This Traditional Thanksgiving Menu is a Seasonal Riot of Color and Flavor – With Some Surprising Twists

Gathering your loved ones and giving thanks for the year is such a wonderful tradition, and it calls for a Thanksgiving menu that pays homage to the season, feels familiar and comforting, but also a little bit special. This collection of recipes is exactly that.

The most adorable pumpkin starter acts as a prelude to a maple and marmalade-glazed turkey, served with some creative sides. To follow, there's an alternative dessert to serve alongside (or, dare I say, instead of) pumpkin pie, and a warming, spiced cocktail to get you and your guests into the spirit.

And, if you're adding the finishing touches to your plan for the day, don't forget to consult our Thanksgiving hosting guide for expert advice on helping it go without a hitch.

Miniature Baked Pumpkins with Gruyère Fondue

These indulgent mini pumpkin fondues are perfect to serve as an appetizer or conversational sharing dish at a fall gathering or Thanksgiving dinner. Use the finest quality Gruyère you can find for the best results.

Orange and Thyme Roasted Potatoes

It's not Thanksgiving without some beautifully crisp and fluffy roast potatoes, and this take on an essential side dish from Clodagh McKenna combines citrussy orange zest and fragrant thyme for a fresh twist.

Brussels Sprout and Cabbage Slaw

If you're looking for an alternative way to serve Brussels sprouts and red cabbage this year, try this bejewelled winter slaw by Clodagh McKenna, which is a crunchy and fresh dish, with a light, creamy dressing and pops of juicy seasonal fruit.

Mulled Marmalade Glazed Turkey

The tangy marmalade glaze in Clodagh McKenna's turkey recipe brings a delightfully citrussy twist. Consult our guide to the best turkey roasting pans before you start, serve it up on a nostalgic platter (Pottery Barn's Thanksgiving tableware has the perfect heritage look), and let the turkey do the talking.

Butterscotch Mousse with Cardamom Biscuits and Candied Walnuts

This butterscotch mousse is indulgent, yet light, with the warmth of spiced cardamom biscuits and festive candied walnuts scattered over the top. It's the perfect end to your Thanksgiving menu and a worthy alternative to a traditional pumpkin pie.

Whiskey and Spice Hot Toddy

A warming cocktail is just what's needed to signal the change in season and this hot toddy recipe with whiskey, spicy ginger, fruit slices and cinnamon sticks is just the thing. Plus it will make the house smell so festive for when your guests arrive.

If you're looking for more ideas for your Thanksgiving menu, do read our Editorial Director, Anna Last's column, At Anna's Table: Thanksgiving Sides and Pumpkin Pie, which includes some delicious ways with potatoes and a maple-spiked pumpkin pie.