Easy Thanksgiving desserts don’t get much simpler or more delicious than this pumpkin delight. I remember one year, I completely forgot about dessert until the afternoon of Thanksgiving, and I panicked! Thankfully, this recipe saved the day, filling my home with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin. It’s so incredibly moist and flavorful, you’d never guess it’s a quick Thanksgiving dessert that comes together in minutes. The golden-brown top and tender crumb are pure autumn bliss. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Simple Pumpkin Dessert

You’re going to adore this recipe for so many reasons. It’s the perfect example of why easy Thanksgiving desserts are a lifesaver during the busy holiday season.

It’s incredibly simple to make, even for beginner bakers.
The warm, spiced pumpkin flavor is pure autumn comfort.
It comes together in less than an hour, making it a fantastic quick Thanksgiving dessert.
The texture is wonderfully moist and tender.
It uses common pantry staples, so you likely have most ingredients on hand.
It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all your guests.
This recipe offers flexibility with easy substitutions for dietary needs.

Ingredients for Your Easy Thanksgiving Desserts

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this incredibly simple pumpkin dessert. Having these on hand makes this a truly easy Thanksgiving dessert option that won’t stress you out on the big day.

2 cups pumpkin puree – Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor in this pumpkin dessert.
1 cup granulated sugar – Balances the earthy pumpkin flavor.
1/2 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the dessert wonderfully moist. You can also use coconut oil or applesauce.
4 large eggs – These bind everything together and add richness.
2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our cake. A gluten-free blend works too!
1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the dessert rise.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Works with the baking soda for a perfect lift.
1 teaspoon cinnamon – Essential for that warm, cozy fall spice.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the other flavors.

Amazing Thanksgiving Desserts: 1-Hour Pumpkin Delight - Thanksgiving Desserts - ingredients showcase

How to Make This Quick Thanksgiving Dessert

Whipping up this delightful pumpkin dessert is a breeze, making it a perfect addition to your easy Thanksgiving desserts spread. Follow these simple steps for a moist and flavorful treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures your pumpkin dessert won’t stick and will bake evenly.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups pumpkin puree, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup vegetable oil. Whisk everything together until it’s wonderfully smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add the 4 large eggs to the pumpkin mixture. Continue whisking until the batter is uniform in color and texture. The aroma at this stage is already hinting at deliciousness!
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This step ensures all the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the large bowl. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until *just* combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture in your easy Thanksgiving desserts.
Step 6: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Smooth the top with your spatula so it bakes evenly.
Step 7: Bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, perhaps with a few moist crumbs attached. The top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
Step 8: Once baked, let the dessert cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes. This allows it to set up properly before slicing. Enjoy serving this fantastic pumpkin dessert warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips for the Best Thanksgiving Desserts

Elevating your Thanksgiving desserts is all about a few simple tricks. These tips will ensure your pumpkin dessert is a showstopper, making it one of the easiest and most delicious treats you’ll serve this holiday.

Don’t overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added; this is key for a tender crumb.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated to the correct temperature for even baking.
Let the dessert cool sufficiently in the pan before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.
Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon for a deeper spice profile.

What’s the secret to perfect easy Thanksgiving desserts?

The magic lies in not overmixing the batter and using pure pumpkin puree. This approach guarantees a tender texture and authentic flavor for any quick Thanksgiving dessert.

Can I make this pumpkin dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert is fantastic for meal prep. You can bake it a day in advance and store it at room temperature, covered. It tastes just as wonderful the next day!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Thanksgiving desserts?

A common pitfall is overbaking, which leads to a dry dessert. Always test for doneness with a toothpick. Another mistake is using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree; stick to the puree for the best flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Your Thanksgiving Dessert

This versatile pumpkin dessert is wonderful served in so many ways, making it a star among your fall dessert ideas. Its simple, comforting flavor pairs beautifully with just about anything!

Classic Comfort: Serve slices warm or at room temperature with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce also adds a lovely touch.
A La Mode Delight: Pair a generous slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream is divine.
With Coffee or Tea: This dessert is perfect for an afternoon treat or after-dinner coffee. Its mild sweetness doesn’t overpower a good cup of coffee or herbal tea.

Remember, this is one of the most adaptable easy Thanksgiving desserts, so feel free to get creative with your favorite toppings!

Nutrition Facts for This Easy Thanksgiving Dessert

This delicious pumpkin dessert is a wonderful addition to your holiday spread. Here’s a general idea of the nutritional information per serving, making it easy to plan your meal.

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 200mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in this Thanksgiving dessert.

How to Store and Reheat This Thanksgiving Dessert

Keeping your delicious pumpkin dessert fresh is simple, ensuring you can enjoy these easy Thanksgiving desserts for days to come. Proper storage is key to maintaining that wonderful texture and flavor.

Cool Completely: Before storing, make sure the dessert has cooled down entirely in its pan. This prevents condensation, which can make it soggy.
Airtight Containers: Once cooled, transfer the dessert to an airtight container. If you’re storing it at room temperature, a simple cake dome or container works well.
Room Temperature Storage: For the best texture, store leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 days. This is ideal for when you want a quick treat readily available.
Refrigerator Storage: If you need to store it for longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. It will remain moist and delicious.
Freezer Option: To keep this delightful dessert even longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. It’s a fantastic way to have easy Thanksgiving desserts ready anytime.

Reheating: To enjoy a slice as if it were freshly baked, gently reheat it. A few seconds in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds per slice) is usually enough to warm it through. Alternatively, a few minutes in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) can also revive its warmth and aroma.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Desserts

Can I make this pumpkin dessert ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! This is one of the best aspects of this pumpkin dessert – it’s perfect for making ahead. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it at room temperature in an airtight container. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it a truly stress-free option among your easy Thanksgiving desserts.

What can I serve with this Thanksgiving dessert?

This delightful pumpkin dessert is wonderfully versatile. For a classic touch, serve it with a dollop of homemade whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pecans also adds a lovely extra layer of flavor and texture. It’s a fantastic base for various toppings!

How do I ensure my pumpkin dessert is moist?

The key to a moist pumpkin dessert lies in the ingredients and the baking process. Using oil or applesauce instead of butter contributes to moisture, and it’s crucial not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Also, be careful not to overbake; a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. This ensures it remains a delightful part of your easy Thanksgiving desserts collection.

Can I make this into gluten-free Thanksgiving desserts?

Definitely! To transform this into a gluten-free treat, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum, or add a little if it doesn’t. It’s a simple substitution that allows everyone to enjoy this delicious quick Thanksgiving dessert, regardless of dietary needs.

Variations of Thanksgiving Desserts You Can Try

While this simple pumpkin dessert is fantastic on its own, don’t be afraid to get creative! These variations keep it among the most adaptable easy Thanksgiving desserts, catering to different tastes and dietary needs.

Vegan Delight: Easily make this vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and using a dairy-free milk alternative if you choose to add any liquid. Ensure your sugar is vegan-certified if that’s a concern.
Gluten-Free Goodness: For those avoiding gluten, a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend works beautifully as a direct substitute for all-purpose flour. This ensures everyone can enjoy a piece of this delicious Thanksgiving dessert.
Flavor Boost: Add a handful of chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white) or some dried cranberries to the batter before baking for bursts of extra flavor and texture. A touch of orange zest can also brighten up the pumpkin and spice notes.
Mini Muffins: Instead of a large pan, bake this batter in muffin tins for individual servings. Baking time will be reduced to about 18-22 minutes, making them perfect quick Thanksgiving dessert portions.