10 Delicious and Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts You’ll Love

Healthy Thanksgiving desserts can be both delicious and guilt-free! Say goodbye to heavy, sugar-laden treats and hello to satisfying recipes that use wholesome ingredients. From scrumptious pumpkin pies to fruity, creamy delights, these desserts will leave everyone at the table feeling thankful and happy without the post-meal sluggishness.

Indulge In A Guilt-Free Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to enjoy delicious desserts without the guilt. A pumpkin spice cheesecake fits the bill perfectly! This dessert combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and spices, making it a seasonal favorite.

The image showcases a slice of creamy pumpkin spice cheesecake, elegantly topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The warm tones of the cheesecake contrast beautifully with the vibrant autumn leaves and pumpkins surrounding it, creating a cozy, inviting scene.

Making this cheesecake is easier than you might think. It’s a great way to impress your guests while keeping things healthy. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to whip up this delightful treat!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup honey or maple syrup
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted coconut oil. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, honey or maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour and Bake: Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
4. Cool and Serve: Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Savor The Sweetness Of Healthy Apple Crisp

Healthy apple crisp is a delightful dessert that brings the warmth of autumn to your table. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, tart apples and a crunchy topping that makes every bite satisfying. The image shows a cozy bowl of apple crisp topped with a dollop of creamy goodness, surrounded by fresh apples and cinnamon sticks, hinting at the flavors within.

This dessert is not just tasty; it’s also a healthier alternative to traditional sweets. Using whole ingredients means you can enjoy it without the guilt. The combination of oats, nuts, and a touch of honey or maple syrup creates a delicious topping that pairs perfectly with the tender apples underneath.

Making this apple crisp is simple and fun. You can involve the whole family in preparing it, making it a great activity for the holiday season. Serve it warm with a scoop of yogurt or a splash of cream for an extra treat!

Ingredients

• 4 cups sliced apples (about 4-5 medium apples)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
3. In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, chopped nuts, melted coconut oil, and salt. Mix until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples, covering them evenly.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with yogurt or cream!

Enjoy A Classic Yet Healthy Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is a classic dessert that many look forward to during Thanksgiving. This version keeps the traditional flavors while being a healthier option. The image shows a beautifully baked pecan pie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, surrounded by scattered pecans and autumn leaves. It’s a delightful sight that captures the spirit of the season.

Using wholesome ingredients can make this dessert a guilt-free treat. Instead of heavy corn syrup, natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey can be used. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of nutrition.

To make your pecan pie even healthier, consider using a whole grain crust. It adds fiber and nutrients, making each slice a little more satisfying. The combination of crunchy pecans and a sweet, gooey filling is sure to please everyone at your Thanksgiving table.

Here’s a simple recipe to create your own healthy pecan pie:

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped
• 1 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 pre-made whole grain pie crust

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped pecans.
4. Pour the mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
6. Let it cool before serving. Enjoy with a scoop of your favorite ice cream!

Relish The Flavor Of No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

No-bake chocolate oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for Thanksgiving. These cookies are easy to make and require no oven time, which is a bonus during the busy holiday season. They are rich, chocolaty, and have a satisfying chewy texture thanks to the oats.

Imagine a stack of these cookies, drizzled with chocolate, sitting on a plate. They look inviting and delicious, making them a great addition to your dessert table. Pair them with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that everyone will love.

These cookies are not just tasty; they are also a healthier alternative to traditional desserts. Using oats and natural sweeteners, they provide a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, they are quick to whip up, allowing you to spend more time with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, cocoa powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix honey, peanut butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Combine: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined. If using, fold in chocolate chips.
3. Shape Cookies: Scoop out spoonfuls of the mixture and shape them into cookies. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the cookies for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
5. Serve: Enjoy your no-bake chocolate oatmeal cookies with a glass of milk!

Enjoy The Warmth Of Spiced Sweet Potato Brownies

These spiced sweet potato brownies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. With the warm colors of fall surrounding them, they bring a cozy vibe to any Thanksgiving table. The rich, fudgy texture pairs perfectly with the subtle sweetness of sweet potatoes, making them a healthier alternative to traditional brownies.

Each bite is infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, which not only enhance the flavor but also fill your kitchen with a comforting aroma. Topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar, these brownies are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these brownies are a great way to enjoy the season's bounty. They are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 medium sweet potato)
• 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, almond butter, and honey until smooth.
3. Add in the cocoa powder, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4. If using, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra treat.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool before cutting into squares and dusting with powdered sugar.

Treat Yourself To A Light And Luscious Lemon Tart

When it comes to Thanksgiving desserts, a light and refreshing lemon tart can be the perfect treat. This dessert is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess. The bright yellow filling, topped with a sprig of mint, invites you to take a bite. With its buttery crust and smooth lemon filling, it’s a great way to end a hearty meal.

The lemon tart is simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the holiday without stress. The fresh lemons used in the filling give it a zesty flavor that brightens up the table. Plus, it’s a lighter option compared to more traditional desserts, making it a favorite for those looking to indulge without overdoing it.

Here’s how to make your own delicious lemon tart:

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

1. Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and egg yolk. Combine until a dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan and chill for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, eggs, and baking powder until smooth.
4. Fill the Tart: Pour the lemon filling into the cooled crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes until set. Let it cool completely.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon zest before slicing. Enjoy your light and luscious lemon tart!

Delight In The Simplicity Of Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Banana oatmeal cookies are a fantastic way to enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. They are made with simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. The combination of ripe bananas and oats creates a satisfying texture that everyone will love.

These cookies are perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or any occasion where you want to offer a healthier dessert option. The aroma of baking bananas fills the kitchen, making it feel cozy and inviting. Plus, they are easy to whip up, so you can spend more time enjoying the holiday with family and friends.

Let’s get into the recipe so you can make these delightful cookies yourself!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips or nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
3. Add the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until everything is combined.
4. If you’re using chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the mixture.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With Healthy Pumpkin Muffins

These healthy pumpkin muffins are a delightful treat for your Thanksgiving table. They are moist, flavorful, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. The warm spices and pumpkin flavor create a cozy vibe, making them ideal for the fall season.

In the image, you can see a basket filled with golden-brown muffins, topped with a light sprinkle of sugar. Surrounding the muffins are small pumpkins and colorful autumn leaves, adding to the festive atmosphere. This presentation not only looks inviting but also hints at the deliciousness waiting inside each muffin.

Making these muffins is simple and fun. They can be enjoyed as a breakfast option or a sweet snack throughout the day. Plus, they are a great way to incorporate pumpkin into your diet, which is packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, honey or maple syrup, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Indulge In The Comfort Of Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Cinnamon roll casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings a twist to traditional cinnamon rolls. Imagine fluffy, sweet rolls layered in a baking dish, drizzled with creamy frosting. It’s perfect for gatherings, especially during the holidays. The aroma of cinnamon fills the air, making it hard to resist.

This dish combines the joy of cinnamon rolls with the ease of a casserole. You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when your guests arrive. Each bite is soft, gooey, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s a fun way to serve a classic dessert to a crowd.

Now, let’s get to the good part! Here’s how you can make this delightful cinnamon roll casserole at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1 cup cream cheese frosting (from the cinnamon roll cans)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
3. Cut the cinnamon rolls into quarters and place them in the baking dish.
4. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and maple syrup.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the cinnamon rolls, ensuring they are well coated.
6. If using, sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
8. Remove from the oven and drizzle with the cream cheese frosting while warm.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tempt Your Taste Buds With Maple Pecan Blondies

Maple pecan blondies are a delightful twist on traditional desserts. These treats are rich, chewy, and packed with the warm flavors of maple and toasted pecans. Perfect for Thanksgiving, they add a unique touch to your dessert table.

In the image, you can see a stack of golden blondies, beautifully topped with whole pecans. The warm, inviting colors make them look irresistible. They are arranged on a wooden board, surrounded by scattered pecans, giving a cozy, homemade vibe.

These blondies are not just tasty; they are also a healthier option compared to many other desserts. Using maple syrup instead of refined sugar adds natural sweetness, while pecans provide healthy fats and protein. This makes them a guilt-free indulgence!

Now, let’s get to the recipe so you can whip up a batch of these delicious blondies for your Thanksgiving gathering!

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
4. Add Pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans and dark chocolate chips if using.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy.