Delicious Desserts for Thanksgiving Dinner Your Guests Will Love

octobre 24, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Ah, Thanksgiving dinner! It’s that magical time of year when friends and family gather around the table to share laughter, love, and, of course, an abundance of delicious food. And let me tell you, no Thanksgiving feast is complete without a standout dessert! This year, I’m so excited to share my go-to recipe for a scrumptious pumpkin dessert that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with cozy flavors that scream fall. Trust me, your guests will be begging for the recipe! The rich, creamy pumpkin paired with warm spices creates a comforting treat that feels like a warm hug. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful dessert that will have everyone talking long after the last bite is gone!

Ingredients for Desserts for Thanksgiving Dinner

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this fabulous dessert! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your dessert, giving it that lovely structure.
1 cup sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors. You can use granulated sugar for the best results.
1/2 cup unsalted butter: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar.
1 cup pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! Use canned or fresh, but make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
2 eggs: They help bind everything together, creating that perfect texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that warm, aromatic flavor that elevates your dessert.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This is your leavening agent, ensuring your dessert rises beautifully as it bakes.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: A must-have spice for that cozy, fall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Just a pinch adds depth and warmth to the overall taste.
1/2 teaspoon salt: To balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.

These simple yet essential ingredients will come together to create a dessert that everyone will adore! Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand—just let me know, and I’ll help you find some fun substitutions!

How to Prepare Desserts for Thanksgiving Dinner

Now, let’s get into the fun part—making this delicious dessert! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, inviting treat that will wow your guests.

Preheat your oven: First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be hot and ready when your batter is all mixed up!
Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices, so don’t skip this step!
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The fluffier, the better!
Add the wet ingredients: Next, mix in the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth. Oh, that pumpkin smell is heavenly!
Combine the mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want that lovely texture!
Pour into the baking dish: Grease a baking dish (I love using a 9×13 inch one for this recipe) and pour in your batter, spreading it evenly. Don’t worry if it looks a bit lumpy—it’s all part of the charm!
Bake to perfection: Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing!
Cool before serving: Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool in the dish for about 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to cut into squares. Trust me; the wait will be worth it!

And there you have it! A beautifully baked pumpkin dessert ready to impress. I can’t wait for you to taste it! Just remember, patience is key while it cools. Your guests will be so eager to dig in, but letting it set a bit will make for cleaner slices!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to whip up this delicious pumpkin dessert, here are some of my top tips to ensure everything goes smoothly and turns out perfectly!

Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps them blend together seamlessly, creating that fluffy texture we all love.
Don’t skip the cooling time: Allowing your dessert to cool properly not only makes it easier to slice but also enhances the flavors. Trust me, it’ll be worth the wait!
Test for doneness: When checking for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If there’s wet batter, give it a few more minutes.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! If you love a little more warmth, add an extra sprinkle of cinnamon or even a dash of ginger for a zingy twist.
Serve with flair: Dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It adds a delightful creaminess that complements the pumpkin perfectly!

Follow these simple tips, and you’ll be the star of your Thanksgiving dinner! I can already hear the “Mmm’s” and “Wow’s” from your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a mouthwatering dessert that captures the essence of autumn.
Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Perfect for Thanksgiving: This dessert complements your turkey and all the traditional sides, making it a festive addition to any Thanksgiving table.
Make-ahead friendly: You can whip it up a day in advance, which means less stress on the big day—just pop it in the fridge and serve when you’re ready!
Crowd-pleaser: With its delightful taste and appealing presentation, this dessert is sure to impress your family and friends, leaving them asking for seconds (or thirds!).
Versatile serving options: Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with whipped cream or ice cream, this dessert can be customized to fit everyone’s taste!

Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this one! It’s a dessert that brings everyone together, and I can already picture the smiles around your Thanksgiving table!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delicious pumpkin dessert! Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re indulging in. Here’s the scoop per slice:

Calories: 180
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg

So there you have it! This dessert is not only tasty but also has a nice balance of flavors and nutrients. It’s a sweet treat you can feel good about serving at your Thanksgiving dinner. Just remember, moderation is key—enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQ About Desserts for Thanksgiving Dinner

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh pumpkin can be used. Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth. It’ll give your dessert a lovely, homemade touch!

How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
If you want to make a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum to help with the texture!

Can I add nuts to the batter?
Of course! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a delightful crunch and flavor. Just fold them in gently before pouring the batter into the baking dish.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s also delicious cold, so you can enjoy it right from the fridge!

Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes! You can freeze the baked dessert for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving for the best results!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve made this scrumptious pumpkin dessert, you might be wondering how to store it properly and enjoy those leftovers later. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered!

To store any leftovers, let the dessert cool completely in the baking dish. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and prevent any drying out. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for those late-night snacking sessions or when you need a sweet pick-me-up after the big meal!

If you want to save some for a later date, you can freeze it! Just wrap the dessert tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply take it out and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. This way, it will maintain its wonderful texture and flavor.

When it’s time to serve the leftovers, you can enjoy it cold right from the fridge, or if you prefer it warm (which I totally understand!), pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat it; we want it warm, not hot! A warm slice paired with a dollop of whipped cream makes for a delightful treat that’s just as good the next day!

So, whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or savoring those delicious leftovers, this pumpkin dessert is sure to bring smiles all around!

Variations for Desserts for Thanksgiving Dinner

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to mix things up a bit, I’ve got some fantastic variations for this pumpkin dessert that will keep your Thanksgiving table exciting! Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:

Chocolate Swirl: For all the chocolate lovers out there, try adding some melted chocolate into the batter. Just swirl it in before baking for a rich, decadent twist!
Maple Pecan: Add some chopped pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. Drizzle a bit of maple syrup on top after baking for that extra touch of sweetness.
Spiced Apple: Mix in some diced apples and a sprinkle of additional cinnamon for a fall flavor explosion. This combination will remind everyone of a cozy apple pie!
Caramel Drizzle: Once your dessert is baked and cooled, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top. It adds a luxurious sweetness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin!
Orange Zest: Brighten up the flavors by adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter. It gives a refreshing citrusy kick that complements the spices perfectly!
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions. Just make sure it’s a good quality blend for the best results!

These variations can transform your pumpkin dessert into something new and exciting while still keeping that comforting vibe we all love during the holidays. Feel free to experiment and have fun with these ideas—after all, Thanksgiving is all about sharing joy and deliciousness!

Serving Suggestions for Desserts for Thanksgiving Dinner

Now that you’ve baked up this delightful pumpkin dessert, let’s talk about how to make it even more special when serving it up at your Thanksgiving table! Pairing your dessert with the right dishes and drinks can elevate the whole experience, and I’ve got some fantastic ideas for you!

Whipped cream: A classic, right? A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of your pumpkin dessert adds a light, airy touch that perfectly complements the rich flavors.
Vanilla ice cream: If you want to take it to the next level, serve your dessert warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the warm pumpkin treat.
Caramel sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top. It adds a sweet, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices in the pumpkin. Yum!
Spiced chai or apple cider: For a cozy drink, offer spiced chai tea or warm apple cider alongside your dessert. These beverages bring that warm, fall vibe right to the table!
Nutty coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee with a hint of hazelnut or pecan flavor makes for a lovely pairing. The coffee’s bitterness balances the sweetness of the dessert perfectly!
Cheese platter: For something a bit different, a small cheese platter with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can provide a savory contrast to the sweet pumpkin flavors.

Mix and match these suggestions to create a well-rounded dessert experience that your guests will absolutely love! Trust me, a well-paired dessert will have everyone raving about your Thanksgiving spread long after the last slice has been served. Enjoy!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.