Holiday dessert tables are known for their delicious variety, featuring classics like pumpkin pie and pecan pie to a few unexpected additions like ice cream and Rice Krispies treats. Tampa Prep students and faculty shared their favorite desserts for the holiday season.

Senior Emrie Linsky noted an intriguing addition to the dessert spread: a “brookie,” a hybrid of a brownie and a cookie.

“The brownies were a new dessert; they were cookie brownies,” Emrie said, describing the unique twist on a traditional favorite.

Brookies weren’t the only new treats making waves this season. Senior Ethan Marrow enjoyed a dessert he had never encountered before: buttermilk pie.

“Buttermilk pie is something I’ve never heard of,” Ethan said. “The best way I can describe it is like a cheesecake.”

While new desserts garnered attention, many people remained loyal to the classics. John Bamford, English teacher, is a self-proclaimed pecan pie enthusiast. He enjoys his pecan pie a la mode—served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

When asked about his experience with pecan pie this year, Bamford gave it an honest review. “8 out of 10—solid, but not the best pecan pie.”

Holiday desserts spark a range of opinions, with some favoring traditional staples like pecan pie, and others embracing innovative options like brookies and buttermilk pie. Each year offers an opportunity to blend beloved traditions with exciting new flavors, making dessert the perfect place to experiment.