Hi All!

You didn’t ask, but I answered. This is what I plan to make for Thanksgiving this year. Once again, we’re having a smaller gathering than in years past. I typically host upwards of 25 people, and it’s not just family. Anyone who has found themselves in need of a place to go has always been welcome at my table. Friends have become family in this way, and it’s always been a fun and festive event. I’m hoping things will normalize a bit for next year so we can resume the tradition.

I’ve been hosting Thanksgiving since I was 19. I’m now 40 something with two kids, and I’ve always made family recipes (along with one new recipe) each year. I’ve taken note of each person’s favorite side, and make sure to incorporate it into the meal. Since this year is different, I’m going to try something new. After pouring through stacks of Thanksgiving magazines with my little boys, we didn’t quite find anything that excited us. With the guest list being much smaller (6 of us), we’ve got to pare things down in terms of variety, so I wanted to make each dish count. We threw in the towel after an hour or so of searching, but I kept it in the back of my mind as I need to get to the grocery store ASAP.

Later on that evening, like a bolt of lighting, (which felt like more like a warm hug) it hit me. The boys and I would prepare a Ree Drummond Thanksgiving! We love to snuggle up and watch her show. The boys get excited every time they see a Pioneer Woman product in the store. They jump up and down and shout, “Mom it’s our favorite lady!

So it only seemed fitting that the theme for this year’s feast would be none other than the Pioneer Woman.

Thankfully, she’s been sharing some really winning recipes on her Facebook Page, and the planning was basically done for me! (THANK YOU REE DRUMMOND!)

Appetizers: Typically, I do a zillion apps. This year, I’m going to put a small batch around lunch time. This way, the family can pick at things while I cook away in the kitchen!

Cranberry Brie Bites

Cocktail Meatballs (I might omit Sriracha)

Sausage Pinwheels

Fig and Goat Cheese Bruschetta

Main & Side: No traditional recipes this year. All new!

Dry Brine Turkey

Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash

Sweet Potato Casserole

Green Bean Casserole

Stuffing

Skillet Biscuits with Honey Butter

Dessert: Last year, I attempted the Piecaken. I made the frosting ahead, and it curdled on me on Thanksgiving day. When I saw THIS RECIPE I knew I had to make it. I’m making a ton of desserts. I love pie for breakfast the morning after a holiday!

Chocolate Pecan Pie

Pumpkin Pie

Apple Pie

I’m compiling my grocery list now, and I can’t wait to get cooking! I’ll post pictures of the results in my Facebook Group. For those of you not celebrating or hosting, Here is a sweet cozy mystery deal to keep you busy.

Stay Cozy,

Daphne