Ah, Thanksgiving! A time of gratitude, family gatherings, and, of course, a feast that leaves everyone happily stuffed. If you're the designated baker this year, the prospect of crafting pies, rolls, and breakfast pastries might feel daunting. But fear not! With a well-planned timeline, you can tackle your Thanksgiving baking like a pro and enjoy the holiday without breaking a sweat. In this guide, we'll break down a step-by-step plan that ensures your baked goods are fresh, delicious, and stress-free.
Week Before Thanksgiving
Finalize Your Menu
Before you start, decide on what baked goods you'll be serving. Will it be traditional pumpkin pie, nutty pecan rolls, or maybe some buttery biscuits? Finalizing your menu gives you a clear picture of what needs to be done and prevents last-minute panic.
Create Your Shopping List
Once your menu is set, create a detailed shopping list. Include all ingredients for each dish, paying special attention to any recipes you're unfamiliar with. This ensures you don’t forget anything crucial.
Check Your Kitchen Supplies
Before heading to the store, examine your kitchen supplies. Do you have enough flour, sugar, and butter? Are your pie pans and mixing bowls ready? Checking now saves you from unwelcome surprises later.
Clean and Clear Your Refrigerator
Thanksgiving often means leftovers, so make sure your refrigerator is clean and has ample space. Discard old items and reorganize shelves to accommodate your holiday ingredients and dishes.
Purchase Non-Perishable Items
Start your shopping by buying non-perishable items like canned goods, spices, and dry ingredients. This spreads out your errands and reduces stress as the holiday approaches.
Prepare Freezable Dishes
Some dishes can be made in advance and frozen. Pie crusts and bread for stuffing are great candidates. Preparing these ahead of time can cut down on the work you need to do closer to Thanksgiving Day.
Three Days Before Thanksgiving
Buy Perishable Items
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it's time to purchase perishable items. This includes fresh fruits, dairy products, and herbs. Doing this a few days in advance ensures they're as fresh as possible.
Prep No-Bake Desserts
If you’re planning any no-bake desserts—like an Eclair Cake or Oreo pie—now's the time to prepare them. These can be chilled and set aside, freeing up your time on the big day.
Two Days Before Thanksgiving
Prepare Pie Crusts
Whether you’re making a classic apple pie or a savory quiche, starting with the crust is crucial. If you've frozen your pie crusts, now is the time to thaw them. You can even blind bake any crusts that require it, ensuring a crisp base for your fillings.
Thaw Bread for Stuffing
If you’ve prepared bread for stuffing ahead of time, ensure it's fully thawed. This makes it easier to work with and ensures the stuffing is flavorful and moist.
One Day Before Thanksgiving
Bake Your Pies and Desserts
With Thanksgiving just a day away, focus on baking your pies and other desserts. Completing this step now lets you focus on other tasks tomorrow, and many pies actually benefit from sitting overnight, allowing flavors to meld.
Depending on what you have planned for breakfast, many breakfast pastries and casseroles can be prepped one day ahead.
Thanksgiving Day
Bake Breakfast Pastries
Thanksgiving morning is perfect for baking breakfast pastries. The smell of freshly baked croissants or muffins is a delightful way to start the day.
Thaw Rolls and Add Finishing Touches
Take any frozen rolls out early, allowing 4-6 hours to thaw. While they’re coming to temperature, add any finishing touches to your pies or desserts—perhaps a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
Enjoy the Day
Finally, with all the hard work done, it's time to relax, welcome your guests, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. You've organized, prepped, and baked your way to a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration!
Remember, the key to a stress-free holiday is in the planning. By following this timeline, you'll find yourself calm and collected, ready to savor every moment of the holiday with family and friends.
For more ways to organize your holiday baking, download our free holiday meal planner.