Dreamy healthy thanksgiving desserts That Spark Joy

Why You’ll Love Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts

When the holiday season rolls around, it’s easy to get swept up in the sugar-laden pies and buttery treats. But what if you could enjoy the same cozy flavors without the guilt? That’s where healthy thanksgiving desserts come in. These treats bring all the warmth and nostalgia of traditional recipes, but with better-for-you ingredients that won’t leave you feeling sluggish.

This particular recipe is a fall favorite in my kitchen. It’s moist, spiced just right, and naturally sweetened—perfect for anyone looking to enjoy dessert while staying on track with their wellness goals. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or just want something festive and nourishing, these muffins hit the sweet spot.

They’re also incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a dessert, a snack, or even a quick breakfast on the go. And if you’re planning a full holiday menu, they pair beautifully with other seasonal dishes like these healthy fall dinner recipes.

Ingredients to make Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these delicious muffins. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a moist, flavorful, and wholesome dessert that fits right into your holiday spread.

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 eggs, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Time needed to make Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts

These muffins are quick to prepare and bake, making them a great last-minute addition to your holiday table. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–24 minutes
• Total Time: About 35 minutes

If you’re planning a full menu, these muffins pair well with make-ahead dishes like our healthy Labor Day recipes that also work for fall gatherings.

Quick Steps to Make Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, eggs, applesauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk the whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

Step 4

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until no streaks of flour remain. Don’t overmix.

Step 5

Fold in the chopped walnuts if using, then divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups.

Step 6

Bake for 20 to 24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops spring back slightly when touched.

Step 7

Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8

Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

Want to make these muffins even better? Here are a few tips:

• Make it vegan: Swap the eggs for flax eggs to turn these into vegan thanksgiving desserts.
• Nut-free option: Skip the walnuts or use sunflower seeds for crunch without allergens.
• Storage tip: These freeze beautifully. Just wrap them individually and thaw overnight.
• Flavor boost: Add a dash of clove or cardamom for extra spice depth.

Is Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts healthy and nutritious ?

Absolutely! These muffins are a great example of diet friendly thanksgiving desserts that don’t sacrifice flavor. Each serving is packed with wholesome ingredients that support your health goals.

Here’s a general idea of what you’re getting per muffin:

• Calories: Around 160–180
• Protein: 3–4g
• Fat: 7–9g (from healthy sources like coconut oil and almond flour)
• Carbs: 20–22g
• Sugar: Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and applesauce
• Fiber: 3g thanks to whole wheat and almond flours

These muffins are a smart choice if you’re watching your sugar intake. They’re a great alternative to traditional pies or cakes, especially when compared to options like this pumpkin cognac cheesecake or a classic apple crisp.

Looking for more nutritious treats? Check out these healthy no-bake desserts or our pistachio overnight oats for more inspiration.

Can I make Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts healthier and still delicious?

Yes, and it’s easier than you think! These muffins are already a healthier take on traditional holiday sweets, but you can tweak them even more to suit your dietary needs.

• Low sugar thanksgiving desserts: Reduce the maple syrup to 1/3 cup or use a monk fruit blend for a lower glycemic option.
• Gluten free thanksgiving desserts: Swap the whole wheat flour for a gluten-free blend like oat flour or certified GF all-purpose flour.
• Paleo thanksgiving desserts: Replace both flours with almond and coconut flour (adjust ratios) and use coconut sugar instead of maple syrup.

For more ideas, try these healthy muffin recipes or explore homemade pita chips for a savory snack alternative.

Need more inspiration? These cream cheese pumpkin breads and pumpkin cheesecakes offer creative ways to keep things festive and healthy.

How to Serve Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts?

These muffins are incredibly versatile and can be served in several delicious ways:

• Warm with a drizzle of almond butter for a cozy snack.
• Alongside a cup of tea or coffee as a light dessert.
• With a scoop of healthy ice cream for a more indulgent treat.
• As part of a brunch spread with spinach and feta turkey burgers.

They also pair well with festive drinks like this skinny margarita or a warm cider.

For a kid-friendly twist, serve them with fruit and veggie snacks or alongside mini pavlovas for a colorful dessert board.

Avoid These Mistakes

Even simple recipes can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter: This can make the muffins dense. Stir just until combined.
• Skipping the liners or greasing: These muffins can stick, so prep your tin properly.
• Using cold eggs: Room temperature eggs blend better and help with texture.
• Not checking doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center before removing from the oven.

Want more foolproof recipes? Try our healthy Valentine’s Day recipes or these BBQ chicken breasts for savory success.

Also, check out these allergy-friendly frozen pumpkin pie bites and blender muffins for more reliable holiday treats.

The best way to store leftover Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts

These muffins are just as good the next day—if they last that long! Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temp before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or microwave for 20 seconds.

For more make-ahead ideas, check out our no-bake dessert collection or these Valentine’s Day treats that store beautifully.

Need more freezer-friendly inspiration? Try these healthy pumpkin pies or pumpkin cheesecakes that hold up well in the freezer.

Ready to give Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts a try?

These muffins are a cozy, nourishing way to celebrate the season. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy healthy thanksgiving desserts without missing out on the fun.

Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is a keeper. It’s flexible, family-friendly, and fits into a variety of dietary needs—from low sugar thanksgiving desserts to vegan thanksgiving desserts.

Before you go, don’t forget to explore more seasonal favorites like our fall dinner ideas, no-bake sweets, muffin recipes, and Valentine’s Day treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes! Just replace the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free blend like oat flour or a certified gluten-free all-purpose mix. The almond flour already adds a nice texture and flavor.

What can I use instead of eggs?

For a vegan version, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg). Let it sit for 5 minutes before adding to the batter.

Can I freeze these muffins?

Absolutely. Wrap each muffin individually and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or microwave for 20–30 seconds.

Are these muffins sweet enough for dessert?

Yes, they’re naturally sweetened with maple syrup and applesauce. If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can add a few dark chocolate chips or a light glaze.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Try adding dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or even a swirl of almond butter before baking. Just keep the total add-ins to about 1/2 cup.

You May Also Love

• Healthy Valentine’s Day Recipes
• Healthy Muffin Recipes
• Healthy Labor Day Recipes
• Healthy Fall Dinner Recipes
• Healthy No-Bake Desserts
• Skinny Margarita
• Spinach and Feta Turkey Burgers