Three Fresh Pumpkin Recipes For Hosts Seeking A Pumpkin Pie Alternative

If you’re looking for ways to spice up your Thanksgiving dinner menu, there are many easy pumpkin pie alternatives and fun ways to reinvent this quintessential holiday dessert. Fresh pumpkin recipes might seem intimidating for those who don’t bake often, but they are actually quite easy. In the above video, I demonstrate two easy pumpkin dessert recipe ideas–mini pumpkin rolls with phyllo crisps and pumpkin pie with pumpkin seed mousse and candied pumpkin seeds–both presentations bring an elegant, festive touch to your fall table. Recently, we created a third pumpkin pie alternative recipe for fall formal lunches in the Jordan dining room, so it’s also been added below. Most of these fresh pumpkin recipes’ ingredients can be prepared in advance–and you get to surprise your guests with a twist on their typical Thanksgiving dessert. Happy holidays!

Three Fresh Pumpkin Recipes: Pumpkin Pie Alternative Ideas

Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Roll with Phyllo Crisps

An elegant pumpkin dessert idea that looks difficult but is quite easy to make, these pumpkin rolls will have holiday dinner party guests raving and requesting the recipe. Indulge with a garnish of honey, pecans and ice cream.

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Recipe: Pumpkin Panna Cotta

Northern Italy’s classic dessert is infused with a taste of Americana in this pumpkin panna cotta recipe. Molded and chilled before serving, pumpkin panna cotta is the perfect fresh pumpkin recipe idea for a big holiday gathering or dinner party. You can do all the a few days ahead. Be creative with garnishes to complement the occasion—from candied pumpkin seeds to cinnamon sticks.

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Recipe: Pumpkin Squares with Pumpkin Seed Mousse

A graham cracker crust and candied pumpkin seeds bring a delicious crunch to this gourmet rendition of pumpkin pie. Topped with whipped cream infused with pumpkin seeds to surprise and delight your guests both in flavor and in presentation, these pumpkin squares can be cut and presented in smaller pieces to make everyone feel less guilty after the Thanksgiving feast.

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