A Season That Meets Us Where We Are (and that's enough)

Not all of us can eat right now, and that’s okay. There should be no expectation, no pressure, and no measure of participation tied to a plate. Come as you are, and know that your presence is more than enough. If you can swallow, here are a few holiday-inspired easy puddings. Enjoy!

CHEESCAKE PUDDING

Ingredients

• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free coconut yogurt for extra softness)

• ¼ cup cream cheese, softened (or dairy-free cream cheese)

• 2–3 tbsp maple syrup or honey (to taste)

• ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk (or oat milk)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp cinnamon

• Pinch nutmeg or ginger (optional, very light)

• Tiny pinch salt

Flavor Variations

• Cranberry Vanilla: swirl in 1–2 tbsp strained cranberry sauce or purée

• Pumpkin Spice: blend in ¼ cup pumpkin purée

• Lemon Holiday Bright: add ½ tsp lemon zest (optional, very fresh)

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor.

2. Blend until completely smooth and silky—no lumps at all.

3. Spoon into small cups or bowls.

4. Chill for 20–30 minutes to lightly set, or enjoy right away if preferred.

Texture Adjustments

• Thinner / more pudding-like: add 1–2 tbsp more milk

• Richer / more cheesecake-like: add 1 tbsp more cream cheese

• Ultra-gentle: use full dairy-free yogurt and skip spices entirely

SWEET PUMPKIN PUDDING

Ingredients

• 1 cup pumpkin purée (plain, not pie filling)

• ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk (or oat, coconut, or dairy milk)

• 2–3 tbsp maple syrup or honey (more if you have a sweet tooth!)

• ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice

• ¼ tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a blender.

2. Blend until completely smooth and silky (30–60 seconds).

3. Pour into small bowls or cups.

4. Chill for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) to thicken slightly.

Soft Toppings

• A swirl of coconut cream

• A dusting of cinnamon

• A spoonful of Greek or plant-based yogurt