9 Healthy Dessert Thanksgiving Recipes for a Guilt-Free Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving doesn't have to mean indulging in guilt-laden desserts! Discover a variety of healthy dessert recipes that keep the festive spirit alive while being kind to your waistline. From pumpkin spiced delights to fruity treats, these options offer a delicious twist that everyone can enjoy.

Decadent Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Chocolate avocado mousse is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with the creamy texture of avocado. This dessert is not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats, making it a perfect choice for a guilt-free indulgence during Thanksgiving.

The image showcases a beautifully presented bowl of chocolate avocado mousse, topped with fresh raspberries and mint leaves. The vibrant colors of the raspberries contrast nicely with the dark chocolate mousse, making it visually appealing. Surrounding the mousse are chocolate shavings and a few extra raspberries, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

This mousse is incredibly easy to make. Simply blend ripe avocados with cocoa powder, a sweetener of your choice, and a splash of vanilla extract. The result is a smooth and creamy dessert that everyone will love. Serve it in individual bowls for a festive touch!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
• Fresh raspberries for topping
• Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Avocados: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a blender.
2. Add Ingredients: Add cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and almond milk to the blender.
3. Blend: Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the mousse and add more sweetener if desired. Blend again to combine.
5. Chill: Transfer the mousse to serving bowls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
6. Serve: Top with fresh raspberries and mint leaves before serving. Enjoy your healthy dessert!

Wholesome Apple Crisp With Oat Topping

Apple crisp is a classic dessert that brings warmth and comfort, especially during Thanksgiving. This wholesome version features a delightful oat topping that adds a crunchy texture. The image showcases a delicious apple crisp served in a cast iron skillet, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh apples and cinnamon sticks surround the dish, hinting at the cozy flavors within.

This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt. The combination of tender baked apples and a crunchy oat topping makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s simple to make, allowing you to spend more time with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 4 cups sliced apples (about 4 medium apples)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
3. In another bowl, mix the oats, flour, nuts (if using), melted butter, and granulated sugar until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples, covering them evenly.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Nutty Sweet Potato Pie With A Twist

This Nutty Sweet Potato Pie is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. It features a creamy sweet potato filling that is both rich and flavorful. The pie is topped with crunchy pecans and a dollop of whipped cream, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table.

The image showcases a beautifully baked pie, with a golden-brown crust and a smooth filling. The pecans on top add a nice texture and visual appeal. Surrounding the pie are some festive elements like small pumpkins and pinecones, enhancing the holiday spirit.

To make this pie, you’ll need some simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious dessert everyone will love. Let’s get into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the pre-made pie crust.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with chopped pecans and whipped cream before serving.

Zesty Lemon Blueberry Muffins For A Refreshing Bite

These zesty lemon blueberry muffins are a perfect treat for Thanksgiving. They bring a refreshing twist to your dessert table. The bright lemon flavor pairs wonderfully with juicy blueberries, making each bite a delightful experience.

The image showcases freshly baked muffins, dusted with a sprinkle of sugar. They sit on a cooling rack, surrounded by vibrant blueberries and sliced lemons. This presentation highlights the freshness and flavor of the ingredients, inviting everyone to take a bite.

Making these muffins is simple and fun. You can enjoy them as a light dessert or a sweet breakfast option. They are sure to impress your guests and family during the holiday season.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the muffins cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Banana Oatmeal Cookies For A Quick Treat

Banana oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the hearty texture of oats. These cookies are not only easy to make but also a healthier option for dessert. They are perfect for Thanksgiving or any gathering where you want to impress without the guilt.

The image shows a stack of golden-brown cookies, with a few broken pieces revealing their chewy interior. Nearby, fresh bananas and oats hint at the simple ingredients used in this recipe. The cookies are beautifully arranged on a plate, making them look inviting and delicious.

These cookies are a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas. They are quick to whip up and can be enjoyed by everyone. Plus, they are packed with nutrients, making them a great snack for kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond flour (or all-purpose flour)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, oats, almond flour, honey, baking soda, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. If using, fold in the chocolate chips and nuts.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
6. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Maple Pecan Granola For A Crunchy Delight

Granola is a fantastic choice for a healthy dessert, especially during Thanksgiving. This Maple Pecan Granola is not only crunchy but also packed with flavor. The combination of oats, pecans, and maple syrup creates a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. You can sprinkle it over yogurt, mix it into smoothies, or simply munch on it as a snack.

In the image, you can see a jar filled with golden-brown granola, showcasing its crunchy texture. The pecans add a nice nutty flavor, while the oats provide a wholesome base. Next to the jar, there’s a bowl of yogurt topped with fresh berries and a sprinkle of granola, making it a perfect breakfast or dessert option.

This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. It’s a great way to add a healthy twist to your Thanksgiving spread. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round!

Ingredients

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, chopped pecans, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown.
7. Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Delectable Raspberry Almond Crumble Bars

These Raspberry Almond Crumble Bars are a perfect treat for Thanksgiving. They combine the tartness of fresh raspberries with a sweet almond crumble topping. The bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to your holiday dessert table.

The image shows a stack of these bars on a white plate, garnished with a fresh raspberry on top. The crumble is golden brown, and the raspberry filling peeks through, creating a mouthwatering contrast. A bowl of fresh raspberries sits nearby, adding a pop of color and freshness to the scene.

Making these bars is simple. Start with a buttery crust, layer it with raspberry filling, and top it off with a crunchy almond crumble. They’re easy to cut into squares, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
4. In another bowl, combine raspberries, lemon juice, and almond extract. Spread this mixture over the crust.
5. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the raspberry layer. Top with sliced almonds.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before cutting into squares.

Deliciously Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread

Chocolate banana bread is a delightful treat that brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas and the richness of chocolate. This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving, offering a healthier dessert option that everyone will love. The moist texture and chocolatey goodness make it a standout choice for your holiday table.

The image showcases a beautifully baked loaf of chocolate banana bread, sliced to reveal its soft interior. Topped with chocolate chips, it looks inviting and delicious. Bananas and cocoa powder are key ingredients that not only enhance the flavor but also add nutritional benefits.

Making this bread is simple and fun. You can enjoy it as a dessert or even as a breakfast option. It’s a great way to use up overripe bananas and satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with melted coconut oil until well combined.
3. Add honey or maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites For The Holidays

These creamy pumpkin cheesecake bites are the perfect treat for your holiday gatherings. They combine the rich flavors of pumpkin and cream cheese, making them a delightful dessert that everyone will love. The mini size makes them easy to enjoy without feeling too indulgent.

Each bite is topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, adding a festive touch. The warm colors of fall, with pumpkins and autumn leaves in the background, create a cozy vibe that fits right into the holiday spirit.

These bites are not just tasty; they are also a healthier option compared to traditional desserts. Using lighter ingredients helps keep them creamy yet guilt-free. Plus, they are simple to make, so you can whip them up quickly for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Whipped cream for topping
• Cinnamon for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner to form a crust.
3. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the crust in each liner, filling them about 3/4 full.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the centers are set. Let them cool completely before removing from the muffin tin.
6. Top each cheesecake bite with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.