Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and of course, incredible food. As someone who’s spent countless holidays in the kitchen, I’ve learned that while the turkey may be the star, it’s the desserts that truly steal the show.
Over the years, I’ve perfected a lineup of sweet treats that never fail to impress, and today, I’m excited to share them with you.
From classic pies to creative twists on traditional favorites, these 11 Thanksgiving desserts are guaranteed to make your holiday meal unforgettable.
Classic Thanksgiving Pies
1) Apple Pie: A Timeless Favorite
There’s something magical about the aroma of an apple pie baking in the oven. It instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where I first learned the art of pie-making.
This recipe features a flaky, buttery crust that cradles a filling of tart Granny Smith apples, warming cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. The secret? A splash of bourbon that adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Check out the full recipe here.
2) Pecan Pie: Nutty and Delicious
Pecan pie holds a special place in my heart – and on my Thanksgiving table. My version takes the traditional recipe up a notch with a rich, gooey filling made with maple syrup and a touch of bourbon.
The combination of sweet and nutty flavors is absolutely irresistible. Pro tip: toast the pecans before adding them to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
Check out the full recipe here.
Creative Twists on Traditional Desserts
3) Butterscotch-Cornflake Apple Crisp
This dessert was born out of a happy accident when I ran out of oats for my usual apple crisp. The result? A crunchy cornflake topping that’s become a family favorite.
The butterscotch sauce adds a caramel-like sweetness that perfectly complements the tartness of the apples. It’s comfort food at its finest, with a delightful twist.
Check out the full recipe here.
4) Cranberry-Orange Pie
Looking for something a little different? This cranberry-orange pie is a perfect balance of tart and sweet. The creamy orange base is reminiscent of a dreamsicle, while the cranberry topping adds a festive touch and a burst of flavor. It’s become my go-to dessert for those who find traditional pies a bit too heavy.
Check out the full recipe here.
Desserts Beyond Pies
5) Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These cookies are like mini cinnamon rolls in cookie form. They’re perfect for those who can’t decide between cookies and cinnamon rolls (which, let’s be honest, is all of us).
The cinnamon-spiced dough is rolled up with a brown sugar filling and topped with a cream cheese drizzle. They’re always the first to disappear from my dessert table.
Check out the full recipe here.
6) Gingerbread Cookie Sandwiches
These cookies bring together two holiday flavors in one delightful package. The spicy gingerbread cookies are filled with a tart cranberry buttercream, creating a perfect balance of flavors. They’re a hit with both kids and adults, and they make your house smell amazing while they’re baking.
Check out the full recipe here.
No-Bake and Quick Desserts
7) Mocha Mug Cake
Sometimes, you need a quick dessert fix. That’s where this 10-minute mocha mug cake comes in handy. It’s perfect for those moments when you want something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of chocolate and coffee flavors is rich and satisfying, and it’s easily customizable with different toppings.
Check out the full recipe here.
8) Chocolate Mousse
Elegant and light, this chocolate mousse is my go-to dessert when I want to impress without stress. Made with dark chocolate and topped with freshly whipped cream and chocolate shavings, it’s a decadent treat that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. I love preparing it the night before, so I have one less thing to worry about on Thanksgiving day.
Check out the full recipe here.
Seasonal Flavors
9) Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet potato pie is a Southern classic that deserves a place on every Thanksgiving table. My version features a silky smooth filling with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes shines through, making it a healthier alternative to some other desserts. It’s become such a favorite that I now make two – one for Thanksgiving and one for the next day’s breakfast!
Check out the full recipe here.
10) Sticky Toffee Pudding
This British dessert has become a staple at my Thanksgiving gatherings. The warm, date-filled pudding is covered in a rich toffee sauce that’s absolutely irresistible. I serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect hot-and-cold combination. It’s comfort food at its finest and a wonderful way to end a meal.
Check out the full recipe here.
11) Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Can’t decide between pecan pie and cheesecake? This dessert gives you the best of both worlds. A creamy cheesecake base is topped with a sticky pecan pie filling, creating a show-stopping dessert that never fails to impress. It’s become my signature Thanksgiving dessert, and I’ve had friends specifically request it year after year.
Check out the full recipe here.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving desserts are more than just sweet treats – they’re a way to show love and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a pie traditionalist or looking to try something new, these 11 desserts offer something for everyone.
Remember, the most important ingredient in any dessert is the joy you put into making it. So have fun, get creative, and don’t be afraid to start your own dessert traditions. Here’s to a sweet and happy Thanksgiving!
