Desserts 
Creating Dessert Magic for Thanksgiving
Hello, my dessert-loving friends! With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I can’t help but think of all the sweet moments this holiday brings. Of course, I’m talking about those mouth-watering desserts that wrap up the feast in style. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, there’s something truly magical about crafting desserts to share with your loved ones. Plus, baking together can be a fantastic way to bond with friends and family! So, let’s dive into some easy and delicious Thanksgiving desserts that are sure to bring smiles and create lasting memories.
Pumpkin Bliss: The Classic Pie with a Vegan Twist
Pumpkin pie is a Thanksgiving staple for a reason. Its rich, spiced filling and flaky crust never fail to please. But what if I told you that you could enjoy the classic taste of pumpkin pie in a completely vegan form? That’s right! Whether you’re hosting vegan guests or just looking to try something new, I’ve got the perfect recipe for you.
Ingredients for the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (120ml) coconut oil, solid
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) maple syrup
- 2-4 tablespoons (30-60ml) cold water
Ingredients for the Filling:
- 1 can (425g) pumpkin puree
- 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
- 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons (15g) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the pie crust. Combine the flour and coconut oil in a bowl until crumbly. Add in the maple syrup and mix. Gradually add the cold water until the dough comes together.
2. Roll out the dough and place it in a pie pan.
3. For the filling, whisk together all the ingredients in a large bowl, then pour it into the pie crust.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes. Let it cool before serving.
Voila! You’ve got yourself a vegan pumpkin pie that will disappear before you know it.
A Sweet Surprise: Apple Cider Cupcakes
Thanksgiving isn’t just about pies, folks. It’s also the perfect time to think outside the pie pan and consider some other delightful treats. Apple cider cupcakes are one of my favorite festive desserts. They capture the essence of autumn in every bite, and they’re incredibly easy to whip up and share with your Thanksgiving crew.
Ingredients for the Cupcakes:
- 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) applesauce
- 1 cup (240ml) apple cider
- 1/2 cup (100g) cane sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
Ingredients for the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegan butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) apple cider
Instructions:
1. Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Combine them and divide the batter into lined cupcake cups.
2. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-20 minutes.
3. For the frosting, beat the vegan butter until fluffy, then gradually add powdered sugar and apple cider until smooth.
4. Once the cupcakes are cooled, frost them, and get ready to share the love!
Cranberry and Chocolate Chip Cookies
Finally, we can’t forget cookies, right? Thanksgiving calls for something special, and these cranberry and chocolate chip cookies are just the ticket. They’re chewy, sweet, and with a hint of tartness from the cranberries—a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegan butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) non-dairy milk
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon (5g) baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
- 1/2 cup (75g) dried cranberries
- 3/4 cup (130g) vegan chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Cream the vegan butter and sugar together, then mix in the non-dairy milk and vanilla extract.
2. Combine the dry ingredients separately and gradually add them to the wet mixture.
3. Fold in the cranberries and chocolate chips.
4. Spoon the dough onto a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Share with your family and watch these scrumptious cookies vanish from the plate!
There you have it, my friends—three delightful and easy desserts to take your Thanksgiving celebration to a whole new level. Baking these treats will surely bring warmth and joy to your family and friends, enhancing the communal spirit of the holiday. So, grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let the dessert magic begin! Wishing you all a happy and sweet Thanksgiving!
