Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Turkeys

Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie Turkeys are a whimsical and easy dessert that brings instant smiles to every holiday table. You get all the creamy comfort of classic pumpkin pie, dressed up with treats and a cute turkey face that makes every kid and grownup feel like a guest of honor. These bite sized pumpkin pie turkeys have quickly become a must at my family’s November celebrations because they come together fast and never fail to impress both little hands and sweet loving adults.

I first made these pumpkin pie turkeys with my niece one chilly holiday weekend and was amazed by how much laughter and anticipation they brought to the dessert table. Now they are a regular request and I love watching everyone pick out their favorite candy eyed turkey to eat.

Ingredients

• Store bought pumpkin pie: A timesaver that ensures creamy smooth filling and crisp crust
• Bite size Reese’s cups: Form the adorable turkey faces plus provide a chocolate peanut butter surprise
• Candy eyes: Bring playful personality to each turkey
• Orange Reese’s Pieces: Used for the turkey’s beak and add a pop of color with bright citrusy flavor
• Candy corn: Iconic fall candy that makes perfect turkey feathers
• Chocolate chips melted: Acts as edible glue to hold on eyes and beaks look for rich chocolate chips that melt smoothly

Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Sheet:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier

Cut Out Pie Rounds:

Using a round cutter deeper than the pie, cut seven circles from the pumpkin pie. Carefully lift each round and place on the prepared sheet.

Unwrap and Ready the Reese’s Cups:

Unwrap the bite size Reese’s and set them nearby so they are ready for decorating

Attach the Eyes:

Melt a few chocolate chips and dab a little on the back of each candy eye using a toothpick or spoon. Carefully press two eyes onto each Reese’s cup and let them set.

Make and Add the Beaks:

Using a sharp knife, slice an orange Reese’s Piece to create a flat edge. Dip the flat side into your melted chocolate. Center it below the eyes on each Reese’s face.

Assemble the Turkey Faces:

Place each completed face towards the lower part of a pumpkin pie circle pressing gently so it sticks

Create and Attach the Feathers:

Fan out five candy corn pieces above each turkey’s face, arranging them with pointed ends up to mimic turkey feathers. Gently push each piece into the pumpkin pie edge so they stay upright

The best part of these turkey treats is seeing the surprise on my nephew’s face as he picked the one with the goofiest eyes and declared it his forever turkey. I cherish how this simple recipe sparks laughter and brings everyone together around the kitchen counter.

Storage Tips

Store assembled pumpkin pie turkeys in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep their shape and freshness for up to two days. If stacking, place wax paper between layers so the candy decorations do not stick. Serve them chilled or let them sit at room temperature for about fifteen minutes to soften the pie before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out the Reese’s cups for chocolate coins or mini cookies if needed. Use allergy friendly candy eyes or make your own out of tiny dots of chocolate and white frosting. If you do not have candy corn, try slivered almonds or any bright colored fall candies as feather substitutes.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange the pie turkeys on a platter lined with festive fall leaves for an extra autumnal touch. They make a fun classroom treat and are a hit at Friendsgiving potlucks too. Pair with a mug of spiced apple cider for an irresistible holiday snack.

Cultural Fun

Pumpkin pie is a time honored American Thanksgiving treat and these turkeys turn the tradition into an edible craft. Decorating food for holidays is a joyful way to connect with family history and create new memories. Kids can learn about holiday symbols and flavors through hands on creativity.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use pecan pie instead of pumpkin for a Southern twist. Decorate with candy pumpkins or chocolate acorns for extra variety. Make these turkeys with mini apple pie rounds for an autumn fruit flavor.

While my youngest niece always tries to sneak an extra candy corn feather I have learned that keeping extra toppings nearby ensures everyone is happy and the kitchen stays peaceful.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of pumpkin pie works best?

A firm, store-bought pumpkin pie of about 37 oz gives clean slices and holds the turkey shapes well.

→ Can I use homemade pumpkin pie instead?

Yes, just ensure it's completely set and chilled before cutting circles for the best structure.

→ What can be used instead of Reese's for the faces?

Mini chocolate cups or similar-sized round candies can work if you need an alternative.

→ How do you prevent the candy eyes from sliding off?

Melted chocolate acts as an effective edible 'glue' to secure eyes and other embellishments.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Assemble a few hours before serving to keep candies crisp and colors vibrant.