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For many, the thought of bringing a dessert to a holiday gathering can be a daunting task, especially for those who don’t consider themselves expert bakers. While purchasing a pie or cake from a local bakery is always an option, this might be the year to take a leap of faith and try creating something yourself.
Fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone. Celebrity chef Ina Garten famously advocates for a little help from the store, encouraging home cooks to embrace the “semi-homemade” trend. The recipes below lighten the load by incorporating store-bought elements like pie crusts and instant pudding, making them approachable for bakers of any skill level.
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is a dessert that can range from simple to sophisticated. For those looking for a more straightforward approach, this recipe requires just a few easily accessible ingredients. You’ll mix mascarpone cheese with heavy cream and vanilla, brew some espresso, and assemble the layers. The dessert gains its signature flavor as it rests in the refrigerator overnight, guaranteeing a delightful treat that will impress your guests.
Icebox Cake
Much like tiramisu, icebox cakes are formed by layering cookies—typically graham crackers in this version—with cream and fruit. Once assembled, the cake is covered in whipped cream and chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften, creating a texture reminiscent of traditional baking. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have plenty of time left to adorn it with festive decorations.
Pumpkin Pie
Making a pumpkin pie for the first time might seem daunting, but a simple twist can make it easy. Rather than crafting your own pie crust, consider purchasing a graham cracker crust along with a can of Libby’s pumpkin puree. The straightforward recipe available on the back of the can provides all the necessary instructions. Pour the pumpkin filling into the crust and bake until it’s perfectly set. Utilizing a graham cracker crust not only adds a contemporary flair to this classic dessert but also leverages a time-tested recipe that has stood the test of millions of palates over nearly a century, as noted in Bon Appétit.
Trifle
Trifle is a beloved dish in England and is adored for its festive presentation. It features layers of cake, cream, fruit, and jam arranged in a large bowl, topped with whipped cream and decorative elements according to your preferences. A recipe from Martha Stewart suggests using homemade cream puffs, which can conveniently be purchased from stores like Costco. Alternatively, you could try Southern Living’s cranberry dreamsicle trifle, which incorporates frozen pound cake for an additional flavor twist.
Semifreddo
Unlike some of the aforementioned recipes, semifreddo is a completely homemade dessert but remains straightforward to prepare compared to traditional ice cream. This dessert can easily be enhanced using premium store-bought ingredients such as gourmet jams and creative garnishes, making it look like you invested a lot of effort. You might consider this recipe from Serious Eats that features an elegant combination of rose water and honey flavors. Dress it up with toppings like candied nuts, dark chocolate chunks, or edible flowers like rose petals for a sophisticated touch.
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