I don't know about you, but I always save a little room for dessert at Thanksgiving, no matter how much turkey I've eaten! These best Thanksgiving dessert recipes include plenty of old favorites, along with a few different treats if you feel like trying something new. And thankfully, you don't need to be an expert baker to make most of them.
You'll find everything from pumpkin and pecan pies to creamy cheesecakes, apple desserts, cranberry treats, and plenty of chocolate goodies. There are also easy no-bake options, cookies, and bite-sized desserts for when you don't feel like making a whole cake or pie. Some can be made ahead, while others are best served warm with ice cream or whipped cream. Just don't be surprised if everyone asks for seconds!
1. The Best Homemade Pumpkin Pie Ever – A Classic Thanksgiving Dessert
Thanksgiving wouldn't feel complete without a slice of homemade pumpkin pie on the dessert table! This classic features a smooth, creamy pumpkin filling with warm spices tucked inside a buttery, flaky crust. A generous swirl of whipped cream makes every bite even better, while decorative pastry leaves give it a beautiful holiday finish. It's one of those traditional Thanksgiving desserts that never goes out of style, especially when served after a big family feast.
2. Decadent Pecan Pie Cheesecake – A Rich Thanksgiving Favorite
Can't decide between pecan pie and cheesecake? This pecan pie cheesecake gives you the best of both with a creamy cheesecake filling, a buttery crust, and a generous layer of caramel-coated pecans. The crunchy topping adds a wonderful contrast to the smooth, rich cheesecake underneath. It's a lovely dessert to make ahead for Thanksgiving, especially when you want something that looks impressive without needing extra decorations.
3. Apple Crumble Cheesecake With Fresh Apples – A Fall Dessert Favorite
If you love apple crumble and cheesecake, this dessert brings both favorites together in one delicious slice. The creamy cheesecake pairs beautifully with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery crumble topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. It's a wonderful alternative to traditional apple pie, especially when you're looking for something a little different for Thanksgiving. Serve it chilled with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra-special holiday treat.
4. Fluffy & Easy Sweet Potato Cheesecake With Marshmallow Meringue
Sweet potatoes aren't just for Thanksgiving side dishes, and this cheesecake proves it! The smooth, creamy sweet potato filling sits on a buttery graham cracker crust, creating a dessert with all those familiar holiday flavors. What makes it special is the fluffy marshmallow meringue on top, which adds a sweet, cloud-like finish. It's a fun twist on traditional sweet potato pie and a beautiful addition to any Thanksgiving dessert spread.
5. Instant Pot Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake – An Easy Holiday Dessert
Looking for a Thanksgiving dessert that doesn't take up valuable oven space? This Instant Pot pumpkin pecan cheesecake combines creamy pumpkin filling with a rich, caramelized pecan topping for a dessert that tastes like two holiday favorites in one. The pressure cooker helps create a smooth cheesecake while leaving your oven free for turkey, casseroles, and other Thanksgiving dishes. Add a little whipped cream before serving, and you've got a gorgeous dessert that feels right at home on the holiday table.
6. Instant Pot Stewed Apples in Mulled Wine – A Warm Fall Dessert
These warm stewed apples are a lovely choice when you want something comforting without baking another pie or cake. The apples become soft and tender as they cook in fragrant mulled wine, soaking up the cozy flavors of the season. Serve them over creamy yogurt with crunchy granola, or pair them with vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent Thanksgiving dessert. They're especially nice after a heavy holiday meal when you want something sweet but not overly rich.
7. Instant Pot Fruit Cake – A Festive Make-Ahead Dessert
Fruit cake isn't just for Christmas, and this Instant Pot version makes a wonderful addition to a fall holiday dessert table. It's packed with sweet dried fruits, colorful cherries, and crunchy nuts, giving every slice plenty of flavor and texture. Cooking it in the Instant Pot is a handy alternative when your oven is already busy with Thanksgiving preparations. Slice it into smaller portions and serve alongside coffee or tea for a festive treat guests can enjoy after dinner.
8. Instant Pot Chocolate Cake With Salted Caramel & Pretzels
Not everyone wants pumpkin or apple desserts on Thanksgiving, and this chocolate cake is a delicious way to offer something different. The rich chocolate base is topped with fluffy whipped cream, sweet salted caramel, and crunchy pretzels for a combination that's hard to resist. That mix of sweet, salty, and chocolatey flavors makes every bite interesting without being too complicated. Since it's made in the Instant Pot, you can prepare a special dessert without competing for oven space during the holiday rush.
9. Instant Pot Eggnog Cheesecake With Gingersnap Crust
If you're planning a Thanksgiving gathering that kicks off the holiday season, this eggnog cheesecake is a fun dessert to serve. The creamy eggnog-flavored filling pairs beautifully with a spiced gingersnap crust, giving it a warm, festive taste. It's a nice change from the usual pumpkin and pecan desserts, especially for guests who enjoy traditional holiday flavors. You can prepare it ahead of time and keep it chilled until you're ready to bring out dessert.
10. No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Latte Protein Truffles
These little pumpkin spice truffles are perfect when you want a Thanksgiving treat that doesn't require turning on the oven. Inspired by the cozy flavors of a pumpkin spice latte, they offer a sweet, coffee-flavored bite with a little extra protein. Their small size makes them easy to arrange on a dessert platter alongside cookies, brownies, and other holiday sweets. They're also a convenient make-ahead option when you want something simple to prepare before Thanksgiving gets busy.
11. Southern Pecan Pie – A Traditional Thanksgiving Dessert
A classic Southern pecan pie is always a welcome sight on the Thanksgiving dessert table. The rich, gooey filling is packed with crunchy pecans and baked inside a buttery, flaky crust that holds everything together beautifully. Every slice has that wonderful combination of sweet filling and toasted nuts that makes pecan pie such a holiday favorite. Serve it at room temperature or slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting finish to Thanksgiving dinner.
12. Dutch Apple Pie With Buttery Streusel Topping
There's something about the smell of cinnamon apples baking that makes the whole house feel ready for Thanksgiving. This Dutch apple pie features tender, spiced apples tucked inside a flaky crust and covered with a golden, buttery streusel topping. Unlike a traditional double-crust apple pie, the crumbly topping adds a delicious crunch to every slice. It's especially good served warm with vanilla ice cream melting over the top.
13. Old-Fashioned Sweet Potato Pie – A Southern Holiday Classic
Sweet potato pie has been a longtime favorite at Southern Thanksgiving gatherings, and it's easy to understand why. The smooth, spiced filling has a naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with a flaky pastry crust. A toasted meringue topping gives this version an extra-special finish without taking away from its traditional charm. It's a wonderful choice when you want a classic Thanksgiving dessert that brings a little Southern comfort to the table.
14. Healthy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies for Thanksgiving
Who says Thanksgiving desserts have to be rich pies and cheesecakes? These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are soft, naturally sweetened, and made without flour, offering a different option for your holiday cookie platter. The pumpkin keeps them moist, while the dark chocolate chips add just enough sweetness to make them feel like a treat. They're great for guests who prefer smaller desserts or want something to enjoy with a warm cup of coffee after dinner.
15. Pumpkin Roll With Cream Cheese Filling – A Festive Fall Treat
A pumpkin roll always looks impressive when sliced, revealing beautiful swirls of soft pumpkin cake and creamy filling. The lightly spiced cake wraps around a rich cream cheese center, creating a lovely balance of flavors in every bite. It's a popular fall dessert that fits right into Thanksgiving celebrations, especially when you want something other than another pie. Dust it with powdered sugar before serving for a simple finish that makes it look extra special.
16. Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake – A Beautiful Thanksgiving Dessert
Cranberries and oranges are such a lovely combination for the holidays, and this cranberry orange Bundt cake brings those flavors together beautifully. The soft, moist cake is dotted with tart cranberries, while a sweet glaze adds just enough sweetness to balance their tangy flavor. Its Bundt shape makes it an attractive centerpiece without needing complicated decorations. Serve it with coffee or tea after Thanksgiving dinner for a dessert that feels festive without being too heavy.
17. Maple Walnut Pie – A Sweet and Nutty Holiday Dessert
If you enjoy pecan pie but want to try something different this Thanksgiving, maple walnut pie is worth adding to the menu. The rich maple filling has a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs wonderfully with crunchy toasted walnuts. A buttery pastry crust brings everything together, while decorative pastry cutouts give it a charming homemade look. It's a cozy fall dessert that tastes especially good with a little whipped cream on top.
18. Caramel Apple Crisp – An Easy Thanksgiving Dessert
Few desserts feel as comforting as a warm caramel apple crisp fresh from the oven. Tender cinnamon apples are baked beneath a golden oat crumble, creating a delicious mix of soft fruit and crunchy topping. The caramel adds extra richness, making it a wonderful alternative to traditional apple pie without the work of preparing pastry. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and don't be surprised if everyone comes back for seconds.
19. Pumpkin Caramel Cheesecake Bars With Streusel Topping
These pumpkin cheesecake bars are a great choice when you want all the flavors of a holiday cheesecake in easy-to-serve squares. The creamy pumpkin filling, sweet caramel, and buttery streusel topping create a lovely combination of smooth and crunchy textures. They're especially convenient for Thanksgiving potlucks or larger gatherings because you can slice them into individual portions ahead of time. Arrange them on a platter, and you've got a festive dessert that's easy for guests to grab.
20. Apple Cider Donut Cake – A Cozy Fall Dessert
If apple cider donuts are one of your favorite fall treats, this apple cider donut cake brings those familiar flavors into a dessert that's perfect for sharing. The soft, moist cake has a warm apple cider flavor and a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating that makes every slice delicious. A light glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness without overpowering the cozy spices. It's a wonderful Thanksgiving dessert for anyone who loves simple, homemade cakes with classic autumn flavors.
21. Cranberry Pear Galette – A Rustic Thanksgiving Fruit Dessert
This cranberry pear galette is a beautiful option when you want a homemade fruit dessert without making a traditional pie. Sweet pears and tart cranberries create a lovely balance of flavors, while the folded pastry edges give it that charming rustic appearance. The pecan crust adds a subtle nuttiness that works especially well with the fall fruit filling. Serve it slightly warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a relaxed but impressive Thanksgiving dessert.
22. Pumpkin Bread Pudding – A Warm Thanksgiving Comfort Dessert
When the weather turns chilly, a serving of pumpkin bread pudding feels like the perfect way to finish Thanksgiving dinner. The soft, custardy bread is filled with warm pumpkin spices and baked until the top turns lightly golden. It's a comforting alternative to pumpkin pie, especially when served warm with caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream. This is the kind of dessert that makes everyone want to linger around the table a little longer.
23. Pecan Pie Brownies – A Chocolate Thanksgiving Treat
Can't choose between fudgy brownies and traditional pecan pie? These pecan pie brownies combine a rich chocolate brownie base with a gooey, crunchy pecan topping for the best of both desserts. The chocolate adds a delicious contrast to the sweet pecan filling, making each square especially satisfying. They're easy to cut into smaller portions, which makes them perfect for Thanksgiving dessert platters or potluck gatherings.
24. No-Bake Apple Butter Cheesecake – An Easy Fall Favorite
This apple butter cheesecake is a lovely option when you want a creamy Thanksgiving dessert without using the oven. The smooth cheesecake filling is flavored with spiced apple butter and sits on a buttery graham cracker crust. It has all those cozy apple and cinnamon flavors that make fall desserts so comforting, but with a cool, creamy texture. Prepare it ahead of time and let it chill until you're ready to serve dessert after Thanksgiving dinner.
25. Maple Bourbon Pumpkin Crème Brûlée – An Elegant Holiday Dessert
If you want to serve something a little more elegant than the usual Thanksgiving pie, this pumpkin crème brûlée is a wonderful choice. The silky pumpkin custard has warm maple and bourbon flavors beneath a thin layer of caramelized sugar. Cracking through that golden sugar topping with a spoon is part of what makes crème brûlée so enjoyable. Serve it in individual ramekins for a beautiful dessert that feels special without needing elaborate decorations.
26. Cranberry Apple Cobbler – A Cozy Thanksgiving Fruit Dessert
Sweet apples and tart cranberries make this cranberry apple cobbler a lovely dessert for the Thanksgiving season. The fruit bakes until soft and juicy beneath a golden, buttery topping that adds just the right amount of sweetness and crunch. It's a wonderful way to enjoy familiar fall flavors without making another traditional pie. Bring it to the table warm with vanilla ice cream, and you've got a comforting dessert that's perfect for sharing.
27. Pumpkin Tiramisu – A Creative Thanksgiving Dessert
If you're looking for something different from pumpkin pie, this pumpkin tiramisu is a delicious way to change things up. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy pumpkin mascarpone filling bring together classic Italian dessert flavors with a festive fall twist. The cocoa dusting adds a lovely finish and balances the sweetness of the creamy layers. Since tiramisu is served chilled, it's also a convenient dessert to prepare ahead of Thanksgiving dinner.
28. Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars – Easy Thanksgiving Dessert Squares
These salted caramel apple pie bars bring all the flavors of homemade apple pie into convenient, handheld squares. The buttery crust supports a layer of tender cinnamon apples, while the oat crumble adds a delicious crunch on top. A generous drizzle of salted caramel makes them even more tempting without needing a scoop of ice cream. They're especially handy for Thanksgiving potlucks because guests can enjoy them without plates or forks.
29. Pumpkin Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting
These pumpkin cupcakes are a fun way to serve individual Thanksgiving desserts without cutting into another cake or pie. The soft, spiced pumpkin cupcakes are topped with rich cream cheese frosting that pairs beautifully with their warm fall flavors. Add a little pumpkin decoration or a sprinkle of cinnamon, and they'll look adorable on your holiday dessert table. They're also a great option for kids and anyone who prefers a smaller sweet treat after a big meal.
30. Bourbon Pecan Tart – A Rich Thanksgiving Dessert
If you love pecan pie but want something with a slightly different presentation, this bourbon pecan tart makes a beautiful addition to Thanksgiving dinner. The buttery, fluted crust holds a rich filling packed with toasted pecans and a hint of bourbon flavor. Its thinner shape gives each slice a lovely balance of crunchy pastry and sweet, nutty filling. Serve it with whipped cream for an elegant twist on a familiar holiday favorite.
31. Cranberry Chiffon Pie – A Light Thanksgiving Dessert
After a big Thanksgiving meal, a slice of cranberry chiffon pie can be a refreshing change from heavier holiday desserts. The fluffy cranberry filling has a lovely sweet-tart flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery graham cracker crust. Its pretty pink color makes it stand out among the usual pumpkin and pecan pies on the dessert table. Finish it with whipped cream and sugared cranberries for a festive presentation that looks just as good as it tastes.
32. Nantucket Cranberry Cake – An Old-Fashioned Holiday Favorite
This Nantucket cranberry cake is a wonderful way to bring a classic New England-inspired dessert to your Thanksgiving table. Tart cranberries bake beneath a sweet, buttery topping, creating a delicious contrast between the juicy fruit and golden crust. Although it's sometimes called Nantucket cranberry pie, it has more of a cake-like texture and doesn't require a traditional pastry crust. Serve it warm or at room temperature with whipped cream for a simple dessert that celebrates the flavors of the season.
33. No-Bake Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes – Easy Thanksgiving Treats
These mini pumpkin cheesecakes are perfect when you want a festive dessert without turning on the oven. Each little cheesecake has a creamy pumpkin filling, a buttery graham cracker crust, and a fluffy whipped cream topping. Their individual size makes serving easy, especially when you're hosting a Thanksgiving gathering with lots of guests. You can prepare them ahead of time and keep them chilled until everyone is ready for something sweet.
34. Pumpkin Whoopie Pies With Cream Cheese Filling
These pumpkin whoopie pies are a fun alternative to traditional Thanksgiving cakes and pies. Two soft, cake-like pumpkin cookies sandwich a generous layer of sweet cream cheese filling, creating a delicious handheld treat. The warm pumpkin spices make them feel right at home on a fall dessert table, while their playful shape makes them especially appealing to kids. Arrange them on a platter for an easy-to-share Thanksgiving dessert that doesn't require slicing.
35. Sweet Potato Cake With Marshmallows – A Unique Thanksgiving Dessert
If you love sweet potato casserole with marshmallows, this sweet potato cake takes those familiar Thanksgiving flavors in a sweeter direction. The soft, spiced cake layers are stacked with creamy frosting and finished with toasted marshmallows for a festive presentation. It has that wonderful combination of sweet potatoes, warm spices, and fluffy marshmallow topping that feels especially fitting for the holiday. This is a great choice when you want a Thanksgiving centerpiece dessert that's different from traditional pie.
36. Pumpkin Bundt Cake – A Festive Thanksgiving Centerpiece
A beautifully shaped pumpkin Bundt cake is an easy way to make your Thanksgiving dessert table look extra festive. The moist, pumpkin-spiced cake has all those cozy fall flavors that pair wonderfully with coffee or tea after dinner. Its decorative shape gives it a special appearance without needing complicated frosting or cake-decorating skills. Serve it in generous slices for a crowd-friendly dessert that looks impressive and tastes like autumn.
37. Pear Almond Tart – An Elegant Thanksgiving Dessert
This pear almond tart is a lovely option when you want something a little different from the usual apple and pumpkin desserts. Tender pears rest on a rich almond filling inside a buttery pastry shell, creating a beautiful combination of soft fruit and nutty flavors. The neatly arranged pear slices make it look elegant enough for a special Thanksgiving gathering without needing extra decorations. Serve it slightly warm or at room temperature with a little whipped cream for a simple but impressive holiday dessert.
38. Easy Pumpkin Mousse With Only 5 Ingredients
Sometimes the best Thanksgiving desserts are the ones that don't require hours in the kitchen, and this pumpkin mousse keeps things wonderfully simple. With just five ingredients, it creates a light, airy dessert filled with creamy pumpkin flavor and warm fall spices. Serve it in individual glasses with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a pretty holiday presentation. It's especially nice after a heavy Thanksgiving dinner when everyone wants something sweet without another big slice of pie.
39. Cranberry Mini Pavlovas – A Beautiful Thanksgiving Dessert
These cranberry mini pavlovas are a lovely way to finish Thanksgiving dinner with something light, crisp, and festive. Each delicate meringue nest has a crunchy exterior and a soft center, topped with fluffy whipped cream and tangy cranberry compote. The bright cranberries, rosemary, and orange decorations make them look beautiful on a holiday dessert platter. They're a wonderful alternative to rich cakes and pies, especially when you want individual desserts that feel a little more special.
See more tips and recipes here:
Leave a Reply