Thanksgiving recipes are cherished classics in every kitchen, whether it be an old family recipe or the back of a pre-packaged box, we all enjoy this hearty holiday meal. Having these recipes on hand before the big feast is important, after all, good cooking is mostly preparation! If you are looking for some interesting twists on Thanksgiving classics, or simply need a fun recipe for those little mouths at the table these recipes are for you, and they are kid-friendly too!
Breakfast
Thanksgiving morning usually comes early for those of you preparing the Turkey. From the moment you wake up, you begin your preparations and sometimes, you just don’t have time (and oven or stove space) to grab some breakfast! Cereal is quick and easy, but it can get boring and doesn’t provide the nutrition you need to get through your cooking marathon.
Freezer egg bakes
Try out some of these delicious breakfast ideas for your busy morning. These freezer-bite recipes involve some preparation the night before, which will free your time for the most important preparations the morning of Thanksgiving. They are convenient, easy, and healthy for you and your family! Follow this link for three easy, cheesy ideas:
“Gobble” some Pancakes
Who couldn’t enjoy pancakes for breakfast? If this classic breakfast is a staple for the weekends home with your kids, then here is a fun twist!
Snacks
When you’re busy cooking such a yummy meal, it can be tough to keep your fingers out of it which is why we are providing some great recipes and ideas for snacks to munch on, pre-dinner. Of course, you want to save room for all that turkey and stuffing, but sometimes you just need something to hold you over until then.
Caramel/dulce de leche dip
If you have an extra can of sweetened condensed milk, a staple in Thanksgiving dessert recipes, than you can make one yummy caramel dip, or dulce de leche, if you prefer! If you have never tried this before, you must try it now. See the link for the recipe on this mouth-watering dip.
You can do this a couple days before, or the night before, just give it a few hours (very little work, we promise) its well worth it! Be sure the dip is very cool before opening. Take a few of your kid’s favorite apples (try Honeycrisps), slice them up on a tray, and you have a wonderful apple dip! While you are at it, drizzle over some popcorn for a sweet and salty treat, or spoon it over some yogurt.
Trail mix
For an easy-to-grab snack, try this trail mix! It’s easy to make and easy to take with you around the kitchen (if need be). Mayflower Munch
Cheese/fruit/meat “turkey” platter
Another easy snack would be a party-type tray. Though simple, they can be quite versatile and customizable to any occasion. All you need for this one is some pepperoni and different cheeses of your choice! You could also use fruit and vegetables of your choice. This is a very simple and quick snack when you need to focus on the meal preparation.
Mini cornucopias
This next option is not only creative and festive, but its also easy entirely edible. You could make your own variations with this one and customize it to your child’s favorite finger snacks. Or, if you are one for ice cream year-round, try some fun holiday flavors such as pumpkin or eggnog ice cream with a spoon of the homemade caramel listed above! Check out the “Mini Cornucopias” using waffle ice cream cones at this link:
Dinner Sides
Thanksgiving is one of the biggest meals you will probably cook through the year and though it’s all so tasteful, sometimes it can get a bit messy for kids, especially stuffing and gravy. Here are some recipes to put a little user-friendly twist on the ordinary recipes.
Stuffing Muffins
Whether you’re cooking your stuffing in the turkey, a crock pot, or the stove, this handy tip can prove useful for all the little mouths at the table. All you need is a cupcake pan and you can turn the stuffing into a “muffin” that can be easily held by toddlers and small children. Check out this link for the how to, as well as a simple stuffing recipe from scratch!
Mashed potato puffs
Finger food really is the best for kids, especially when it comes to large feasts and a table full of kids. Whether you need to make it quick with instant potatoes, or you already have a pot of mashed potatoes for those who may not be fond of yams, this is a great variation for messy little eaters and babes learning how to feed themselves. Here it is:
Honey glazed carrots
This sweet dish is full of great nutrients for your little one who may prefer to pass up the yams. Use baby carrots or chop full-size carrots for an easy-to-eat dish. See this link for a delightful recipe:
Thanksgiving is a day of appreciation and spending time with our loved ones, and we want to keep it that way with some quick, easy, and convenient meals and snacks with items you may already have on hand. As you prepare for this year’s festivities, remember to be present in all things and thankful for all things, especially those we love… and great food!
Happy Thanksgiving!
