Thanksgiving Cheat Sheet

Thanksgiving shouldn't have to be stressful!

We are now one week away from Thanksgiving.  What does that mean?  Well, besides the fact that all we can think of is a juicy turkey on the Pit Barrel® Cooker, It means that it is time to start planning for the feast. One thing we have learned over the years is that preparation is key. The more planning we do ahead of time = the more we will enjoy the day with family and friends. 

We want to help take the guess work out of deciding how much to make of each item and spare you from the stress of either running out of or ending up with three extra pies. 

What can be prepared ahead of time? 

• Cranberry sauce can without doubt be made ahead of time. In fact, we suggest you make it ahead of time to increase the flavor profile. 
• Cornbread can easily be made ahead of time and kept frozen until the day. 
• Dinner rolls or special bread can also be baked ahead of time. Making bread from scratch is labor intensive so why not prepare ahead of time, freeze and warm up when everything else is done. 
• Veggies can be pre-cut and left in ziplock bags a couple days early. 
• Purchase wine, beer and coffee in advance. Why not enjoy more space in your cart during the Thanksgiving grocery rush. 
• Peel and prepare potatoes ahead of time. No need to spend 2 hours peeling potatoes when you can enjoy the company of your family instead. 
• Prepare the cookie mix ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. If you have room, space the cookie dough in portions on a baking sheet. 
• You can make the pie up to 4 days in advance as long as you store it in the fridge. 10 to 15 minutes in a 375°F oven before serving will help re-crisp the crust and warm up the fruit and filling.