Thanksgiving: It’s What’s For Dinner

2056794287_4f71418295Well, I’ve officially begun the process of readying the house for our Thanksgiving guests.  The pantry has been organized, the fridge and the oven are next. (Who doesn’t love cleaning the oven?) This year will be my first year at hosting a family Thanksgiving (Brad’s side), but everyone’s pitching in, so I’m in no way responsible for the entire meal.  Pheewwww!

Both Brad’s family and my own are known for the traditional Thanksgiving spread:

Turkey, Mashed Potatoes, Stuffing, Green Bean Casserole, Corn, Rolls, and Pumpkin Pie

I can almost smell it!

If I get everything checked off my list, I’ll be making my Carrot Cake.  I got it from a school carry-in a few years ago, and I’ve been highly addicted since. If I don’t get around to it, I’ll leave you the recipe so you can tell me how absolutely amazing it is!  Seriously, I consider myself a bit of a “Carrot Cake Connoisseur” and this cake is the best I’ve ever eaten! _________________________________________________________________________________

Make It From Scratch Because It’s So Worth It Homemade Carrot Cake Recipe

2 c sugar 2 c flour

2 tsp. cinnamon 3 eggs beaten

1-2 tsp. Allspice 1 c chopped walnuts

1 c oil 1/2 can crushed pineapple partially drained

3 c grated carrots 2 tsp. baking soda

Mix all the ingredients together and pour into two lightly greased cake pans. Bake at 350 for 35-45 minutes or until tooth pick comes out clean. Cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 – 8 oz pkg. of cream cheese 1 stick of butter

1 1/2 c powered sugar 3 tsp. of vanilla

Mix cream cheese and butter together until well blended.  Add powdered sugar and vanilla and beat until creamy.

A couple of tips:

* I would definitely use a food processor for grating your carrots, or you’ll spend the entire duration of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade shredding carrots and your knuckles.

* If you don’t have Allspice on hand you can substitute equal parts nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves

* If you really like icing (like I do) you might want to make a double batch of icing

_________________________________________________________________________________

What’s on YOUR Thanksgiving menu?  A traditional meal?  Out to eat?  Regional tastes? I’d love to hear about your favorite fixin’s!