Whether you’re a turkey or mashed potatoes fan, we all look forward to the delicious baked goods that come after a full plate of traditional Thanksgiving fillings! We at Indy Underground have compiled a few of our favorite family dessert recipes for this holiday season. From classic banana bread to Filipino leche flan, every dessert in this collection is a perfect potluck addition–because who can resist a sweet treat?
Try out the recipes below if you want to bring something new to the table this year or just love to try unfamiliar recipes. From us to you, have a happy holiday!
Forgotten Meringues
Evelyn Grimes
If you’re looking for a low maintenance dessert that is the perfect end to your Thanksgiving dinner, my family has just the recipe for you. A few years ago I discovered this forgotten cookie recipe in my grandmother’s recipe box and since then it’s been my go-to whenever I need to bring food to a function. They are light, airy, and extremely customizable in flavor! I recommend it for any family needing to go that extra mile in their dessert.
In a bowl (preferably of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment) place 2 egg whites. Whisk egg whites until stiff peaks form. If stiff peaks do not form, add ¼ teaspoon of lemon juice or cream of tartar. Once stiff peaks are formed, stream in ⅔ cups white granulated sugar SLOWLY–this takes 10-15 minutes. Once the fluffy mixture is smooth and glossy, heat the oven to 350°. Fold in 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts (if you feel so inclined–this step is optional).
Dole out the fluff onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper using a spoon or piping bag. Place the sheet into the oven and turn the oven off. Yes, turn it off! Leave the meringues in the oven for at least 3 hours, disturbing them as little as possible.
After three hours you will have delightfully crunchy, sugary meringues!
Banana Bread That Gives Back
Lee Anderson
My family loves to put healthy spins on traditional baked goods that fuel us during busy days. This banana bread recipe is extremely flexible, timelessly delicious, and good for you! It is best enjoyed while warm, but it is still tasty the next day when you are in a rush to make the bus or are going to a family potluck. It is also extremely simple to make–anyone can do it!
Preheat the oven to 350°.
In a large bowl, combine ½ cup softened butter with ½ cup brown sugar. Add 2 eggs, ½ tsp vanilla, 4 overripe bananas, and mix. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1½ cups all purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and chocolate chips + walnuts to your liking. For a healthier touch, add ¼ cup ground flaxseed. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix until all is combined.
Grease a nonstick loaf pan and pour the mixture in. Bake for 45-60 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes and enjoy!
Fantastic Mr.… Filipino Leche Flan!
Isabel Gaffud
Are you a baking connoisseur who wants to try a new recipe? This leche flan is a staple not only in my aunt’s kitchen but also throughout all of the Philippines. Its simple yet velvety texture combined with rich caramel flavors makes it a delicious treat that is slightly reminiscent of crème brûlée. Though it may take a couple of tries to perfect, it is a spectacular dish that is a favorite among all Filipino families.
Caramelize 2 tablespoons sugar and pour into a Llanera (mold/pan traditionally used to make the flan) or a different baking dish such as a cake pan. Make sure the caramelized sugar is poured evenly onto the bottom!
In a large bowl, mix 12 egg yolks with 1 can of condensed and 2 cans of evaporated milk. Strain the mixture to remove lumps and bubbles (it may take several attempts). Pour the new mixture on top of the caramelized sugar and cover the top of the Llanera with foil. Steam for 45 to 50 minutes on low. Let the flan cool completely or put it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Once all the steps have been completed, remove the foil and flip the Llanera over onto a serving dish. Enjoy your delicious creamy dessert cold!
Editor’s Choice
Baked Cinnamon Apples That Make Even the In-Laws Say “Mmmmm..”
Isabelle Goloschokin
Have some spare apples lying around the house? Want to make an easy Thanksgiving treat that still allows you to contribute? This easy fall-flavored recipe works for any amount of apples!
Preheat the oven to 350°.
Cover a large tray with parchment paper. Core and slice your chosen amount of apples and spread them out across the tray. Mix together ~⅓ cup brown sugar (adjust for amount, this is for 4-6 apples) and 2 teaspoons cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture over the apples and place two sliced tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Place the tray into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the apples are tender enough that they can be pierced with a fork. Let cool for a few minutes and serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or plain!
