Deserts for Thanksgiving Desserts: 5 Sweet Must-Try Delights

Name: Deserts for Thanksgiving Desserts: 5 Sweet Must-Try Delights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon cloves; 1 cup chopped pecans

October 24, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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When it comes to Thanksgiving, desserts are the heart and soul of the celebration! I can still remember the wonderful scent of pumpkin pie wafting through my grandmother’s kitchen as we gathered around the table, our hearts full and our bellies eager. This time of year is all about togetherness, and what better way to bring everyone closer than with a sweet treat? My favorite recipe for Thanksgiving desserts is this delicious pumpkin pecan delight, which is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser! Each slice is a cozy blend of spices and creamy pumpkin, topped with crunchy pecans that add that perfect texture. Trust me, this dessert will make your Thanksgiving gathering even more special, creating warm memories around the table that you’ll cherish for years to come!

Ingredients List

Let’s gather our ingredients for this scrumptious pumpkin pecan delight! You’ll find that these are all pretty standard items you might already have in your pantry, but each one plays a vital role in making this dessert truly special.

2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of our dessert, giving it structure and that delightful texture.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing. This adds richness and flavor!
1 cup sugar: Just the right amount to sweeten things up without overpowering the pumpkin.
2 large eggs: These bind everything together while adding moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla makes everything taste even better!
1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps our dessert rise, creating that lovely, light texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors beautifully.
1 cup pumpkin puree: This is the star of the show! Use pure pumpkin for that rich flavor.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: A warm, aromatic spice that brings the essence of fall.
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a lovely depth to the flavor profile.
1/4 teaspoon cloves: Just a hint of this spice adds a wonderful complexity.
1 cup chopped pecans: These provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a dessert that will wow your friends and family this Thanksgiving!

How to Prepare Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C)! Preheating is super important because it ensures that your dessert bakes evenly and rises beautifully. If you throw your batter into a cold oven, you might end up with a dense, sad dessert. So, set that temperature and let it warm up while we prepare the batter!

Cream Butter and Sugar

Now, in a large mixing bowl, take your softened unsalted butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer or a good old-fashioned whisk, cream them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth—this should take about 2-3 minutes. You want to incorporate air here, as it helps create a lovely texture, so don’t rush this step!

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s key to mix these dry ingredients well beforehand to ensure that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed. This way, every bite will be packed with flavor!

Mix in Pumpkin and Pecans

Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing just until combined. Then, gently fold in the pumpkin puree and chopped pecans. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until everything is nicely combined. You want those crunchy pecans to be evenly spread throughout the batter!

Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the dish for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling is essential to help set the flavors, so be patient—your delicious pumpkin pecan delight will be worth the wait!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying desserts for Thanksgiving, it’s always nice to know what you’re indulging in! Just keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a rough guide. For each slice of this delightful pumpkin pecan treat, you can expect roughly 250 calories, which includes about 12 grams of fat and 3 grams of protein. It also contains around 35 grams of carbohydrates and 15 grams of sugar. Remember, these are typical values, and it’s always good to check your individual ingredients for the most accurate information. So, go ahead and savor every bite of this delicious dessert without worry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pumpkin pecan delight is sure to make your Thanksgiving dessert table shine! Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

Comforting Flavors: The warm spices combined with creamy pumpkin create that cozy, homey feel we all crave during the holidays.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its irresistible taste and delightful texture, this dessert is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends of all ages.
Easy to Make: The straightforward steps mean you can whip it up even if you’re juggling other Thanksgiving preparations!
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it a day in advance, saving you time on the big day. Just bake, cool, and store!
Perfectly Balanced: The crunchy pecans add the perfect contrast to the soft, moist cake, making each bite a delightful experience.
Versatile Delight: Serve it warm or chilled, with whipped cream or on its own—this dessert is adaptable for any preference!

Trust me, once you share this pumpkin pecan delight at your Thanksgiving gathering, it’ll become a beloved tradition that everyone looks forward to year after year!

Tips for Success

To make sure your pumpkin pecan delight turns out perfectly, I’ve got a few handy tips for you! First, make sure your butter is truly softened; if it’s too cold, it won’t cream well with the sugar, leading to a dense texture. Second, when you’re measuring your flour, don’t scoop it directly from the bag—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This helps avoid packing it down and gives you a lighter dessert.

Also, don’t skip the cooling step! Allowing it to cool fully helps develop the flavors, making each bite even more delicious. Lastly, feel free to taste the batter before baking—it’s a great way to adjust the spices to your liking! Trust me, these little details will elevate your dessert and impress everyone at your Thanksgiving table!

Variations

If you want to switch things up with your pumpkin pecan delight, I’ve got some fantastic ideas for you! First, consider adding a chocolate twist—mix in some chocolate chips or chunks for a rich contrast to the pumpkin. Yum! You could also experiment with different spices; try adding ginger or allspice for a spicy kick that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

Feeling adventurous? How about swirling in some cream cheese for a cheesecake-like layer? Just mix some softened cream cheese with a bit of sugar and drop spoonfuls into the batter before baking. For a nutty twist, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different crunch. Each of these variations brings something unique to the table, making your Thanksgiving dessert even more exciting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your pumpkin pecan delight is simple and keeps it fresh for those sweet cravings! Once the dessert has cooled completely, slice it into portions and place them in an airtight container. You can keep it at room temperature for a day, but for longer storage, pop it in the refrigerator, where it’ll last for about 4-5 days.

If you want to enjoy it later, this dessert freezes beautifully! Just wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to savor a piece, simply transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw. No need to reheat, but if you prefer it warm, just give it a quick zap in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoy your delicious dessert whenever the mood strikes!

What to Serve with This Dessert

Pairing your pumpkin pecan delight with the right accompaniments can elevate your Thanksgiving experience to a whole new level! One of my favorite options is a dollop of whipped cream—it adds a light and airy touch that complements the rich flavors of the cake perfectly. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce for that extra sweetness and gooeyness. For a cozy vibe, consider offering a spiced chai tea or a warm apple cider. Both of these beverages harmonize beautifully with the warm spices in the dessert, making each bite even more comforting. And let’s not forget about a scoop of vanilla ice cream—the creaminess against the pumpkin is simply divine! Trust me, these pairings will make your Thanksgiving dessert table irresistible!

FAQ Section

As you dive into making these delightful desserts for Thanksgiving, you might have a few questions. Here are some common ones I hear, along with my answers to help you out!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, just roast and puree it until smooth. It adds a lovely homemade touch to your dessert!

What if I don’t have pecans?
No worries! You can substitute walnuts or even skip the nuts altogether if you prefer. The pumpkin flavor will still shine through beautifully.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend! Just make sure it has xanthan gum included to mimic the texture of regular flour.

How can I adjust the sweetness?
If you like it less sweet, reduce the sugar by a few tablespoons. You can always taste the batter before baking to find the perfect balance!

Is it okay to make this dessert ahead of time?
Definitely! This dessert actually tastes better after a day in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just store it well, and it’ll be ready to impress your guests!

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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.