Q: My mother in law has asked me to bring dessert, but unfortunately I haven't quite mastered my mother's pie crust recipe, and I'm not very fond of store-bought desserts or crusts. I'd like to make something home-made, but pie is such a "traditional" Thanksgiving dessert that I fear straying away from it. What do you like to have on Thanksgiving besides pie?
A: My mom makes pumpkin bars...they are a thick, cake with a really yummy cream cheese frosting and walnuts on top...everyone loves those. I can get you the recipe if you'd like to email me...it's written down, and I don't ,mind typing it out if your interested. Also, I think some really classy deserts are made with pears around this season...they are on sale big time at the markets right now. My favorite Barefoot Contessa often makes baked pears with fresh cream or a crumble which is great. It's fruit of your choice on the bottom of a pie plate and then tops with oats, sugars, nuts, etc. and baked. You could also do a desert fondue or something unique like that. Bake or buy an angel food cake and make a chocolate or pumpkin butter fondue. Cut cake into one inch cubes and arrange on a platter with a bowl of the hot dip in the center and toothpicks...or a fondue set if you have one obviously. I have also made a cake in my crockpot...sounds crazy I know...but seriously it was delicious. It was called a chocolate, gooey fudge cake. I served it with vanilla ice cream and wow! It is like a giant lava cake! Let me know if you are interested in any of these recipes...and enjoy your Thanksgiving!