While mashed potatoes, turkey, and gravy are notorious Thanksgiving staples, sweet tooth lovers know that no holiday feast is complete without festive desserts and seasonal sweet treats. From pecan and apple pie to all things pumpkin, there’s something so special about getting in the kitchen and making some traditional holiday recipes! However, if you’re trying to have a healthier holiday, the mere thought of holiday feasting can bring on some added stress. But, fear not — you can enjoy your holiday pie and eat it too! By this, we mean there’s a way to enjoy yourself — without deprivation or guilt. And we’re showing you how with healthy Thanksgiving recipes that can be made at home with ease. By calling in healthy swaps, being mindful of ingredients, and opting for homemade instead of store-bought, you can enjoy Thanksgiving desserts that taste like the classics, but with a healthier twist!
So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and do some holiday baking — these recipes are totally drool-worthy. And, we’re willing to bet your entire guest list will agree.
What Makes These Desserts Healthier?
But first, let’s talk about what makes these healthier desserts stand apart from the rest. These desserts are all refined sugar-free and made with healthy fats — forget the processed and inflammatory oils commonly found in store-bought desserts!
These healthy Thanksgiving treats are also:
- Gluten-free
- Made with real, whole foods
- Easily made vegan, if not already
- Delicious!
RELATED: 10 Healthy Holiday Swaps That Are Surprisingly Weight Loss Friendly
Coconut Whipped Cream: Make This Recipe First!
When it comes to Thanksgiving treats, dessert toppings are a must! But, rather than reach for dairy-filled whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, why not elevate the sweet taste and creamy texture with something healthier (but equally as delicious)? Enter: homemade coconut whipped cream.
Most of these Thanksgiving dessert recipes call for coconut whipped cream, and not only does this make for a delicious dairy-free alternative, but it’s also easy to make. So, our tip to you is to make a big batch on Thanksgiving that you can use with any of these tasty desserts.
In addition to topping the recipes below with this coconut whip, here are some other ideas:
- Make a coconut whipped cream parfait, layering fresh berries and coconut whip on top of each other. Feel free to add in additional layers of granola, shaved dark chocolate, or coconut flakes!
- Make a protein-packed chia pudding and top it with a dollop of coconut whip and fruit.
- Blend up an avocado chocolate pudding and serve it with a side of coco whip.
- Make your coffee or latte a little extra indulgent — swap your traditional creamer for a spoonful of coconut whipped cream!
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of full-fat unsweetened coconut cream (chilled in the fridge overnight)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
Directions:
Step #1: Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender or, using a hand-help mixer, whip for about 3-5 minutes.
Step #2: Use right away or store in an airtight container in the fridge and use the same day for best results.
7 Easy-Prep Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts
#1 Dairy-Free Pumpkin Pie Parfait
Naturally sweetened, made with 6 simple ingredients, and full of festive fall flavor! To make this tasty recipe even healthier, swap every other layer of coconut whip for protein-packed Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt. You’ll reduce the sugar and keep the same creamy texture!
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup gluten-free granola
- ½ cup coconut whipped cream (see recipe above)
- Pumpkin pie spice for serving
Directions:
Step #1: Start by adding the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and cinnamon to a mixing bowl and mix well. Set aside.
Step #2: Using two glass jars, add granola to the base of the jars, followed by a layer of coconut whipped cream, and then the pumpkin puree. Top with another layer of granola and a dollop of coconut whipped cream.
Step #3: Sprinkle with pumpkin pie spice and enjoy!
#2 Gluten-Free Pecan Pie
If you love Pecan Pie, you’ll be excited to know you can make a healthy homemade version with ease! Not only is this healthy Thanksgiving pecan pie free from refined sugar, but it’s also gluten-free and easily made vegan. Simply swap the butter with a vegan alternative! To boost the protein and save on calories, serve with unsweetened vanilla Greek or nut-based yogurt. Finish with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon for a sugar-free sweet boost.
Serves: 6
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups almond flour
- ¼ cup coconut sugar
- ¼ cup cold butter
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp filtered water
- ¾ cup maple syrup
- ¾ cup medjool dates, pitted and soaked
- 1½ cups pecans, chopped
- Pinch sea salt
Directions:
Step #1: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Step #2: Line a pie pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Step #3: While the the oven is preheating, mix almond flour, coconut sugar, and salt until well combined
Step #4: Stir in butter and 1 tsp. of vanilla and mix until a dough starts to form. It may be crumbly to start (that’s ok!). Continue scraping down the sides to form, kneading with hands as necessary.
Step #5: If the dough is too crumbly, mix in ½ tbsp cold water at a time. Mix in completely before adding more water. The dough should be well formed but not sticky.
Step #6: If the dough is too wet or oily, add ½ tbsp of additional almond flour at a time.
Step #7: Once you’ve achieved your desired consistency, chill in the fridge until dough is hardened (about 20-40 minutes). Remove dough from the fridge and place in the center of your pie dish.
Step #8: Using your hands, evenly press the dough into the pie plate lining the bottom of the pan. Next, press the dough up the sides of the pan to cover the dish.
Step #9: Pre-bake the pie crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
Step #10: While the pie is pre-baking, make the filling by adding the maple syrup, dates, 1 tsp. vanilla, salt, and 1 cup of pecans to a food processor and blitz until well combined into a creamy mixture.
Step #11: Pour mixture into a bowl, and add remaining chopped pecan pieces. Mix until well combined.
Step #12: Pour filling into the slightly pre-baked pie crust. Bake on 350 for 40-50 minutes, or until pie crust and topping is golden brown.
Step #13: Remove from oven and cool.
Step #14: Wait 3-4 hours to serve (this is crucial, so flavors meld together). Serve warm or chilled!
#3 Cinnamon Apple Muffins
Healthy enough to be served for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these warming Cinnamon Apple Muffins will have you savoring the cozy flavors of fall in every bite. They’re sweetened with real apples and raw honey, full of protein and healthy fats to keep you satiated and satisfied, and made with almond flour for a healthy holiday recipe that’s 100% gluten-free.
Serves: 8
Ingredients:
- 3 cups almond flour
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 apple, grated or shredded
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- 4 eggs
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 pinch sea salt
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar
- Almond butter, to serve
Directions:
Step #1: Start by preheating your oven to 320°F and line a muffin tin with muffin liners.
Step #2: Next, add the almond flour, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder to a large mixing bowl and stir to combine.
Step #3: Crack the eggs into a separate mixing bowl and whisk. Add the melted coconut oil, honey, and vanilla.
Step #4: Add the wet mixture to the bowl with the dry ingredients and mix well. Fold in the grated apple, lemon juice, and pecans.
Step #5: Pour the batter into the lined muffin tins and top with extra pecans and a sprinkle of coconut sugar.
Step #6: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool, and serve with a dollop of almond butter.
#4 Pumpkin Spice Almond Butter Cups
Looking for a healthier Thanksgiving dessert that doesn’t take a ton of time to prep? These Pumpkin Spice Almond Butter Cups take less than 30 minutes to prepare, are made with whole food ingredients, and are bursting with pumpkin spice flavor! Enjoy these as an easy post-Thanksgiving dinner treat. With only 7 wholesome ingredients needed and a few simple steps, get ready to enjoy this healthy recipe guilt-free.
Serves: 10
Ingredients:
- ½ cup coconut oil
- ¼ cup chocolate chips
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tsp pumpkin spice
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup almond butter
Directions:
Step #1: Start by lining a muffin tin with liners and set aside.
Step #2: Next, add the coconut oil, chocolate chips, and raw honey to a stockpot over low heat. Stir until the mixture starts to melt.
Step #3: Add the pumpkin spice, cocoa powder, and vanilla and whisk well.
Step #4: Add about 1 tablespoon of the melted chocolate mixture to each lined muffin tin. Top with a dollop of almond butter and set in the freezer for 10 minutes.
Step #5: Pour enough of the melted chocolate mixture to cover the dollop of almond butter and place back in the freezer to set for another 15-20 minutes.
Step #6: Sprinkle with sea salt and store the almond butter cups in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to enjoy!
Step #7: Enjoy with a dollop of coconut whipped cream if desired!
#5 Sweet Potato Pie Bars
Low in sugar, full of satiating whole foods, and made with less than 10 main ingredients, these sweet potato pie bars will be the star of the dessert menu this holiday season. Perfectly balanced with healthy fats from flaxseed, nuts, coconut milk, and butter, they help combat sugar cravings and curb hunger pains. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 cup oats, rolled
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 5 tbsp warm water
- pinch sea salt
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ginger
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 8 tbsp coconut whipped cream
Directions:
Step #1: Preheat the oven to 350 F. Then, prep the flax eggs by adding 2 tbsp of ground flax to a small bowl with 5 tablespoons of warm water. Mix well until a paste forms, then set aside.
Step #2: Meanwhile, make the crust. Start by adding the pecans, oats, cinnamon, and sea salt to a food processor. Blend until a crumble forms. Once the flax eggs have set (about 10 minutes), add to the crust mixture and pulse until combined.
Step #3: Line a 9×9 pie-sized baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with oil. Press the crust into the baking sheet until evenly spread. Set aside.
Step #4: Next, make the pie filling. Start by peeling the sweet potatoes, then chop them into cubes. Add to a medium-sized saucepan and cover with water. Boil for 5-10 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and cooked through. Alternatively, you can steam until tender.
Step #5: Drain the water from the saucepan and add the cooked sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl. While warm, add a tablespoon of butter, then use a hand masher to puree into mashed potatoes. Add the remaining ingredients, including the eggs, full-fat coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and spices. Option to add to a food processor to blend instead of mixing by hand.
Step #6: Once the filling is smooth and creamy, pour on top of the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until set. Once baked, remove from the oven and cool completely before serving, about 30-60 minutes.
Step #7: Serve with 1 tablespoon of coconut whipped cream per serving, if desired!
#6 Pumpkin Fudge
If you love holiday fudge and all things pumpkin, you’re in luck — this holiday dessert is a must-have. It requires just 8 simple ingredients, is naturally sweetened with a splash of maple syrup, and is full of healthy fats and fiber from ingredients like almond butter and canned pumpkin. Enjoy as a guilt-free fudge alternative!
- 1 cup almond butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ⅓ cup coconut oil
- ⅓ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tbsp pumpkin spice
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 tsp coconut oil
Directions:
Step #1: Line an 8-square-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step #2: In a medium saucepan, melt the ⅓ cup coconut oil and almond butter on low heat. Add the maple syrup, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice, and stir until well combined. Remove from the heat and cool slightly before pouring mixture into the lined baking dish. Place in the freezer to firm.
Step #3: While freezing, prepare the chocolate drizzle topping. Add the chocolate chips and 2 teaspoons of coconut oil to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second increments until melted. Once melted, remove the fudge from the freezer and drizzle the chocolate coating on top. Place back in the freezer until the fudge is fully set and firm.
Step #4: Keep in the fridge or freezer until ready to enjoy.
#7 Paleo Espresso Brownies
Different from traditional boxed brownies, this paleo-friendly recipe is nutritious, delicious, and made from whole food ingredients. Using Simple Mills brownie mix as a healthy base and a few additional ingredients, you can enjoy a quick and convenient dessert in a better-for-you way. Customize as desired, serving with optional coconut whipped cream and any other toppings of choice.
Ingredients:
- 1 box of Simple Mills brownie mix
- 2 tbsp espresso powder
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips
- Coconut whipped cream, to serve
Directions:
Step #1: Start by making the brownies according to the package instructions, adding the espresso powder and chocolate chips into the mixing bowl at the end. Stir well to combine. Bake according to the package instructions.
Step #2: Once cooked, allow the brownies to cool and then slice. Serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream, an extra sprinkle of espresso powder, and chocolate chips if desired.
A Healthier Take on Thanksgiving Treats
If you’re craving all the yummy flavors that come with this time of year, give these healthy Thanksgiving desserts a try. Not only do they prove that turning a traditional Thanksgiving treat into a much healthier dessert is possible, but these recipes prove that healthy eating does not mean deprivation, even during the holiday season. Here’s to a healthy and happy Thanksgiving season!
