Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *healthy Thanksgiving dessert*! It’s the kind of sweet treat that satisfies your cravings without the guilt that usually comes with holiday indulgences. Seriously, I can hardly believe how delicious it is while still being good for you! With rich flavors from almond flour and cocoa, plus a delightful hint of sweetness from coconut sugar, it’s the perfect ending to a Thanksgiving feast.
This dessert is not only easy to whip up, but it also makes you feel good about what you’re eating. Just imagine biting into a fudgy, chocolatey square that’s packed with wholesome ingredients. You won’t even miss the traditional sugary sweets! I love how it brings everyone together—perfect for sharing around the table with family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding this recipe to your holiday tradition!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’re going to fall head over heels for this *healthy Thanksgiving dessert*! It’s super quick to make—just 15 minutes of prep and then let the oven do its magic. Plus, it’s so easy that even beginner bakers will shine! I absolutely love how this recipe uses wholesome ingredients, making it a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your health goals. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a fudgy, chocolatey treat? This dessert is not only delicious but also brings a cozy, festive feel that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings!
Ingredients for Healthy Thanksgiving Dessert
Gather up these simple, yet wholesome ingredients to create your *healthy Thanksgiving dessert*. Each one plays a vital role in bringing out that rich, fudgy flavor you’ll love!
- 2 cups almond flour – This gluten-free flour gives a nutty taste and a moist texture to your dessert.
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar – A natural sweetener that adds a lovely caramel flavor without the guilt!
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – It’s all about that deep chocolatey goodness! Make sure it’s unsweetened for balanced sweetness.
- 1/2 cup applesauce – This is your secret ingredient for moisture and a hint of natural sweetness. Plus, it keeps things healthy!
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted – Adds richness and binds everything together, infusing a subtle coconut flavor.
- 2 large eggs – They help the dessert rise and provide a lovely structure. Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best results!
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla adds warmth and enhances all those delicious flavors.
- 1 tsp baking soda – This helps the dessert rise, making it light and fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp salt – Just a pinch brings out the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips – Because who doesn’t love a little extra chocolate? Go for high-quality dark chocolate for that rich taste!
Make sure you have everything on hand, and you’ll be ready to whip up this amazing dessert in no time!
How to Prepare Healthy Thanksgiving Dessert
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your dessert bakes evenly. Trust me, starting off with a hot oven will give you that perfect fudgy texture we’re all after!
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, coconut sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. I like to whisk them together until they’re well blended—this helps avoid any clumps and makes sure every bite is deliciously consistent. You want to see a nice, even mixture before adding the wet ingredients!
Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, in a separate bowl, mix together the applesauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. I usually use a fork or a whisk to blend these together until it’s smooth and creamy. You’re looking for a well-combined mixture that’s slightly thick but pourable. This will bring great moisture to your dessert!
Fold in Chocolate Chips
Next up, it’s time to fold in those glorious dark chocolate chips! This is where things get fun. Gently add the chocolate chips to your batter and use a spatula to fold them in. Be careful not to overmix—just a few folds until they’re evenly distributed. We want to keep that lovely, thick batter texture intact!
Bake the Dessert
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and smooth out the top. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, use a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it’s too wet, give it a few extra minutes, but don’t overbake—nobody likes a dry dessert!
Cool and Cut
Once your dessert is baked to perfection, pull it out of the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time is essential as it helps set the texture. When it’s cool enough to handle, cut it into squares. I like to use a sharp knife for clean cuts, and then serve those fudgy squares warm or cold—either way, they’re an absolute treat!
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your *healthy Thanksgiving dessert* turns out absolutely delicious! Here are some of my go-to tips to help you navigate any hiccups and elevate your baking game.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have almond flour, you can try using oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just keep in mind that the texture might change a bit, but it’ll still be yummy!
- Testing Doneness: If you’re unsure about when it’s done baking, I recommend checking with a toothpick around the 25-minute mark. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Mixing Techniques: When combining the wet ingredients, make sure they’re blended well but don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, and we want that fudgy goodness!
- Cool Completely: Letting your dessert cool properly before cutting is essential for the best texture. It allows the squares to firm up, making them easier to slice and serve.
- Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can give a delightful crunch, or try throwing in some dried fruit for a different flavor twist.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this scrumptious dessert! Enjoy every bite of your creation!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each square of this *healthy Thanksgiving dessert*. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But it gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
With all these nutritious ingredients, you can enjoy this dessert without any guilt. It’s a sweet treat that fits right into your healthy lifestyle!
FAQ Section
Can I substitute almond flour?
Absolutely! If almond flour isn’t your thing or if you’re looking for a different option, you can use oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture might change a bit. Oat flour will give it a slightly denser feel, but it’s still going to be delicious. Just make sure to adjust the liquid slightly, as some flours absorb more moisture than others!
How can I make this dessert sweeter?
If you’re in the mood for a sweeter treat, don’t worry! You can add a little more coconut sugar—just a tablespoon or two should do the trick. Alternatively, maple syrup or agave nectar can be mixed in to sweeten things up a notch. Just remember to reduce the applesauce a bit to maintain the batter’s consistency. Sweetness is all about personal preference, so taste as you go!
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
You bet! This *healthy Thanksgiving dessert* is perfect for making ahead of time. Just bake it, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to a week. The flavors actually deepen a bit when it sits, so you might find it even more delicious the next day! If you want to freeze it, cut it into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
What toppings work well with this dessert?
Oh, there are so many great options to elevate your dessert! You can top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut whipped cream for a creamy contrast. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a pop of color and freshness. If you want to keep it simple, a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of nut butter can add a delightful crunch and flavor. Get creative, and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftovers properly is key to keeping that deliciousness intact! Once your *healthy Thanksgiving dessert* has cooled completely, place the squares in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week, but trust me, they probably won’t last that long!
If you want to keep some for later, you can also freeze them. Just wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge. No need to reheat, but if you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t get too hot! Enjoy every last bite, whether chilled or warmed up!
Print
Healthy Thanksgiving Dessert: 5 Guilt-Free Delights
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A healthy Thanksgiving dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix almond flour, coconut sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add applesauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
- Fold in dark chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- This dessert can be served warm or cold.
- Feel free to add nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: healthy thanksgiving dessert
