Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by spending time together in the kitchen. Instead of waiting for the big feast, why not dive into the fun early with DIY Thanksgiving treats? These recipes are simple, delicious, and designed to be hands-on, making them perfect for anyone who wants to add a homemade touch to their celebrations. So gather your friends, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking with two tasty, easy-to-make recipes that everyone will enjoy!

No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites

These no-bake energy bites are the perfect treat for anyone who loves fall flavors. They’re a breeze to make—just mix, roll, and chill! Plus, they’re packed with wholesome ingredients that provide a satisfying snack without even turning on the oven.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (or almond butter)
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips or dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine the oats, pumpkin puree, honey, and peanut butter in a large bowl.
2. Add in the pumpkin pie spice and mix well until everything is combined.
3. If desired, stir in chocolate chips or dried cranberries for extra texture.
4. Form the mixture into bite-sized balls using clean hands or a small scoop.
5. Place the bites on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

These energy bites are great for sharing, snacking, and enjoying as a little pick-me-up during the day. The best part? There’s no baking required, making this recipe safe, simple, and fun for everyone to participate in.

Apple Pie Crescent Rolls

Who doesn’t love the cozy flavors of apple pie? These easy apple pie crescent rolls capture the taste of the classic dessert in a fun, bite-sized form. They’re perfect for seniors to make and enjoy together, with a simple process that involves rolling, filling, and baking.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• Optional: a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
3. Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into individual triangles.
4. Place a few apple slices at the wider end of each triangle. Sprinkle a pinch of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.
5. Roll the dough from the wide end to the tip, encasing the apple slices, and place them seam-side down on the baking sheet.
6. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

These crescent rolls are an excellent way to enjoy apple pie’s warm, comforting taste without all the fuss. They’re easy to assemble, fun to make as a group, and perfect for a pre-Thanksgiving snack.

Making these treats together is a great way to build excitement for Thanksgiving Day, or to have a unique dessert at the dinner table along with your pie while enjoying the process of creating something delicious. Whether you’re crafting no-bake pumpkin spice energy bites or baking up a batch of apple pie crescent rolls, these recipes are sure to bring smiles, fill the room with delicious aromas, and offer a little extra sweetness to your pre-holiday celebrations. So gather around the kitchen table and get ready to share some tasty treats and joyful moments at the senior center this Thanksgiving season!