Thanksgiving Party Desserts: 5 Sweet Must-Try Treats

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

November 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when the air is crisp, and the aroma of pumpkin spice fills our kitchens. There’s something truly special about *Thanksgiving party desserts*—they’re the sweet finale to a day filled with gratitude and laughter. I love making these delightful treats because they not only taste amazing but also bring everyone together. Picture it: the kids sneaking bites of dessert while the adults reminisce about old memories. Trust me, sharing these delicious sweets with your loved ones will create unforgettable moments around the table. Let’s dive into this deliciousness together!

Ingredients List

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup pumpkin puree
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Party Desserts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your dessert bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy. No one wants a soggy bottom, right?

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step is super important because it combines the leavening agent with the spices, ensuring every bite is full of that warm, cozy flavor. Just imagine the smell of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and sugar together until it’s creamy and light. You can use a hand mixer or just your trusty wooden spoon—whatever feels right! You want it to be fluffy because this is where the magic begins. Trust me, the creaminess will make your dessert so delightful!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Now, it’s time to add the eggs and pumpkin puree to the butter mixture. Mix them in well until everything is combined. The vibrant color of the pumpkin puree is just a sneak peek of the deliciousness that’s about to happen!

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

Gradually fold in the dry ingredients into your wet mixture. I like to do this a little at a time to keep things smooth and prevent any flour clouds from forming! Just mix until everything is combined—you don’t want to overdo it. A few lumps are totally okay!

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into a greased baking dish. I usually use a 9×13 inch pan, but you can use whatever you have on hand. Just make sure it’s greased so your dessert slides out easily later. This is where your creation starts to take shape!

Step 7: Bake the Dessert

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, stick a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, you’re golden! If not, give it a few more minutes and keep an eye on it. The anticipation is half the fun!

Why You’ll Love These Thanksgiving Party Desserts

They’re incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers!
The delightful pumpkin flavor just screams fall and makes your taste buds dance.
Perfect for gatherings—everyone will be asking for seconds!
This recipe serves 12, so it’s great for sharing with family and friends.
They pair beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for that extra touch of indulgence.

Tips for Success

To ensure your *Thanksgiving party desserts* turn out absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite pro tips that I’ve picked up along the way!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking powder is fresh. An old leavening agent can lead to flat desserts. I like to give mine a little shake to check its puffiness before using!
Baking Time Adjustments: Every oven is a bit different, so start checking your dessert a few minutes before the suggested baking time. If you know your oven runs hot, reduce the time slightly to avoid overbaking.
Cooling is Key: After baking, let the dessert cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it set and makes slicing easier, plus it helps retain that moist texture!
Get Creative with Toppings: While it’s delicious on its own, try serving it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra flair. It adds a lovely crunch and elevates the whole dessert experience!
Store Properly: If you have leftovers (which may be a stretch!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for a few days, so you can enjoy them even after the festivities!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your guests and creating a memorable dessert that they’ll be talking about long after the last bite!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to indulging in my *Thanksgiving party desserts*, knowing the nutritional breakdown can help you savor every bite without worry! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving (1 piece):

Calories: 180
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 3g

These delightful numbers make it easy to enjoy these desserts as a treat during the holiday season. Plus, with that cozy pumpkin flavor, every piece is worth every calorie! Enjoy your sweet moments, my friends!

FAQ Section

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to prepare it correctly. Start by roasting a pumpkin until it’s tender, then scoop out the flesh and puree it until smooth. You’ll need about 1 cup of puree, just like with canned pumpkin. Fresh pumpkin has a slightly different flavor and texture, but it can add a lovely homemade touch to your dessert!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is super easy! Just place any leftover dessert in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze slices! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready for another sweet treat!

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make this dessert ahead of time! It’s perfect for prepping a day or two in advance. Just bake it, let it cool completely, and then store it in the fridge. This dessert actually tastes even better after a day or so as the flavors meld together. Just remember to let it come to room temperature or warm it up slightly before serving if you prefer it that way!

What can I substitute for butter?

If you need a butter substitute, you can use coconut oil or margarine! For coconut oil, make sure it’s melted and cooled slightly before mixing it in, just like you would with butter. Margarine works well too, but I recommend using a good-quality one for the best flavor. Both alternatives will keep your dessert rich and delicious!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving my *Thanksgiving party desserts*, I love to think about how to create a cozy and inviting experience! Here are some of my favorite pairings that elevate the dessert even more:

Freshly Brewed Coffee: There’s nothing quite like a warm cup of coffee alongside a slice of pumpkin dessert. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully, making each bite even more satisfying!
Spiced Chai Tea: If you’re looking for a cozy twist, a cup of spiced chai tea pairs perfectly. The warmth and aromatic spices enhance the pumpkin flavor, creating a delightful experience.
Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Don’t forget to top your dessert with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It adds a creamy texture and balances the spiced flavors wonderfully!
Other Thanksgiving Dishes: Think about serving it alongside classic Thanksgiving dishes like roasted turkey or savory stuffing. The sweet and spiced notes of the dessert provide a lovely contrast to the savory main course.
Nuts or Caramel Sauce: For an extra touch, serve with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It adds a nice crunch and a touch of decadence that everyone will love!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a warm and festive atmosphere that will have everyone reaching for seconds! Enjoy every moment of your Thanksgiving celebration!