Thanksgiving just isn’t complete without some classic desserts that everyone craves. From the comforting flavors of pumpkin and apple pies to the underrated delight of sweet potato pie, these treats are a holiday must.
Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and you know what that means—desserts galore!
I’ve been dreaming about pies, cakes, and those cute little cookies that sneak their way onto the dessert table.
If you’re looking for a way to impress your guests this year, you’ve come to the right place.
Let’s dive into some mouth-watering options that will have everyone going back for seconds, or maybe even thirds.
Picture this: a creamy pumpkin cheesecake that will make even the pumpkin pie seem a tad jealous.
If you’re into something more traditional, a classic pecan pie always hits the spot.
And don’t worry, I’ve rounded up some goodies that can be made in advance, so you’ll have more time to relax and enjoy that sweet holiday vibe.
Let’s make sure our taste buds are as grateful as our hearts this year!
26 Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas
Classic Pumpkin Pie
Oh, pumpkin pie, how you warm my heart!
This is the dessert I think of first when Thanksgiving rolls around.
A classic pumpkin pie is rich and creamy, packed with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
In my opinion, the best part is the buttery, flaky crust.
Some folks even like to top it with a dollop of whipped cream.
It’s a dessert that’s easy to make, and it always brings back memories of family gatherings.
Related: Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe Perfect for Sharing (or Not!)
Apple of My Eye: Apple Pie
Apple pie is like a warm hug in dessert form.
It’s the smell of apples and cinnamon baking that makes the house feel cozy.
This pie usually features a mix of tart and sweet apples, creating a perfect balance.
And let me tell you, you can never go wrong with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Whether you prefer a lattice crust or a full top crust, this pie is a winner every time.
Sweet Potato Pie: The Unsung Hero
Now, sweet potato pie often gets overshadowed by its pumpkin cousin, but it’s a hidden gem.
It’s creamy, smooth, and has a sweet, earthy flavor that’s just irresistible.
If you haven’t tried it, you’re missing out on something special.
Sometimes, a big slice of sweet potato pie with a bit of whipped cream can turn a regular day into a holiday feast.
While it might not be as famous as pumpkin pie, it’s definitely worth a spot on your table.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Madness
Let me tell you, pumpkin cheesecake is a game-changer.
It’s like taking your favorite pumpkin pie and giving it a creamy, cheesy upgrade.
The rich, spicy flavor of pumpkin purée gets blended with smooth cream cheese.
Then, just the right amount of cinnamon and nutmeg are added to spice things up.
For those who love variety, pumpkin cheesecake pie and pumpkin cheesecake bars are alternative options.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
I thought pecan pie was untouchable until I tried pecan pie cheesecake.
You keep the gooey, nutty goodness of traditional pecan pie and layer it with creamy cheesecake.
Imagine biting into that sweet, crunchy pecan topping, only to reach a silky cream cheese center.
The caramel notes from the pie filling blend seamlessly with the cheesecake.
Don’t be surprised if this dessert steals the spotlight on your Thanksgiving table.
Marble Cheesecake
Marble cheesecake is like an edible art project, where your favorite flavors get to mingle and dance.
Think of it as a delightful swirl of chocolate and vanilla, creating a pattern that’s almost too pretty to eat—almost.
If you’re aiming to impress (without too much stress), this cheesecake’s your ticket.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with seasonal berries or maybe even a bit of caramel drizzle to suit your holiday mood.
Related: Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Cozy Mornings and Sweet Treats
Carrot Cake: A Vegetable We Love
Carrot cake is a delightful way to sneak veggies into dessert.
I mean, who would complain about eating their vegetables when they’re mixed with sugar and topped with cream cheese frosting?
The blend of carrots, nuts, and spices creates a moist and flavorful cake.
Adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg elevates its taste even more.
Pumpkin Cake Perfection
Ah, pumpkin cake, the quintessential fall delight.
This cake is all about that soft, moist texture that comes from pumpkin puree.
It’s like a fluffy pumpkin pie, but in cake form, and I’m totally here for it.
Pumpkin cake often features cozy spices like cinnamon and ginger.
When you pair it with cream cheese frosting, it becomes pure magic.
The beauty of pumpkin cake is its simplicity.
You can bake it as a sheet cake, a layer cake, or even cupcakes if you’re feeling fancy.
Trust me, it’s a must-try for any Thanksgiving spread.
Bundt Around the Holidays
Bundt cakes are the unsung heroes of Thanksgiving.
Their beautiful shapes make them the centerpiece of any dessert table.
There’s something about those elegant ridges that makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside.
You can make bundt cakes with various flavors, from rich chocolate to zesty lemon.
A classic choice is a spiced bundt cake, perfect for fall.
The best part? No frosting required, although a drizzle of glaze or dusting of powdered sugar never hurts.
Plus, they’re easy to slice and serve for a crowd.
If you’re planning a holiday gathering, don’t forget to bundt!
Chocolate Chip Goes Pumpkin
Who doesn’t love a good chocolate chip cookie?
Now, imagine mixing that with the rich, spicy flavor of pumpkin.
These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are like a cozy fall sweater for your taste buds.
They blend the sweetness of chocolate chips with the warm, earthy taste of pumpkin.
It’s like a tiny autumn festival in every bite, and the soft, chewy texture makes them irresistible.
You can find more delicious cookie ideas at EatingWell’s best fall cookies and bars.
The Pecan Pie Bar Standoff
If you’re anything like me, deciding between cookies and pie is tough.
Enter the pecan pie bars—a brilliant solution!
These bars capture the gooey, nutty goodness of pecan pie in a portable, bite-sized form.
With a buttery crust and a sweet, caramel-like pecan topping, they bring all the flavor without the fuss of slicing a pie.
Plus, they make less of a mess! It’s a win-win in my book.
Cupcake or Cookie? Why Not Both?
Can’t decide between a cupcake or a cookie?
Well, I say have both with apple pie cupcakes.
These delightful treats combine the best of both worlds.
Think about it: a moist cupcake with a cinnamon-apple filling and a frosting that tastes just like a cookie.
It’s an explosion of flavors in a small package.
The sweetness of apples with a hint of spice makes it feel like a warm hug, just what you need when transitioning from Thanksgiving to holiday baking.
For even more creative ideas like this, you might enjoy some mini Thanksgiving desserts.
Apple Crisp – Crispier Than Autumn Leaves
I love a good apple crisp because there’s nothing better than that satisfying crunch.
The topping is loaded with oats, brown sugar, and butter, which gets all crispy and caramelized.
Think of an apple crisp as a pie’s lazy cousin—just sprinkle the topping over sliced apples and bake.
Make sure to use tart apples like Granny Smith to perfectly balance that sweet crunch.
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an irresistible treat.
Bubbling Baked Apples
Baked apples are like a warm hug on a chilly day.
You basically hollow out apples, stuff them with a mix of butter, sugar, and spices, then let them get all bubbly in the oven.
They’re a healthier way to enjoy dessert, especially if you’re trying to avoid the buttery crust of a classic apple pie.
What I love most is how customizable they are—you can throw in nuts or even a splash of rum for a grown-up touch.
The Classic Apple Cobbler Conundrum
Apple cobbler is like the best of both worlds—sweet filling with a biscuit-like topping.
It’s hearty and satisfying when you need something more than just a crisp.
One debate, though, is what defines a true apple cobbler.
Some argue it needs a pastry topping, but I say it’s the part-pie, part-cake vibe that makes it unique.
The goal is to have just enough dough to soak up the delicious apple juices while remaining fluffy.
Related: Banana Bread Recipe Easy, Delicious, and Perfect Every Time
Vegan Pumpkin Pie – No Dairy, No Problem
When you think of vegan pumpkin pie, chances are you’re imagining a dry, flavorless dessert.
But hold onto your fork! You can nosh on a creamy, dreamy slice without the dairy guilt.
My secret? Use coconut milk and cashews for that rich texture.
Wondering about the crust? Swap out butter for coconut oil in the crust, and you’ll have people coming back for seconds—or thirds.
Gluten-Free Goodies That Rock
For those of us who can’t tango with gluten, dessert can feel like a sad little island of fruit. Fear not!
There are super options like almond flour brownies or oat flour cookies.
Almond flour brings a nutty flavor and moist texture to baked goods, while oat flour is a fiber-packed champ.
Are you into pies? Use a crust from gluten-free graham crackers that will have your taste buds tap dancing.
And crunchy cookies made with almond flour? Absolute winners! Get creative, and I promise you won’t miss gluten one bit.
Pumpkin Ice Cream: A Chilly Twist
Forget the pies — let’s talk about pumpkin ice cream!
I know what you’re thinking: who needs ice cream in November?
But trust me, this sweet treat is like a frozen bite of fall magic.
Imagine creamy, spiced pumpkin goodness straight from your freezer.
I like to sprinkle some crumbled gingersnaps on top for an extra crunch.
It’s easy to make too.
Just mix canned pumpkin, cream, and spices, then churn it into creamy perfection.
Serve it in a waffle cone or a bowl — whatever tickles your fancy.
Pro tip: top it off with a dollop of whipped cream.
It’s a unique way to celebrate pumpkin season and will surely leave your guests talking.
Sticky Toffee Pudding
Ah, sticky toffee pudding!
This British dessert is a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s a date cake drenched in toffee sauce, making it a comforting choice for a holiday feast.
The cake is moist thanks to the dates, and the toffee sauce is sweet and buttery.
When you make this, top it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
If you’re feeling fancy, throw in some bananas and pecans on top—trust me, they bring it up a notch.
Chocolat Français: Mousse That Will Make You Melt
Let’s talk about chocolate mousse.
This French delight is all about rich, creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor.
It’s incredibly light yet satisfyingly rich, a perfect ending to a heavy Thanksgiving meal.
Making chocolate mousse can be an adventure, balancing melted chocolate, cream, and egg whites to get that perfect fluffiness.
The best part? You can add a sprinkle of sea salt or some fresh berries on top for that extra zing.
Related: 30+ Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes That’ll Steal the Show
Brownies & Co.: Ending on a Chocolatey Note
Ending Thanksgiving with brownies is like saving the best for last.
I mean, who can resist that fudgy goodness?
Brownies are versatile, and you can dress them up with nuts, caramel drizzle, or serve them alongside ice cream for an extra treat.
If you’re looking for more Thanksgiving dessert recipes, why not shake things up with a chocolate pecan pie?
This pie combines the richness of chocolate with the classic pecan topping.
It’s an indulgent finale to a superb dinner.
Whether it’s brownies or pie, these desserts are sure to leave everyone happy and satisfied!