Thanksgiving Baking Recipes
Introduction
Thanksgiving is a time when families come together to celebrate and give thanks for all the blessings in their lives. And what better way to bring everyone closer than with delicious homemade baked goods? In this article, we will explore a variety of Thanksgiving baking recipes that will make your taste buds dance and your loved ones ask for seconds. From classic favorites to creative twists, weve got you covered!
The All-Time Favorite: Classic Pumpkin Pie
No Thanksgiving dessert table is complete without a classic pumpkin pie. This iconic dessert is a staple for a reason. Its smooth custard-like filling, fragrant spices, and flaky crust make it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with a dollop of whipped cream, this timeless recipe will bring warmth and nostalgia to your Thanksgiving feast.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups of pumpkin puree
- ¾ cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ¼ cups of evaporated milk
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, spices, and salt.
- Add the beaten eggs and evaporated milk to the mixture and whisk until well combined.
- Pour the filling into the pie crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the pie to cool before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
A Twist on Tradition: Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
Looking to add a unique touch to your Thanksgiving table? Try this delightful twist on a classic side dish. Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping. The blend of flavors and textures will leave your guests craving for more.
Ingredients:
For the sweet potato filling:
- 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes, cooked and peeled
- ¼ cup of unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup of packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup of milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
For the pecan topping:
- ¾ cup of chopped pecans
- ½ cup of all-purpose flour
- ½ cup of packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup of unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth.
- Add the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon to the sweet potatoes. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, and melted butter to make the pecan topping. Mix until crumbly.
- Spread the pecan topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pecan topping is golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
Elevating the Table: Cranberry Apple Galette
For those looking to impress their guests with a sophisticated dessert that is both tangy and sweet, a Cranberry Apple Galette is the way to go. This rustic and free-form French pastry is easier to make than it looks and will be a stunning centerpiece to your Thanksgiving spread.
Ingredients:
For the galette crust:
- 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- ½ cup of unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3-5 tablespoons of ice water
For the filling:
- 2 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 cup of cranberries, fresh or frozen
- ¼ cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt for the crust. Add the cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle.
- Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, cranberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, and lemon juice for the filling. Toss gently until well coated.
- Arrange the apple-cranberry mixture in the center of the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as you go.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Allow the galette to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness and gratitude, and what better way to celebrate than with mouthwatering baked goods? From the classic pumpkin pie to unique creations like the Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole and Cranberry Apple Galette, these recipes will surely make your Thanksgiving feast unforgettable. So go ahead, put on your apron, and let the aroma of freshly baked treats fill your home this holiday season!
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree for the pumpkin pie?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly fine for making pumpkin pie. Just make sure it doesnt contain any additional spices or flavorings.
2. Can I make the Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just add the pecan topping right before baking.
3. Can I substitute walnuts for pecans in the Cranberry Apple Galette?
Certainly! If you prefer walnuts or have them on hand, feel free to use them as a substitute for pecans in the galette.
4. Can I freeze the leftover pumpkin pie?
Yes, you can freeze leftover pumpkin pie. Ensure that it is tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container before freezing.
5. Can I serve the Cranberry Apple Galette with vanilla ice cream?
Absolutely! The tangy-sweet flavors of the galette pair wonderfully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!