Thanksgiving is one of the holidays that many people look forward to all year. It’s a time for eating delicious food and spending quality time with those you love. Of course, the turkey is usually the main event and according to the US Department of Agriculture, at least 46 million turkeys are cooked on Thanksgiving day. 

If you’re the one hosting Thanksgiving dinner, you likely know what it’s like to be left with tons of turkey after the holiday. To avoid eating turkey sandwiches every day for the next week, we’ve put together a list of the most unique and delicious ways to use leftover turkey. Check out some of our favorite turkey recipes below.

Breaded Turkey Rolls

If you’re looking for a tasty alternative to the basic turkey sandwich, try these breaded turkey rolls. You can pair them with the marinated cucumbers and tomatoes included in the recipe or you can enjoy them with one of your favorite sides leftover from Thanksgiving.

Perfect for a quick lunch

These breaded turkey rolls are perfect for a quick lunch on the busy days after Thanksgiving. You can make them with some ingredients you likely already have on hand and they’re ready in less than 15 minutes.

Crunchy Turkey Casserole

No post-Thanksgiving meal plan would be complete without a casserole recipe. Casseroles are one of the easiest and most delicious ways to use all that leftover turkey. If you want a unique casserole that’s full of flavor, try this crunchy turkey casserole recipe.

A delicious casserole to feed the whole family

While there is something comforting about your standard casserole recipe, this recipe is perfect if you’re looking for something a little different. The almonds and water chestnuts add a nice crunch and pair perfectly with the creamy soup and savory chow mein noodles.

Healthy Turkey Stir-Fry

Instead of ordering take-out in the days after Thanksgiving, use your leftover turkey to make this healthy turkey stir-fry. It’s a simple recipe that’s both quick and easy to make without a lot of ingredients.

A tasty and unique turkey dish

You probably won’t feel like cooking in the days following Thanksgiving, but this stir-fry recipe is worth the effort. You can make this recipe with some of the vegetables you have leftover from Thanksgiving and it’s ready in less than 30 minutes.

Turkey Cobb Roll Ups

If you’re a fan of Cobb salads, you’ll love this recipe for turkey Cobb roll-ups. With a slice of fresh tomato, avocado, and your favorite blue cheese dressing, you can create a delicious wrap for lunch, dinner, or an afternoon snack.

A healthy and tasty way to enjoy leftover turkey

Your leftover Thanksgiving turkey will taste delicious in this roll-up. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a healthy lunch that includes vegetables, a creamy dressing, and your perfectly seasoned leftover turkey.

Healthy Turkey Soup

If you live somewhere with cooler weather, warm yourself up with this healthy turkey soup recipe. It’s full of nutrients and will keep you full without adding in too many extra calories.

Perfect for the chilly days after Thanksgiving

Soup is another perfect way to use up all your leftover Thanksgiving turkey. Not only will it keep you warm on these chilly days after Thanksgiving, but it also smells great while it’s simmering in your kitchen. If you have extra vegetables on hand from the holiday, try this healthy soup for a quick lunch or dinner.

Turkey Pot Pie

Whether you’re creating a meal to take to a neighbor or you’re looking for something to feed your family for dinner, this turkey pot pie recipe is the way to go. You can enjoy it fresh or freeze it to enjoy later.

A delicious alternative to chicken pot pie

Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort dish, especially in the winter months. This delicious alternative includes all the things you love about chicken pot pie but has cubed turkey as the protein instead. Cut up some vegetables and some of your leftover turkey to create this tasty and filling dish.

Creamed Turkey Over Mashed Potatoes

If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy turkey and mashed potatoes after Thanksgiving, this creamed turkey over mashed potatoes dish is one you have to try. With the addition of sautéed onion and other vegetables, you can turn some of your Thanksgiving leftovers into a brand-new dish.

A toast to two Thanksgiving dishes

There’s no doubt that turkey and mashed potatoes are two of the best things on every Thanksgiving plate. However, it can be difficult to know what to do with all those leftover mashed potatoes. This dish celebrates two of the best Thanksgiving dishes with some different flavors from the ones you ate on Thanksgiving day.

Turkey Tetrazzini with Fresh Mushrooms

Tetrazzini is a baked pasta dish you can make with poultry, seafood, or another type of meat. This recipe forturkey tetrazzini with fresh mushrooms is a unique and delicious way to use your leftover Thanksgiving turkey.

A fresh take on leftover turkey

This creamy pasta dish comes together in less than 30 minutes and it’s bound to be a hit with everyone in your household. One serving of this dish has about 331 calories and 28 grams of protein, making it a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Creamy Turkey Casserole with Broccoli and Cauliflower

When it comes to finding ways to use leftover turkey, you can’t have too many casserole recipes. This creamy turkey casserole with broccoli and cauliflower is salty and savory, with plenty of nutrients from the cauliflower, broccoli, and prunes.

The ultimate comfort food for the days after Thanksgiving

Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food and this casserole recipe is a great way to enjoy some of the leftover turkey from the holiday. This casserole tastes great right out of the oven, but you can also freeze it to have an easy meal for another day.

Open-Faced Turkey Sandwich

Turkey sandwiches can get boring pretty quickly if you’re eating them for a week straight. However, if you’re going to make one turkey sandwich with your leftover turkey, let it be this open-faced turkey sandwich.

Better than your average turkey sandwich

Instead of cooking your turkey in the slow cooker as the recipe says, you can use your leftover turkey and mashed potatoes to make this open-faced turkey sandwich. All you have to do is shred some of your leftover turkey and place it on two slices of toast. Then, spoon some mashed potatoes and gravy on top for a tasty sandwich.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©circlePS/ via Getty Images.

The post These Are the Most Unique and Delicious Ways to Use Leftover Turkey appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Thanksgiving is a great holiday for many reasons. Most people are off from work, there are sports on TV, you get to spend time with family, and best of all, you get to eat amazing food. Many people enjoy the staples of stuffing, potatoes and gravy, and, of course, the turkey. However, turkey isn’t for everyone, and sometimes, you may want something different. It may be because you don’t like the taste of turkey, or perhaps you just need a change. Personally, I couldn’t agree more. I used to eat turkey on Thanksgiving, like most Americans. However, I believe that these 10 alternatives are just plain better.

There are many different tasty options on this list. There are tasty, meaty options, such as fried turkey, ham, and roast beef. Some people like seafood, so we have a fish option here as well. Then there are those who don’t like meat at all. Luckily, there are many meatless options you can try. Check out this list of Thanksgiving alternatives and start a new tradition with your family this year.

Chicken Fried Turkey

You can still have turkey on Thanksgiving but add a twist. Chicken fried turkey is fried and covered with gravy. It’s just as tasty, just a bit different. You can also get creative with your side dishes.

How Best to Serve

You’ll also save money with this dish because instead of a full turkey, you can get smaller cutlets and cook them as they are. Fried turkey is great with a side of green beans, mashed potatoes, or whatever else you enjoy.

Ham

Many people choose to eat ham at Thanksgiving instead of turkey. It provides a completely different flavor profile, and it’s not quite as filling, which allows you more room for side dishes. There are also many different ways to prepare ham.

How Best to Serve

Many cooks like to prepare a glazed ham with honey and Dijon mustard. It adds a lot more flavor than traditional ham. Pair it with deviled eggs and green beans for a well-rounded meal. Plus, there are no additives that make you fall asleep!

Roast Beef

Another filling and tasty alternative to turkey on Thanksgiving is roast beef. It’s a tasty meal straight out of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” It’s a festive treat that will leave your family full and satisfied. Granted, it’s not for everyone, so survey your family before surprising them by putting it on the table.

How Best to Serve

You have many options for how you prepare your roast beef. Many people like it when it’s prepared with garlic and onions because it provides a flavor pop. Pair the roast beef with savory beef gravy to make it mouth-watering and delicious.

Prime Rib

You can make your Thanksgiving celebration extra fancy by serving prime rib. You have many options for how you prepare this meal, and they’re all amazing. A prime rib meal is better than turkey and it will have your family returning to your home year after year.

How Best to Serve

When serving this dish instead of turkey on Thanksgiving, we recommend preparing a peppercorn-crusted prime rib. Make it just right, and it will be tender enough to melt in your mouth. Plus, it can be cooked in just over an hour. Add potatoes and green beans to make a perfect meal.

Beef Wellington

It may seem like something out of Chef Ramsay’s kitchen, but beef wellington is a tasty dish that isn’t difficult to make. In fact, with the right recipe, it’s rather easy. Plus, you’ll really impress your guests with this amazing meal.

How Best to Serve

The best way to serve beef Wellington is to create a beef and mushroom stuffing and wrap it in a buttery puff pastry. Create the stuffing with a food processor. Choose filet mignon for the perfect dish.

Roasted Goose

This one will take a bit more prep time, but it’s worth it. Your guests will sit in awe as you cut into a tasty roasted goose. This type of bird has juicy and tender meat and super crispy skin. Goose also provides a great meal presentation.

How Best to Serve

There are many different recipes for roasted goose. The one we recommend uses a teaspoon of hot sauce and red or white wine. Keep in mind that you’ll want to cook this for three hours and then let it cool and rest for 12 hours before serving.

Lamb

Many cultures enjoy lamb for big meals. Cook it just right, and it can be the perfect dish for your Thanksgiving meal. Lamb is great on its own, but it can be made even better with the right sides. This is another dish that is amazing, but you may want to mention it to the family just in case they don’t like it, and you need to make them something different. 

How Best to Serve

There are many tasty lamb recipes out there. Find one that works for you. However, elements you should certainly add include leeks and fingerling potatoes, which make the perfect sides. A good rub for the lamb might consist of rosemary, parsley, oregano, and garlic.

Salmon

You can go in a completely different direction on Thanksgiving and have a fish dinner instead of turkey. Salmon is a great choice. The meal will be light and tasty and there are many options when it comes to preparing it. Just about any fish makes a great meal, so cook what you like best.

How Best to Serve

One of the many options for preparing salmon is to create one that is pomegranate-glaze and add in olives, oranges, and a nice selection of herbs. Serve your salmon with some vegetables, and you’ll feel good after dinner instead of feeling bloated.

Cornish Game Hen

A final alternative to turkey on Thanksgiving is eating roasted Cornish game hen. Find a good recipe online and cook away. The great thing about this dish is that everyone can get their own hen, so there’s less sharing across plates.

How Best to Serve

There are many tasty recipes available online. Find what you like best. In many cases, hen is great when combined with garlic, rosemary, citrus, paprika, and other herbs. Add a nice sauce and butter, and you’ll have an award-winning dinner.

Mushroom Steaks

Many people choose not to eat turkey during Thanksgiving because they’re vegetarians. The good news is that there are many different meat-free options you can try, from tofu to mushroom steaks. We prefer mushroom steaks because they provide a meaty texture without the hassle.

How Best to Serve

There are many different ways to cook and accent mushroom steaks. Many people use the method of taking two cast-iron skillets. Use one for cooking and searing the mushroom. The other skillet is used to weigh down the mushroom as it cooks. Add some pesto and almonds for the perfect bite.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©"cornish game hen" by stu_spivack is licensed under BY-SA 2.0..

The post I Used to Eat Turkey on Thanksgiving Like Most Americans – but These 10 Alternatives are Just Plain Better appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Every year Americans celebrate Thanksgiving. This day is to express gratitude for all the blessings in their lives and spend quality time with friends and family. Everyone looks forward to enjoying a hearty autumn feast together. However, many Americans are not fully aware of the history behind this holiday. We have compiled a list of simple Thanksgiving history questions and answers that the average American doesn’t know. Take the quiz and test your knowledge.

When was the first Thanksgiving?

This celebration feast lasted for three days, and together the English and Wampanoag ate corn, deer, carrots, green beans, spinach, and seafood. Unlike today, our Thanksgiving feast is quite different, consisting of turkey and lovely potato dishes.

Answer

Autumn 1621: 52 English people and approximately 90 Wampanoag joined together in Plymouth, Massachusetts, to celebrate a successful harvest.

What Thanksgiving vegetable grew in space?

A Thanksgiving meal isn’t complete without a delicious veggie side dish. What do you think it was tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, or onions?

Answer

Potatoes: The seeds were put inside the ISS’ computer-controlled growing chambers. These chambers have humidity and high-efficiency temperature controls with unique lighting and automation technology.

Why were there only 52 pilgrims at the first Thanksgiving?

The Mayflower set sail in September 1620 and traveled for 66 days until it finally arrived at Cape Cod on November 11, 1620.

Answer

The Mayflower was a cargo ship that carried 102 men, women, and children to the New World. They encountered harsh weather conditions, shelter, and food. Sadly, half of the passengers died due to illnesses such as fever, coughs, and other contagious diseases within the first winter. There were over 25 children and teenagers, four women, and 22 men who survived.

What date is Thanksgiving in the United States?

Unlike Christmas, which is celebrated on December 25^th regardless of which day of the week, it is not like that for Thanksgiving. Under the new constitution on October 3, 1789, President George Washington designated November 26 as a day of public prayer and thanksgiving. Future Thanksgiving proclamation dates and months varied, celebrating in February 1797 and April 1815.

Answer

It wasn’t until Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation on October 3, 1863, declared that Thanksgiving should be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.

Who thought of turkey for Thanksgiving dinner?

It was not until the mid-19th century that turkey became widely associated with this November holiday.

Answer

Sarah Josepha Hale known as the “Mother of Thanksgiving,” was an activist, American writer, and editor for a magazine in the period before the Civil War. Her novel, A Tale of New England, published in 1827, had a whole chapter devoted to a New England Thanksgiving meal with a delicious roast turkey at the head of the table. 

Who pardoned the turkey?

Harry Truman was first credited for pardoning the turkey; however, that’s not true. He received a turkey and had it for dinner. John F. Kennedy let his turkey go, and Richard Nixon sent his turkey to a zoo.

Answer

In 1989, George H.W. Bush formalized the pardoning tradition.

When did Thanksgiving TV dinners start?

TV dinners are convenient for those who don’t want to cook or don’t know how to cook.

Answer

1954: Swanson’s company had an extra 26 tons of frozen turkey. An assiduous worker suggested cooking them and repacking them with extra vegetables.

Can turkeys fly?

Ever wondered if turkeys can fly? Take a guess!

Answer

Yes: Wild turkeys can reach speeds of up to 55 mph over short distances. At dusk, they fly into trees to roost.

How many turkeys are eaten on Thanksgiving day?

Some people are not a fan of turkey and would prefer to eat a different source of protein on Thanksgiving.

Answer

46 million: However, 88 percent of Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving. That’s a lot of turkey.

Which American founding father is credited as calling turkeys “a bird of courage’?

Take a guess and test your knowledge.

• Thomas Jefferson
• George Washington
• Benjamin Franklin
• Patrick Henry

Answer

Benjamin Franklin: In his famous letter, he complained that the eagle’s popularity was misguided and the turkey was a more honorable bird and was native to America.

Who hosted the first Thanksgiving?

It is believed that the first Thanksgiving took place in 1621.

Answer

William Bradford: He was the leader of the Pilgrims and organized the three-day feast.

Did the Pilgrims refer to themselves as Pilgrims?

Pilgrims are known as people who travel to sacred places for religious reasons.

Answer

No: They called themselves “Separatists.” Known as a group of people who separated themselves from a larger group.

How long was the Mayflower’s voyage from England to America?

The Pilgrims left in September 1620 and arrived in November 1620. How many days was the journey?

Answer

66 days: The pilgrims were thrilled to put their feet on solid land.

What does football have to do with Thanksgiving?

Since 1920, the National Football League (NFL) has had scheduled games every Thanksgiving.

 Answer

It started as a way to encourage sports enthusiasts to watch live games. This event has always been exciting and fun and brings family and friends together.

Which two NFL teams have played a game on Thanksgiving day since 1966?

Two popular teams have always played; can you guess who they are?

• San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Raiders
• Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys
• Indiana Colts and Denver Broncos
• Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs

Answer

Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys: In 1975 and 1977, the NFL allowed the St. Louis Cardinals to host the game to help boost the team’s popularity.

Which state raises the most turkeys?

In this state, turkey farming is a family tradition, with over 450 families rearing turkeys.

Answer

Minnesota: There are approximately 44 million turkeys reared around this state.

How many miles long is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade route?

The parade first took place in 1924, but how long is the route?

• 1.8 miles
• 2 miles
• 4.5 miles
• 2.5 miles

Answer

2.5 miles: The parade lasts for 3 hours. It begins at 9 a.m. and ends at noon Eastern Standard Time outside Macy’s Herald Square. Furthermore, it’s free to attend so you and the family can enjoy the morning out.

What holiday takes place the day after Thanksgiving?

This national holiday is celebrated the day after Thanksgiving. Do you know what it’s called and why it takes place? Are you ready to answer these next simple Thanksgiving history questions?

Answer

Black Friday: This day is considered the kick-off day for Christmas shopping. Many retailers are open in the early hours of the morning and offer many deals at discounted prices. Cost-conscious buyers line up at the doors to be the first to grab those specials.

In which city is Macy’s parade held?

More than 3.5 million people attend the parade live each year, and roughly 44 million watch it on TV each year.

Answer

New York City: Moreover, families wake up bright and early to hit the streets and be close to the front line to be blown away by the beautiful outfits and floats passing through the street.

What was featured in the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade?

Finally, we have our last question.

Answer

Puppets, Santa floats, clowns, and live animals: These were some of the first features from the Central Park Zoo. I hope you enjoyed this article. The average American doesn’t know the answers to these simple Thanksgiving history questions. Enjoy your Thanksgiving celebrations and bring out the trivia. Happy Thanksgiving!!

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Public Domain / Wikimedia Commons.

The post The Average American Doesn’t Know The Answers to These Simple Thanksgiving History Questions appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Thanksgiving activities are a great way for everyone to have fun and enjoy time with family and friends. Activities after the festivities are a great solution for the age-old question: Once the meal is finished, what now? And no, doing the dishes doesn’t count.

Instead of just focusing on one rather large fabulous meal, Thanksgiving is a day that is the memory and anticipation of this meal that makes mouths water for months before and after. But what else is there to do? The traditional festivities of Thanksgiving dictate very little else. If the post-turkey consumption staring contest, nap, or sports center report have lost their thrill, it might be time to try something new with a few Thanksgiving games and activities that are sure to entertain.

Key Points of Thanksgiving Activities

• Keep it simple. It doesn't have to cost a lot of money or time to be a fun activity.
• Choose something or many things that you can do every year with your family.
• Make it memorable, like churning butter or helping grandma with her famous pie.
• Get out in nature and enjoy the cool weather and turning leaves.

Activities to Keep the Party Going

Many of us spent the Thanksgivings of our youth at grandma’s house. Grandma sometimes lived in a tiny little flyspeck of a town in the absolute middle of nowhere, but we loved it there. In spite of no television reception, malls, movie theaters, or even gas stations there was always something to do. Some of the most memorable Thanksgiving activities from those times are still enjoyed today. Review the following activities to try at your next family gathering.

Take a Walk

It sounds simple, but there is no better answer to ‘What are we gonna do now?’ than lacing up the sneakers and getting moving. Thanksgiving outdoor activities are a great way to surround yourself in nature. While you walk, you can discuss the sights and sounds that you observe and list reasons for gratitude. Playing simple games like I Spy or trying to name the birds by their songs adds a dimension of play. You can also walk past places of significance to your family’s history.

If the walk is taken before the big meal it will get the kids out from under your feet in the kitchen. The help my aunts could have been was small in comparison with the service of removing 10 plus sets of busy little fingers from the food prep area. I often suspect the removal of extra ‘help’ is where the idea of an annual walk originated.

Make Homemade Butter

If getting rid of kitchen helpers is not your idea of a good time, try incorporating smaller less experienced hands by adding tasks that are fun and easy. We always arranged the veggie and deli trays. The feeling of accomplishment and contribution was great. Other tasks youngsters can help with in the kitchen include setting the table, whipping cream, sneaking taste tests, putting marshmallows on the yams, and placing the rolls in a basket.

One fun task (if you're up for it) is to make butter. Before you drift off into visions of cows and a butter churn, let me assure you it's nothing like that. The only equipment needed is a clean jar with a tightly fitting lid. Ingredients are simple: heavy whipping cream (it should be fresh, not from the cow, but never frozen).

Now, you’ve caught the vision: no cows, no churns, and no bonnets. To make butter, put the cream in the jar and close the lid tightly. Give the jar to the children and tell them to get shaking. It can take anywhere from 10 minutes to half an hour for the butter to form, depending on how vigorously and constantly the jar is being shaken. Arms do tend to tire, so it is a good idea to have several potential jar shakers on hand. The butter will appear as a cohesive glob in the jar. Once the butter lump appears continue to shake for several minutes longer to let it set up more and to let any additional butter form. When done, proudly place your homemade butter on the table. Note: this is pure butter, no salt or yellow coloring added so while it will taste fabulous, it might be different in taste or appearance from what you are used to.

Cooking Class

Cooking together really gets at the heart of Thanksgiving. Children love to help in the kitchen. It may take a bit longer, and clean up may be a bit more than it would be if you cooked alone, but there are compensations. Chief among them: picky eaters become less so as they help prepare their own food. A cooking activity works best with simple, easily constructed recipes are used. For Thanksgiving, cornbread is not only simple but delicious. Here is a fun recipe you can try together:

Cornbread

Grease and flour 8×8 pan, preheat oven to 425.

Combine in bowl:

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup sifted flour
3 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
¼ cup sugar

In another bowl combine and add to the dry ingredients:

1 beaten egg
¼ cup oil
1 cup milk

Pour into greased pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Visit a Farm

There is never a better time to take a drive in the country than at Thanksgiving. The richness of fall colors and smells will yield a feast for the senses. Many farms open their fields to the public this time of year. Activities that you can look forward to include perusing a wide variety of farm fresh produce. This will include several Thanksgiving favorites like corn and pumpkins. But the variety is likely to amaze. Some farms offer apple picking, and demonstrations on apple pressing. It is fun to see how the apple becomes juice. Don’t get so caught up in the produce that you fail to see the animals. There are many to get acquainted with like bulls and large horses. Some of the less intimidating residents may even be available to hold and pet. Kids love goats, rabbits, piggies, and even the more common cat and dog.

Seeing the genesis of the harvest and its bounty is a great activity to commemorate Thanksgiving.

Even More Activities to Stay Busy

If those options aren't necessarily your family's style, there are other fun Thanksgiving activities you can do as a family to pass the time. For instance, take a drive to collect the turning leaves or create a centerpiece for the table while the turkey is cooking. Watch a fun and Thanksgiving-themed movie. Or even invent a new Thanksgiving sport. This will not only tire out the little ones, but it can be a new family tradition every year.

Remember, you don't have to spend a lot of time and money to make Thanksgiving activities memorable. Spending time together, no matter how simple the activity, helps create Thanksgiving memories for everyone.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Bochkarev Photography/Shutterstock.com.

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News just in!! With Thanksgiving just around the corner, you can look forward to paying less for your favorite Trader Joe’s items. Now is the perfect time to stock up and save some money. What's more, you can treat the family to a delightful Thanksgiving meal this year because prices on these 30 Trader Joe’s items just dropped. Spoil your guests with delightful starters, scrumptious side dishes, elegant desserts, and fresh turkeys that land on the 14^th of November 2024.

1. Nuts About Rosemary Mix

Price: $7.99 12 oz

When having a get-together, you always need to have snacks on hand for those who rock up hungry. Nuts About Rosemary mix is the perfect snack to add to a cheese platter for that football game. It’s filled with cashews, roasted almonds, pecans, and hazelnuts and spiced with sea salt, a dash of sugar, and rosemary.

2. Turkeys

Price per pound:

• Organic: $3.99
• Glatt Kosher: $3.49
• All Natural Brined: $2.99

Pick up your favorite choice of turkey at Trader Joe’s on the 14^th. Organic turkeys are brineless, have giblets, and are unseasoned, so you can flavor it up as you please. If you're looking for a tasty bird that saves time, the All Natural Brined Turkeys are soaked in a salty-sweet brine and may contain giblets. Glatt Kosher Turkeys are washed and salted. Whichever turkey you choose, everyone will want a second helping. If you’re unsure how to cook a turkey, check out our guide here.

3. Stuffing Seasoned Kettle Chips

Price: $2.99 6 oz

These thinly sliced slow-cooked kettle chips with a delightful blend of onion powder, thyme, salt, garlic powder, sage, and celery taste just like a Thanksgiving dinner. They will be a perfect addition to your football cheese platter if you’re not in the mood for leftover turkey and just want a crispy crunch.

4. Thanksgiving Stuffing Seasoned Popcorn

Price: $2.99 5 oz

There is something special about the rich flavors of savory seasoning. To make your Thanksgiving feel festive, pick up a packet of these Thanksgiving stuffing-seasoned popcorn. They are light and airy and have a special blend of sage, celery, parsley, thyme, and black pepper. Try mixing a bag with a few candied pecans or dried cranberries.

5. Triple Crème Apple Brandy Brie

Price: $12.99 per pound

Brie pairs well with something sweet; this French brie is perfect for the holidays. It is made with apple brandy from Normandy, and it’s fruity and super creamy. It will be a perfect addition to your snack platter. Before serving, allow it to reach room temperature; this will make it easier to spread on those lovely cream crackers.

6. Organic Persimmons

Price: $3.99 1-pound bag

No need to wait for your persimmons to ripen; these are ready to eat right away. Their texture is surprisingly crisp, similar to that of an apple, and they boast a unique mild peach, apricot, plum, and cinnamon flavor. Get creative and chop up the persimmon and add it to salads, yogurt, or cereal. You can also add slices to your snack platter and serve it with triple crème brie or make jelly or jam.

7. Toscano Cheese Soaked in Chardonnay Wine

Price: $10.99 1lb

This delicious cheese made with fresh milk from local farms is a must-have for Thanksgiving. The cows have not been treated with hormones. Each wheel is soaked in a buttery bright Chardonnay, giving it a hint of oak barrel notes and a sweet citrus flavor. This cheese would complement your platter in more ways than one.

8. Syrah Soaked Toscano Cheese Spread & Dip

Price: $4.99 7.5 oz

This aged Parmesan nutty-flavored cheese spread and dip is infused with Syrah wine. It is rich and creamy and has a slight hint of fruitiness. As a spread, it will make an excellent addition to leftover turkey bagels and sandwiches. Add it to the platter for guests to dip flatbreads, veggies, chips, and crackers into. If you really want to create a festive Thanksgiving treat, mix in a packet of chopped cashews or almonds and then roll them into bite-sized balls.

9. Seasonal Bouquets

Price: $3.99 – $12.99

Flowers make any occasion special, and at Trader Joe’s you can choose from an array of bouquets to suit your budget. Welcome your guests with a beautiful bouquet centerpiece on your Thanksgiving table.

10. Scallopini Potatoes

Price: $4.49 18 oz

Improve any meal with these thinly sliced potatoes covered in a delicious savory cream sauce with a combination of four Italian cheeses. They can be prepared in the oven for 45 minutes or in the microwave for 11 minutes.

11. Cheesy Creamy Greens & Veggies

Price: $4.49 16 oz

Calling all cheesy vegetable aficionados. This flavorful packet of cheesy creamy greens & veggies is filled with Brussels sprouts, onion, spinach, kale, and dried porcini mushrooms covered in a luxurious mozzarella and provolone salty-sweet sauce. It would make an excellent side dish to accompany your Thanksgiving turkey. At such a great price, you should stock up the freezer while you can.

12. Condensed Cream of Portabella Mushroom Soup

Price: $1.99 11 oz

If you want to feel safe and cozy indoors while it's chilly outside, then it’s time to pick up some condensed cream of portabella mushroom soup. Its deep savory flavor and creamy texture pair well with a green bean casserole or bacon quiche.

13. Gourmet Fried Onion Pieces

Price: $2.99 8 oz

These crunchy, crispy melt-in-your-mouth-savory fried onion pieces will pair well as a topper with a green bean casserole. However, there are many other ways to enjoy them too. Sprinkle some on a hotdog, hamburger, nachos, or a leftover turkey sandwich. You’ll absolutely love it.

14. Mashed Sweet Potatoes 

Price: $2.99 18 oz

An extraordinary Thanksgiving side dish is some mashed sweet potatoes. While you can peel, boil, and mash them yourself, you can save time and skip all of that and pick up a ready-made packet on sale now. If you want to enhance them, add a blob of salted butter, black pepper, and cinnamon.

15. Mini Marshmallows

Price: $2.99 10 oz

In time for hot cocoa season, pick up a packet of pillowy gelatin and gluten-free mini marshmallows. They’re also great for making a scrumptious sweet potato casserole or choco pie.

16. Egg Nog Greek Yogurt

Price: 99 ¢ 5.3 oz cups

Next, we have a rich and creamy egg nog Greek yogurt. The yogurt is mixed with nutmeg, cane sugar, and egg yolks and has a lovely light golden color. Add it to your favorite cereal, eat it on its own, or pair it with an apple cinnamon bun.

17. Brined Bone-In Half Turkey Breast

Price: $9.99 per pound each breast is approximately 2.5 lbs

Now you can enjoy turkey anytime with zero prep work. First, it is marinated in a tasty brine of garlic herb butter, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Then it is seared and cooked slowly using the sous-vide method. As it is fully cooked, you simply need to heat it up in the microwave or oven. Finally, each breast will serve 4-5 people.

18. Herb Seasoned Brined Bone-In Half Turkey

Price: $4.99 per pound

Perfect for a small Thanksgiving gathering, this turkey is rubbed with traditional spices and topped with a disk of butter. All you need to do is place it on a baking sheet and tuck the butter between the breast and the skin, then roast in the oven. Furthermore, the turkey is flat, so it will cook evenly and crisp up nicely with a beautiful golden brown color.

19. Turkey Gravy

 Price: $1.69 17.6 oz

An all-family favorite is a juicy roasted turkey with vegetables, stuffing, and of course gravy. Save time with this ready-in-minutes gravy. All you need to do is shake, open, and pour it into a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan and heat it up, then serve. You can even add some extra spices to make it taste more ‘homemade.’

20. Gluten-Free Gravy

Price: $3.99 16 oz

Trader Joe’s has always sold wonderful gravy that comes in a box that can always be on hand in the pantry. You will be excited to know that they have a new gluten-free turkey gravy. This gravy has a rich flavor made from turkey fat and turkey meat and kettle cooked in batches. The thickener used is cornstarch, and it is complemented by spices and savory herbs to give it a delicious, rich flavor.

21. Cornbread Stuffing Mix

Price: $4.99 12.4 oz

A Thanksgiving meal is not complete without the beloved stuffing. It can be cooked in the turkey, on the stovetop, or in a casserole. Furthermore, it’s made with cornbread croutons and toasted white bread flavors such as sage, chicken broth, mushrooms, oregano, garlic, onion, and celery. In a saucepan, simply add the contents of the packet, butter, and water and bring to a low boil for about 4-5 minutes. After that, fold in the bread and allow it to rest for 10 minutes.

22. Gluten-Free Stuffing Mix

Price: $6.49 12.4 oz

You will be happy to know that there is also gluten-free stuffing available; it is prepared the same way as the cornbread stuffing on the stove in a casserole or stuffed into your turkey. It is also seasoned with oregano, celery, mushrooms, chicken broth, sage, and onion. But what’s the difference? The croutons are made from tapioca flour, rice flour, potato flour, and brown rice flour. One box is enough for a 10-14 pound turkey.

23. Cheesy Herby Biscuits

Price: $4.99 12 oz (contains 6 biscuits)

Defiantly, without a doubt, your choice of protein is the focus point on your plate, and vegetables provide a complementary taste. However, another important starch is the roll. Whether it’s in the form of a small baguette, dinner roll, or biscuit, it’s a vital component to soak up hearty, rich gravy. These frozen cheesy herb biscuits are made with a perfectly flaky, buttery dough and flavored with thyme, rosemary, cheddar, and parmesan cheese. Bake from frozen in an unpreheated oven for 30 minutes at 375°F.

24. Butter

Price: $3.99 1 pound

For all sorts of baking and cooking, choose salted or unsalted butter. Add a blob to your mashed potatoes or make a nice basting for your roast butter is the perfect choice. Each block is made from the finest pasteurized grade AA cream.

25. Butter with Brown Sugar & Maple Syrup

Price: $2.99 4 oz

Enjoy this oh-so-spreadable butter with brown sugar and maple syrup this fall. It’s ideal for all kinds of breakfast dishes like a flaky croissant, waffles, crispy hashbrowns, cheesy omelets, and English muffins.

26. Cranberry Sauce

Price: $2.99 12 oz

Cranberry sauce is a must-have at any Thanksgiving meal. This one comes in a jar and is a simple combination of sugar, water, cranberries, and pectin that creates a velvety texture and sweet-tart flavor.

27. Cranberry Ginger Chutney

Price: $2.49 8 oz

Add a touch of Indian cuisine to your Thanksgiving meal. To maintain a chunky texture, the cranberries are first lightly boiled. Then it's combined with cayenne, ginger, and garlic, giving it a savory flavor profile that pairs well with the fruitiness of the cranberries.

28. Harvest Apple Salad Kit

Price: $3.99 9.2 oz

Next, complement any autumn dinner with a harvest apple salad. It includes any or all of the following: crunchy pecan pieces, spinach, green oak lettuce, kale, tango, red oak lettuce, green leaf lettuce, butter lettuce, radicchio, red leaf lettuce, mizuna, lolla rosa, green chard, red chard, arugula, and frisee. What’s more, they added dried apple chips with cinnamon, cheddar, and a tasty apple vinaigrette featuring savory spices, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and concentrated apple juice.

29. Grand Reserve Carneros Chardonnay

Price: $12.99 750 ml

Complement your Thanksgiving meal with this moderately dry Chardonnay made with grapes from the Carneros region. It has been aged for eight months in French oak barrels and then bottled unfiltered. You will be fascinated by the aromas of marzipan, peach blossom, and Fuji apple. It is then complemented by notes of baked peaches, Asian pear, lemon curd, soft spices, and vanilla oak. 

30. Sparkling Honeycrisp

Price: $1.69 12 fluid oz

This refreshing drink contains only three ingredients: water, Honeycrisp apple juice, and bubbles. Enjoy it on its own, create sparking cocktails garnished with cherries or slices of oranges, or pour it over some French vanilla ice cream.

Final Thoughts

Isn’t it wonderful that the prices on these 30 Trader Joe’s items just dropped? Just in time for Thanksgiving. What are you waiting for? Jump in the car and head on down to your nearest Trader Joe’s now. Happy shopping!

The image featured at the top of this post is ©ablokhin / iStock Editorial via Getty Images.

The post Prices on These 30 Trader Joe’s Items Just Dropped appeared first on Moms Who Think.

There's lots of activities that you can include in your Thanksgiving festivities. With this list handy, nobody at your gathering will be bored! Without further ado, let's get to the big list of family Thanksgiving games.

Key Points

• Try to turn some basic Thanksgiving activities, like pie making, into a game!
• You can make a game out of a watch party, like while watching the Peanuts Thanksgiving special.
• Try to think up unique ways to spice up traditional party games, like bingo!

Thanksgiving Family Games

1. Pie Party

It may not be some folk's idea of a game, but there is nothing more fun than making pies with a whole bunch of people. The fun of making pies can be shared by people all ages and the best part of the pie game is that it will cut back on your Thanksgiving meal preparation.

For younger chefs a few precautionary steps will make the process safer and easier for both you and your little pie makers. Decide which kind of pies you will be making and get the shopping done beforehand. For youngsters it is a good idea to choose cream pies. Having several crusts made and baked beforehand which the kids can fill with cream will stave off the “‘Is it done yet?” impatience of youngsters. Other items that help, especially in the mess department, are pre-measuring ingredients, aprons, and covering the work surfaces in tablecloths.

Once you know what pies you will be making have the kids help add ingredients. Cracking eggs is especially fun for children, but it is best to do this in a separate container so that any stray shells can be removed prior to adding the eggs to the pie. To simplify things further use instant pudding rather than homemade pudding, and add bananas, berries, peaches, or other fresh fruit to create a few delectable pies.

Older more experienced chefs can have more free reign. They will have fun rolling out the pie crusts, paring the fruits, and measuring themselves. All you really need to do is select and shop for the recipes they will be making, and be on hand for questions and safety supervision. Add the element of competition and have the results judged in a blind tasting.

2. Peanuts Party

Tired and want to rest, but still need to entertain your children and guests? Nothing could be easier hosting a peanuts party. Have jelly beans and popcorn to eat then sit the whole gang down to watch Charlie Brown struggle with Peppermint Patty's forwardness. Make a game out of it by requiring a green jelly bean to be eaten each time someone says good grief, a red bean for block head, and so forth. This is even more fun with novelty jelly beans of unusual flavor.

A movie and a game all while you get to sit back and relax on the couch. Perfect for the end of a busy day!

3. Corn Maze

You don't have to make your own visit to a corn maze, unless you really want to (and in that case you'd better start in mid to late May by planting a robust crop of corn). Seriously, this is a fabulous game for any Thanksgiving gathering. Send the children off to a corn maze while you enjoy a stress free afternoon of holiday baking, preparation, or perhaps a break with a glass of wine. Mazes appeal to kids of all ages. The youngest will need some help (and it is a good idea to take snacks so you don't end up with a very grumpy toddler midway). Older kids can take off on their own and you will know they are safe.

4. Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt

Whether you play outdoors or indoors, a scavenger hunt will occupy time while waiting for the feast to begin or heighten the fun of a Thanksgiving party. The preparation is easy. First gather enough bags for each team or participant, then create a list. To prevent lost lists print the list on a large packing label and stick it to the bag. Put a pencil in each bag so items can be marked off as they are found.

Items to be found can be anything from pennies bearing certain dates to pumpkin seeds or feathers. If you want this scavenger hunt to be especially geared to Thanksgiving you will want to make the items reflect that theme. You may also want to seed the hunting area with the items listed. For example you can list turkeys on the items sheet then hide pictures of turkeys around the house or in the outside playing area. Going door to door may not be the idea for this game because this is a holiday and while children playing outside won't bother anyone, children going door to door might. If you want to try involving multiple houses, make sure you check with your neighbors beforehand.

5. Family Football Game

Try starting a family tradition of an annual Thanksgiving game of football. It doesn't matter what kind of football your family chooses to play, so long as all who want to play can be included. One of the things Thanksgiving is about is family, not crushing someone at football.

To make the game friendly to all players modify the rules or choose a variation on the game that all can play. Touch or flag football is generally easier on the body and friendlier to a co-ed team. If you like the idea of flag football, but don't have the flags you used to use in gym class, improvise. Use a pair of socks. Tuck one on each hip: instant flags.

Touch and flag football are great but they may still leave the youngest players in the cold. To be sure youngest players are included you can divide into four age based teams. The grown players can cheer while the younger teams play. Then, let the youngsters cheer as the more chronologically advanced teams play. Other inclusion ideas are: Have the adults play left-handed, play in partnered teams pairing littlest players with the largest players, or play a more morphed version of football than flag or touch.

A great variation is Frisbee golf. Teams score by entering the end zone with the Frisbee, but they can't run once the Frisbee is caught. The Frisbee can be thrown multiple times after the snap until it is intercepted, dropped or a touchdown is made. Interceptions and dropped Frisbees result in a turnover and the opposing team snaps from where the turnover occurred. After a touch down there is a “kick off” at mid field, although the Frisbee is thrown to the opposite team rather than kicked. It won't harm this game in the slightest if you would rather throw a football than a Frisbee.

6. Scrabble Anyone?

Don't laugh- this is based on a real game played by the pilgrims all those years ago. Their game did not include little wooden tiles, though. To play each player needs a piece of paper and a pencil. A timer is also needed. The game starts when one person (it doesn't matter who, but it should be a different person each round) states a long word like: transportation. Players write the word at the top of their paper. Then begin play by taking the first letter of the word (T) and writing as many words they can think of that begin with that letter in 90 seconds. When the time is up, players compare lists. Points are awarded only to words that were not repeated on anyone else's list. Play then begins again with the next letter, and continues until all letters have been played. If a letter is repeated, skip it and move onto the next. When all letters have been played tally points, declare the winner, select a new word and begin again.

If traditional Scrabble is more your thing, have fun! Maybe you can shake up your usual routine by playing speed scrabble.

7. Touch Wood Tag

This game is your basic tag, and even the youngest children can play. Rules are simple: avoid the player who is “it” while running from one safe spot to the next. Safe spots are anything made of wood. If “it” catches you off of a safe spot it is your turn to be “it”. To ensure a fast paced game it may be necessary to include a time limit for staying still at one safe spot. Perhaps you have to change spots after counting to ten.

8. Bell Jingler

In this Thanksgiving game the usual role of “it” is reversed in that everyone is trying to catch “it”, not avoid “it”. All players except “it” are blind folded.  “It” holds a jingle bell and jingles it as the other players try to catch “it” by following the sound. Once a child finds “it” the bell is passed to them and play resumes.

9. The Price Is Right

Save your receipts from your Thanksgiving meal and play your own version of The Price Is Right. Each person at the dinner table has to guess how much each ingredient or dish cost. The person who is the closest without going over the actual price wins. You can play it while waiting for dinner to be served and allow the winner to make their plate first. If you want, you can have prizes that the winners can choose from! Make sure all the prizes are appropriate for both kids and adults.

10. Family Feud

This is one of the best Thanksgiving family games to play because it requires minimal supplies and everyone in the family can play it. Just use a couple of markers and dry erase boards. Choose a category, such as Thanksgiving foods, and make each team write a list of their idea of the top foods. Whichever team guesses the most correct answers on the other team's board wins.

11. Charades

Charades is a classic game that can be tweaked to fit any occasion. What could be more fun than a game of Thanksgiving charades? Write down or print out a variety of Thanksgiving actions and characters and place them in a bowl. Take turns selecting a paper and acting it out. The team that guesses the most correct charades is the winner. Adults can help children by allowing one person on their team or the opposite team to read or explain the charade to them. That adult would not guess since they would already know the answer.

12. Find the Turkey

Before guests arrive, hide a plastic turkey or a photo of a turkey somewhere in your yard or home. Split guests into teams and give them both the same hints that tell them where to find the turkey. Watch as they run around the house or yard, searching for the Thanksgiving turkey. You can make this game as easy or as hard as you want. Eventually, teams will start to give up. You can decide if you want to reveal your hiding place or keep it a secret so you can use it again next year.

Thanksgiving Games for Kids

Finding games to play on Thanksgiving with kids will help keep them occupied while you are preparing the meal or after the meal is over, when the adults want some downtime. You can play these games with your kids or just instruct them on how to play and leave them to it.

1. Pin the Tail on the Turkey

Use some craft paper to create a turkey and enough tail feathers for each child. Write each child's name on their tail feather. Use a bandana blindfold and challenge the children to tape their feathers on the tail of the turkey. The child that lines their tail feather up the closest wins. This is a great game because it doesn't have a lot of small pieces, it can be thrown away when you finish, and it can be adapted to allow as many children as necessary to play.

2. Turkey Art Contest

If you want a game that will keep the kids busy and quiet, a turkey art contest is the way to go. Just give the kids some markers, crayons, pencils, and paper and challenge them to draw and decorate the best turkey. Don't let them write their names on them, and have all the adults at the party vote on the best one. You can also have other prizes such as prettiest, most creative, and most realistic, to ensure everyone walks away a winner.

3. Pilgrims and Native Americans

This game is best if played in an area where there is plenty of space. The children are given a role to play, either Native Americans or pilgrims. They act out the first Thanksgiving and stay in their role throughout the day, even after their show is over. It's not only a fun game. It's an educational one as well. Kids enjoy making their own costumes and learning about Thanksgiving as they act it out themselves. Avoid having your children dress up as Native Americans, as this is generally considered racially insensitive. This is a great opportunity to educate them as to why these costumes are not considered appropriate! Instead, have them dress in “old fashioned” clothing that the people of those times would've worn.

Thanksgiving Games for Adults

Who says kids get to have all the fun? These Thanksgiving games are designed for adults.

1. Thanksgiving Trivia

If you brushed up on your Thanksgiving history, this game should be a breeze for you. Just have each adult at the dinner table writer down a few trivia questions about the first Thanksgiving. They should also write down the answers on a separate sheet and keep them hidden. Take turns asking your questions. The person who gets the most right is the winner. You can even come up with fun Thanksgiving prizes. If you can't come up with any trivia questions on your own, you can easily find some questions online.

2. Turkey Waddle

This game is sure to lead to lots of laughs and some great Thanksgiving memories. Blow up some balloons and decorate them to look like turkeys. Split up into teams. To play the game, each team member must race from one side of the room to the other with their turkey between their thighs. The next person on the team can't go until the person before them has made it to the other side. If you drop your turkey, you have to go to the end of the line and race again. The first team to get all their turkeys across the room wins.

3. Parade Drinking

If you enjoy watching Thanksgiving parades during Thanksgiving, this drinking game can be a lot of fun. Choose a reason to drink. It can sometimes be as simple as drinking every time a person says the word Thanksgiving, or anytime a host stutters. There are no real winners to this game, but it's a lot of fun to play. You also don't have to drink alcoholic beverages. It can be played with non-alcoholic drinks, or you can switch it up and make it so each person has to eat a piece of candy corn instead of taking a drink. The last person to drop out of the game can declare themselves the winner.

4. Thanksgiving Bingo

Bingo isn't just for old people! This is a great way to get everyone involved, since bingo is a relatively simple game that basically anyone can play. Consider having everyone throw money into a prize pool, or buy some prizes ahead of time for the winners to choose from.

A different variation of bingo involves the winner getting to ask one of the losers a question. The loser has to answer honestly; if they refuse the question, then they have to complete a dare or punishment. This is a fun way to spice up your game of bingo and to keep everyone on their toes! It's also a great alternative if you don't want to buy prizes or ask your guests to throw money in.

5. Guess the Sentence

In this game, someone will start saying a sentence. Then, someone will try to guess how they intended to finish the sentence. To make sure this fits the holiday, have every player say Thanksgiving-themed sentences. For example, they could say “Last Thanksgiving, my favorite dish was…” Then, the person to their left or right has to try to finish their sentence.

At the end of the game, whoever guessed the most correct answers wins! Like with bingo, you can use a system of prizes for winners and punishments/dares for losers to make it extra fun! This is another cheap, simple game that will have everyone on their toes.

The post The Ultimate List of Thanksgiving Games For Families, Kids, and Adults appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Thanksgiving crafts are the perfect reason to take some time off from kitchen duty and let your crafty side roam free. They're a great way to customize your house for this holiday; your guests will surely notice the time and effort you put in! If you have children, this can be a fun way for you to bond. Read on to find some ideas for crafts you can make this Thanksgiving!

Key Points

• There are lots of crafts themed around pilgrims for you to do!
• Many of these crafts are kid-friendly, or designed specifically for them!
• In case you don't have kids or just want to do your own craft, we've got some ideas for you!

Thanksgiving Crafts For Kids

Thanksgiving is often a holiday spent slaving over a hot stove. The results of all this culinary frenzy are the center of the season, but why should food monopolize your time and stress you out? Take a breather, gather the kids, and have a bit of fun. Thanksgiving and harvest are rich with all sorts of crafting opportunities. With that said, let's go to the big list of Thanksgiving crafts for kids!

1. Hand Print Turkey: A Classic

No child's memory book is complete without at least one handprint turkey. The classic and most easily made handprint turkey is a simple outline of your child's hand. Decorate the thumb with a beak and eyes to make the face. Then, let your child decorate the rest of the body. The other fingers serve as the tail feathers. To take it up a notch or two glue actual feathers to the tail, or dress the turkey with clothing to give it a personality. Have your child create a barnyard scene and perhaps write a story or poem to go along with their creation.

2. Pilgrim Boy Hats

Make a cylinder from black construction paper to form the body of the hat. Don't forget to add a buckle. Cut a buckle out of gold or silver paper then glue it to the hat near the bottom. To make a buckle with fashion appeal add glitter or cut out a buckle then wrap it with tinfoil. To make the brim cut out a large circle, with a smaller circle on the inside to make a hole in the center. The center hole should be at least a half inch smaller than the hole in the bottom of the hat. To attach the brim, cut the half inch overlap into tabs. Fold the tabs back to create an opening the same size as the hole in the upper portion of the hat. Glue each tab inside the hat and allow it to dry. To help the hat stay in place, add yarn that can be tied under the chin.

To make it into a piggy bank or candy corn holder, attach the brim to the upper portion of the hat without cutting a hole in the bottom. Use a thick line of plain glue or hot glue to attach the pieces of the hat together, then allow them to dry. For a candy holder, leave the top open. For a bank, close the top by cutting a circle that is a half inch larger than the opening in the top, cutting then gluing the tabs inside the top of the hat. Don't forget to cut a slot for coins to pass through.

3. Pilgrim Girl Bonnets

Supplies you will need are for this are: a large piece of white paper, hole punch, yarn and scissors.

Place the paper lengthwise on the work surface and make the brim of the bonnet by folding back a one inch strip along the long side. In the back cut two slits about 3-4 inches long, toward the front of the hat. Shape the bonnet to your kid's head by placing it on top of their head and bending the bonnet around their head. To have it hold its shape overlap the paper where the slits were cut and glue in place. If a long tail of paper is formed as the bonnet curves, simply fold it under and glue it in place. Use the hole punch on the bottom corners in front and use yarn to create ties.

4. Popcorn Ears

Corn and popcorn were both introduced to the Pilgrims by Native Americans. According to historical accounts, both corn and popcorn were served during the feasts of thanks the pilgrims had so long ago.

This history is great fun not only to eat, but to craft! Start by either having the children draw a stalk of corn, or give them a template. Use green construction paper to create the stalk and husk of the ear of corn. Leave the husk open so that the cob inside is showing. Now you can either use corn kernels or popped corn to create the ripe corn cob.

Another delicious variation starts with a Styrofoam base in the shape of an ear of corn. Attach the corn kernels or popped corn to the Styrofoam pattern with hot glue or pins. If you are using popcorn and want to add an extra challenge try stringing the fluffy white popcorn onto some thread with a needle. Then take the string and wind it around the Styrofoam. Once the base is dressed out with kernels wrap it with scraps of green material to represent the husks. Make a bunch of them and hang them on the wall, or use in your Thanksgiving centerpiece.

5. Vests

Anyone for dress up? Paper bags are a great base for costumes. Gather together paper grocery bags, crayons, glue, and brown construction paper. Cut the paper bag open. If there is print on the bag you can turn it inside out. For a better fit you may want to alter the opening at the neck by making it larger. To make the sleeves cut openings in the sides of the bag.

Now that the cutting work is done, here comes the fun: decoration! Let your kids decorate the front, sides and back any way they wish. All you need to do is get out the supplies then sit back and watch. Kids are so creative, so there will be some fabulous creations that emerge. To add more fun, supply the kids with glitter. If you are going for authenticity show them the basic zigzag, spiral or stick figure patterns often seen in Native American art. You can also add fringe by cutting the bag, or strips of construction paper and then gluing them to the bag.

6. Horn of Plenty

To create your very own horn of plenty start with an oversize piece of construction paper, then carefully cut slits length wise. Be sure to leave an inch wide border around the outside edge uncut. Next prepare inch wide strips of construction paper that are the same length as the shorter side of the large construction paper you have just cut. Use the strips of paper to create a woven pattern by weaving the horn of plenty. Glue the ends of each strip securely in place when you are done weaving.

The cone shape is created by rolling the woven construction paper starting with the long side of the paper, then gluing it in place. You can now add all your favorite fruits and vegetables, real or construction paper- it makes no difference. Change it up a bit by going on a nature walk and letting your child select his or her favorite colored leaves to display inside your cornucopia.

7. Paper Dolls with Pilgrim Clothes

Paper dolls are perfect Thanksgiving crafts. Let this Thanksgiving be marked by a new doll created by your child. This easy project begins with a basic body pattern of a boy and a girl. Let your child draw the face, hair and any other decorations they may like on the pattern. Cut out the pattern. The doll alone is not enough. Next comes the attire. You can use patterns, or use the doll as your reference and let the child function as designer and creator. To make these dolls applicable to the season include basic pilgrim garb in the wardrobe.

The variety and creative potential is limited only by your child's imagination. A double bonus is that once the fun of creation is done, the fun of play has just begun. It is best to use heavy paper or laminate the colored doll and clothing. If your child intends to play with his or her creation these preparations will dramatically increase the longevity of your child's creation.

8. Placemats for Thanksgiving Dinner

Let your child help with the dinner table décor by creating custom homemade place mats for each place at the table. Have your children draw a picture of each person attending dinner. Perhaps a picture of what they are thankful for this year.

If drawing or painting is not something that sounds fun, you can weave placemats. Start with any color of construction paper you like, and then cut slits in the paper leaving a one inch border all the way around intact. Next weave the construction paper with narrow strips of construction paper, securing the end of each strip in place with glue once the weaving is done. Decorate with construction paper cut into leaves, acorns, corn, pilgrim hats, buckles or turkeys- anything goes.

You can also have the place mats double as place markers by having the names of your guests written on each mat.

9. Festive Bookmarks

Use craft sticks as the base for the bookmarks. Cut felt into Thanksgiving-themed images. Different colors of felt easily help create three-dimensional characters. Glue the finished objects onto the craft sticks. You can also add the name of each artist to the craft stick. The bookmarks are a great way to encourage youngsters to read. The bookmarks might also serve as gifts and name cards on the holiday dinner table.

10. Ice Cream Cone Teepees

Share the story of the original feast while making these Thanksgiving crafts. To make the teepees gather:

• Sugar ice cream cones
• Chocolate chips
• Pretzel sticks
• Miniature colored leaf-shaped candies

Use parchment paper on a cookie sheet for the work surface. Melt the chocolate chips. Break the tips from the bottom of the cones. The opening should be just wide enough to fit a few pretzel sticks inside. Dip the wide end of the cones into the chocolate. Sprinkle the colored leaves onto the melted chocolate. Grab the center of the cones and dip the opened tips into the chocolate. Break the pretzels into three different lengths. Dip the pretzels into the chocolate and insert them into the tops of the teepees. Sprinkle more leaves on the top. Put the cookie sheet into the freezer for up to 15 minutes in order to harden the chocolate.

11. Leafy Feathered Turkey

Take a walk in the yard or the local park to gather different colorful fall leaves. These will serve as the turkey's feathers. Use a piece of construction paper as the base. Arrange the leaves in a semicircle on the paper. Create the turkey's body on another piece of paper. Make a simple peanut shape for the body. Also draw oval eyes, beaks, and feet. Let the youngsters color the bird parts. Cut them out and position them on top of your leaf feathers.

12. Napkin Rings

Cut paper towel or toilet paper rolls in two-inch lengths. Wrap the rings with colored yarn. Decorate the rings to resemble turkeys, pilgrims, pumpkins, Native Americans, or turkeys and corn cobs. Use colored construction paper or felt to create the desired images.

13. Pilgrim Treat Boxes

Cut a five-inch circle from a piece of cardboard. Cover one side with black construction paper. Make a cylinder from another piece of black construction paper approximately three inches in length. But, cut 1/2-inch slits around one end. Fold the slits inward and glue them to the cardboard circle. Make a hat band from a contrasting color. Make a buckle and cover it with tin foil. Slide the band through the buckle and fasten it to the hat. Once the glue is dried, fill the top of the hat with candy corn and candy pumpkins. Make a few hats to decorate the dinner table. Or, use them to serve snacks before the main meal.

14. Pine Cone Turkeys

Create the head, neck, beak, and eyes from colored construction paper. Glue the front piece to the wide end of the pine cone. Make a fan of feathers from construction or tissue paper. Use real feathers if desired. Glue the tail feathers to the other end of the pine cone to create a fan-like shape. Or, cut out children's handprints using colored paper. Use these to create a fan of tail feathers. Legs and feet might be fashioned from pipe cleaners and attached to the underside of the pine cone to give the impression that the turkey is sitting.

15. Thankful Leaf Garland

Thanksgiving crafts for kids might include this project, as children love playing with clay. The assortment of items needed include:

• Green, yellow, orange, red and brown polyform clay
• Rolling pins or unopened cans
• Butcher paper or comparable protective work surface
• Leaf-shaped cookie cutters
• Black markers
• Sturdy string or ribbon
• Parchment paper
• Cookie sheet

Make skinny snakes using each color of the clay. Combine two to four colored snakes by twisting them together. Vary the colors for each snake combination. Fold the snakes in half. Squish the snakes into a ball. Roll them out until approximately 1/8 of an inch thick. Cut leaves out using the cookie cutters. Or, use plastic knives to carve out the desired leaf shapes. Poke a hole into the top of each leaf. Line the cookie sheet with parchment paper. Put the leaves on the sheet and bake at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for up to 20 minutes. Once cooled, paint each leaf with a thankful thought. String the leaves and hang where desired.

16. Thankful Tree

Create a tree trunk and branches from brown construction paper. Or, create the outline and allow children to color the tree. Cut out different colored leaves from construction paper. Encourage children to write one thing for which they are thankful on each leaf. Decorate the edges of the leaves with glitter if desired. Attach the leaves to the tree branches.

17. Thanksgiving Luminaries

These Thanksgiving art crafts can be used year after year to decorate your home. To make the luminaries, you need:

• Half-pint mason jars or similar sized glasses
• Colorful fall leaves or fabric facsimiles
• White tissue paper
• Colored tissue paper
• Wiggly eyes
• Foam brushes
• Hodgepodge or clear-drying craft glue

Cut the white tissue paper into strips approximately one or 1.5 inches in width. Hold the jar by the top and brush the sides and bottom with the glue. Apply the strips going from one side around the bottom to the top of the other side. Keep attaching the strips while slightly overlapping until no visible glass remains. Invert the jars to dry. Once dry, make an assortment of Thanksgiving-themed decorations. For turkeys, glue a colored leaf onto the jar. Top the leaf with a small circle for the body and a smaller circle for the head. Add the eyes, a beak, and the wattle. Brush glue over the turkey to seal. Allow the jars to dry.

Other options include making corn cobs, or pilgrim bonnets and hats. If choosing to use fabric leaves, have everyone write something they are thankful for onto each leaf. Glue the leaves to the jars.

18. Thanksgiving Puppets

Thanksgiving craft ideas are sure to be a hit with little ones. Use lunch-sized paper sacks. Decorate the sacks with construction paper, feathers, googly eyes and other craft items to create pilgrim, Native American, or turkey puppets. Younger children may need help in cutting out the desired shapes. Otherwise, simply supply older kids with craft items and let their imagination flow.

19. Turkey Cupcakes

The treats are an ideal way to spend time with the little ones while creating a fun dessert. The ingredients needed include:

• 1 box of spice cake mix
• 1 can of ginger ale
• Complimentary frosting
• Nutter butter cookies
• Candy corn
• Candy eyes
• Red licorice
• Festive cupcake papers

Start by combining the cake mix and the ginger ale. No other ingredients are needed. Bake the cupcakes as directed on the box. Allow the cupcakes to cool and frost them as desired. Attach a couple of eyes toward the top of each cookie using a bit of frosting. Cut the yellow portion from the candy corn into a “v” shape and use it for the beak. Cut the licorice to form the wattle. Attach the beaks and wattles using frosting. Stick a cookie into the front of each cupcake. Just before serving, invert six candy corns and insert them around the opposite side of the cupcake.

20. Turkey Leg Treats

The turkey legs make an ideal treat for young and old. Make the legs using:

• 8 cups of crispy cereal
• 6 large pretzel rods broken in half
• White chocolate bark or chips
• 1 bag of miniature marshmallows-set 24 aside
• ¼ cup of butter or margarine

Melt the white chocolate. Dip one end of a pretzel into the bark. Attach two of the mini marshmallows onto the end. Repeat the process with the remaining pretzels. Set them on parchment or waxed paper to harden. When dry, dip the pretzels into the chocolate again covering up to ¾ of each stick. Allow them to harden. Melt the butter or margarine and the remaining marshmallows. Add the crispy cereal. Once the cereal mixture cools enough to handle, shape the cereal around the opposite end of the pretzel in the shape of a turkey leg.

Thanksgiving Crafts for You

If you don't have children yet or you just want to do some crafts on your own, we've got you! Here are a few ideas that you can make for this Thanksgiving.

1. Thanksgiving Painting

If you've got the talent to paint something nice, then why not use it? A Thanksgiving-themed painting is a great way to express your creativity while adding something aesthetic to your home. You can use whatever you want to do this painting. Consider painting on a piece of wood to make it extra festive!

As for what you can paint, there's many options. Some classic options include a turkey, pilgrims, a cornucopia, or an assortment of Thanksgiving food. You could also go for more of a general fall theme if you want to keep this painting up for longer. Autumn leaves, apples, and pumpkins all fit a fall theme.

2. Decorate a Pumpkin

A lot of people think that decorating pumpkins is only for Halloween. They'd be wrong! You can decorate a pumpkin for Thanksgiving, to add some spice to your porch or front yard this holiday.

Rather than carving the pumpkin as you would for Halloween, paint on it instead! There's lots of designs you can go with, from simple to complex. Maybe you just want to paint a fun face on it, or you want to go further and paint a whole turkey. If painting isn't your thing, you can put a little costume on the pumpkin! Dress it up like a turkey or a pilgrim. Your guests will surely find it cute.

3. Design a Tablecloth

Buy a plain tablecloth at the store. The color is up to you, but aim for a color that will work well with your Thanksgiving theme. From here, decorate it however you want to make it truly Thanksgiving themed!

You can glue leaves on it, draw on it with felt pens, or cut Thanksgiving-themed shapes into it! There's a lot of room on a tablecloth for you to decorate, so let your imagination run wild. This is surely a unique decoration that your guests will take note of. Just be ready for it to get a little messy when dinner is served!

4. Make a Thanksgiving Wreath

Lots of people hang wreathes for Christmas, but you can do it for Thanksgiving too! There's a lot of different ways that you can approach this. Make a wreath that's fully themed around this holiday, or go for something more generically fall.

You can use leaves – fake or real – for this craft, or make it unique by using handkerchiefs of different colors! Whatever you decide to use, take your time to make it look truly wonderful! From here, you can hang it in a place of honor on your front door or over your mantle.

For more craft ideas, see this collection.

There is so much to be grateful for; may this be the year that cute Thanksgiving crafts, time spent with the ones you love the most, and stress free family fun are high on your list and fresh in your memories.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/AartiKalyani.

The post Thanksgiving Crafts appeared first on Moms Who Think.

If you and your family love apples as much as I do, then you would know that fall is the perfect time to spoil the family with delicious apple desserts. Classic apple pies, upside-down apple cake, caramel apple cheesecake, and more. These recipes are sure to satisfy the whole family’s sweet tooth. Put on your apron and start baking apple dessert recipes to make the most of this fall’s harvest. Let’s go!!

19. Honey Baked Apples

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Green apples, cranberries, water, honey, brown sugar, vanilla ice cream
• Level: Beginner

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Enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked apples in your home. The kids will love these honey-baked apples. I’m sure they will become a family favorite.

18. Apple Cranberry Pie

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Main Ingredients: refrigerated pie crusts,sugar, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, apples, cranberries
• Level: Beginner

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Apple pie is a popular American family dessert. Serve it with vanilla ice cream or custard. I’m sure everyone will want seconds.

17. Baked Apple Pancakes

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Apples, butter, cinnamon, brown sugar, eggs, half and half, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla essence.
• Level: Beginner

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These delicious baked apple pancakes are perfect for breakfast or dessert. The whole family is going to love them this fall.

16. Flaky Apple Dumplings

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Granny Smith apples, 2 cans of flaky Pillsbury crescent dough, Mt. Dew, butter, sugar, cinnamon, whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel.
• Level: Beginner

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It might seem strange, however, the Mountain Dew makes this recipe pop. Adding the right amount of sweetness and tartness, it is a fun recipe to get the kids involved in.

15. Pumpkin Apple Cobbler

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Granny Smith apples, pumpkin butter, pumpkin quick bread mix, butter, and whipped cream.
• Level: Beginner

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Warm, crispy crumbles, gooey fruit, and a blob of ice cream make this one of America’s most favorite desserts. Perfect for Thanksgiving.

14. Red Hot Baked Apples

• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Main Ingredients: apples,brown sugar,cinnamon, red hot candies, ground cinnamon
• Level: Beginner

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If you prefer a mild version, add a spoonful of honey or maple syrup glaze, or you can use cloves and cinnamon. Even better serve these yummy red hot baked apples with a dollop of thick cream or vanilla ice cream.

13. Candy Apples

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Main Ingredients: apples, sugar, water, corn syrup, red food coloring, clove oil (optional)
• Level: Beginner

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Candy apples are perfect to eat at any time of the day. They are particularly a hit over Halloween, and kids love them. This is a perfect recipe for using up extra apples, and they last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

12. Apples and Toffee Dip

• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Main Ingredients: red and green apples, toffee pieces, cream cheese, brown sugar, powdered sugar, vanilla essence
• Level: Beginner

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This flavorful toffee apple dip is amazing; it’s a great snack and toothsome dessert. Add a sprinkle of salted peanuts; it will pair well with the sweetness. A delightful salty-sweet combination. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and Voila!

11. All American Apple Pie

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Main Ingredients: White flour, salt, shortening, apples, sugar, cinnamon, butter
• Level: Beginner

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Apple pie is a perfect fall dessert. It’s tender and flaky on the outside with a delightful buttery flavor. It is also lower in calories and sugar when compared to apple crisp.

10. Healthy Peach Apple Crisp

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Canned sliced peaches, apples, vanilla essence, ground cinnamon, flour, margarine, and brown sugar
• Level: Beginner

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The kids will devour this healthy peach apple crisp that contains only 175 calories. Top it off with frozen vanilla yogurt or low-fat whipping cream.

9. Easy Apple Crisp

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Apples, salt, oatmeal, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, flour and white sugar
• Level: Beginner

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Enjoy apples this fall with this super easy apple crisp. The kids will enjoy making this lovely dessert for the next family movie night.

8. Apple Cobbler

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Sugar, flour, cinnamon, butter, Granny Smith apples, lemon juice, vanilla extract, baking powder, salt, ginger, orange zest, heavy cream
• Level: Beginner

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This luscious apple cobbler has a super soft crust that’s covered in a tasty apple pie filling. The texture is different than a normal pie and has a yummy buttery spiced crust. Serve with vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt.

7. Dutch Apple Pie

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Pie crust, apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, white sugar, flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, butter, and walnuts
• Level: Beginner

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Did you know the first apple pie dates back to the 17^th and 18^th centuries and was then brought to America? It’s a super easy recipe with seven spices, cream, apples, and a pie crust. This flavorful Dutch apple pie is topped with a cinnamon brown sugar streusel and can be served warm or cold with a blob of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

6. Apple Pie

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Pastry crust, apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, white sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, butter, egg, milk
• Level: Beginner

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This delicious apple pie is perfect for your next gathering. This apple pie is so easy to make, and you can customize it. If you are feeling adventurous, add raspberry jam, apple cider vinegar, or Bourbon.

5. Apple Cake

• Total Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Apples, cinnamon, sugar, flour, baking powder, salt, vegetable oil, orange juice, vanilla essence, and eggs
• Level: Beginner

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This golden oldie cake is perfect if you are not in the mood for a pie but want a cake that has the perfect amount of sweetness without being overpowering. It’s the best of both worlds — fruit and cake in one dessert.

4. Apple Cranberry Crisp

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Granny Smith apples, canned cranberries, white sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, butter, and pecans
• Level: Beginner

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Apples and cranberries are the best of both worlds. These two autumn fruits are a perfect Thanksgiving must-have dessert your guest will love.

3. Apple Fritters

• Total Time: 30- 40 minutes
• Main Ingredients: All-purpose flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, milk, egg, oil, apples, and confectioners sugar
• Level: Beginner

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We have all heard of pumpkin fritters; however, these apple fritters taste similar to a condensed funnel cake. Each bite is crispy and packed with delicious fruit.

2. Apple Dumplings

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Main Ingredients: Flour, baking powder, shortening, milk, salt, cooked Granny Smith apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, butter, hot water, heavy cream, or ice cream.
• Level: Beginner

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With this recipe, each person can have their own flaky crust, spiced filling, and homemade syrup with a dollop of ice cream. Perfect for an apple dessert recipe to make the most of this fall’s harvest.

1. Caramel Apple Cheesecake

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Main ingredients: Cinnamon graham cracker crumbs, butter, apple pie filling, white sugar, cream cheese, vanilla extract, eggs, caramel, pecans,
• Level: Beginner

This fall favorite dessert is the perfect sweet treat. With a buttery cinnamon graham cracker crust topped with caramel apple cheesecake, everyone will love and want more. 

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Elena Veselova/Shutterstock.com.

The post Apple Dessert Recipes to Make the Most of This Fall’s Harvest appeared first on Moms Who Think.

These days, many people are focused on healthy eating, and many choose to follow specific diets. One of the most popular diets is keto. The keto diet is a low-carb diet that focuses on protein and fat as a way to lose weight. It's quite popular, and many people are seeing results. However, following a strict keto diet can be difficult at holiday times, especially holidays that revolve around food like Thanksgiving. Luckily, we have put together a list of some excellent keto side dishes for Thanksgiving. So whether you are hosting for friends and family that follow a keto diet or you yourself follow a keto lifestyle, there are plenty of ways to remake classic Thanksgiving dishes keto-compliant so you never have to feel like you are missing out on traditional Thanksgiving favorites.

What is Keto?

If you are new to keto, it is basically a way of eating that puts the body into ketosis. In ketosis, the body burns stored fat for energy. Eating a very low-carb diet for a few days can put your body into ketosis. The trick is staying there because consistently eating low-carb can be challenging. Generally, fifty grams of carbs is the daily limit for those following keto. According to Healthline, the keto diet has some benefits, including weight loss, and it can help manage blood sugar in people with diabetes. Basically, to follow keto, you need to eliminate grains, beans, potatoes, fruit, candy, condiments, and alcohol. The keto diet is mainly lean meats, low-carb fruits and veggies like berries and leafy greens, and protein like eggs, chicken, fish, and beef. Dairy, nuts and seeds, dark chocolate, and alternative flours are all ok on keto.

If you are considering following a keto diet, always talk to your doctor first. The diet does have some downsides and may not be the best fit for everyone.

11 Keto Side Dishes for Thanksgiving

All of these side dishes are keto. If you follow keto and are also vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free, then you will need to double-check that these meet your dietary requirements.

1. Mashed Cauliflower

Cauliflower has really become a popular vegetable in the last decade. Healthy home cooks are making cauliflower into rice, pasta, and pizza crust. This cruciferous vegetable has such a mild flavor that it really can work as a substitute for carb-heavy foods. In this case, mashed cauliflower substitutes mashed potatoes for a keto Thanksgiving side dish. You can start by boiling fresh cauliflower and then mashing it with butter, salt, and a spoonful of sour cream. You will be surprised at just how good it is, and you might not even be able to tell the difference between regular mashed potatoes and mashed cauliflower. We suggest adding some roasted garlic, too, for an extra savory bite.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are better than you might think. It is not a coincidence that more people are eating these little green cabbage-looking vegetables. The truth is that scientists in the late 1990s started playing with Brussels sprout varieties to try to make a less bitter version of this healthy green vegetable. And they succeeded, which is why Brussels sprouts are more popular today than they were in the past. And they are a keto-friendly vegetable. This is one of the easiest Thanksgiving sides to make. Just cut the sprouts in half and toss them in a bowl with some salt and olive oil, which are both keto-compliant. Then roast in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for thirty to forty minutes.

3. Green Bean Salad with Bacon

Traditional green bean salad is not keto-friendly. That classic version of the recipe has a can of cream of mushroom soup, which is not keto-friendly mainly because it has high-carb fillers and thickeners. But there is a tastier way to make green bean salad without that antiquated cream of mushroom soup. Instead, take those washed and trimmed green beans and mix them with a keto-friendly homemade mushroom gravy and chopped cooked bacon for a tasty and healthy green bean salad.

4. Keto Stuffing

Whether you call it stuffing or dressing, one thing is for sure: this is one of the quintessential Thanksgiving recipes, and just because you are eating keto doesn't mean you have to miss out. You can swap out the dried bread chunks with keto-dried bread chunks. You may be able to find some prepackaged online, or you can easily make your own. Start with sliced keto bread and cut it into pieces, then roast it in the oven on low to dry it out and get it ready to make stuffing. Then, follow your favorite stuffing recipe. 

5. Keto Gravy

It may come as a shock to you that you can make keto gravy since gravy is mostly flour. But you can make gravy keto in a couple of different ways. Basically, the rendered fat is the star of the gravy, and one way to make keto gravy is to mix this rendered fat or grease drippings with keto-approved flour like almond, sunflower seed, or flaxseed flour. Some keto gravies opt to skip the flour and instead use xanthan gum, which is a popular food additive used to thicken sauces. It's often used in gluten-free baking and is easy to find online.

6. Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Cauliflower to the rescue again. Chunks of cauliflower are often used in plates of pasta, and you can use them to recreate a classic macaroni and cheese. Mac and cheese is full of cheese and butter, which are keto-approved, but the pasta isn't, so replacing soft macaroni noodles with chunks of steamed or boiled cauliflower pieces is a great way to make keto-friendly mac and cheese. Just because you eat keto doesn't mean you can't enjoy classic comfort food. You might even convert some family and friends to keto with this creamy cauliflower mac and cheese.

7. Sugar-free Cranberry Sauce

While fat is okay on keto, sugar is not. That's why many fruits are not permitted on keto except for low-sugar fruits like berries. You can’t open that classic can of cranberry sauce for a keto Thanksgiving, but you can make your own with fresh or dried cranberries. Just cook the cranberries in water for thirty minutes with some lemon juice, orange zest, and your favorite keto-friendly sweeteners like monk fruit or erythritol. It's that easy, and this cranberry sauce isn’t just great for turkey; you can add it to smoothies or slather it on other keto-friendly foods.

8. Almond Flour Rolls

Low-carb eating doesn't necessarily mean you have to give up bread. There are many different types of keto-friendly breads and rolls made with alternative flour. We love using almond flour to make keto-friendly rolls. You can find almond flour in most supermarkets, health food stores, and online.

9. Keto Broccoli Salad

Every Thanksgiving table should have some green options, and this keto-friendly broccoli salad is perfect. It only has a few ingredients, and you can make it beforehand. You need some lightly steamed broccoli florets, keto mayo, cheddar cheese, red onion, chopped cooked bacon, and salted sunflower seeds. It’s quick, easy,  healthy, and, most importantly, keto.

10. Creamed Collard Greens or Spinach

Many creamed greens recipes use flour to thicken them up, but with these keto-friendly versions, the mix of butter, heavy cream, milk, and cream cheese adds enough creaminess. Start with sauteed onions and garlic, then mix in the greens and add the creamy ingredients, and in ten minutes, you have yourself a show-stopping dish of creamed greens.

11. Bacon Wrapped Jalapenos

Bacon is a keto-friendly food that makes every dish better. While this isn't technically a side, it is more of an appetizer. Most Thanksgiving celebrations have an appetizer table for guests to graze while watching the big game and waiting for the main attraction, the turkey, to cook. Bacon-wrapped jalapenos are a tasty keto treat. Start with fresh jalapenos, slice down the middle, and remove the seeds. Fill the jalapenos with cream cheese and wrap with half a slice of bacon. Roast at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for twenty to thirty minutes. We suggest making these ahead of time since the oven will be at capacity with the turkey. You can also make them in the toaster oven.

Thanksgiving is about sharing a meal with loved ones and celebrating all of the things that make you grateful. Your keto diet shouldn't mean you have to skip the holiday. Just tweak your favorite Thanksgiving recipes to make them keto.

Recipe Card

Roasted Cauliflower with Roasted Garlic

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Ingredients

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• 1 large head cauliflower (trimmed and cut into bite size pieces)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
2. Mix oil, rosemary, salt, pepper and garlic together.
3. Toss in cauliflower and place in a large casserole dish in one layer.
4. Roast in for 20 minutes. Toss well and bake for 10 more minutes.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Timolina/Shutterstock.com.

The post 11 Keto Sides Dishes for Thanksgiving appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Thanksgiving is a meal so many of us look forward to each year — family gathers to share a meal, reflect and give thanks. But for those abiding by a keto-friendly diet, it can be an interesting meal to navigate. Just because you're eating keto, though, doesn't mean you can't enjoy a solid Thanksgiving feast — with these keto Thanksgiving recipes, of course. First things first, though.

What is the Keto Diet?

Very generally speaking, the ketogenic diet (aka the “keto” diet) is low-carb, high-fat diet. Calories are generally consumed via fat and protein instead of carbs. Similar to Atkins, the keto diet is designed to help your body burn more fat for energy. A general daily dietary breakdown includes a diet that is 70% fat, 25% protein and 5% carbs.

What You Can — and Can't Eat on the Keto Diet

The keto diet is generally rich in protein (poultry, seafood, etc.), high-fat dairy (cheeses, cream, etc.), nuts, and certain berries and vegetables. In terms of what you can't eat, avoid breads, starchy veggies (peas, potatoes, etc.) and basically anything sugary.

Keto-Friendly Veggies

When it comes to planning your keto-friendly Thanksgiving, here is a general list of veggies that are keto-friendly. Consider this list when you start creating your Thanksgiving menu.

• Greens — spinach, cabbage, kale, lettuce, arugula, etc.
• Broccoli and cauliflower
• Bell peppers
• Zucchini
• Avocadoes
• Asparagus
• Brussels sprouts
• Carrots
• Mushrooms
• Artichokes
• Onions
• Tomatoes
• Green beans
• Radish
• Celery
• Cucumber

OK! Without further ado, let's get to the reason you're reading: Keto Thanksgiving recipes. OH! And be sure to keep scrolling to the bottom, where we're excited to share our favorite keto-friendly turkey gravy and mashed cauliflower recipes. Let's do this!

KETO THANKSGIVING RECIPES

Herb-Roasted Turkey

Let's start with the obvious star of the show: the turkey. This herb-roasted turkey recipe is a winner, complete with rosemary and sage for an added kick (both of which are keto-friendly!).

Sunday Roast Chicken

Tradition may dictate that turkey has to take center stage. But what about chicken? Another poultry option could either replace turkey or accompany it if you're serving a crowd. This Sunday roast chicken recipe is fairly straightforward with less than 10 ingredients. The finished product is a smash hit.

KETO-FRIENDLY THANKSGIVING SIDES

Sauteed Zucchini

Zucchini is a keto diet staple, and this simple yet flavorful sauteed zucchini recipe is a perfect keto Thanksgiving side dish. Soy sauce brings a distinctly Asian flavor that works well with turkey.

Smothered Greens

Regardless of which greens you choose to smother, this recipe delivers on the keto-friendly front. It also brings the spice, so make sure you warn your guests that it comes with a kick of cayenne.

Roasted Green Beans

Green beans — or green bean casserole — are a Thanksgiving side dish staple. This simple-to-whip-up recipe will please the keto-abiding folks at your table as well as Thanksgiving traditionalists.

Roasted Cauliflower

Roasted cauliflower is not only a tasty side, but it's a pretty dish as well. The vibrant white color of this cruciferous veggie will bring a bit of a pop to your table. And the fresh rosemary garnish will make it a fan favorite.

Keto Sausage and Sage Stuffing

Keto-Friendly Sausage and Sage Stuffing

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound ground sausage (pork or turkey)
• 2 cups almond flour or almond meal
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, brown the sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the celery, onion, garlic, and sage until softened.
3. Stir in the almond flour and gradually add the chicken broth, mixing until it reaches a stuffing-like consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper, then fold in the cooked sausage. Serve as a keto stuffing alternative.

Keto Stuffing

We promised you a stuffing recipe, and here you go. While images of stuffing conjure carb nightmares, that isn't the case with this keto-friendly stuffing. It's low-carb (obviously) as well as gluten-free. This one's a winner, for sure!

Low-Carb Stuffed Bell Peppers

When it comes to keto-friendly sides, bell peppers are a hit — especially when stuffed with low-carb ingredients like tomatoes, cheese and ground turkey. It IS Thanksgiving, after all.

Sauteed Garlic Spinach

This is an easy-to-make dish that can be prepped ahead of time or on the fly. And it's a tasty option whether you're abiding by a keto diet or not.

Keto Creamed Spinach

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• 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Ingredients

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, then simmer until the sauce thickens.
4. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

Flavorful Sauteed Cabbage

This dish is a super-simple and easy to create. Saute onion, cabbage and garlic in butter or oil, and season according to your liking. It's incredibly nutritious and can be as flavorful as you'd like.

Roasted Glazed Carrots

Sub out the brown sugar for a keto-friendly alternative, and you have an incredibly tasty — and sweet — side that's packed with nutrients and flavor.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Now Thanksgiving table is complete with a piping-hot bowl of freshly sauteed mushrooms. Here's an easy recipe that is delicious and keto-friendly.

Keto Brussels Sprouts

Toss any pre-conceived thoughts about Brussels sprouts out the window because this recipe will totally flip the script. Five easy ingredients can quickly be whipped up and will make your mouth oh-so-thankful!

Green Bean Almondine

Green Bean Almondine

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Steam the green beans until they're tender but still crisp, then drain.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic and sliced almonds until they're lightly toasted.
3. Add the steamed green beans and toss to coat in the butter and almond mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Roasted Parmesan Broccoli

In addition to being keto-friendly, this delicious dish is also gluten-free. Seven SUPER-simple ingredients combine to create a tasty side everyone will love!

SALADS

Avocado Salad

Avocado is rich in monounsaturated fats (the good kind of fat), and they're keto-friendly. Here is a tasty avocado salad recipe that makes a great side at Thanksgiving or anytime.

Fresh Asparagus & Avocado Salad

This salad is a delightful blend of fresh flavors — asparagus, zucchini, mushrooms, tomatoes, and avocado. Douse it all in a light dressing, and you have a bright and tasty salad for your Thanksgiving table.

Cabbage and Tomato Salad

We offered a sauteed cabbage recipe earlier, but here's a cold cabbage option. Combine cabbage and tomatoes with a light dressing to complete a scrumptious salad recipe.

KETO-FRIENDLY DESSERTS

Keto Pumpkin Pie

No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a pumpkin pie. Make it a keto-friendly option with this tasty recipe featuring a sugar substitute and keto-friendly pie crust.

Low-Carb Cheesecake

Substitute key ingredients like Splenda for sugar and almond flour for all-purpose flour, and you'll instantly enjoy a low-carb version of this delicious dessert. Check out this low-carb cheesecake recipe here.

Keto Chocolate Mousse

A few simple, keto-friendly ingredients ensure you have a tasty, chocolatey dessert for your guests. Sweet tooth = satisfied!

MORE KETO-FRIENDLY RECIPES

Keto Gravy

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Ingredients

Units USM

• Pan drippings from the roasted turkey
• 1 cup chicken or turkey broth (low-sodium)
• 2 tablespoons almond flour or coconut flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Pour the pan drippings from the roasted turkey into a fat separator or a large measuring cup and let the fat separate from the juices.

2. In a saucepan, heat the separated fat over medium heat.

3. Whisk in the almond or coconut flour and cook for a few minutes until it's lightly browned.

4. Gradually whisk in the separated juices and chicken or turkey broth. Continue to whisk until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Keto-Friendly Thanksgiving Stuffing

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• Author: Moms Who Think
• Total Time: 45 mins

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This is a delicious keto-friendly alternative to traditional stuffing. Whip up this recipe and serve it at your keto-friendly Thanksgiving.

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 4 cups of almond flour bread
• 1 cup of celery
• 1 cup of onion
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 tsp of sage
• 1 tsp of thyme
• to taste of salt
• to taste of pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Saute celery and onion until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine bread, celery, onion, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in chicken broth until well combined.
5. Bake in a greased baking dish for 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keto Mashed Cauliflower

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These keto cauliflower mashed potatoes are a great side dish for your Thanksgiving meal or any occasion where you'd like a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2–3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 2 ounces cream cheese (optional, but adds creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Steam or Boil Cauliflower: You can steam the cauliflower florets until they are very tender, or you can boil them. It usually takes about 10-15 minutes. You'll know they're done when they're easily pierced with a fork.

2. Drain and Dry: Drain the cooked cauliflower well to remove excess moisture. You can even press it gently with a clean kitchen towel to remove more water. The drier the cauliflower, the better the texture of your “mashed potatoes.”

3. Blend the Cauliflower: In a food processor or using a hand blender, blend the cauliflower until it's smooth and has a mashed potato-like consistency. If you don't have a food processor, you can use a potato masher, but it might not be as smooth.

4. Sauté Garlic: In a separate pan, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic.

5. Mix Cauliflower and Cream Cheese: If you're using cream cheese, add it to the blended cauliflower and pulse to combine. Then, add the sautéed garlic and melted butter (or olive oil) to the cauliflower mixture. Blend until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream cheese or butter if needed.

6. Serve: Transfer the mashed cauliflower to a serving dish, and garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley if desired.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Bochkarev Photography/Shutterstock.com.

The post 26 Keto Thanksgiving Recipes: From Turkey to Stuffing (Yes, Stuffing!) appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Thanksgiving is around the corner. And there's nothing better than a meal with friends and family. Mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, and cranberry sauce don't compare to the tastiness of a turkey. Learning how to cook a turkey perfectly is, however, the most challenging part.

There are various ways to cook a turkey. But the two most popular ways to cook a turkey are by oven or grill. Either one of these ways creates a unique taste with different flavors. But there's also the process of creating a brine and cooking the turkey for a specific time at a certain temperature until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees.

This guide explores the different ways to cook turkey. We look at the basics you must follow when grilling or oven-baking a turkey and the common mistakes to avoid. Ultimately, you'll have more confidence to cook your turkey to perfection.

How to Find the Right Turkey

Before cooking any turkey, you must pick the right one. You must look for certain things that are sure signs you have an excellent turkey.

For example, you want to look for the right size, breed, and labeling. The size matters because you want to know how much turkey you'll eat and make for everyone. A common rule is that one pound of turkey feeds one person. Getting an 8-pound turkey would feed eight people.

Another factor to consider is the breed. There are usually broad-breasted whites and heritage turkeys. However, heritage turkeys are generally bought at a local butcher shop or farm. Heritage turkeys tend to have more flavor because they have more fat. They also have darker and more flavorful meat.

The final consideration when choosing a turkey is the labeling. Self-basting turkeys don't need to be brined, making cooking easier. If you get “natural,” then you'll have to brine it yourself.

Cooking a Turkey In the Oven

There are two popular ways to cook a turkey: oven and grilled. Either way has benefits. Adding lemons, potatoes, and other vegetables can give your turkey more flavor, even though it's a more complex way of cooking the turkey.

For instance, you can spatchcock the turkey, which requires removing the backbone from it so it cooks more evenly. You can also use aluminum foil so it doesn't overcook.

Regarding oven baking, here's the best way to prepare a turkey in the oven.

• Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
• Remove giblets from the turkey.
• Season the turkey.
• Bake the turkey for 13-15 minutes per pound.
• Remove the turkey after it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees.

The Grilling Method

When grilling, here's the best way to make the turkey.

• Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
• Remove giblets from the turkey.
• Season the turkey.
• Grill the turkey for 2-3 hours.
• Remove the turkey after it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees.

The flavor of your turkey will depend on what kind of seasoning and basting you use on your turkey. You can also add stuffing to the inside of the turkey.

A vital part of cooking turkey in the oven or on the grill is letting it rest for 30 to 60 minutes. It allows the turkey to reabsorb juices. If you cut the turkey right away, you lose that flavor.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes

One of the most common mistakes is not checking your turkey's internal temperature while cooking it. You want something to ensure your turkey is not overcooking and reaches the desired temperature of 160 degrees.

Another mistake that is often made is not washing the brine off your turkey. It could leave your turkey oversalted and unbearable to eat if you don't wash it off. You want to make sure you wash the brine off, especially if you're doing it yourself.

The final mistake that people make is cooking a partially frozen turkey. When you do this, it causes your it to cook unevenly. It also can take hours longer for it to cook.

Now You Have the Confidence to Cook Turkey

Learning to cook a turkey with confidence makes a difference. The recipes and guides in this article can give you the confidence to cook a turkey in the oven or on the grill. The key is to follow the steps without trying to overcomplicate it. You want to ensure you follow each step all the way through.

Avoid the common mistakes that people make when cooking turkey in the oven or on the grill. The key is finding the right one, choosing your cooking method, preparing the turkey, and letting it rest. When you do all that, you'll have a perfectly cooked turkey.

Old Fashioned Turkey and Stuffing with Pan Gravy

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• Author: MomsWhoThink.com
• Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes

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Ingredients

Stuffing and Turkey:

• 6 crusty rolls, about 1 pound, broken into small pieces
• 1 pound ground pork
• Turkey giblets, diced
• 3 apples, cored and chopped, about 5 cups
• 2 ribs celery chopped, about 2 cups
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 12–14 pound turkey, thawed if frozen, neck and giblets removed
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

Gravy:

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• Chicken broth, as needed
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup dry sherry

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place turkey in a roasting pan and rub with olive oil. Combine the cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and peppercorns; rub over turkey.
3. Place turkey in the oven and roast for about 1 hour until juices run clear.
4. Prepare a sauce by combining the cranberries and 2 cups water in a saucepan and bringing to a boil. Lower the heat and cook until cranberries begin to pop; add the orange juice.
5. Combine the cornstarch or arrowroot with 2 tablespoons of water and add to the sauce. Cook until thick and serve over sliced turkey.

Notes

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. For stuffing, soak roll pieces in water, squeeze almost dry, and set aside. In a large skillet over high heat, cook pork with giblets, breaking up meat with a spoon, until browned, about 8 minutes.
2. Remove meat with a slotted spoon; set aside. To drippings in skillet add apples, celery and onion; cook until just softened, about 10 minutes.
3. In large bowl combine bread, meat mixture, vegetable mixture, eggs, salt, sage and pepper.
4. Fill turkey body and neck cavities with stuffing; truss, if desired. Place remaining stuffing in covered 6-cup casserole.
5. Place turkey on rack set in roasting pan.
6. Pour melted butter over turkey. Roast, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices, until thermometer inserted into thickest part of thigh registers 180°F 3 to 3½ hours.
7. Place casserole with stuffing in oven 30 minutes before turkey is done. Let turkey stand 15 minutes before carving.
8. Meanwhile, for gravy, skim fat from pan juices, reserving 3 tbs. fat. Over two burners on medium heat combine reserved fat with flour in roasting pan; cook, stirring constantly, 2 minutes.
9. Combine milk and pan juices with enough broth to equal 2 cups. Add to roasting pan with oregano, salt and pepper; bring to boil.
10.  Add sherry, cook until mixture thickens slightly, about 2 minutes. Serve with turkey.

• Prep Time: 60 minutes
• Cook Time: 220 minutes

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Steve Lalich/Shutterstock.com.

The post How to Cook a Turkey Perfectly, Two Ways to Consider appeared first on Moms Who Think.

When you want to wow the guests around your Thanksgiving table, the surest way to do it is with some amazing Thanksgiving trivia. Show off your turkey day smarts with these 12 Thanksgiving facts:

1. TV dinners were the product of Thanksgiving

In 1953, someone at Swanson misjudged the number of frozen turkeys it would sell that Thanksgiving, by 26 TONS! Some industrious soul came up with a brilliant plan: Why not slice up the meat and repackage with some trimmings on the side? Thus, the first TV dinner was born.

2. There's nothing more American than watching football on Thanksgiving Day!

The tradition started in 1934 when the new owner of the Portsmouth (Ohio) Spartans moved the team to Detroit and decided to compete against the Tigers for their fan base. The Detroit Lions scheduled a game against defending world champions the Chicago Bears, and the game was such a huge success that they decided to do a game on Thanksgiving every year. There has been a game on Thanksgiving every year except for the period of 1939 to 1944, during World War II.

3. Black Friday shopping isn't for plumbers.

Black Friday is the busiest day of the year for them, according to Roto-Rooter, the nation's largest plumbing service. Apparently all that food has to end up somewhere.

4. Thanksgiving-eve is for the bars

The night before Thanksgiving also means meeting up with old friends and family members and heading out to the local bar for many. The night before Thanksgiving is the biggest night of the year for bar sales, even bigger than New Year's Eve, St. Patrick's Day, and The Super Bowl.

5. There are four places in the U.S. named Turkey

Louisiana's Turkey Creek is the most populous, with 440 residents. There's also Turkey, Texas; Turkey, North Carolina; and Turkey Creek, Arizona. We can't forget the two townships in Pennsylvania: the creatively named Upper Turkeyfoot and Lower Turkeyfoot!

6. We have Abe Lincoln to be thankful for

He declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, due to the tireless efforts of a 74-year-old magazine editor named Sarah Josepha Hale. Hale had asked him to have a ‘day of our annual Thanksgiving made a National and fixed Union Festival.' Lincoln responded by writing a Proclamation making the last Thursday of every November a National holiday dedicated to giving thanks for nature's abundance and our individual and national blessings. She also wrote the nursery rhyme, “Mary had a Little Lamb.”

7. Turkeys love President Truman

In 1947 President Truman started the tradition of selecting a turkey and sending it off to a farm somewhere to live out the rest of its life in peace. These days, two turkeys are selected and the people of the United States cast their votes to name them, then the President performs a public pardon.

8. Only male turkeys, called toms, gobble.

Females, called hens, cackle

9. If you weren't aware, Americans eat a lot

The sheer volume of food consumed in the U.S. every Thanksgiving is staggering. 45 million turkeys are cooked and eaten in the U.S. at Thanksgiving, accounting for one sixth of all turkeys sold in the U.S. each year.

45 million turkeys are cooked and eaten in the U.S. at Thanksgiving, accounting for one sixth of all turkeys sold in the U.S. each year.

10. Some say Macy's employees are still marching to this day

In 1924, Macy's employees marched six miles from Harlem to Herald's Square to kick off the Christmas season. They dressed up as clowns, knights and cowboys and were accompanied by marching bands and live animals from the Central Park Zoo.

The event was so successful that they have held a parade every year since and it is now the most popular holiday parade in North America. These days 3.5 million people show up to watch in New York City and 50 million people watch the event from home.

11. Science (and experience) says Turkey can make you sleepy

Turkey contains the essential amino acid L-Tryptophan, which does make you sleepy. However, there's not enough tryptophan in a serving of turkey to cause drowsiness, and in order for tryptophan to really make you sleepy you need to eat it on an empty stomach, and that's certainly going to happen on Thanksgiving! In reality, you probably get sleepy after Thanksgiving dinner because you eat a lot of food in a short period of time.

12. Turkeys probably weren't at the first Thanksgiving

The first Thanksgiving was a 3-day harvest feast in 1621 attended by the English Protestant settlers (we call them Pilgrims, though they didn't refer to themselves that way) and the native tribe of the Wampanoag near Plymouth, MA.

The first feast didn't resemble our modern Thanksgiving dinner at all; it was comprised of venison (deer meat), shellfish, and corn. Though there were plenty of wild turkeys in the area, reports vary about whether or not they were actually consumed at the feast, and most scholars agree that venison was the main course.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Priscilla Du Preez / Unsplash.

The post 12 Facts About Thanksgiving appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Few things are as comforting on a cold winter day as biting into some steaming, sweet red hot apples. Candy apples are a Halloween favorite, but these red hot cinnamon apples are bound to become a winter staple in your household.

Maybe you're a fan of apple pie, but you want to watch your weight and cut out the crust. Or perhaps you love a good candy apple, but you know they're hard on your teeth (literally!). After a season of apple picking, you may have so many leftovers that you don't know what to do with them!

Raw apples are an excellent source of vitamin C, but sweet, baked apples with a red cinnamon candy glaze is an incredible seasonal treat that can easily work in the fall and winter.

Our red hot candy apple recipe is more bake than gaze, so you don't have to worry about breaking a tooth or picking sticky candy out of your teeth for hours after you enjoy this dish. Instead, we've made it as simple as possible to whip up this dessert that looks fancy but really only takes less than an hour to cook and serve.

Why You Should Make Baked Apples

Apple pie is great. It's an American classic! But it's also a lot of work. Work and family take up most moms' time, and when they finally have a moment to rest, the last thing they want to do is whip up a pie crust from scratch! We all know store-bought works in a pinch, but it never quite tastes the same as a homemade apple pie.

To help you get that sweet, cinnamon comfort, we've prepared this recipe and added a fun, fiery touch: melted red hot candies!

Baked apples are a great way to warm up on a snowy day; whether you're serving them up fresh to the kids after they've come in from playing outside, or you decide to cuddle up next to the fireplace with a big bowl to share, baked apples are easy to make and taste fantastic.

The best part is that you can dress these red hot cinnamon apples any way you like. Maybe you're not a fan of spicy treats, and that's perfectly fine!

Our red hot apples recipe can be made milder with a light honey or maple syrup glaze, sprinkled with brown sugar; maybe you want to keep it classic with cinnamon and cloves. You can even take things a step further and serve them in a bowl with a scoop of French vanilla ice cream or a splash of cold, thick cream.

Red hot apples are the perfect combination of sugar and spice, and they're truly everything nice about the holiday season.

Old-Fashioned Red Hot Apples Recipe

The candy apple has been a staple at state fairs for decades. Did you know that they originated in Newark, New Jersey, in 1908? Candy craftsman William W. Kolb was testing out his new cinnamon candy for Christmas when he decided to dip some apples in them. He sold America's first candy apples in his storefront window for just 5 cents apiece. It wasn't long before the sweet treats took off, becoming fixtures at fairs, carnivals and candy shops all over the country.

Our red hot candy apple recipe embodies all the taste and nostalgia of the original, but we decided to add the softness and comfort of a homemade apple pie. You can also make these a healthy recipe by using no sugar and relying only on the cinnamon and a tablespoon or two of honey for sweetness!

If you like this recipe, try these! 

• Sweet Potato Pudding
• Carmel Apple Salad
• Apple-Cranberry Pie

Red Hot Baked Apples

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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink
• Total Time: 42 minutes

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Ingredients

• 6 apples
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ⅓ cup cinnamon red hot candies
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch square pan.
2. Remove and reserve tops of apples. Core the apples, leaving approximately ½ inch at the bottom. Arrange in the baking dish.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon red hot candies and cinnamon. Fill each apple with the mixture. Replace apple tops. Sprinkle remaining mixture over the apples.
4. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven 30 to 35 minutes, or until apples are tender.

• Prep Time: 7
• Cook Time: 35

The post Red Hot Baked Apples appeared first on Moms Who Think.

If you’re looking for a new dessert for Thanksgiving, but don’t want to give up the seasonal flavors of pumpkin pie, we have a recipe we think you should try. Pumpkin torte gives you a marvelous alternative to the traditional pumpkin pie. You can start it the night before you need it, and get one of your Thanksgiving tasks done ahead of time. Plus, it tastes fantastic.

You don’t need to wait for the holidays to enjoy this delicious dessert, however. The ingredients remain available all year around.

Holiday parties abound in October, November, and December. This light, rich and delicious pumpkin tort makes a great dessert to serve at a holiday party or as a substitute for a birthday cake. Since pumpkin pie remains so popular with so many people, making this pumpkin torte recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

If your church or group needs refreshments or has a pot-luck dinner, just make this pumpkin recipe for the event. But don’t plan on having any leftovers for later.

The pumpkin torte recipe starts with a brown sugar and graham cracker crust. Once that crust has been placed in the bottom of the pan, you make a cream cheese filling mixed with sugar and eggs. Once the cream cheese, eggs, and sugar have been mixed until fluffy, you place the mixture atop the graham cracker crust. Bake the crust and cream cheese layers to set them and meld the flavors.

Finally, mix the next layers together, including the pumpkin. Top this delicious dish with whipped cream if you’d like.

You create the pumpkin torte recipe by making it in a 9×13 inch rectangular pan. This makes enough pumpkin torte to go around for many family gatherings and group meetings. Plus, cans of pumpkin pie might cost less during the holidays, making it a wise purchase.

A thin drizzle of chocolate would make a lovely design on your this pumpkin dish, and add a touch of additional flavor, too. You could sprinkle finely chopped pecans or another of your favorite nuts over the top of this torte once it has properly chilled, too.

While you could make this sweet dish for a special dessert, there’s no reason why you can’t eat it after any meal, any day. But if you’d like something unique for your Thanksgiving dinner for your guests to enjoy, pumpkin torte remains an excellent choice. Make family memories with the tasty foods you serve or bring to your next Thanksgiving or holiday meal.

Pumpkin Torte

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• Author: MomsWhoThink

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Ingredients

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 2/3 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

 

Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients:

• 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs

 

Pumpkin Filling Ingredients:

• 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 can (30 ounces) pumpkin pie filling
• 1 can (5-1/2 ounces) evaporated milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

 

• Whipped cream for topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham crackers, brown sugar, and butter. Press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Slowly blend in eggs and sugar. Spoon the mixture over the layer of graham crackers.
4. Bake in the preheated oven 20 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool.
5. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over cold water; let stand for 1 minute.
6. In a large saucepan, combine pie filling and evaporated milk. Bring to a boil. Add gelatin; stir until dissolved.
7. Whisk a small amount of hot mixture into the eggs. Return all to the pan, whisking constantly.
8. Cook and stir over low heat until mixture is thickened and coats the back of a spoon. Cool for 10 minutes.
9. Spoon in a layer over the cream cheese mixture. Chill in the refrigerator 6 to 8 hours, or overnight. Top with whipped cream before serving.

The post Pumpkin Torte appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Pumpkin is everywhere these days. It's hard to walk through the supermarket without seeing something pumpkin-spiced. While we certainly love a good PSL (pumpkin spice latte), there are so many ways to prepare pumpkin this fall that we don't want anyone to miss out on. For a light and festive autumn dessert, this pumpkin pudding hits the spot.

Pumpkin Pudding is wonderful at any time of year, but it really shines during the holiday season. The combination of this pumpkin pudding's rich, smooth texture, combined with the fragrant seasonal taste of cinnamon and nutmeg, perfectly encapsulates the feeling of autumn in every bite. This pumpkin pudding recipe even combines some yellow cake mix to give the dish some extra fluff.

Pumpkin Recipes for Fall

We usually go straight for canned pumpkin puree this time of year. Organic options are low in sugar and tend to be excellent bases for pumpkin soup. They also make wonderful homemade baby food! To save time on seasoning with this pumpkin pudding recipe, you may want to use a store-bought canned pumpkin pie filling, which already comes perfectly seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.

Pumpkin season lasts from mid-September to late November, so now is the prime time to start experimenting in the kitchen. We have pumpkin recipes for every meal, so why not start embracing the remainder of autumn by crafting a pumpkin recipe bucket list? Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Roasted pumpkin seeds for snacking.
• Pumpkin soup, which is one of our Thanksgiving favorites.
• Pumpkin dump cake, chock-full of seasonal spices.
• And, of course, the classic pumpkin pie. Our recipe is served up with some interesting history that we hope you'll enjoy sharing at the dinner table!

Pumpkin Spice and Beyond

What exactly is pumpkin spice? You can buy your own bottle of it at the store, but it's not hard to make it yourself, either. While many people just associate the flavor as synonymous of American autumns, we want to break down what makes pumpkin spice so great.

“Pumpkin spice” embodies all of the flavors that go into a great pumpkin pie. The most prominent note is cinnamon, but it's bolstered up by plenty of nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. In Britain, this is known as “mixed spice.” If you want to make your own pumpkin spice blend at home, all you have to do is take the seasonings from this pumpkin pudding recipe and add it into a bowl! You can easily increase the recipe and mix as much as you need to make your own handy spice jar for the rest of the season!

You may wish to use your homemade pumpkin spice to dress up your lattes on a crisp morning or add some charm to your seasonal pies. This blend compliments the flavor in cooked pumpkin, which is actually a fresh vegetable similar to the sweet potato and enjoyed in its natural state in many parts of the world, especially in Japan and Australia.

You should try cutting up some raw pumpkin and baking it! Not only does it look beautiful at the center of the table, but it also comes packed with plenty of health benefits like vitamin A and antioxidants.

We hope this pumpkin pudding is just one way you give our favorite fall vegetable a go this season. If you get a hankering for some pumpkin pie long after Thanksgiving, this recipe is an absolute lifesaver! Just add a scoop of whipped cream on top, and you'll be in heaven!

If you like this recipe, consider trying one of our many bread pudding recipes!

Pumpkin Pudding

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• Author: MomsWhoThink
• Total Time: 37 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
• 1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
• ⅓ cup butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin, eggs, brown sugar, salt, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon and evaporated milk. Mix until smooth and pour into 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Top the pumpkin mixture with yellow cake mix (dry), melt butter and drizzle over cake mix until covered. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
4. Allow to cool uncovered and serve.

• Prep Time: 7
• Cook Time: 30

The post Pumpkin Pudding appeared first on Moms Who Think.

These Pumpkin Pie Squares Are Perfect For Your Fall Gatherings

If you love pumpkin as much as I do, then you’re going to love each and every pumpkin pie square recipe that we'll share with you. We guarantee that all of these pumpkin-inspired desserts will present a full-flavored richness in their own special way. With some having chocolate swirls, a few others incorporate crumble tops, or a cream cheese filling layered in the middle. The great thing about these pumpkin pie square recipes is that they are so darn good and super easy to prepare. This means that anybody can make them.

These pumpkin pie squares are perfect for any fall get together as well as your new Thanksgiving dessert. You can create however many batches you want so all of your guests will be thankful for them. The core recipe is below, but here are many variations for you to consider as well:

Pumpkin and Cheesecake Squares

Just the way this square look has decadence written all over it. From the two-layered cheesecake middle, and a topping of caramel streusel to its cinnamon-spiced crust of graham cracker, this square screams indulgence.

Pumpkin with Chocolate Chip Squares

You will feel like you’re having a chocolate overload when you see how much chocolate chip is in this delicious square. Not only are they soft, but they’re also sweet and moist.

Pumpkin Cookie with Stuffed Nutella Squares

This square has two doses of yummy Nutella that advances the overall flavor of the square. Taking more than one is highly recommended.

Pumpkin Roll Squares

This pumpkin roll square is perfect for all of you pumpkin cake lovers. Not only does this type explode with pumpkin, but it’ll remind you of a roll without any work involved.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Squares

As soon as you smell these you’ll know you’re in heaven. The combined cinnamon chips instantly kick things up a notch.

Oat Peanut Butter Pumpkin Squares

A nice dose of chocolate? Yes, please! Not only are these good for any time snacking, but you can easily grab one as you head out the door.

Pumpkin Pie with Crumble Squares

You get a triple shot of layers and a delectable crumble top with a smidge of whipped topping on the top.

Pumpkin with Streusel Squares

The streusel on this square gives a feeling of a cookie while the cream cheese and pumpkin mix finish it off as a pie.

Pumpkin Sugar Spice Squares

When you spread some frosting made of cinnamon cream cheese, you are only adding to the chewy goodness.

Paleo Pumpkin Squares

These are packed with flavor and are perfect for paleo as well as vegans – so there is plenty for everyone.

Macadamia Pumpkin Pie with Caramel Squares

This square provides richness and crunch that only macadamias can provide as well as balancing out the pumpkin pie’s smoothness.

Magic Pumpkin Squares

Why are these magic? Well, when you add chocolate chips, pureed pumpkin, and coconut to a cake mix magical things tend to happen.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Chocolate Cookie Squares

You are going to have to brace yourself for this one because this takes the pumpkin to a whole new echelon of yum. With every bite of this chocolate cookie, you get a nice taste of pumpkin cheesecake layered with a smooth chocolate spread that’s whipped to perfection.

Pumpkin Gingerbread Squares

You’ll be glad that you took a bite out of these babies. |With a nice powdered sugar dusting, you are sure to enjoy how sweet and spice mingle well together.

Streusel Topped Caramel Pumpkin Cheesecake Squares

These pumpkin-based squares give you a nice helping of cheesecake with a streusel crumble on top as it sits on a crust of graham cracker while caramel smothers it all from above.

So as you can see, there are plenty of pumpkin pie squares recipe options available. All you need to do now is decide which one(s) you want to make.

If you like these pumpkin recipes, try these! 

• Pumpkin Dip
• Pumpkin and Praline Pie
• Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
• Pumpkin Apple Cobbler

Pumpkin Pie Squares

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink
• Total Time: 1 hour

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Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup butter
• 2 cups pumpkin puree
• 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
• 2 egg whites
• ¾ cup white sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 1 cup whipped cream (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray or grease one 9×13 inch pan.
2. Mix together the flour, oatmeal, brown sugar and butter or margarine. Press into pan; bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
3. In a large deep metal bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form.
4. Blend together the pumpkin, evaporated milk, egg whites, sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger and clove.
5. Pour custard into baked crust; bake for 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Mix together the chopped nuts, brown sugar and butter. Sprinkle topping on custard and bake additional 15 minutes.
7. Remove from oven and allow to cool. Cut into squares and top with whipped cream if desired.

• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 45

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Certain seasons simply lay claim to different types of produce. In the spring, strawberries are an undisputed champion and take on a starring role in our drinks, salads and desserts.

By summer, watermelon and corn on the cob battle for dominance, but end up co-starring at many family barbecues and back yard social events.

But by the time the weather starts to cool off in the northern hemisphere and leaves begin to fall, it is pumpkin's time to shine.

Is It Officially Autumn Yet, If You Don't Have a Pumpkin Recipe?

Once the children are going back to school, it is time to start thinking about the joys of pumpkin spice in your coffee as you see them off on their day and start your own. But as great as that pumpkin flavor is in your caffeine, the best way to know that fall has finally arrived is by the smell of pumpkin taking over your kitchen.

There is no shortage of pumpkin recipes for you to consider: pie, muffins, cookies, smoothies and even savory pasta sauces can allow our favorite fall gourd to shine.

Often accompanied by the powerful combination of nutmeg and cinnamon, there is are few greater culinary comfort foods during the Thanksgiving season than pumpkin.

What Makes This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dessert Stand Out?

In a season full of everyone's favorite pumpkin recipes, why should you prepare this pumpkin cream cheese dessert recipe instead of your grandmother's pumpkin pie?

The answer is simple: this pumpkin cream cheese dessert is designed to appeal not only to those who come to your table wanting pumpkin pie but those who would prefer to have a decadent slice of cheesecake.

The richness of a cheesecake meets the boldness of pumpkin flavor in this dessert recipe. The kids will also prefer this pumpkin cream cheese dessert recipe, thanks to the fact that is is much easier to pick up and hold than a piece of pie.

Potential Improvements for the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Recipe

When using graham crackers, you most likely use only the ordinary flavor. But when you are making this dessert, you should consider exactly how much of an impression your decadent pumpkin- flavored dessert is going to be and consider adding one of the many other flavors of graham crackers. Graham crackers are available in vanilla, honey, chocolate, and low-fat varieties. Using any of these flavors will add another layer of flavor to a dessert already bursting with it.

Is There a Way to Make It Slightly Less Decadent?

This is a dessert that is meant to be served only at special occasions. Placing it next to your grandmother's green bean casserole and sweet potato pie is the best way to enjoy this sugary treat.

But there are some substitutions you can make if you want to cut back on the sugar and fat content of the dish.

The sugar of the dish can certainly be replaced with a lower-calorie sweetener. Stevia, Splenda or coconut sugar would all provide sweetness without as many calories as table sugar.

While cream cheese gives this dessert its rich cheesecake-like decadence, you can substitute a low-fat cream cheese instead. You could also use either low-fat milk or a plant-based milk in order to further reduce the fat.

If sugar is a concern for you, make sure that the “whipped cream” is whipped cream and not whipped topping. The latter comes in small round tubs, while the former can be found in ready-to-squeeze containers.

If you like this recipe, try these! 

• Fruit Dip
• Pumpkin Dip
• Red Hot Baked Apples
• Shortbread Cookie Recipe

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Dessert

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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• Author: MomsWhoThink

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Description

• ½ cup butter
• ⅓ cup white sugar
• 18 whole graham crackers (2 packages), crushed
• 2 eggs
• ¾ cup white sugar
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 envelope (1 Tablespoon) unflavored gelatine
• ¼ cup water
• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin
• 3 eggs, separated
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup white sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ pint whipped cream

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Ingredients

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in the sugar and mix well. Stir in graham cracker crumbs. Pat the mixture into baking dish.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the egg yolks, sugar and cream cheese. Pour the mixture over crust.
4. Bake 20 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatine in water.
5. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix the pumpkin, eggs, milk, sugar, salt and cinnamon. Reserve the egg whites.
6. Stirring constantly, cook until thick, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the gelatine. Allow the mixture to cool for approximately 20 minutes.
7. In a small bowl, beat the 3 egg whites until stiff. Gently fold the egg whites into the cooled pumpkin mixture.
8. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the cream cheese mixture. Top with whipped cream. Cover and refrigerate approximately 2 hours.

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Who says you can’t taste fall? These bars are packed with flavor, and each chewy bite will take you back to a chilly fall day. The flavors of pumpkin and cranberry are what you might find at Thanksgiving dinner, but you can enjoy them any time of year with the tasty recipe. These bars bake up nicely, and you can store them in airtight containers for several days. You can even make them ahead of time and freezes them, so you have them available whenever you get a craving for something sweet.

Pumpkin Cranberry Bars Recipe Substitutions

While pumpkin and cranberry are definitely a great combination and work well in these bars, you can substitute them for other flavors that you like better. You can swap out the canned pumpkin for fresh pumpkin or just leave out the pumpkin altogether. You can also leave out the cranberries or replace them with other fruits or berries such as cherries, blackberries, or raspberries. Of course, you can adjust the spices to get the perfect flavors you love.

When Is A Good Time To Serve Pumpkin Cranberry Bars

While these bars are perfect for a cold fall day and go nicely with many of the same foods you will serve on Thanksgiving; you can actually enjoy them any time of year. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, snacking, or of course, dessert. You can even pack them in school lunches. If you decide to switch up the recipe with other ingredients, you should make the bars with ingredients that are fresh and in season. Try making these bars for your Christmas breakfast or something to snack on while you wait for Thanksgiving dinner to be finished.

Plating Your Pumpkin Cranberry Bars

These bars are decadent and deserve to be shown off before they are eaten. You can cut them and add them to adorable serving trays for a real holiday spread. You can also stack them up on plates and platters to make them look even more delicious. If you are serving other foods or desserts, consider displaying the bars with cookies, cakes, and pies to create a stunning dessert table or display.

If these tasty bars sound good to you, give this pumpkin cranberry bars recipe a try. You may enjoy it just the way it is, or you may choose to change it up a little and put your own twist on it. Whatever you decide, you can count on your family and guests loving these tasty treats.

If you like this pumpkin recipe, try these! 

• Pumpkin Dip
• Pumpkin and Praline Pie
• Pumpkin Cranberry Bars

Pumpkin Cranberry Bars

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink
• Total Time: 1 hour

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Ingredients

• 1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
• 2 cups finely chopped pecans or walnuts
• ½ cup butter or margarine, softened
• 3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 (16 ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
• 1 Tablespoon orange juice
• 3 large eggs
• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin
• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine cake mix, nuts, butter and 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice until crumbly. Reserve 1½ cups crumb mixture. Press remaining crumb mixture onto bottom of 13×9-inch baking dish.
2. Place jellied cranberry sauce and orange juice in small saucepan. Cook, stirring frequently, over medium heat until smooth. Remove from heat; cool slightly. Meanwhile, in large bowl, beat eggs.
3. Add pumpkin, condensed milk, vanilla extract, and remaining 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice; mix well.
4. Spread cranberry sauce evenly over crust. Pour pumpkin mixture over cranberry. Sprinkle with reserved crumb topping. Bake 45 minutes or until crumb topping is golden brown. Serve warm or chilled.

• Prep Time: 15
• Cook Time: 45

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If there’s one thing that we can all be sure about over the Thanksgiving season it’s that us Americans sure do love pumpkin whether it’s baked into a pie or turned into butter. If you’ve already tried apple butter, this pumpkin variety is sure to be a hit with the whole family over the holiday dinner.

It’s so easy to make, and it can be applied to so many different things in so many different ways.

Ways to Use This Pumpkin Butter Recipe at Thanksgiving and Beyond

Once you’ve got your butter, there’s really no end to the amazing ways you can enjoy it from cocktails to sandwiches to muffins and all sorts of other amazing delicious treats this Thanksgiving season. Here’s just a few of our favorites:

Pumpkin Muffins

Add some of your homemade butter to any muffin to REALLY bring out something magical. Either put it in the mix or spread it on top, either way it’ll take your muffins (or even store-bought muffins) from a 10 to an 11.

Pumpkin Ice Cream

Why not throw a healthy spoonful or two of homemade butter on top of your ice cream?

Pumpkin Sandwiches

You’ll never have a normal grilled cheese again once you’ve had a grilled cheese with pumpkin or squash butter. Let your sandwich game go wild with the amazing possibilities that a quick spread of butter can provide.

Pumpkin Smoothies

Pumpkin’s good enough for pumpkin spiced lattés, so how about some pumpkin smoothies? Throw 1 cup of unsweetened vanilla almond milk together with 1 cup of spinach into the blender, and then add half a frozen banana and 2 TBSP of your homemade butter. BOOM.

Pumpkin Cocktails

Who doesn’t like to turn something alcoholic? A fan of the White Russian? Try it with a dollop of pumpkin butter. There’s all sorts of cocktails out there you can make to quench your pumpkin cravings. Give it a try!

Pumpkin Lattes

You know this already. Everyone knows this already. ‘Tis the season, and you’ve probably already had at least one today! If you don’t want to fork out for the coffee-shop version, make your own (superior) pumpkin spiced latte at home. All you need to do is throw 2 tablespoons of pumpkin or squash butter into your coffee and throw on some whipped cream.

Pumpkin Dips

Want to level up from tortilla chips and salsa? Try dipping sliced apples, mini donuts, graham crackers, or rice crispy treats into some pumpkin butter dip. This dip is a great addition to the Thanksgiving table!

Recipe Substitution Ideas

While there are only a few ingredients in this pumpkin butter recipe, we can always get caught out with something missing and we’re unable to run to the store. Here’s a couple substitution ideas you can heed to avoid tragedy in tough times:

• For 1 cup of canned pumpkin or pumpkin puree, you can substitute 1 cup of cooked, mashed sweet potato or butternut squash.
• If you’re lacking when it comes to the white sugar you can sub it for brown instead. As an aside, even if you do have the white sugar, try using brown instead anyway or throwing in some molasses. This will add a rich depth to the butter’s flavor.
• If it’s pectin you’re out of and you can’t seem to find any anywhere, there’s several ways to go about replicating it. Try adding in some citrus peels, especially the white pith, as this is naturally filled to the brim with pectin. Cornstarch is another good alternative, as this will work as a natural thicker the same way pectin will. If you’re cooking a vegan recipe, try gelatin, or finally, you can just use extra sugar and cook it for what’ll seem like a lifetime.

If you like this pumpkin recipe, try these! 

• Pumpkin Dip
• Pumpkin and Praline Pie
• Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
• Pumpkin Butter

Pumpkin Butter

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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• Author: MomsWhoThink

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Ingredients

• 1 (29 ounce) can solid pack pumpkin puree
• 1 Tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 (2 ounce) package dry pectin
• 4½ cups white sugar

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Instructions

1. Mix solid pack pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice and dry pectin in a medium saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil. Mix in sugar all at once.
2. Stirring constantly, return to a full boil and boil 1 minute. Remove from heat. Transfer immediately to sterile containers. Seal and chill in the refrigerator until serving.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Katie Kornitsky/Shutterstock.com.

The post Pumpkin Butter appeared first on Moms Who Think.

A mug of hot cider and a fresh apple cobbler – just thinking about it makes my mouth water! How could it not? Warm, gooey fruit, crispy cumbles, a dollop of ice cream?

The cobbler is a uniquely American dessert. Like many food innovations of early America, it was an attempt by colonists to improvise classic British dishes with the ingredients available in America.

Cobbler is a great go-to for dessert, especially if you’re strapped for time. All you need is fresh fruit, butter, some kind of bread crumble, and maybe a dash of cinnamon. It’s a great way to get your kids to eat their fruit, too!

A Holiday Cobbler

Since the holidays are here, why not celebrate with a seasonal cobbler or two? This pumpkin apple cobbler recipe is a fresh fall variation your family is sure to love.

One thing you’ll notice about this pumpkin apple cobbler recipe is that it has a couple of ingredients you probably don’t keep in your pantry.

You can buy pumpkin butter in the store, but it’s quick and easy to make yourself; all you need are a few ingredients. Since you’ll have extra, you can use the leftover pumpkin butter on a bagel or English muffin. If your kids like pumpkin, you can also use it with peanut butter on their sandwiches for school!

If you want a creamier, richer butter, substitute one cup of sugar for ¾ cup of maple syrup.

You can make the pumpkin quick bread yourself, too, but that’s really more hassle than it’s worth. If you can’t readily find a pumpkin bread mix at your local grocery, there are some easy substitutions you can make.

If you have biscuit mix in your pantry, cut it with the butter instead. This will make more of a traditional cobbler topping. You can also mix regular flour with the butter to make a pastry crust.

If you want more of a crunch, mix some pecans or walnuts (or both) into your crumble. This pairs nicely with both the pumpkin and apple.

Flavorful Fun

People associate apples with the fall, but pears don’t get enough love. In fact, the right pear can make a great pie, or even a cobbler, and there’s a good chance your kids won’t even notice the difference.

Just like apples, some pears are good for baking and others aren’t. If you want to use pears instead of apples, try using a Bosc or Anjou pear. Like the Granny Smith apple, these pears keep their shape better when you bake them.

If you’re feeling adventurous, split the apples and pears 50/50 in the cobbler. This will really bring a fresh taste to the dessert, and pears go alongside pumpkin quite nicely.

What to Serve It With

Since this pumpkin apple cobbler isn’t super sweet, it’s a great follow-up for a lot of different meals. It makes an especially great dessert for homey cooking.

This cobbler is a perfect companion for an oven-baked macaroni and cheese. It is also an ideal dessert for meatloaf and mashed potatoes. It also goes great served alongside homemade yams.

No matter what you put on the dinner table, this pumpkin apple cobbler is a great way to end your meal.

If you like this pumpkin recipe, try these! 

• Pumpkin Dip
• Pumpkin and Praline Pie
• Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
• Pumpkin Butter

Pumpkin Apple Cobbler

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink
• Total Time: 55 minutes

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Ingredients

• 8 small Granny Smith apples – peeled, cored and sliced
• ¾ cup pumpkin butter
• ½ (14 ounce) package pumpkin quick bread mix
• 4 Tablespoons butter
• Sweetened whipped cream (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, stir together the apples and pumpkin butter. Spread evenly into an 8 or 9 inch square baking dish.
3. Pour the pumpkin bread mix into a bowl, and cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over the top of the apples.
4. Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the apples are tender enough to insert a fork. Serve warm with whipped cream.

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 45

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Anna Shepulova/Shutterstock.com.

The post Pumpkin Apple Cobbler appeared first on Moms Who Think.

There are a lot of tasty foods that come to mind when you think of Thanksgiving dinner. One of those happens to be pecan pie. This pie is the perfect combination of sweet and salty, soft and gooey, and crunchy. It’s everything you could want in a bite and the perfect dessert for the holidays. The problem is, sometimes one pie isn’t enough. You have to make several to feed a crowd. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a way to make a larger version of this dessert? As it turns out, there is. This pecan pie bars recipe is a great way to get the same flavors and textures you enjoy in a pecan pie, with a little less work.

Why Choose This Pecan Pie Bars Recipe Over Traditional Pecan Pie?

You can’t go wrong with pecan pie, but if you need to feed a lot of people and don’t have enough pie pans or enough time to make several different pies, these pecan pie bars are a good alternative. They can be made on a sheet pan and baked in the oven fairly quickly. That means there is less work for you. You can also easily serve these bars. They hold together better than a slice of pie, so when you cut them and remove them from the pan, you can stack them right up on a platter or display. You can even slice them ahead of time to make serving easier.

What Foods Can Be Served With This Dessert?

These bars go great with any type of meal. They are the perfect holiday dessert, and while they may be a great ending to your Thanksgiving meal, you can really serve them any time of year. The flavor is perfect for fall and winter, and you can even add more spices and seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to warm up the flavors a bit. If you really want to add some interesting flavors to the meal, you can serve it with whipped cream and ice cream.

How To Plate The Pecan Bars

You can make your pecan pie bars the start of your dessert table with the right plating. Choose a fancy or holiday-themed platter and stack the bars on top of it. Sprinkle with some powdered sugar and add some faux flowers or a ribbon to give the display a nice touch of décor. You can decorate the platter to match the holiday or special occasion you are celebrating.

If you like this recipe, try these! 

• Old-Fashioned Turkey and Stuffing with Pan Gravy
• Pumpkin Dip
• Cranberry Sauce
• Thanksgiving Appetizers

Pecan Pie Bars

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(2 votes, average: 4.00 out of 5)
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• Author: MomsWhoThink

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Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup white sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup margarine
• 4 eggs
• 1½ cups light corn syrup
• 1½ cups white sugar
• 3 Tablespoons margarine, melted
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2½ cups chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 10×15 inch jellyroll pan.
2. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, ½ cup sugar, and salt. Cut in 1 cup of margarine until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the prepared pan, and press in firmly.
3. Bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
4. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl mix together the eggs, corn syrup, 1½ cups sugar, 3 Tablespoons margarine, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Spread the filling evenly over the crust as soon as it comes out of the oven.
6. Bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven, or until set. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into bars.

The post Pecan Pie Bars appeared first on Moms Who Think.

The holidays are meant to be fun and a way to make memories with your friends and family members. What better way to make those memories than with some adorable Thanksgiving treats? The rice krispie treats turkeys are as cute as it gets. They are easy to make and fun to eat. You can put some on your table for guests to enjoy as a snack or dessert. If you have kids, you can even let them help you make them. Their little hands are perfect for shaping the rice into turkey shapes, and they will love decorating them and showing them off at dinner.

Ingredient Substitution

This recipe is simple to make and uses ingredients you may already have in your pantry. If you would prefer to use a different type of cereal or different types of candy decoration, you can do that and get the same effect. The idea is to have fun and creative. Let everyone in your family decorate their turkey the way they want. You could even have a contest and let your dinner guests choose the one they like best. In addition to the candies used in this recipe, you could also use mini marshmallows, nuts, sprinkles, and even chocolate chips.

Plating Your Rice Krispie Turkeys

Part of the fun of making these turkeys is displaying them in fun and creative ways. These look great as a centerpiece on the main dinner table. If you have a kids table set up for the holidays, you can also use it as a centerpiece there. If you are serving your food buffet style, make these little treats the star of your dessert table or section. They are so cute that many people might confuse them for actual decorations. You can also just line them up on a cute platter or stacked dessert display for a fun look.

What To Serve With Rice Krispie Treats Turkeys

These turkeys are perfect for a Thanksgiving dessert, but you don’t have to eat them alone. They taste great with other desserts. Serve them with a side of ice cream or yogurt, so you get that soft creamy texture paired with the crunchiness of the rice krispies. You can even make these turkeys as cake toppers for a Thanksgiving cake. They are also great for snacking while watching the Thanksgiving parades on TV. Enjoy your traditional pies and cakes after dinner, and then grab one of these turkeys to send home with guests.

If you like this Thanksgiving recipe, try these! 

• Old-Fashioned Turkey and Stuffing with Pan Gravy
• Pumpkin Dip
• Cranberry Sauce
• Thanksgiving Appetizers

Rice Krispies Treats Thanksgiving Turkeys

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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• Author: MomsWhoThink

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Ingredients

• 3 Tablespoons margarine or butter
• 1 (10 ounce) package marshmallows
• 6 cups Kellogg’s Cocoa Krispies cereal
• Candy corn
• Mini M&Ms
• Pretzels, both sticks and twisted
• Peanut butter

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Instructions

1. In a large microwave safe bowl, heat margarine and marshmallows at high for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir until smooth.
2. Add Kellogg’s Cocoa Krispies. Stir until well coated. Using spatula coated with cooking spray or waxed paper, press mixture into 15½ x 10½ x 1-inch pan coated with cooking spray.
3. When slightly cooled, shape cereal mixture into body and head shape using buttered hands. Place on waxed paper or a surface coated with cooking spray. Allow to cool.
4. Using peanut butter and a pretzel, attach head. Decorate head with mini m&ms and candy corn.
5. Insert pretzel rods for legs.
6. Using peanut butter, attach m&ms to twisted pretzel and attach to body with peanut butter.

Notes

Best when done in a cool kitchen, or chill peanut butter first.

The post Rice Krispies Treats Thanksgiving Turkeys appeared first on Moms Who Think.

There are many dishes that seem to capture Christmas in just one bite. Holiday bread pudding is a beloved classic that warms the soul with its notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. One of the best features of bread pudding is the fact it can be done in many ways for a cheap and delicious breakfast or dessert.

During the holidays, it can be a challenge to whip up filling family dinners while preparing for the biggest meals of the season. We hope that this holiday bread pudding recipe helps you find some reprieve and step back to indulge a little while you're in the midst of your preparations.

Bread Pudding History

Many families swear they have the best bread pudding recipe; it's a staple in America's Deep South, but it's just as popular overseas in England. Vanilla sauce, cranberries, raisins and walnuts are just a few of the common toppings people like to add to personalize this family-friendly recipe that has been around since the 11th century.

Bread pudding began as a frugal meal in medieval England. Cooks did not have a way to preserve stale bread, and rather than throw it away, they figured out how to transform it into a much more palatable pudding. Back then, people knew the dish as “poor man's pudding,” and it was highly favorable because it could be diversified for every meal.

All a person had to do was change the type of ingredients they added to the base recipe and voila – their entire pudding was either a savory and easy dinner or soft, satisfying dessert!

Some of the most popular bread pudding recipes today belong to a woman named Portia Little, who has been dubbed the “Bread Pudding Queen” and written over 1,000 unique bread pudding recipes. She's also the inventor of “boozy bread pudding,” which uses scotch instead of the traditional whiskey or rum for a lighter taste.

Our holiday bread pudding recipe is alcohol-free, so you can share it with every member of the family, young and old!

How to Serve Holiday Bread Pudding

You may serve your bread budding in the morning or evening, depending on your preferences. For a morning pudding, you can replace one cup of the recipe's sugar with a cup of raisins or dried cranberries. Both tend to be high in sugar, so make sure you factor in how much they'll add to your recipe and adjust accordingly.

For dessert, you may want to add fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream and serve with a steaming mug of hot chocolate.

Holiday Home Preparation

Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hannukkah, Kwanza – whatever you and your family celebrate, we offer a variety of holiday recipes that are easy and affordable! A mom always has to think ahead, so we make sure you can make our dishes with supermarket staples. While it's always fun to buy some seasonal goodies, it's equally important to stick to a budget and enjoy the holiday season without needlessly overspending.

Check out our holiday decorating checklist to take the stress out of preparation! If you need time to step back, give yourself permission to rest. It's easy to get carried away in cooking, shopping and gift-giving, but the real spirit of the season lies in extending extra kindness to others and ourselves.

We also offer plenty of Thanksgiving appetizers to prepare, and we didn't forget the most important dish of all: A traditional Thanksgiving turkey with maple glaze!

While you're here, consider exploring some of our other decadent dessert recipes and healthy meal ideas to keep you and your family satisfied this holiday season.

Holiday Bread Pudding

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1 (1 pound) loaf white bread, toasted and cut into cubes
• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 5 cups half-and-half cream
• 12 eggs
• 3 cups white sugar
• 3 Tablespoons vanilla extract
• 1 pinch ground cinnamon
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg

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Instructions

1. Butter each slice of bread on both sides. Tear buttered bread into little pieces, and put into a very large mixing bowl.
2. Beat eggs with vanilla, and then pour over bread. Stir in half-n-half and sugar. Pour into a large baking dish, 13 x 9 inches or larger. Sprinkle with the spices.
3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55 to 60 minutes. Remove from oven, and cool. Serve hot or cold.

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 60

The image featured at the top of this post is ©JJava Designs/Shutterstock.com.

The post Holiday Bread Pudding appeared first on Moms Who Think.

For a delicious pumpkin pie alternative, we recommend Indian pudding. This baked custard is made with cornmeal and flavored with cinnamon and brown sugar. A bit more robust than classic pumpkin pie, we love this Indian pudding recipe because it adds a bit of spice to our lives all year long. It's also super easy to make, so you can throw it together at any time.

You may be surprised to learn that Indian pudding is not from India; it's actually a classic New England Thanksgiving dish! Its name is actually derived from the American Indians, which we all refer to as Native Americans today.

The dish originates from the early settlers who had an affinity for a porridge-style dish they called “hasty pudding.” This pudding had a thick consistency that was achieved by boiling wheat flour in milk or water. For struggling colonists, this dish was easy to make and versatile; they could prepare it as a sweet treat with molasses or make it savory with meat.

As time progressed, the dish became tradition, and by the time it was featured in cookbooks during the 1700s, it was a sweet dish that relied heavily on cornmeal due to the fact flour in the New World was considered a commodity.

There was an abundance of corn throughout New England, however, which meant that cornmeal became a stand-in for many a pilgrim's meals. Known as the “Indian flour,” cornmeal was easy to make and acquire, so it became the foundation of one of the colonists' favorite recipes.

Classic Indian Pudding Recipe

If you grew up in New England, then you probably had batches of this Thanksgiving classic served to you throughout your life. Anyone who was raised beyond the borders of New England, however, often have no idea what this dish entails. They're in for a real treat, and we're excited to bring awareness to a recipe that is truly a slice of history.

Heritage in the United States is as diverse as the people who live throughout the nation; every region has its own unique history, customs and, of course, traditional recipes. Serving Indian pudding at your next Thanksgiving will be a wonderful way to pay homage to the earliest moments of our nation.

You can serve up your Indian pudding recipe with French vanilla ice cream or in a bowl with hot cream. Some people also like to add raisins to their pudding, which makes for a nice crunch and added a touch of sweetness.

Be sure to check out all of our Thanksgiving recipes!

Indian Pudding

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(3 votes, average: 4.00 out of 5)
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4 from 3 reviews

• Author: MomsWhoThink
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

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Ingredients

• 4½ cups milk
• ⅔ cup cornmeal
• ¼ cup butter
• ½ cup dark molasses
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 1½ quart baking dish.
2. Scald 3½ cups of milk in top of double boiler over direct heat. Remove milk from heat.
3. Mix cornmeal with remaining 1 cup of milk, and stir this mixture into the scalding milk, stirring constantly. Place the milk mixture into the top of the double boiler and cook for 20 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Stir butter, molasses, salt, sugar and cinnamon into the mixture. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake in the preheated 325°F (165°C) oven for 1½ hours.

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 90

The post Indian Pudding appeared first on Moms Who Think.

When you think of fruit at Thanksgiving, the first thing that probably comes to your mind is pumpkin. An equally delicious fruit to serve at Thanksgiving that's often underrated is the cranberr. Forget about that cranberry sludge that slides out of a can with a giant plop, this Cranberry Jell-O Salad is where it's at this Thanksgiving.

Not Tart-y For The Party

Cranberries are both sweet and tart, making them the perfect accompaniment to the heavy, rich dishes served at Thanksgiving. This Cranberry Jell-O Salad recipe brings forth a superb mix of sweet, tart, and crunchy in one unbelievable dish.

The delicate cranberry layer packs a crunchy surprise with the chopped pecans. The sweet pineapple juice balances out the tartness of the cranberries and the pineapple pieces gently pop in your mouth for yet another satisfying crunch. There's no doubt that your Cranberry Jell-O Salad will be the hit of any Thanksgiving party.

A Smooth Center

Perhaps the most astonishing part of this dish is the unique, creamy layer in the middle of it all. The combination of cream cheese and mayonnaise may seem unusual, but the mayonnaise adds an extra smoothness to the cream cheese that can't be matched. While mayonnaise is typically thought of as an ingredient in savory dishes, it's the perfect component in this Cranberry Jell-O Salad recipe.

Jello Setting Tips

If you've ever struggled with getting gelatin to set, you're not alone. Many Thanksgiving cooks have slaved tirelessly over their gelatin salad for hours, only to have it all fall apart once it's turned out onto the serving dish.

To avoid this catastrophe, keep these tips in mind when making the gelatin for this salad:

• Use really hot water to dissolve the gelatin or it will end up grainy.
• Allow the gelatin to sit in the refrigerator until it is completely firm before adding the next layer.
• Before serving, place the bowl with the gelatin inside of a bowl of warm water to gently loosen it from the sides.
• Place a serving plate on top of the gelatin bowl and then quickly flip the bowl and plate. The salad should slide out easily.
• If the salad does not slide out easily, flip the bowl back over and loosen the sides with a butter knife, then repeat the previous step.
  

Recipe Variations

You can really mix up this recipe any way you'd like. In addition to the crushed pineapple and pecans, add in one cup of finely chopped celery for even more crunch. You can also change up the taste of the gelatin by mixing one package of cranberry gelatin with one package of strawberry gelatin.

For nut allergies, leave the pecans out entirely or use another nut, such as walnuts or almonds. You can also sprinkle the finished salad with some toasted coconut for a crunchy, sweet twist on this classic, tart side dish.

A Family Tradition

However you serve it, your family and friends are sure to love it. Don't be surprised if you get asked for the recipe more than once. It'll quickly become a staple at your Thanksgiving table and may even make an appearance on Christmas and Easter. It's also the perfect accompaniment to ham as the sweetness and tartness of the cranberries and pineapple balance out the saltiness of the popular meat choice served at other holiday gatherings.

This salad is guaranteed to be devoured up at your next Thanksgiving. Keep that can of cranberry sludge in the cupboard and serve up this tasty dish instead!

If you like this recipe, try these! 

• Caramel Apple Salad
• Red Hot Baked Apples
• Honey Baked Apples
• Apple-Cranberry Pie

Cranberry Jell-O Salad

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink

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Ingredients

• 2 (3 ounce) packages cherry flavored gelatin mix
• 1 (16 ounce) can whole cranberry sauce
• 1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 Tablespoon mayonnaise

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Instructions

1. Drain crushed pineapple and save ¼ cup of the juice. Dissolve gelatin in 2 cups of hot water. Stir in cranberries and crushed pineapple. Pour ½ of the mixture in a bowl and leave at room temperature, set the other ½ in the refrigerator until firm.
2. In a separate bowl mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, reserved pineapple juice and chopped pecans. Spread mixture over chilled gelatin.
3. Place in refrigerator for 10 minutes. Pour the room temperature gelatin over the top of the cream cheese layer and refrigerate until set.

The post Cranberry Jell-O Salad appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Bread pudding is the perfect comfort food. It’s simple and unassuming, but it’s oh-so-good! It’s easy to make, and there are just so many ways to make it your own.

The history of bread pudding started with humble roots. It was commonly made by peasants to preserve their bread after it had gone stale.

Today, bread pudding is recognized as the ultimate comfort food. A cookbook author named Portia Little went so far as to compile over 1000 bread pudding recipes in a massive cookbook. Whether served sweet or savory, bread pudding is one of the most versatile dishes in the world.

This chocolate custard bread pudding is just one way to enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness of fall.

Warm Up on a Cold Day

Bread pudding tastes like it was made for winter. A bowl of warm pudding, slightly crunchy from the oven, drenched with glorious custard, could beat off the arctic chill.

The use of unsweetened chocolate here really provides a strong flavor of cocoa, but if you’re not a fan of unsweetened chocolate, you can substitute an equal portion of semisweet chocolate.

We recommend eating the pudding with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee. It also pairs quite nicely with a red wine such as a merlot.

Our chocolate custard bread pudding recipe is perfect for any occasion, but it’s especially satisfying on a cold day. Leftover bread pudding is almost as good cold, so this can be a great snack to send off to school with your kids.

Chocolate Custard Bread Pudding Sundae

It’s no secret that bread pudding and ice cream are good friends, but this recipe is amazing as a base for a homemade sundae. For the best flavor, the pudding should be warmed up so the ice cream melts all over it.

Vanilla ice cream is the standard when it comes to sundaes, and it doesn’t disappoint here. Put a piece of pudding in a cup or bowl and pile on the ice cream, chocolate syrup, nuts, sprinkles and whipped cream.

If you’re feeling bold, you can make a chocolate sundae instead – this is great for any chocolate lovers in your house. For a chocolate sundae, we recommend using caramel syrup instead of chocolate syrup, but if you really want a cocoa explosion, go ahead!

Whether you make our chocolate custard bread pudding recipe as a standalone or as part of an ice cream sundae, it’s a treat your whole family will love!

Chocolate Custard Bread Pudding

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1½ cups milk
• 2 (1 ounce) squares unsweetened chocolate
• 1 cup white sugar, divided
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 cups day-old bread cubes
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• 3 eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a double boiler, heat together the milk and chocolate until chocolate is melted.
3. In a 10×16 inch oven baking bag, combine 1/4 cup sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Mix in the bread and nuts.
4. Beat together the eggs, 3/4 sugar and vanilla; blend together with chocolate mixture.
5. Place bag in 1 quart loaf pan; pour chocolate mixture over bread. Close bag with twist tie; make 6 half inch slits on top. Pour water into pan so that water comes up sides of bag, not overflowing.
6. Bake 50 to 60 minutes or until knife inserted comes out clean. To serve, remove from pan, cut bag away from top and put on plate.

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 55

The post Chocolate Custard Bread Pudding appeared first on Moms Who Think.

There is something absolutely special about the delicious smell and warmth of anything and all things pumpkin during the holiday season (and throughout the year as well). With Thanksgiving just around the corner and family awaiting scrumptious food they can get their hands on; you have to have recipes that are seasoned to perfection!

This pumpkin bars recipe is perfected with cinnamon, nutmeg, and even walnuts to fulfill all of your spice-y needs. Additionally, the fact that you can cut these pumpkin bars into squares is fantastic for a Thanksgiving table, but also great for bringing something sweet for all of your wonderful co-workers to enjoy.

These soft, yet sturdy bars make the best fall treat as they can be enjoyed on the dinner table or wrapped individually as a kind gift. This recipe is very moist and cakey, but is not fully as cakey as other recipes have been.

Spiced Apple Cider with a Pumpkin Bars

What is your favorite holiday drink? Is it a deliciously hot spiced apple cider or perhaps a lovely and foamy chai latte? Whatever that drink maybe, this dessert completes any after-meal snack or mid-day treat.

You could make your favorite pumpkin bread recipe, however, if you are looking for that moist, creamy pumpkin goodness then look no further. This could take a new spot in your family’s holiday traditions.

This lighter and shareable alternative to pumpkin bread is pleasantly comforting. There are always ways to vary your recipe to make it unique to your preferences and taste buds.

Scrumptious Variations

There are so many wonderful things you can add to your pumpkin bars recipe to give your creation a taste of who you are.

For example, you can add a brown butter cream cheese instead of the regular cream cheese typically selected. Brown butter has been growing in popularity over the last year or so and offers an explosive flavor profile.

You can purchase a brown butter cream cheese spread or simply make your own brown butter by melting and slowly heating butter on your stove top until the perfect color and flavor profile is met.

Have a slight dislike of walnuts? Simply add toasted almonds instead for an even better taste.

For a healthier alternative, try using apple sauce instead of butter or oil. ¾ cup of apple sauce should give you an even and consistent taste.

Bottom Line

The options are always numerous for those who love to bake, who love to share with family and friends, and for those who have a deep appreciation of the holiday seasons.

If you like this pumpkin recipe, try these! 

• Pumpkin Dip
• Pumpkin and Praline Pie
• Pumpkin Cranberry Bars
• Pumpkin Apple Cobbler

Pumpkin Bars

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink
• Total Time: 43 minutes

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Ingredients

• ¾ cup butter
• 2 cups white sugar
• 4 eggs, beaten
• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour a 10×15 inch jellyroll pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together ¾ cup butter and white sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the pumpkin. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg; stir into the pumpkin mixture. Mix in walnuts. Spread evenly into the prepared pan.
3. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
4. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, ⅓ cup butter, and vanilla until smooth.
5. Gradually blend in sugar, then beat until smooth. Spread over cooled pumpkin bars. Cut into squares.

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 33

The post Pumpkin Bars appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Desserts are arguably the best part of any meal, and many people prepare a different dessert every day. That’s easy when the dessert recipe is simple and doesn’t contain a lot of ingredients. This Cherry Fluff recipe is one of those desserts that you can whip up in no time. You can make it a couple of days ahead of time or just a few hours before you serve it. If a few guests pop in unexpectedly or you suddenly remember it was your turn to bring a dessert to the office lunch party, this is a recipe that you can make quickly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you love cherries, then you will love this recipe the way it is. If you prefer a different fruit flavor, you can make substitutions. This recipe works well with oranges, grapes, and peaches. You can also mix a combination of different fruits to make a fluffy fruit salad that will make everyone happy.

What Foods Go Well With Cherry Fluff?

You can eat this fluffy dessert on its own or with other dishes. It makes a great dessert that can follow pretty much any entrée and sides. It can be used as a dip for other fruits, cakes, and cookies. I can also be eaten as a topper for fruit and ice cream. You can mix it with yogurt and even add nuts, mini marshmallows, or granola to give it a crunchy texture and add more flavor.

When Is The Best Time To Serve This Cherry Fluff Recipe?

This recipe can be served anytime. It’s the perfect summer dish that will cool you down on a hot summer day. It’s great for picnics and summer parties too. It also makes a nice fall treat that can be packed in school and lunch offices. If you like to host holiday parties and dinners, this is a nice change from other heavy baked goods and desserts. It goes well with other desserts too. It also travels well. As long as you chill it before you leave, you can easily make it to the office or a dinner party with this dish in tow, which no problems.

How To Plate Cherry Fluff

This cherry fluff is pretty and something you want to show off. It’s easy to plate it in a number of different ways. You can scoop it into a decorated serving bowl and add a few toppings before you place it on your table. You can also separate it into separate small bowls or dishes and make individual servings that guests can just take and enjoy. No matter how you decide to serve it, your guests will love it.

If you like this cherry recipe, try these!

• Cherry Delight
• Bing Cherry Gelatin Mold
• White Chocolate Cherry Pecan Cheesecake

Cherry Fluff

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink

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Ingredients

• 1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
  1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
  1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the cherry pie filling, sweetened condensed milk, crushed pineapple and whipped topping.
2. Chill in the refrigerator at least 2 hours before serving.

The post Cherry Fluff appeared first on Moms Who Think.

This is one dessert that nearly everyone loves. It's an old dessert that you've probably tried when your grandmother made it years ago. It's a hit during any gathering or special occasion. It's also great for summer parties and especially during the holidays.

What is Cherry Delight?

The name says it all. Cherry delight is a sweet and creamy delightful dessert. It features a pie crust layer followed by a whipped filling and cherry topping.

The crust can be made with graham crackers or crushed saltine crackers. The filling can be a cheesecake layer or you can use cherry pie filling and top it off with a whipped topping. Add pecans for an extra crunch and a variety of flavors. I love that you can customize this cherry delight dessert to your liking by using a variety of ingredients.

Delicious Cherry Delight Pie Variations

For the Crust:

• Pre-Made Pie Crust (Store Bought)
• Crushed Graham Crackers, Melted Butter & Sugar
• Yellow Cake Mix
• Crushed Saltine Crackers, Egg Whites, Cream of Tartar & Sugar
  

To Bake or Not to Bake Your Cherry Delight?

This option is totally up to you and the time you have to prepare this delicious cherry delight recipe. It also depends on the crust you plan on using. If you choose to use graham cracker crumbs, you can press the mixture evenly onto a baking pan and place it into the oven for 5-8 minutes. If you choose to create a tart crust like in this recipe, you'll also want to bake it before adding any toppings.

For a no-bake option, you can use graham cracker crumbs or a pre-made pie crust, add in the softened cream cheese and whipped topping, top with cherry pie filling and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight if possible to ensure the crust has hardened.

Perfect for Beginners

This cherry delight pie is perfect for beginners. Not only is it very easy to make, but you also only need a few ingredients. You can throw it together in under ten minutes which is an added bonus. You may even want to make two dishes because you simply cannot just have one helping.

This pie brings such a beautiful red color to the table, making it a lovely dessert for Christmas, Valentine's Day or any other occasion.

This pie features a great combination of cherry pie filling and crust without being overly sweet. No matter which way you make it, this cherry delight pie is one to share with your friends and family this holiday season as well as any celebration throughout the year.

If you like this recipe, try these! 

• Fruit Dip
• Pumpkin Dip
• Red Hot Baked Apples
• Shortbread Cookie Recipe

Cherry Delight

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Ingredients

• 6 egg whites
• 2 cups white sugar
• ¾ teaspoon cream of tartar
• 2 cups crushed saltine crackers
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 (21 ounce) cans cherry pie filling
• 1 (16 ounce) package frozen whipped topping, thawed

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch pan.
2. Beat egg whites until stiff. Gradually add the sugar and cream of tartar; beat until sugar is dissolved.
3. Add crackers, nuts and vanilla. Pour into prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven.
4. Remove from oven, cool and cut into squares. Top each serving with pie filling and whipped topping.

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 25

The post Cherry Delight appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Smooth, soft, creamy custard, you can almost taste it just thinking about it. Custard is one of the ultimate choices in comfort food. Many moms serve up all the comfort they can at Thanksgiving dinner. We have a fabulous boiled custard recipe to share with you.

Types of Custard

There are three basic variations of custard that are popular. There is frozen custard, baked custard, and boiled custard. While frozen custard is smooth, creamy, and amazing on a hot day, it is not the custard we are referring to in this article.

Baked custard is also soft, smooth, and creamy and is often served at Thanksgiving dinner. A form of baked custard is actually popular in many different places around the world. In South Africa, it is known as milk tart. South Africans adore their baked milk tart and make it available in almost every market. Southeast Asia also has a baked custard variation called egg tart. While the bakery confection is not consumed much by the Thai people, the foreigners are very happy to have a little taste of home.

Boiled custard or proper custard as the English refer to the confectionary delight is our choice for custard this year. Our quick and straightforward to make recipe will be a hit with your family and friends. Serving boiled custard up in a unique bowl is a popular way to dish up the yummy pudding. By just adding a few more minutes, a couple of ingredients that you may have on hand, you can make this comfort food look fabulous. How can we take this simple custard and make a spectacular presentation?

Spectacular Custard Serving Ideas

Custard is a very versatile type of pudding dessert. There are literally endless possibilities of delicious desserts that you can make with this simple yet satisfying pudding. One of our favorite ways to serve custard is by using it in a trifle.

Trifles are easy to make and look impressive. Now, it is time to put on the creative thinking cap and explore the different variations to layer with your custard. Let us get you started with a delicious trifle idea.

Almond Joy Trifle is a Crowd-pleaser

Immediately after removing your custard from the stovetop, take about half of the pudding and add a handful of premium dark chocolate or milk chocolate pieces. Stir until all the chocolate is completely dissolved. Now you have created a premium chocolate custard. With the remaining custard, add about a cup of shredded coconut and mix well.

Almond Joy has nuts, so toast about one cup of almonds. You need a cake layer to give the trifle a better structure. What do you have on hand? Vanilla wafers, shortbread that isn't so beautiful, leftover cake, french vanilla pound cake, brownies that are getting crispy around the edges, or whatever else you might have handy to use as your cake layer. Next, whip-up some stabilized whipping cream.

Now it is time to layer. Set all of your ingredients in front of your glass bowl. It is time to choose a pattern to layer your ingredients. It is best to put contrasting colors next to each other. So you may choose to layer your trifle like this:

• Chocolate custard
• Whipping cream
• Cake
• Chocolate custard
• Custard with shredded coconut
• Toasted almonds
• Cake
• Whipping cream

Then top your trifle with a circle of chocolate custard in the center with whipped cream and toasted almonds. This is a fabulous custard dessert!

Look around what do you have that you could use to create a custard dessert? Gather your ideas and ingredients and make your Boiled custard recipe. You are just minutes away from creating a fabulous custard.

If you like this recipe, try these! 

• Fruit Dip
• Pumpkin Dip
• Red Hot Baked Apples
• Shortbread Cookie Recipe

Boiled Custard

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(1 votes, average: 5.00 out of 5)
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5 from 1 review

• Author: MomsWhoThink

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Ingredients

• 5 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups white sugar
• 2 quarts milk
• 1 pinch salt

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Instructions

1. Cream together the eggs and sugar. Fill the lower pan of a double boiler ⅓ full of water, and bring to a low boil.
2. In the top of the double boiler add the creamed mixture, milk and salt; stir until mixture thickens and coats a spoon.
3. Serve warm or chilled.

The post Boiled Custard appeared first on Moms Who Think.