Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, delicious food! While traditional Thanksgiving dishes often take center stage, it’s equally important to have a variety of kid-friendly recipes that will excite the younger members of the family.
Engaging kids in the kitchen not only allows them to learn essential cooking skills, but it also creates lasting memories and brings everyone together.
This blog post is dedicated to providing over 50 delightful Thanksgiving recipes specifically tailored for kids, ranging from fun appetizers to scrumptious desserts.
Whether your children are picky eaters or adventurous foodies, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
Get ready to roll up your sleeves, gather the family, and make this Thanksgiving a celebration filled with laughter, love, and plenty of kid-approved dishes!
50+ Delicious Thanksgiving Kid-Friendly Recipes That Will Delight the Whole Family
Creating a memorable Thanksgiving celebration involves more than just the food; it’s about sharing the experience with loved ones. With these 50+ Thanksgiving kid-friendly recipes, you can inspire children to explore the joy of cooking and take part in the holiday festivities.
Each recipe is designed to be easy to follow, delicious, and most importantly, enjoyable for kids to help make.
As you gather around the table this Thanksgiving, you’ll not only be feasting on delightful dishes but also celebrating the joy of family, togetherness, and the simple pleasures of sharing a meal.
So, gather your little chefs, dive into these recipes, and make this Thanksgiving an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, delicious food, and cherished moments!
Pumpkin Pie Yogurt Parfaits
These Pumpkin Pie Yogurt Parfaits are a fun and healthy twist on traditional pumpkin pie, making them perfect for kids. Layered with creamy yogurt, spiced pumpkin puree, and crunchy granola, they are not only delicious but also visually appealing. This recipe invites children to help with layering the ingredients, creating a hands-on cooking experience that they will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups vanilla yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 cup granola
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Cinnamon (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare Pumpkin Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup (or honey). Mix well until smooth.
- Layer Ingredients: In clear cups or glasses, start by adding a layer of yogurt at the bottom. Next, add a layer of the pumpkin mixture, followed by a layer of granola.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering until the cups are full, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
- Add Whipped Cream: If desired, top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra festive touch.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the parfaits for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
These Pumpkin Pie Yogurt Parfaits offer a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving without the heaviness of traditional desserts. They’re not only appealing to kids with their bright colors and textures, but they also provide a great opportunity to teach them about healthy eating. Plus, they can personalize their parfaits, making each one unique. This recipe is sure to be a hit at the Thanksgiving table, providing a sweet yet healthy option that everyone will love!
Turkey-Shaped Sandwiches
These adorable Turkey-Shaped Sandwiches are a fun, interactive way to get kids involved in Thanksgiving meal preparations. Using simple sandwich ingredients, these playful creations are not only tasty but also make for a great centerpiece on the dining table. The kids will love to assemble their own turkey sandwiches, making it a perfect activity for the holiday.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of whole-grain bread
- 4 slices of deli turkey or chicken
- 2 slices of cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 1 small cucumber (sliced)
- 1 small carrot (cut into sticks)
- 1 small red bell pepper (cut into strips)
- Lettuce leaves
- Toothpicks
- Optional: mustard or mayonnaise
Instructions:
- Cut the Bread: Using a cookie cutter or a knife, cut two slices of bread into turkey shapes (body and head). You can also use a circle for the head and a larger shape for the body if preferred.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of mustard or mayonnaise on the bread, if desired. Layer a slice of cheese, followed by slices of turkey or chicken, and then add lettuce for crunch.
- Top It Off: Place the head piece on top of the body sandwich and secure it with a toothpick.
- Create the Tail: Stick cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips into the back of the body sandwich to create the turkey’s tail feathers.
- Serve: Arrange the turkey sandwiches on a platter, and serve them with additional veggies or fruit on the side.
These Turkey-Shaped Sandwiches are not only fun to make but also encourage creativity in the kitchen. Kids can experiment with different shapes and ingredients, creating their own unique turkeys. They are a great way to introduce children to healthy foods, as they can choose their favorite fillings and fresh veggies. Perfect for a Thanksgiving lunch or as part of a larger spread, these sandwiches will bring smiles to the faces of everyone at the table. Plus, they’re a delightful conversation starter!
Sweet Potato Casserole Bites
These Sweet Potato Casserole Bites are a kid-friendly adaptation of a Thanksgiving classic. They are bite-sized and easy for little hands to manage, making them a perfect side dish for young eaters. With a sweet and creamy filling topped with a crunchy pecan topping, these bites are a great way to introduce kids to the flavors of Thanksgiving in a fun and accessible way.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Mash and Mix: In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Add brown sugar, milk, butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until fully combined.
- Fill the Muffin Tins: Lightly grease a muffin tin. Spoon the sweet potato mixture into each cup, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Top with Pecan Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans and mini marshmallows (if using). Sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of each sweet potato bite.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the bites are heated through.
Sweet Potato Casserole Bites bring the delicious flavors of Thanksgiving into a fun and kid-friendly format. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for little hands, encouraging kids to try something new and wholesome. The sweet, creamy filling combined with the crunchy topping is sure to satisfy both children and adults alike. These bites not only add variety to your Thanksgiving table but also create lasting memories of cooking together as a family. Kids will love helping to make these, and the satisfaction of enjoying their creations will surely make this recipe a holiday favorite!
Cornbread Muffin Turkeys
These Cornbread Muffin Turkeys are a delightful way to incorporate a classic Thanksgiving side dish into a fun and festive shape. Kids will love the idea of creating their own turkey muffins, using simple ingredients and playful decorations. This recipe encourages creativity, as children can customize their turkey muffins with various toppings and garnishes, making it a fun family activity.
Ingredients:
- 1 box cornbread mix (plus ingredients required on the box, typically egg and milk)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 can black olives (sliced, for decoration)
- 1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare Muffin Batter: Preheat the oven according to cornbread mix instructions. In a large bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to the package directions, adding the shredded cheese, cooked bacon, green onions, and red bell pepper into the batter.
- Bake Muffins: Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Bake according to package instructions, usually 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow muffins to cool slightly before removing them from the tin.
- Decorate the Turkeys: Once cooled, place the muffins upright. Use sliced black olives to create turkey eyes, and you can cut additional vegetables (like bell peppers) into shapes for the beak and wattle. Arrange corn around the muffin’s base to resemble turkey feathers.
- Serve: Serve warm with sour cream on the side for dipping.
These Cornbread Muffin Turkeys are a delightful and whimsical addition to your Thanksgiving table. They not only taste fantastic but also offer a fun and interactive way for kids to get involved in the cooking process. Allowing children to decorate their muffins fosters creativity and makes mealtime more enjoyable. Plus, with ingredients like cheese and bacon, these muffins are sure to appeal to even the pickiest eaters. This recipe will create lasting memories and laughter around the Thanksgiving feast!
Mashed Potato Snowmen
These Mashed Potato Snowmen are a whimsical and playful take on a traditional Thanksgiving dish. Kids will love the chance to build their own snowmen using creamy mashed potatoes, transforming an ordinary side dish into an extraordinary centerpiece. This recipe encourages creativity and imagination, making it an engaging way for children to enjoy their meals.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (russet or Yukon gold), peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream)
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked peas (for decoration)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (for decoration)
- Black olives (for eyes)
- Cherry tomatoes (for hats)
- Pretzel sticks (for arms)
Instructions:
- Make Mashed Potatoes: In a large pot, boil the cubed potatoes until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Shape the Snowmen: Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, scoop out the mashed potatoes to form three different-sized balls for each snowman: one large for the bottom, a medium one for the middle, and a small one for the head. Stack them carefully on a plate.
- Decorate the Snowmen: Use cooked peas for the snowman’s buttons and black olives for the eyes. Cut cherry tomatoes in half and place them on top of the small ball to create hats. Use pretzel sticks for arms and shredded carrots for scarves.
- Serve: Serve the mashed potato snowmen immediately while warm.
These Mashed Potato Snowmen add a delightful touch to any Thanksgiving meal, turning a simple side dish into a fun and creative masterpiece. Kids will love building their own snowmen, and the interactive element makes eating more enjoyable. This recipe also encourages kids to try new flavors and textures, helping them to develop a love for cooking. With a little creativity and some delicious ingredients, these snowmen will be a highlight of your Thanksgiving table, bringing joy and laughter to all your guests!
Apple Pie Fruit Skewers
These Apple Pie Fruit Skewers are a refreshing and healthy alternative to traditional apple pie, perfect for kids who may prefer a lighter dessert option. Featuring fresh apple slices, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, these skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing. This recipe invites children to assemble their own skewers, making it a fun and interactive dessert for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (red or green), cored and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup vanilla yogurt
- 1 cup granola
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)
- Skewers or wooden sticks
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and core the apples. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. Set up a station with apple pieces, yogurt, granola, and cinnamon.
- Assemble the Skewers: Take a skewer and start by threading an apple piece, followed by a spoonful of yogurt, then granola, and repeat until the skewer is filled. You can make the skewers as long or short as desired.
- Sprinkle with Cinnamon: Once assembled, sprinkle the skewers with a little cinnamon and drizzle with honey if desired.
- Serve: Arrange the skewers on a platter and serve immediately for a fun and healthy dessert.
Apple Pie Fruit Skewers are a delightful and interactive dessert that introduces kids to healthy eating while keeping the festive spirit of Thanksgiving alive. By allowing children to create their own skewers, they can choose their favorite ingredients and enjoy a hands-on cooking experience. These skewers are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to your Thanksgiving spread. The combination of fresh apples, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola captures the essence of apple pie in a fun, easy-to-eat form, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy a light yet satisfying treat.
Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites
These Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites are a wholesome, no-bake treat that captures the flavors of Thanksgiving in a healthy snack. Packed with oats, pumpkin puree, and spices, these bites are perfect for kids looking for a nutritious pick-me-up during the holiday festivities. Easy to make and fun to roll, this recipe is an excellent opportunity for children to get involved in the kitchen while promoting healthy eating habits.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter (like almond or peanut butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, pumpkin puree, honey, nut butter, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir until well mixed. If desired, fold in mini chocolate chips and chopped nuts or seeds.
- Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes. Chilling makes it easier to handle and roll into bites.
- Form the Energy Bites: Once chilled, use your hands to roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Store and Serve: Place the energy bites in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy as a healthy snack during Thanksgiving festivities!
These Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites are not only delicious but also nutritious, making them an excellent choice for a kid-friendly Thanksgiving treat. Their no-bake nature makes them easy to prepare, and kids will have a blast rolling them into bite-sized snacks. The flavors of pumpkin spice evoke the essence of the holiday season, ensuring that everyone feels festive. These energy bites are perfect for keeping kids fueled and happy during the busy holiday festivities and can be enjoyed any time of the year!
Turkey Fruit Cups
These Turkey Fruit Cups are a fun and colorful way to serve fruit during Thanksgiving, making healthy eating exciting for kids. Using a variety of fresh fruits, these cups are easy to assemble and can be customized with whatever fruits are in season. The turkey design adds a playful touch to the meal, and children will love making their own edible turkeys using their favorite fruits.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup grapes (red or green)
- 1 cup mandarin oranges (canned or fresh)
- 1 banana, sliced
- 1 cup yogurt (for the base)
- Mini chocolate chips (for decoration)
- Small candy eyes (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash and cut the fruits into appropriate sizes. If using canned mandarin oranges, drain them well.
- Assemble the Fruit Cups: In a clear cup or small bowl, add a layer of yogurt at the bottom. Then layer the fruits in an arranged manner to resemble a turkey. Use sliced strawberries for the tail feathers, blueberries for the head, and grapes for the body.
- Decorate: Use mini chocolate chips for eyes, and if desired, add small candy eyes to give your turkey a fun look. Use a banana slice as a beak if you like.
- Serve: These fruit cups can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a bit before serving.
These Turkey Fruit Cups are a delightful way to encourage children to enjoy their fruits during Thanksgiving. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also offer a healthy and refreshing dessert option. The playful turkey design makes them fun to eat and adds a festive touch to the holiday table. Kids will enjoy getting creative with their fruit combinations, and parents can feel good about serving a nutritious treat that adds color and vibrancy to the Thanksgiving feast. These fruit cups are perfect for parties or family gatherings, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a healthy snack while celebrating the season!
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Parfaits
These Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Parfaits are a fun twist on traditional sweet potato casserole, turning it into an appealing dessert that kids will love. Layers of creamy sweet potato puree, marshmallows, and crunchy granola create a delightful combination of textures and flavors. This recipe not only satisfies sweet cravings but also showcases the nutritional goodness of sweet potatoes in a kid-friendly format.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup granola
- 1/4 cup whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook Sweet Potatoes: Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot.
- Mash and Season: Add brown sugar and cinnamon to the sweet potatoes, and mash until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the Parfaits: In clear cups or jars, add a layer of mashed sweet potatoes at the bottom. Follow with a layer of granola, then a layer of mini marshmallows. Repeat the layers until the cups are full.
- Top and Serve: If desired, add a dollop of whipped cream on top and garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts. Serve immediately or chill for a refreshing dessert.
These Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Parfaits are an innovative and fun way to present a classic Thanksgiving dish. They combine the natural sweetness and nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes with the fun and festive element of marshmallows. Kids will love the opportunity to assemble their own parfaits, making it an interactive dessert that adds to the Thanksgiving experience. With their delightful layers and sweet flavor, these parfaits are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, providing a delicious end to your Thanksgiving feast while introducing children to the joys of healthy eating.
Pumpkin Patch Pudding Cups
These Pumpkin Patch Pudding Cups are a delightful and fun dessert that kids can help create! With layers of chocolate pudding, crushed cookies, and whipped cream, they resemble a pumpkin patch, making them a festive addition to your Thanksgiving table. This recipe encourages kids to get involved in assembling the cups, allowing for creativity and imagination while enjoying a tasty treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chocolate pudding (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
- 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- 6-8 small candy pumpkins (for decoration)
- Green gummy candy (like sour straws or candy vines for decoration)
Instructions:
- Prepare Pudding: If making homemade chocolate pudding, prepare it according to the package directions or your favorite recipe and let it cool.
- Layer the Ingredients: In clear cups, start by adding a layer of chocolate pudding at the bottom. Follow with a layer of crushed chocolate cookies, then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the cups are filled, leaving some space at the top.
- Decorate: Once filled, place small candy pumpkins on top of the whipped cream layer. Use green gummy candy to create vines and leaves around the pumpkins for a whimsical pumpkin patch effect.
- Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
These Pumpkin Patch Pudding Cups are not only adorable but also a delicious way to end your Thanksgiving meal. The combination of chocolate pudding, crunchy cookies, and creamy whipped topping makes for a delightful treat that kids will love. Engaging children in the assembly of these cups allows for creativity, and they’ll have a blast decorating their own pumpkin patches. This dessert is sure to be a conversation starter at your Thanksgiving gathering, making it a memorable and sweet ending to your festive celebration!
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bites
These Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bites are a fantastic way to get kids excited about eating their veggies during Thanksgiving. With a cheesy, crispy exterior and a tender veggie inside, these bites are not only delicious but also nutritious. They can be served as an appetizer or a side dish, making them a versatile addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups cauliflower florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray (for baking)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Vegetables: If using fresh broccoli and cauliflower, steam them until tender, about 5-7 minutes. If using frozen, microwave them according to package instructions. Once cooked, chop them finely.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli and cauliflower with cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form Bites: Using your hands, form small balls or patties with the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Let cool slightly before serving.
These Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bites are a delicious way to encourage kids to eat their vegetables during Thanksgiving. With their cheesy flavor and crispy texture, these bites are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. They can be served with a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for added fun. The recipe is simple enough for kids to help prepare, fostering a sense of accomplishment as they contribute to the meal. These veggie bites are a wonderful addition to your Thanksgiving feast, promoting healthy eating while ensuring everyone has a tasty treat to enjoy!
Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole
This Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls and baked apples, making it a perfect breakfast or dessert for Thanksgiving morning. Easy to prepare and deliciously indulgent, this casserole is great for serving a crowd. Kids will enjoy helping to layer the ingredients, creating a festive dish that smells amazing while it bakes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
- 2 large apples, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (for drizzling)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Set the icing aside for later.
- Mix the Apples: In a bowl, combine the diced apples, cinnamon, brown sugar, chopped pecans, raisins, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the apples are evenly coated.
- Layer the Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cinnamon roll pieces at the bottom. Add half of the apple mixture on top, then layer the remaining cinnamon roll pieces followed by the remaining apples.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and drizzle with maple syrup.
- Finish with Icing: Drizzle the reserved icing over the casserole while it’s still warm.
This Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a delightful way to start Thanksgiving day or serve as a comforting dessert after the meal. Its combination of warm cinnamon rolls and sweet, spiced apples creates a crowd-pleasing dish that kids will love. The casserole is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, allowing kids to help with layering the ingredients. The delightful aroma while it bakes adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving menu. Serve this warm, and watch it disappear from the table!
Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups
These Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups are a fun and nutritious way to serve protein during Thanksgiving. Kids will love the interactive aspect of rolling up their ingredients, and these bites can be customized with different toppings or spreads. They make for a great appetizer or a light lunch option, adding a little turkey flair to your holiday festivities.
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of deli turkey
- 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese or hummus
- 1 cup spinach or lettuce leaves
- Optional: sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives for extra crunch
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Lay out the deli turkey slices on a clean surface or cutting board. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or hummus over each slice.
- Add the Cheese and Veggies: Place a slice of cheese on top of the turkey. Add a few spinach leaves or lettuce and any optional vegetables you desire.
- Roll It Up: Starting from one end, roll the turkey tightly around the cheese and veggies to create a log shape.
- Slice and Serve: Cut each roll into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter for serving.
These Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups are not only a hit with kids but also a healthy choice for Thanksgiving. Their customizable nature allows kids to express their creativity by choosing their favorite toppings and ingredients. The roll-up format makes them easy to handle and eat, perfect for little hands. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to incorporate turkey into the meal without the fuss of traditional cooking methods. Serve these as a fun appetizer or snack, and watch them disappear from the platter!
Sweet Potato Marshmallow Cups
Sweet Potato Marshmallow Cups are a delightful twist on traditional sweet potato casserole. These individual servings are easy for kids to eat and offer a touch of sweetness that is sure to please. They’re a fun way to present a Thanksgiving classic, and kids will enjoy helping to mash and layer the ingredients, making it an engaging cooking experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup milk (or a non-dairy alternative)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Mini marshmallows (for topping)
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash the sweet potatoes and pierce them with a fork. Bake them for about 45-60 minutes, or until soft. Allow them to cool slightly before peeling.
- Mash the Potatoes: In a bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes with brown sugar, milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cups: Spoon the sweet potato mixture into small cups or ramekins. Top each cup with a generous layer of mini marshmallows.
- Broil: Place the cups under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and toasted. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
- Serve: Let the cups cool for a moment before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped nuts for added crunch.
These Sweet Potato Marshmallow Cups are a delightful and fun way to enjoy a Thanksgiving staple. The individual servings make them perfect for kids, allowing them to savor their sweet treat without the mess of traditional casseroles. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and toasted marshmallows adds a delicious flavor that will appeal to everyone at the table. Getting kids involved in mashing and assembling the cups creates a wonderful opportunity for family bonding in the kitchen. These cups will surely become a new Thanksgiving favorite, adding sweetness and charm to your holiday spread!
Mini Pumpkin Pies
These Mini Pumpkin Pies are an adorable and delicious dessert that allows kids to enjoy the classic flavors of pumpkin pie in a bite-sized format. Easy to make and fun to decorate, these little pies are perfect for Thanksgiving and give children the opportunity to get creative with toppings. They are a delightful way to end the meal, bringing the essence of fall to your dessert table.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of pre-made pie crusts (or homemade, if preferred)
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- Whipped cream (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut Circles: Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut circles from the pie crust to fit into a muffin tin, pressing each circle into the bottom and up the sides to form mini pie shells.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and eggs until smooth.
- Fill the Pie Shells: Spoon the pumpkin filling into each mini pie shell, filling them about three-quarters full.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before removing from the muffin tin.
- Serve with Whipped Cream: Once cooled, top each mini pumpkin pie with a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
These Mini Pumpkin Pies are a delightful way to incorporate a classic Thanksgiving dessert into a kid-friendly format. Their small size makes them perfect for little hands, and the fun of topping them with whipped cream adds an interactive element to the dessert. Kids will enjoy the rich pumpkin flavor while parents will appreciate the ease of preparation. This recipe also provides a wonderful opportunity for children to practice their baking skills while helping in the kitchen. These mini pies are sure to be a hit, bringing smiles and sweetness to your Thanksgiving celebration!
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
