20 Delicious Thanksgiving Desserts That Will Make You Drool!

Thanksgiving desserts are a sweet tradition, bringing together the rich, comforting flavors of fall. From spiced pumpkin pies to apple crisps and pecan delights, these desserts capture the essence of the season. They often feature ingredients like apples, cranberries, cinnamon, and nutmeg, making each bite feel like a warm, holiday embrace.

But Thanksgiving desserts aren’t just about tradition—they’re about connection. Whether you stick to the classics or add your own twist, these treats create moments of joy, leaving everyone around the table with something to smile about.

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1. Butterscotch-Cornflake Apple Crisp

Butterscotch-Cornflake Apple Crisp

Image and Recipe by The Pioneer Woman

Relish in a delightful twist on a classic dessert with this Butterscotch-Cornflake Apple Crisp. Imagine tender, spiced apples paired with a buttery, crispy cornflake and butterscotch topping. The contrast of textures makes every bite satisfying, from the juicy fruit to the sweet, crunchy layers on top. It’s the perfect dessert for fall, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your table with a fun, flavorful spin on tradition.

Did you know that the combination of cornflakes and butterscotch adds an unexpected crunch to a traditional apple crisp? It’s a delicious twist I love using to elevate a simple dessert!

2. Apple Cinnamon Cake

Apple Cinnamon Cake

Image and Recipe by EatingWell

Packed with the warm flavors of apples and cinnamon, this cake is the perfect cozy dessert for fall. Its moist texture and fragrant spices make it a great treat for family gatherings or a simple afternoon snack. The combination of sweet apples and cinnamon creates a comforting balance of flavors, making every bite feel like a hug in dessert form.

Did you know cinnamon not only adds flavor but also enhances the natural sweetness of apples?

3. Apple-Raspberry Crisp

Apple-Raspberry Crisp

Image and Recipe by The Pioneer Woman

Delve into the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with juicy apples and vibrant raspberries under a crunchy, buttery oat topping, with this Apple-Raspberry. It’s a simple, no-fuss dessert that’s packed with flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoying it on its own, this crisp brings a fresh twist to traditional apple desserts.

4. Smoky Maple Chess Pie

Smoky Maple Chess Pie

Image and Recipe by Garden&Gun

Enjoy a buttery, flaky crust and a sweet, smoky filling with this Smoky Maple Chess Pie that is a delightful twist on a Southern classic. The rich maple syrup flavor is balanced by a hint of smokiness, giving each bite a depth that feels perfect for fall gatherings. Whether served as a holiday dessert or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, this pie brings a unique flavor to the table.

Did you know the smoky flavor comes from adding a bit of smoked sea salt?

5. Pumpkin Pound Cake

Pumpkin Pound Cake

Image and Recipe by Sally’sbakingrecipes

Packed with rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices, this Pumpkin Pound Cake is the ultimate fall dessert. The cake’s dense yet tender texture makes it perfect for cozy gatherings, while a drizzle of glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness. It’s a wonderful option for holiday dinners or as a sweet treat to enjoy with coffee. This cake brings all the flavors of autumn into a single, delicious slice.

Did you know that pound cakes get their name from originally using a pound of each ingredient?

6. Basque Cheesecake

Basque Cheesecake

Image and Recipe by NYT Cooking

Dwell onto the rich, creamy center and beautifully caramelized exterior of the Basque cheesecake that is both rustic and indulgent. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, this version is baked at high heat, creating a dark, almost burnt top that adds a deep, complex flavor to the creamy interior. It’s a simple yet decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, offering a unique twist on the classic cheesecake.

Did you know that the burnt top of Basque cheesecake is what gives it its signature flavor and texture?

7. Cranberry Pie

Cranberry Pie

Image and Recipe by bakesbybrownsugar

Sweet and tart, this cranberry pie is the perfect dessert to add some vibrant flavor to your holiday table. The tangy cranberry filling pairs beautifully with the buttery, flaky crust, creating a balanced bite of fruity richness. It’s a great way to mix things up from more traditional pies, while still offering that cozy, comforting feel. Whether for Thanksgiving or any fall occasion, this pie is sure to be a hit.

Did you know cranberries are one of the few fruits native to North America, making them a traditional choice for holiday desserts?

8. Pumpkin Butter Ice Cream Cake

Pumpkin Butter Ice Cream Cake

Image and Recipe by Garden&Gun

Creamy pumpkin butter ice cream layered with spiced cookie crumbles makes this dessert a fall favorite that’s both indulgent and refreshing. It’s perfect for those who want a cool, unique twist on traditional pumpkin desserts, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving or a cozy autumn get-together, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its rich seasonal flavors.

9. Mississippi Mud Pie

Mississippi Mud Pie

Image and Recipe by Good Food

For the ultimate chocolate lovers, featuring layers of rich chocolate goodness, this Mississippi Mud Pie is here for the rescue. It starts with a crunchy cookie crust, followed by a decadent chocolate filling, and topped off with a smooth layer of whipped cream. Every bite is a delicious mix of textures and flavors that’ll leave you craving more. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this pie is sure to impress and satisfy.

10. Caramel Apple Cake

Caramel Apple Cake

Image and Recipe by baranbakery

Celebrate fall with the delicious layers of tender cake and spiced apples of this Caramel Apple Cake. The rich caramel drizzle adds a decadent touch, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the apples and the warmth of cinnamon. It’s an ideal dessert for special gatherings or a comforting treat to enjoy at home.

Did you know adding caramel sauce while the cake is still warm helps it absorb the rich flavor even better?

11. Thanksgiving Turkeys

Thanksgiving Turkeys

Image and Recipe by Food Network

These best Thanksgiving turkeys are a playful, edible addition to your holiday table, made with a creative mix of candy and chocolate-covered almonds. They’re fun to make and perfect for bringing a whimsical touch to your dessert spread. Great for kids and adults alike, these little treats will be a hit at any gathering, adding charm and sweetness to the celebration.

12. Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie

Image and Recipe by Sally’s Baking Recipes

Combining the best of caramel apples, cheesecake, and pie in one indulgent creation is the Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake filling, and a layer of caramel-drizzled apples, every bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. It’s the ideal fall dessert, offering rich, comforting flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you’re an apple pie traditionalist or looking for a fresh twist, this pie will leave everyone reaching for seconds.

13. Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cheese Cream Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cheese Cream Frosting

Image and Recipe by browneyedbaker

The perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and cozy fall flavors, all wrapped up in a bite-sized treat, in these Pumpkin muffins with cheese frosting gives the best of both the worlds. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a rich pumpkin-spiced filling, they’re both decadent and easy to serve at any holiday gathering. Their mini size makes them fun and festive, while the pumpkin and warm spices bring that comforting fall vibe we all love.

Did you know mini cheesecakes are not only perfect for portion control, but they also set faster than full-sized versions? I’ve found them ideal for a quick, impressive dessert.

14. Chocolate Pecan Cupcakes

Chocolate Pecan Cupcakes

Image and Recipe by Good Housekeeping

Indulge in a rich chocolate base and the crunch of toasted pecans with these cupcakes that offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of deep chocolate and nutty pecans makes them an indulgent treat, ideal for dessert tables or special celebrations. Topped with a smooth chocolate frosting, these cupcakes are as delicious as they are crowd-pleasing.

15. Pecan Pie Brownies

Pecan Pie Brownies

Image and Recipe by Food Network

Combining the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the sweet, nutty crunch of pecan pie, this dessert is a decadent mashup of two favorites. With a layer of gooey pecan pie filling over a moist brownie base, it’s the perfect treat for those who can’t decide between pie and brownies. Ideal for holiday gatherings or a special dessert, it’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a fun twist to classic flavors.

16. Molasses Ginger Cake

Molasses Ginger Cake

Image and Recipe by NYT Cooking

Full of deep, bold flavors, this Molasses Ginger Cake combines the warmth of ginger with the richness of molasses, making it the perfect dessert for chilly days. Its soft, moist texture and spiced aroma create an inviting experience that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. With hints of cinnamon and cloves, it’s a treat that feels both comforting and indulgent.

Did you know that the molasses in this cake not only adds a rich flavor but also helps keep the cake extra moist?

17. Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Image and Recipe by twopeasandtheirpod

To embrace all the flavors of fall, The Pumpkin Bundt Cake is the perfect desert. It’s packed with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and the rich pumpkin gives it a moist, tender texture. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that balances the cake beautifully, making it an irresistible treat for any holiday gathering or cozy fall night. Whether you’re serving it at a special event or enjoying a slice with your coffee, this cake brings all the autumn comfort you crave.

18. Pumpkin Truffles

Pumpkin Truffles

Image and Recipe by Delish

Cozy and indulgent, these pumpkin truffles combine the warmth of pumpkin spice with the richness of a white chocolate shell. Each truffle is packed with creamy pumpkin flavor, making them a delicious and festive treat for fall. They’re perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or gifting to friends and family, and the best part is they’re simple to make.

Did you know that pumpkin truffles are incredibly easy to make ahead? I like to freeze them and have them ready to go for holiday gatherings!

19. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

Image and Recipe by Good Housekeeping

Relish in the ultimate fall comfort food, with the warm blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and the rich flavor of pumpkin in every bite with these delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread. The texture is perfectly moist, making it a delightful treat for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Whether served plain or with a smear of butter or cream cheese, it’s a versatile bread that brings the flavors of autumn right into your kitchen.

Did you know you can enhance pumpkin bread by adding a handful of chocolate chips or nuts? It’s a little twist that gives the bread an indulgent boost.

20. Apple Rose Pies

Apple Rose Pies

Image and Recipe by The Kitchn

With thinly sliced apples arranged to resemble delicate roses, these pies are not only delicious but visually stunning. The flaky pastry perfectly complements the sweet apple filling, making each bite both buttery and fruity. They’re an ideal dessert for fall gatherings or special occasions, offering a unique twist on a classic apple pie.

Did you know that the trick to getting perfect apple roses is slightly microwaving the apple slices? It softens them just enough to be easily rolled into beautiful rose shapes, while still holding their structure during baking!

FAQS

Q. What are some of the best Thanksgiving dessert ideas?

Traditional options include pumpkin pie, pecan pie, apple pie, and spiced cakes. These are staples that bring warmth and nostalgia to the holiday.

Q. Can I prepare Thanksgiving dessert recipes in advance?

Yes! Many desserts like pies, cakes, and cookies can be made a day or two ahead, saving time on Thanksgiving Day.

Q. What’s an easy dessert to make for beginners?

Simple recipes like apple crisps, pumpkin bread, or no-bake desserts are perfect for beginners.

Q. Are there any gluten-free Thanksgiving dessert options?

Absolutely! You can easily make gluten-free versions of pies, crisps, and cakes using gluten-free flour or oats.

Q. What’s a unique twist on a traditional dessert?

Try recipes like pumpkin cheesecake, apple pie bars, or pecan pie tarts for a fresh take on the classics.

If you love these ideas, don’t forget to pin the above image to your “Recipes” board.

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