Indulge in Sweetness: The Ultimate Collection of 16 Delicious Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes

The holiday season, especially Thanksgiving, is a cherished time for gratitude, family gatherings, and undeniably, an abundance of delicious food. While many of us strive for healthy eating throughout the year, adhering to an “80/20 rule” – mostly wholesome with a delightful 20% for indulgence – Thanksgiving often calls for a slight adjustment. When the festive feast approaches, that ratio might just tip a little more towards the decadent, perhaps a 70/30 split! And why shouldn’t it? Thanksgiving is a special occasion to truly savor life’s sweeter moments, both literally and figuratively. It’s a day when the aroma of warm spices fills the air, and the warmth of shared meals creates lasting memories that extend far beyond the dinner table.

This year, as you meticulously plan your holiday spread, don’t overlook the grand finale: dessert. To help you crown your Thanksgiving meal with an unforgettable sweet treat, I’ve carefully curated a list of 16 truly delicious Thanksgiving desserts. You’ll undoubtedly notice a comforting presence of pumpkin-inspired recipes – a testament to autumn’s favorite squash – but rest assured, this collection offers a wonderful variety. From creamy cheesecakes and classic apple crisps to unique walnut bars and other delightful surprises, there’s something here to tempt every palate and satisfy every sweet tooth. Get ready to explore these irresistible recipes and find your perfect Thanksgiving showstopper, ensuring a memorable end to your holiday celebration!

The Irresistible Allure of Thanksgiving Desserts

Thanksgiving dinner is renowned for its savory delights – the succulent roast turkey, rich and aromatic stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes, and vibrant cranberry sauce. But let’s be honest, for many, the anticipation truly builds for the grand finale: dessert. These sweet creations are more than just an afterthought; they are the comforting, celebratory culmination of a day dedicated to abundance and gratitude. They provide a moment of sweet reflection, a perfect pairing with coffee and lively conversation, and often, a cherished connection to family traditions passed down through generations. Whether it’s a classic pumpkin pie, a sophisticated cheesecake, or a playful new treat, Thanksgiving desserts hold a special place in our hearts and on our holiday tables, symbolizing warmth, comfort, and the joy of coming together.

Explore Our Handpicked Selection of Thanksgiving Sweets

This carefully curated list aims to offer abundant inspiration for your holiday baking, ensuring there’s a perfect dessert for every taste preference and skill level. We’ve included a range of traditional favorites alongside some delightful and inventive twists, guaranteeing that your Thanksgiving dessert table will be both familiar and exciting. From no-bake options to gluten-free delights, and from individual servings to crowd-pleasing slab pies, prepare to discover your new go-to holiday recipe!

1. Chocolate Coconut No-Bake Baklava Bites

Chocolate Coconut No-Bake Baklava Bites // Peas & Crayons

For a truly delightful and unexpected twist on a classic Mediterranean dessert, these Chocolate Coconut No-Bake Baklava Bites are an absolute revelation for your Thanksgiving spread. They offer all the rich, nutty, and sweet flavors of traditional baklava but in an incredibly easy, no-bake format, making them perfect for busy holiday preparations when oven space is precious. The unique combination of chocolate and coconut adds a luxurious and tropical touch, while the individual bite-sized portions make them ideal for sharing and sampling alongside other festive treats. These modern baklava bites are sure to impress your guests with their sophisticated flavor profile and elegant presentation, offering a refreshing departure from typical holiday pies and a memorable sweet experience.

2. Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Maple Glaze

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Maple Glaze // Stuck on Sweet

These Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Maple Glaze are a cozy embodiment of autumn’s finest flavors, making them an ideal addition to your Thanksgiving dessert platter. Their tender, cake-like texture, generously infused with warm pumpkin spice, makes them incredibly comforting and utterly irresistible. The addition of a sweet, drizzly maple glaze beautifully complements the pumpkin, elevating them from simple cookies to a truly special holiday treat. Perfect for a lighter dessert option after a substantial meal, or as a thoughtful takeaway for guests, these cookies capture the essence of fall in every bite. They are also wonderfully kid-friendly and a great alternative for those who might prefer a less traditional “pie” dessert. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect post-Thanksgiving meal indulgence.

3. Pumpkin Cheesecake

Pumpkin Cheesecake // Chocolate Moosey

Move over, traditional pumpkin pie! This rich and incredibly creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake offers a sophisticated and decadent alternative that’s equally fitting, if not more so, for your Thanksgiving table. Blending the beloved, warm flavors of pumpkin and quintessential fall spices with the luxurious, smooth texture of cheesecake, it creates a dessert that is both wonderfully familiar and excitingly new. A crisp graham cracker crust provides a delightful contrast to the smooth, perfectly spiced pumpkin filling. This cheesecake is a true showstopper, impressive enough for any holiday gathering, and it can often be made ahead of time, freeing up valuable oven space and your schedule on the bustling big day. Garnish with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream or a delicate sprinkle of cinnamon for an elegant and inviting finish.

4. Pumpkin Pie Dessert Lasagna

Pumpkin Pie Dessert Lasagna // The Cookie Rookie

If you’re seeking a no-bake, crowd-pleasing dessert that offers layers of delightful flavor and stunning presentation, the Pumpkin Pie Dessert Lasagna is your perfect answer this Thanksgiving. This innovative and incredibly popular dish features distinct layers of spiced pumpkin, creamy cheesecake filling, and a crunchy cookie crust, all generously topped with a cloud of whipped cream. It’s often lighter than a traditional pumpkin pie but delivers all the classic pumpkin pie satisfaction with a fun, unexpected, and textural twist. Perfect for larger gatherings, this dessert is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to slice and serve, making it a stress-free option. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert that only gets better as the flavors meld beautifully in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy your holiday without last-minute baking.

5. Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp // A Cedar Spoon

While strawberries and rhubarb might traditionally be considered spring and summer stars, a perfectly executed Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp can bring a bright, tart, and refreshing counterpoint to the rich and savory flavors of a heavy Thanksgiving meal. The inherent sweetness of the strawberries beautifully balances the invigorating tang of the rhubarb, all topped with a comforting, buttery oat crumble that adds a delightful texture. This dessert offers a lighter, fruit-forward option for those who might not be keen on pumpkin or heavy cream-based desserts, or simply want something different. Served warm with a generous scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream, it’s a rustic, comforting dessert that speaks of home and wholesome goodness. It’s an excellent choice to add vibrant color and a burst of refreshing taste to your holiday table, pleasing a wide range of palates.

6. Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream

Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream // The View from Great Island

For a refreshing and utterly unexpected take on the quintessential holiday flavor, look no further than homemade Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream. This incredibly creamy, perfectly spiced treat captures all the comforting essence of your favorite autumn pie but in a delightful cold, scoopable form. It’s an excellent and often welcomed option for those who might prefer a lighter, palate-cleansing dessert after a particularly heavy holiday meal, or simply for anyone who absolutely loves ice cream year-round. You can serve it exquisitely on its own, perhaps with a delicate sprinkle of cinnamon or a rich drizzle of caramel, or creatively use it as a decadent accompaniment to other warm Thanksgiving desserts like apple crisp or pecan pie. It’s a playful, sophisticated, and undeniably delicious way to incorporate beloved pumpkin into your holiday dessert menu.

7. Apple Crumb Slab Pie

Apple Crumb Slab Pie // Baked by Rachel

When you’re feeding a large crowd on Thanksgiving, a traditional round pie, while charming, might not quite cut it in terms of servings or ease. Enter the ingenious Apple Crumb Slab Pie! This fantastic dessert is specifically designed for generous portions, baked conveniently in a rectangular pan, which makes it incredibly easy to slice and serve efficiently. It perfectly combines the comforting, spiced flavors of tender apples with a delightful, buttery, and crunchy crumb topping, all nestled in a flaky, golden crust. Apple pie is a quintessential American dessert, and this slab version ensures everyone gets a substantial piece of that warm, autumnal goodness. It’s hearty, deeply satisfying, and pairs exquisitely with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, embodying the true spirit of a bountiful harvest and shared family joy.

8. Pumpkin Pie Pastry Pockets

Pumpkin Pie Pastry Pockets // Emily Bites

For a fun, individual-serving dessert that’s effortlessly easy to handle and utterly delicious, these Pumpkin Pie Pastry Pockets are a brilliant and highly practical choice for your Thanksgiving feast. They ingeniously take the beloved, spiced filling of traditional pumpkin pie and encase it within a flaky, golden-brown pastry crust, creating a delightful hand-held treat that’s perfect for mingling, casual enjoyment, or even for little hands. These pockets are significantly less messy than serving slices of pie, making them an excellent option for a buffet-style dessert table. They’re also a fantastic and appreciated option for sending home with guests as a delicious Thanksgiving leftover. Warm them slightly before serving for a truly comforting experience, perhaps dusted with a delicate amount of powdered sugar or a small dollop of fresh whipped cream.

9. Maple Walnut Bars {Gluten-free}

Maple Walnut Bars {Gluten-free} // Snixy Kitchen

These Maple Walnut Bars offer a delicious, deeply nutty, and perfectly sweet indulgence that’s also thoughtfully gluten-free, making them an excellent and inclusive option for guests with dietary restrictions this Thanksgiving. The rich, earthy flavor of crunchy walnuts is beautifully complemented by the warm, caramel-like sweetness of maple syrup, creating a bar that’s both satisfying and elegantly flavorful. Bars are incredibly convenient for holiday gatherings; they’re easy to make in a large batch, simple to slice into uniform portions, and effortless to serve. Their chewy texture and concentrated flavors make them a delightful departure from more traditional pies, providing a perfect bite-sized treat that captures the essence of fall. They are a wonderful and versatile addition to any festive dessert platter, catering to various tastes and needs.

10. Pear Ginger Crumble Pie

Pear Ginger Crumble Pie // Flavor the Moments

For a sophisticated and warmly spiced fruit dessert that offers a refreshing change from the usual, the Pear Ginger Crumble Pie is an exquisite choice for your Thanksgiving feast. The subtle, mellow sweetness and tender texture of ripe pears are wonderfully enhanced by the invigorating, zesty warmth of fresh ginger, all crowned with a buttery, crisp, and irresistible crumble topping. This pie offers a fantastic alternative to the more common apple or pumpkin varieties, providing a unique and refined flavor profile that is both deeply comforting and intriguingly complex. It’s a great option for those seeking something a little different, yet still deeply rooted in the delicious seasonal flavors of autumn. Serve it warm with a luxurious dollop of crème fraîche or a scoop of premium vanilla ice cream to truly highlight its rich and nuanced character, making it a memorable part of your holiday meal.

11. Orange Cranberry Cheesecake

Orange Cranberry Cheesecake // Cooking on the Front Burner

Brighten your Thanksgiving dessert table with the truly vibrant and festive flavors of an Orange Cranberry Cheesecake. This stunning dessert perfectly combines the rich, velvety smooth texture of classic cheesecake with the zesty brightness of fresh orange and the delightful tart tang of cranberries. It offers a wonderful and much-needed palate cleanser after a hearty and often heavy holiday meal, and its gorgeous festive colors are inherently ideal for the holiday season. The exquisite interplay of sweet, tart, and invigorating citrus notes makes this cheesecake a truly memorable and highly anticipated treat. It’s a sophisticated choice that can be conveniently made in advance, allowing you more precious time to relax and enjoy your guests on Thanksgiving Day. A beautiful and delicious addition that will undoubtedly stand out among the usual fall flavors.

12. Pumpkin Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bars // Kristine’s Kitchen

For a lighter yet equally flavorful and utterly satisfying pumpkin dessert, these Pumpkin Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bars are an excellent and smart option for your Thanksgiving table. They flawlessly offer the classic, comforting taste of pumpkin cheesecake with the added tang and delightful lightness of Greek yogurt, making them feel a little less indulgent without sacrificing any of the rich, autumnal flavor. These bars are wonderfully easy to prepare, serve, and portion, making them perfect for a diverse, buffet-style holiday spread. The harmonious combination of creamy pumpkin, warm baking spices, and a crisp, buttery crust makes them utterly satisfying. They are a thoughtful and strategic choice if you’re looking to offer a slightly healthier dessert alternative or simply want a delicious treat that isn’t overly heavy after enjoying a large and sumptuous Thanksgiving meal.

13. Pecan Pie Smoked Porter Brownies

Pecan Pie Smoked Porter Brownies// The Beeroness

For the sophisticated adult palates and those who appreciate a truly unique culinary adventure, these Pecan Pie Smoked Porter Brownies are an absolute must-try addition to your Thanksgiving dessert lineup. This incredibly innovative recipe masterfully combines the deep, malty, and slightly smoky notes of a rich smoked porter beer with the classic gooey sweetness of a pecan pie, all harmoniously integrated within a dense, fudgy brownie base. It’s a wonderfully complex and sophisticated dessert that offers layers of distinct flavor – sweet, nutty, intensely chocolatey, and subtly smoky – making it a true standout on any Thanksgiving dessert spread. These brownies are decadent, surprisingly easy to make, and provide a gourmet touch that will undoubtedly spark conversation and delight even the most discerning dessert connoisseurs at your holiday gathering.

14. Healthy Thumbprint Cookies

Healthy Thumbprint Cookies // Fit Foodie Finds

For those looking to maintain a healthier lifestyle even amidst the tempting holiday indulgence, these Healthy Thumbprint Cookies are a fantastic, guilt-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or festive appeal. Made with wholesome ingredients, they offer a delicate sweetness and a satisfying, chewy texture that everyone will appreciate. The classic thumbprint design allows for a burst of delicious flavor in the center – think bright fruit preserves, rich dark chocolate, or even a healthier, homemade nut butter filling. These cookies are perfect for a diverse Thanksgiving dessert table, thoughtfully catering to various dietary preferences without sacrificing the joy of a sweet treat. They’re also incredibly fun to make with family and present beautifully, adding a touch of charming, homemade goodness to your holiday spread.

15. Pumpkin Pie Cake Bars

Pumpkin Pie Cake Bars// Nutmeg Nanny

Why choose between a classic pumpkin pie and a comforting cake when you can have the very best of both worlds in these absolutely amazing Pumpkin Pie Cake Bars? This brilliant recipe delivers just that: a moist, perfectly spiced pumpkin cake base generously topped with a creamy, dreamy pumpkin pie-like filling or frosting. It’s a comforting, incredibly easy-to-serve dessert that harmoniously brings together familiar and beloved holiday flavors in a delightful, portable bar format. These bars are perfect for a casual yet festive Thanksgiving gathering, easy to transport if you’re attending a potluck, and a fantastic way to satisfy everyone’s craving for pumpkin in a new and exciting form. They’re less fussy and time-consuming than preparing a traditional pie but are equally impressive in their rich flavor and appealing texture, making them a superb and stress-free choice for your holiday baking endeavors.

16. Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes// Texanerin Baking

These Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes are the epitome of elegance, convenience, and deliciousness for your Thanksgiving dessert table. Offering perfectly portioned individual servings, they beautifully eliminate the need for cumbersome slicing and serving a large cake or pie, making them incredibly easy for guests to simply pick up and enjoy at their leisure. Each delightful bite-sized cheesecake delivers a perfect blend of creamy, richly spiced pumpkin and the decadent texture of classic cheesecake, all nestled atop a crisp, buttery crust. Their charming miniature size makes them wonderfully appealing and ideal for those who wish to sample a variety of desserts without feeling overly indulgent. They are also incredibly charming and can be effortlessly garnished for a truly beautiful and polished presentation, adding a sophisticated and professional touch to your festive holiday spread that your guests will adore.

Make Your Thanksgiving Dessert Table Unforgettable

With this diverse and inspiring collection of 16 delicious Thanksgiving dessert recipes, you’re now well-equipped to create a holiday spread that will not only satisfy but truly delight every guest. Whether you lean towards the comforting classics like pumpkin pie presented in exciting new forms, or prefer to explore unique and adventurous flavors such as chocolate baklava bites or a warm pear ginger pie, there’s an irresistible option here to make your celebration sweeter and more memorable. Remember, Thanksgiving is a precious time for sharing joy, expressing gratitude, and, of course, indulging in incredible food that brings people together. These carefully selected recipes are designed to add that extra sparkle to your festive gathering, helping you create cherished memories around a truly unforgettable dessert table.

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