25 Thanksgiving Desserts That Will Make You Forget About Turkey
I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning your dessert menu. The best Thanksgiving desserts are a mix of classic pies, creamy cheesecakes, and fun twists on traditional favorites. From pumpkin and apple pies to cranberry cheesecake and sweet potato trifles, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds.
This year, why not try something new alongside your family’s must-have treats? You could whip up a batch of fall-themed cookies or make a show-stopping trifle. No matter what you choose, these desserts will be the perfect end to your Thanksgiving feast and leave your guests feeling thankful for your baking skills.
Pumpkin Pie
Ready to make a classic pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving? Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Mix pumpkin puree, condensed milk, eggs, and spices in a bowl until smooth.
Pour the mixture into your pie crust.
Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F.
Lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35-40 more minutes.
Check if it’s done by inserting a knife near the center. It should come out clean.
Let your pie cool and set for about 2 hours before serving.
You can top your pie with whipped cream for extra yumminess. Enjoy your homemade pumpkin pie!
Pecan Pie
Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious pecan pie:
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecans
Now, let’s make your pie!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Spread pecans on the bottom of your pie crust.
Pour the mixture over the pecans.
Bake for 50-60 minutes. The pie is done when the center jiggles slightly.
Let it cool before slicing.
You can make this pie up to two days ahead. Just wrap it up and keep it in the fridge. Bring it to room temp before serving.
For extra flavor, try browning the butter first. It adds a nice nutty taste.
If your pie isn’t set after baking, don’t worry! Lower the oven to 325°F, cover the crust edges with foil, and bake for 20-30 more minutes.
Enjoy your homemade pecan pie!
Apple Pie
You’ll need:
• 6 cups sliced apples
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 pie crusts
• 2 tbsp butter
How to make it:
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Mix the apples, sugar, spices, flour, and lemon juice in a bowl.
Place one pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish.
Pour in the apple mixture and dot with butter.
Cover with the second crust. Trim and crimp the edges.
Cut a few slits in the top crust to let steam escape.
Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.
Let cool before slicing. Enjoy your homemade apple pie!
Sweet Potato Pie
You’ll need these ingredients for a delicious sweet potato pie:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 unbaked pie crust
Now, let’s make your pie!
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Mix the mashed sweet potatoes and butter in a bowl.
Add sugar, milk, eggs, and vanilla. Blend until smooth.
Pour the filling into your pie crust.
Bake for 15 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Continue baking for about 40 minutes. The pie is done when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Let it cool before serving.
Your sweet potato pie will be a hit at Thanksgiving dinner! The creamy, sweet filling pairs perfectly with the flaky crust. Serve it warm or chilled – both ways are yummy!
Pumpkin Cheesecake
Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious pumpkin cheesecake:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 4 eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Now let’s make it!
Mix graham cracker crumbs, butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Press into a 9-inch springform pan. Bake at 325°F for 8 minutes.
Beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add pumpkin, eggs, sour cream, spices, and vanilla. Mix well.
Pour filling into crust. Place pan in a large roasting pan filled with 1 inch of hot water.
Bake at 325°F for about 1 hour, until center is almost set. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Your pumpkin cheesecake will be creamy, spiced, and perfect for your Thanksgiving table!
Chocolate Pecan Pie
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pie crust
- 3/4 cup corn syrup
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Now, let’s make this delicious pie!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the bottom of your pie crust.
Add the chopped pecans to your syrup mixture and stir to coat them evenly.
Pour this mixture over the chocolate chips in your pie crust.
Bake for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is lightly browned and the center jiggles just a little.
Let the pie cool completely before serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Enjoy your homemade chocolate pecan pie! It’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any time you’re craving a sweet, nutty treat.
Cranberry Sauce Swirl Cheesecake
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
Now, let’s make this yummy dessert!
Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla and sour cream.
Pour half the batter into the crust. Dollop spoonfuls of cranberry sauce on top.
Add remaining batter. Swirl cranberry sauce with a knife to create pretty patterns.
Bake at 325°F for about 1 hour. The center should jiggle slightly when done.
Let it cool, then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
Your cranberry swirl cheesecake is ready to serve! The tangy cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake. Your Thanksgiving guests will love this festive twist on a classic dessert.
Pumpkin Roll
Get ready to wow your guests with this tasty pumpkin roll! Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 2/3 cup canned pumpkin
- 3/4 cup flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a 15×10 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix eggs, sugar, and pumpkin in a bowl. Add flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Spread batter in the pan.
Bake for 15 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes.
Dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Flip the cake onto the towel and peel off the paper.
Roll up the cake in the towel, starting at the narrow end. Let cool completely.
Mix cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla for the filling.
Unroll the cake and spread the filling over it. Roll it back up without the towel.
Wrap in plastic and chill for at least an hour before serving.
Slice and enjoy your delicious pumpkin roll!
Pecan Pie Bars
Let’s make some yummy pecan pie bars! Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 4 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups corn syrup
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
Mix flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and softened butter. Press into the pan and bake for 20 minutes.
While the crust bakes, whisk eggs, corn syrup, 1 1/2 cups sugar, melted butter, and vanilla.
Stir in the chopped pecans.
Pour the filling over the hot crust and bake for another 25-30 minutes.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting.
Your pecan pie bars are ready! They’re perfect for sharing at your Thanksgiving gathering.
Chocolate Mousse
Here’s a simple chocolate mousse recipe for your Thanksgiving dessert table:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir every 30 seconds until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of cream until soft peaks form.
Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream gently.
Whip the remaining cream with sugar, vanilla, and salt until stiff peaks form.
Fold this mixture into the chocolate cream until well combined.
Spoon the mousse into serving glasses or ramekins.
Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
You can top your mousse with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a festive look. This make-ahead dessert is perfect for busy Thanksgiving prep!
Apple Crisp
You’ll need these ingredients for a yummy apple crisp:
- 6 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup cold butter, diced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Here’s how to make it:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Put the sliced apples in a buttered 9×13 inch baking dish.
Mix the oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
Cut in the cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the topping over the apples.
Bake for about 45 minutes, until the top is golden and the apples are soft.
Your kitchen will smell amazing as it bakes! Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra deliciousness.
Gingerbread Cookies
You’ll need these ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Here’s how to make them:
Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl.
In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.
Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Chill the dough for at least 2 hours.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll out the dough and cut into shapes.
Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly browned.
Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
You can decorate your cookies with icing or leave them plain. Enjoy your homemade gingerbread cookies!
Pumpkin Cake
Ready to bake a delicious pumpkin cake? Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 box spice cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch pan.
In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, eggs, pumpkin, oil, vanilla, and brown sugar until well combined.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting or serving.
You can top your pumpkin cake with whipped cream, cream cheese frosting, or enjoy it as is. It’s perfect for your Thanksgiving dessert table or any fall gathering!
Caramel Apple Galette
You’ll love this tasty treat for Thanksgiving! Here’s what you need:
- 1 pie crust
- 4 apples, sliced
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling
Now let’s make it:
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
Roll out the pie crust on a baking sheet.
Mix the apple slices with sugar and cinnamon.
Spread caramel sauce on the crust, leaving a 3-inch border.
Arrange the apples on top of the caramel.
Fold the edges of the crust over the filling.
Brush the crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown.
Let it cool a bit before serving. Your family will love this sweet and gooey dessert!
Brownie Pie
Want to try something new for Thanksgiving dessert? Brownie pie is the perfect treat!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 box brownie mix
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- Optional: vanilla ice cream for serving
Now for the fun part:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix the brownie mix, egg, and water in a bowl until smooth.
Stir in most of the chocolate chips, saving some for the top.
Pour the batter into your pie crust.
Sprinkle the remaining chips on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes. The center should be set but still a bit gooey.
Let it cool for about 15 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch. Your family will love this chocolatey twist on traditional pie!
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ready to bake some yummy fall treats? These pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are perfect for Thanksgiving!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Now let’s get baking!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a bowl.
In another bowl, cream the butter and sugars until fluffy. Beat in the pumpkin, egg, and vanilla.
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly browned.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack.
Enjoy your warm, soft pumpkin chocolate chip cookies with a glass of milk or some hot apple cider!
Tiramisu Dip
Want a quick and easy Thanksgiving dessert? Try this yummy tiramisu dip! It’s ready in just 5 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp instant espresso powder
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Directions:
Beat the cream cheese until smooth in a medium bowl.
Add mascarpone and mix well.
Pour in the sugar, cream, vanilla, and espresso powder. Beat everything together until it’s light and fluffy.
Scoop the dip into serving bowls.
Dust some cocoa powder on top.
Serve right away with ladyfingers or cookies for dipping.
You can also chill the dip if you prefer it cold. This tasty treat will be a hit at your Thanksgiving table!
S’mores Brownies
Want to bring some campfire magic to your Thanksgiving dessert table? Try these yummy s’mores brownies!
Ingredients:
- 1 box brownie mix
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil.
Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the pan to form a crust.
Prepare brownie mix according to package instructions.
Pour brownie batter over the crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes.
Remove from oven and top with marshmallows and chocolate chips.
Broil for 1-2 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown. Watch carefully!
Let cool before cutting into squares.
Enjoy your gooey, chocolatey s’mores brownies! They’re sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving feast.
Fruit Sorbet
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 3 cups fruit juice of your choice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: fresh herbs for flavor
Directions:
Mix sugar and water in a pot. Heat until sugar dissolves.
Add your chosen fruit juice and salt. Bring to a low boil.
Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
Let the mixture cool completely.
Pour into an ice cream maker and churn according to the machine’s instructions.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mix into a shallow dish and freeze.
Stir every 30 minutes for about 3 hours until it’s slushy and frozen.
Your homemade sorbet is ready! Serve it in pretty bowls or glasses for a light, refreshing Thanksgiving treat.
Mini Pumpkin Pies
You’ll love these cute and tasty mini pumpkin pies! They’re perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients:
- 1 package refrigerated pie crust
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
Roll out the pie crust and cut 12 circles using a 3.5-inch cookie cutter. Press each circle into a muffin cup.
In a bowl, mix pumpkin, condensed milk, eggs, spice, and salt until smooth.
Pour the filling into each crust, about 3/4 full.
Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes more.
Let cool completely. Top with whipped cream if desired.
Enjoy your mini pumpkin pies!
Baked Apples
You’ll love this simple and cozy Thanksgiving dessert. Here’s what you need:
Ingredients:
- 6 medium apples
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup apple juice
- Pinch of salt
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Core the apples, leaving the bottom intact. Place them in a baking dish.
Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl.
Fill each apple with the sugar mixture. Top with a small pat of butter.
Pour the apple juice into the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the apples.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the apples are tender.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, fragrant baked apples!
Chocolate Eclairs
Ready to add a French twist to your Thanksgiving dessert table? Let’s make some delicious chocolate eclairs!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 package vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
Now, let’s get baking!
Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a saucepan, bring water and butter to a boil. Add flour all at once and stir until a smooth ball forms. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
Beat in eggs, one at a time, until the mixture is smooth. Pipe or spoon mixture onto a baking sheet in 4-inch strips. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
While the shells cool, make the filling. Mix milk and pudding mix until thick. Whip cream with powdered sugar and fold into pudding.
For the topping, melt chocolate chips with corn syrup. Fill cooled shells with pudding mixture and drizzle with chocolate.
Chill your eclairs until you’re ready to serve. Your guests will love this fancy French treat!
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Ready to make a yummy fall treat? Let’s whip up some pumpkin whoopie pies!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Now, let’s make these tasty treats!
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a bowl.
In another bowl, whisk brown sugar and oil. Add pumpkin, eggs, and vanilla. Mix well.
Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix until combined.
Drop spoonfuls of batter onto the baking sheets.
Bake for 10-12 minutes. Let cool completely.
For the filling, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla.
Spread filling between two cooled cookies to make sandwiches.
Enjoy your homemade pumpkin whoopie pies!
Cinnamon-Scented Icebox Cake
You’ll need:
- Graham crackers
- Chocolate pudding mix
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla extract
Here’s how to make it:
Make the chocolate pudding according to the package instructions.
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, lay out a single layer of graham crackers. Break them as needed to cover the entire bottom.
Whip 2 cups of heavy cream with 6 tablespoons of sugar until soft peaks form.
Mix cinnamon and vanilla into the whipped cream.
Spread a layer of pudding over the graham crackers, then top with a layer of the cinnamon whipped cream.
Repeat the layers: graham crackers, pudding, and whipped cream.
Finish with a layer of graham crackers on top.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Before serving, dust the top with extra cinnamon for a pretty look.
Your icebox cake will be a hit at Thanksgiving dinner!
Sticky Toffee Pudding
Ready to try a delicious British dessert? Sticky toffee pudding is a sweet treat you’ll love!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
For the toffee sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp molasses
Now, let’s make it!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
Mix dates, boiling water, and baking soda in a bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Beat butter and sugar until creamy. Add eggs and vanilla, then mix well.
Stir in flour and baking powder. Fold in the date mixture.
Pour batter into the baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes.
For the sauce, melt butter in a pan. Add cream, sugar, and molasses.
Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thick.
Pour half the sauce over the warm pudding. Serve with extra sauce on top.
Enjoy your homemade sticky toffee pudding!