• Gluten-free desserts allow everyone to enjoy sweet treats on Thanksgiving
  • Gluten-free desserts can be just as delicious as gluten-filled ones with the right ingredients and techniques
  • Offering gluten-free desserts shows care for guests' dietary needs and preferences
  • Gluten-free Thanksgiving desserts include pumpkin pie, apple crisp, pecan pie, cranberry orange cake, and chocolate truffles
  • Tips for baking delicious and moist gluten-free desserts

Why Gluten-Free Desserts is a Must for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for indulging in delicious food and spending time with loved ones. However, for those who have gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, it can be a challenge to find desserts that are safe to eat. That's why gluten-free desserts are a must for Thanksgiving.

Not only do gluten-free desserts allow everyone to enjoy a sweet treat, but they can also be just as delicious as their gluten-filled counterparts. With the right ingredients and techniques, gluten-free desserts can be moist, flavorful, and satisfying.

Additionally, offering gluten-free desserts shows that you care about the dietary needs and preferences of your guests. It's a thoughtful gesture that can make everyone feel included and appreciated.

So, whether you have gluten sensitivities or not, consider adding some gluten-free desserts to your Thanksgiving spread. Your guests will thank you!

Thanksgiving dessert table

Pumpkin Pie with a Gluten-Free Twist

Thanksgiving wouldn't be complete without the classic pumpkin pie. But for those who need to avoid gluten, this traditional dessert can be off-limits. Fear not, because we have a delicious pumpkin pie recipe with a gluten-free twist that everyone will love!

First, let's talk about the crust. Traditional pie crusts are made with wheat flour, which contains gluten. To make a gluten-free crust, you can use a blend of gluten-free flour such as almond flour, coconut flour, and tapioca flour. These flours provide a great texture and flavor that complements the pumpkin filling perfectly. You can also add a touch of xanthan gum to help bind the crust together and give it a nice, flaky texture.

Gluten-free pumpkin pie with a golden crust

Now, let's move on to the filling. The key to a delicious pumpkin pie is the perfect blend of spices. In our gluten-free version, we use a combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves to create that warm, comforting flavor that everyone loves. To make the filling dairy-free, you can substitute the traditional evaporated milk with coconut milk or almond milk. These alternatives provide a creamy texture without the lactose.

Once your gluten-free crust is prepared and your filling is mixed, simply pour the filling into the crust and bake until the pie is set. Allow it to cool before serving, and you'll have a delicious, gluten-free pumpkin pie that everyone can enjoy.

By making this simple gluten-free twist on a classic pumpkin pie, you can ensure that everyone at your Thanksgiving table can indulge in a delicious dessert. Not only will your gluten-sensitive guests appreciate the effort, but everyone will be amazed at how tasty a gluten-free dessert can be. So go ahead and give this pumpkin pie recipe a try – it's sure to become a new holiday favorite!

Apple Crisp That's Gluten-Free and Vegan

Another Thanksgiving dessert classic is the apple crisp. This warm, comforting dessert is a crowd-pleaser, and with our gluten-free and vegan version, everyone can enjoy it. The key to a delicious apple crisp is the perfect balance of tender, spiced apples, and a crispy, golden topping. Let's dive into how to make this gluten-free and vegan treat.

First, let's talk about the apples. Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for the best flavor. Peel, core, and slice the apples, then toss them with a mixture of lemon juice, cinnamon, and a touch of maple syrup for natural sweetness. For a vegan-friendly option, you can also add a bit of cornstarch to help thicken the apple mixture as it bakes.

Sliced apples mixed with cinnamon and maple syrup

Now, let's move on to the topping. To make a gluten-free and vegan topping, combine gluten-free rolled oats, almond flour, and chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) for added crunch. Sweeten the mixture with a bit of coconut sugar or brown sugar, and add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. To bind the topping together and make it vegan, use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of traditional butter. Simply cut the fat into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Gluten-free and vegan apple crisp topping mixture

Once your apples are prepared and your topping is mixed, layer the apples in a baking dish and evenly distribute the topping over the apples. Bake the apple crisp until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. Serve the apple crisp warm, and for an extra indulgence, add a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream.

This gluten-free and vegan apple crisp is a delicious and inclusive dessert that everyone at your Thanksgiving table can enjoy. The combination of tender, spiced apples, and a crispy, golden topping will have your guests coming back for seconds. So go ahead and add this apple crisp recipe to your holiday menu – it's sure to be a hit!

Gluten-Free Pecan Pie That's Rich and Decadent

If you're looking for a rich and decadent dessert to add to your Thanksgiving spread, look no further than our gluten-free pecan pie. This classic dessert is made with a buttery, flaky crust and a filling that's loaded with toasted pecans and a sweet, gooey filling. And the best part? It's completely gluten-free!

To make the crust, combine gluten-free flour, almond flour, and a bit of sugar in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then add ice water a tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together. Roll out the dough and transfer it to a pie dish, then chill it in the fridge while you prepare the filling.

For the filling, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in chopped pecans, then pour the mixture into the prepared crust. Bake the pie until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

Tip: To prevent the crust from getting too brown while the filling bakes, cover the edges with foil or a pie crust shield.

This gluten-free pecan pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your Thanksgiving table. The combination of buttery crust and sweet, nutty filling is irresistible. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Cranberry Orange Cake That's Perfect for the Holiday Season

Another delightful addition to your gluten-free Thanksgiving dessert menu is our Cranberry Orange Cake, which perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. This moist and flavorful cake combines the tartness of cranberries with the refreshing citrus notes of oranges, creating a harmonious blend that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

To make this scrumptious cake, start by whisking together gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and orange zest, mixing well after each addition. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with sour cream, and mix until just combined. Gently fold in fresh or frozen cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Transfer the batter to a greased and floured bundt pan or round cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake the cake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

While the cake cools, prepare a simple orange glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, orange juice, and a touch of orange zest. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with additional orange zest or sugared cranberries for an extra festive touch.

This Cranberry Orange Cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, making it the perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving dessert table. The combination of tangy cranberries and zesty oranges creates a refreshing contrast to the rich, indulgent flavors typically found in holiday desserts.

A beautiful cranberry orange cake drizzled with orange glaze and garnished with sugared cranberries and orange zest

Chocolate Truffles That Are Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free

For those who crave a rich, chocolatey treat to round out their Thanksgiving dessert spread, look no further than our Chocolate Truffles which are gluten-free and dairy-free. These decadent, bite-sized morsels are not only incredibly satisfying but also cater to those with dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone can indulge in a little something sweet.

To make these delightful truffles, begin by melting dairy-free chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring that the bowl does not touch the water. Once the chocolate has melted, remove the bowl from the heat and stir in coconut cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor, and then refrigerate the mixture for a couple of hours or until it has firmed up enough to be shaped.

While the chocolate mixture chills, prepare a variety of coatings for your truffles. Some popular options include unsweetened cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. Feel free to get creative and choose coatings that complement the flavors of your Thanksgiving feast.

Once the chocolate mixture is firm, use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape it into small balls. Roll each ball in your chosen coating, ensuring that it is fully covered. Place the finished truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate, and then refrigerate them until they are firm and ready to serve.

These gluten-free and dairy-free Chocolate Truffles are not only a delicious and satisfying addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table but also a thoughtful way to cater to the dietary needs of your guests. Their rich, velvety texture and customizable coatings make them a versatile and crowd-pleasing option that is sure to impress. So go ahead and treat your loved ones to these delectable morsels, and watch as they disappear in no time!

Tips for Baking Gluten-Free Desserts That Are Delicious and Moist

Baking gluten-free desserts can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and ingredients, you can create delicious and moist treats that everyone will love. Here are some tips to help you achieve gluten-free baking success:

1. Use a blend of gluten-free flour. Gluten-free baking requires a blend of flours to achieve the right texture and flavor. A mix of rice flour, almond flour, and tapioca flour is a great place to start.

2. Add xanthan gum or psyllium husk. These ingredients help bind the gluten-free flours together and create a more elastic texture. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum or 1 tablespoon of psyllium husk per cup of gluten-free flour.

3. Use enough liquid. Gluten-free flours tend to absorb more liquid than wheat flour, so be sure to add enough liquid to your batter or dough. This will help keep your desserts moist and tender.

4. Don't overmix. Overmixing can cause gluten-free baked goods to become tough and dry. Mix your batter or dough just until everything is combined.

5. Add moisture-rich ingredients. Ingredients like applesauce, yogurt, or mashed bananas can add moisture to your gluten-free desserts. They also add flavor and nutrition.

By following these tips, you can create gluten-free desserts that are just as delicious and moist as their wheat-based counterparts. So go ahead and indulge in some gluten-free Thanksgiving treats that everyone will love!

A person holding a tray of gluten-free desserts

Here are some delicious gluten-free dessert options that would be perfect for Thanksgiving:

1. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie:

   - A classic Thanksgiving dessert, pumpkin pie can easily be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust or making a crust from ground nuts or gluten-free oats. The rich and spiced pumpkin filling remains the same, creating a delightful gluten-free treat.

2. Gluten-Free Apple Crisp:

   - Apple crisp is a comforting and rustic dessert that can be easily made gluten-free by using gluten-free oats and a blend of gluten-free flours for the topping. The warm spiced apples, topped with a crunchy oat-based crumble, make for a perfect autumn treat.

3. Gluten-Free Pecan Pie:

   - Pecan pie can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust or a crust made from ground nuts. The gooey and nutty filling with a sweet caramel flavor will be a hit among pecan pie lovers.

4. Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Cake:

   - A moist and flavorful gluten-free cranberry orange cake is a delightful addition to the Thanksgiving dessert table. The tartness of the cranberries pairs beautifully with the citrusy notes of the orange, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

5. Gluten-Free Chocolate Mousse Pie:

   - A rich and decadent gluten-free chocolate mousse pie is sure to impress your guests. Using a gluten-free chocolate cookie crust and a smooth chocolate mousse filling, this pie is a chocolate lover's dream.

6. Gluten-Free Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars:

   - These delicious cheesecake bars combine the flavors of caramel and apple, making them a fantastic gluten-free dessert option for Thanksgiving. The creamy cheesecake layer sits atop a gluten-free cookie crust and is topped with caramelized apples.

7. Gluten-Free Maple Pecan Blondies:

   - Maple pecan blondies are a delightful gluten-free dessert that captures the essence of fall. These chewy and nutty bars are filled with the flavors of maple syrup and toasted pecans.

8. Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Cake with Marshmallow Frosting:

   - A gluten-free sweet potato cake with marshmallow frosting is a unique and delectable option for Thanksgiving. The moist and spiced sweet potato cake pairs perfectly with the light and fluffy marshmallow frosting.

9. Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Cake:

   - This gluten-free cinnamon roll cake offers all the flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls without gluten. The moist and cinnamony cake is topped with a creamy cream cheese glaze.

10. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars:

    - These pumpkin cheesecake bars combine the best of both worlds - pumpkin pie and cheesecake. A gluten-free graham cracker crust holds a creamy pumpkin cheesecake filling, making for a delightful Thanksgiving treat.

Remember to double-check that all ingredients used in the recipes are gluten-free and that the kitchen tools and surfaces are thoroughly cleaned to avoid cross-contamination. These gluten-free desserts will make for a delicious and inclusive Thanksgiving celebration for all guests.

Travis Stokes
Home Cooking, Baking, Photography, Travel

Travis is a passionate home baker specializing in gluten-free desserts. He delights in preparing tasty treats for family and friends and shares his love for baking through his easy-to-follow recipes. Travis loves to spread his knowledge and tips for crafting delectable gluten-free desserts.

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