flavor we all associate with Thanksgiving.
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: This will enhance the pumpkin flavor and bring a warm, aromatic touch to the recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all those wonderful flavors.
That’s it! Simple, right? Now that you’ve got everything, you’re halfway to a dessert that’s sure to be a hit with the kiddos!
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Desserts Kids
Now comes the fun part—let’s get cooking! This step-by-step guide will help you and the kids create a delightful pumpkin dessert that’s sure to bring smiles all around. Grab your aprons, and let’s get started!
- Preheat the oven: First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to bake!
- Make the crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix it all together until it resembles wet sand. This is where the kids can really get in there with their hands!
- Press the crust: Grab a pie pan and firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom and up the sides to create a lovely crust. Make sure it’s even and packed down nicely so it holds its shape.
- Bake the crust: Pop the pie pan in the oven and bake the crust for about 10 minutes. You want it to be a little golden and set, so keep an eye on it!
- Mix the filling: While the crust is baking, in another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This is where the magic happens! Let the kids stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Spread the filling: Once the crust is out of the oven and cooled slightly, carefully spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the crust. It’s okay if it’s not perfect; a little rustic charm is always welcome!
- Bake again: Place it back in the oven for an additional 25 minutes. The filling should be set and slightly puffed up. The aroma will be heavenly, I promise!
- Cool and serve: After baking, let the dessert cool down for a bit on the counter. Once it’s at room temperature, top it with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Kids love this part—let them add as much as they want!
And there you have it! A delicious Thanksgiving dessert that kids will adore. It’s easy enough for them to help with, and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, this dessert comes together in no time, perfect for busy Thanksgiving preparations!
- Fun for Kids: The process of mixing, pressing, and topping with whipped cream is a delightful way for kids to get hands-on in the kitchen.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and creamy whipped topping creates a flavor that’s simply irresistible to both kids and adults.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe by adding different spices or toppings, making it a fun project for the whole family!
- Perfect for Sharing: This dessert serves 8, making it an ideal sweet treat to share with family and friends during the holiday feast.
- Festive and Fun: It’s a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table, and the kids will love showing off their delicious creation!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to make this delicious pumpkin dessert, here are some handy tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will make the process smooth and fun, especially with kids in the kitchen.
- Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary, so it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the right temperature. If it’s too hot, the crust might burn before the filling sets!
- Chill the whipped cream: If you’re making your own whipped cream, chill the mixing bowl and beaters for a few minutes before whipping. This helps it whip up nice and fluffy!
- Get kids involved: Let the kids help with measuring and mixing. They’ll love being part of the process, and it makes for great bonding time. Plus, it’s fun to let them decorate with the whipped cream!
- Experiment with spices: If your kiddos love a little extra flavor, try adding a pinch of ginger or allspice to the filling for a unique twist on the classic pumpkin taste.
- Don’t skip the cooling: Allow the dessert to cool completely before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice. Plus, the flavors have more time to meld together!
- Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers (though I doubt it!), cover the dessert with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to three days. It’s just as tasty cold!
With these tips, you’re all set for a fun and successful cooking adventure. Enjoy the process, and get ready for some yummy results that the kids will absolutely love!
Variations of Thanksgiving Desserts Kids
Now, let’s get creative with our pumpkin dessert! The great thing about this recipe is how easy it is to mix things up and keep the kids engaged with new flavors. Here are some fun variations that’ll make your Thanksgiving desserts a little different and even more exciting!
- Sweet Potato Twist: Swap out the pumpkin puree for sweet potato puree. It has a similar texture but brings a slightly different flavor that kids might enjoy!
- Spice it Up: Add some ginger or allspice to the filling for an extra kick. It’s a nice surprise that adds depth to the classic pumpkin flavor.
- Chocolate Delight: Mix in some chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling. Chocolate and pumpkin might sound unusual, but trust me, kids go crazy for the chocolatey twist!
- Fruit Fusion: Layer sliced apples or pears on top of the pumpkin filling before baking. The fruit adds a lovely texture and a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spices.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before adding the whipped cream. It adds a delightful crunch that kids will love!
- Mini Versions: Use muffin tins to make mini pumpkin desserts instead of a pie. These bite-sized treats are perfect for little hands and can be decorated with fun toppings!
These variations not only make the dessert more interesting but also allow the kids to experiment and express their creativity in the kitchen. So, don’t be afraid to try something new—get the kiddos involved and see what delicious combinations you can come up with together!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delightful pumpkin dessert, and now you’ve got some leftovers (if there are any!). Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered on how to keep them fresh and tasty for later!
To store your delicious pumpkin dessert, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This will help prevent it from drying out and keep those lovely flavors intact. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days—perfect for enjoying a sweet treat after the big feast!
When it comes to reheating, you’ll want to be gentle. I recommend slicing a piece and microwaving it for about 15-20 seconds, just until it’s warmed through. Be careful not to overheat it, or the texture might get a bit spongey. If you prefer it cold, that’s totally fine too! It’s delicious served straight from the fridge, especially with that whipped cream on top.
And there you have it! Easy storage and reheating tips to ensure you can enjoy this Thanksgiving dessert kids will love long after the holiday festivities are over. Happy snacking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s take a quick look at the nutritional values for this delightful pumpkin dessert. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. Here’s what you can expect per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
This dessert is not only a sweet treat but also provides a nice balance of flavors and nutrients. Enjoy it in moderation as part of your Thanksgiving feast, and let the kids indulge just a little bit more on this special occasion!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, feel free to use a store-bought pie crust. It’s a great shortcut! You can also experiment with graham cracker crusts made from other cookies, like chocolate or vanilla wafers, for a fun twist.
What if I don’t like pumpkin?
No problem at all! You can easily swap the pumpkin puree for sweet potato puree or even applesauce. Both options will still give you that delightful fall flavor kids love, while keeping it festive!
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! This pumpkin dessert can be made a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This actually gives the flavors a chance to meld together, making it even more delicious!
How do I know when the dessert is done baking?
You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and slightly puffed up, and the edges might be just a bit golden. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Remember, don’t worry if it looks a little rustic; it’ll still taste amazing!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover slices! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. It’s a great way to savor the holiday flavors a little longer!
Thanksgiving Desserts Kids Will Adore in 7 Simple Steps
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and fun Thanksgiving desserts that kids will love.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl.
- Press the mixture into a pie pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Spread the pumpkin mixture over the crust.
- Bake for an additional 25 minutes.
- Let it cool and top with whipped cream before serving.
Notes
- Use store-bought crust for a quicker option.
- Kids can help with mixing and decorating.
- Substitute pumpkin with sweet potato for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: thanksgiving desserts kids
