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Home » Desserts

18 Low-Key Desserts for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving

Published: Sep 18, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Low-key desserts are the perfect way to end your Thanksgiving feast without adding stress to your holiday preparations. These recipes are all about keeping things simple while still delivering on sweetness and flavor. Whether you’re looking for something easy to whip up or just want to keep dessert low-maintenance, these treats will keep everyone happy and satisfied. With these options, you’ll have great desserts that won’t steal the show but will definitely make a sweet finish to your Thanksgiving dinner.

Blueberry galette topped with whipped cream.
Blackberry Galette. Photo Credit: Upstate Ramblings

Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

A close-up photo of a sliced apple pie with graham cracker crust on a white plate, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. 
Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This apple pie features a graham cracker crust and is easy to make. It pairs well with a cup of tea and serves as a straightforward dessert for a relaxed Thanksgiving gathering.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A close up view of pecan pie cheesecake slice on a white plate, with a fork on the side.
No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This no-bake pecan pie cheesecake, made with just 5 ingredients, takes only 30 minutes of active prep time. It’s a simple and effective choice for a hassle-free Thanksgiving dessert, with a vegan option available.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Bisquick Apple Cobbler

An overhead image of bisquick apple cobbler in a skillet pan topped with vanilla ice cream.
Bisquick Apple Cobbler. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This Bisquick apple cobbler combines tart apples, sweet cinnamon, and buttery Bisquick in a straightforward recipe that takes under an hour. It’s a convenient way to offer a comforting Fall dessert with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Bisquick Apple Cobbler

Mixed Berry Galette

A top view image of mixed berry galette in sheet pan with a scoop of icecream in the middle.
Mixed Berry Galette. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This berry galette requires just 15 minutes of prep and is a great choice for a stress-free Thanksgiving. Pair it with ice cream and mint for a simple yet charming dessert.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Berry Galette

Blackberry Galette

Blueberry galette topped with whipped cream.
Blackberry Galette. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This blackberry galette is a quick and simple dessert, using refrigerated pie crust and frozen berries. It’s a stress-free way to serve an impressive dessert for Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Galette

Easy Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes

Easy Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Instant Pot Fireball apple shortcakes bring a fresh, fun option to Thanksgiving desserts. The cinnamon whisky apples paired with sponge cake create an exciting contrast to more traditional choices, while still being quick to make.
Get the Recipe: Easy Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes

Blackberry Crumble Pie

Overhead shot of blackberry crumble pie with one slice on a serving plate.
Blackberry Crumble Pie. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Blackberry crumble pie features a homemade blackberry filling, a buttery crust, and a spiced crumb topping. It’s a rich, straightforward dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Crumble Pie

Peanut Butter Pie

Side view of a slice of peanut butter pie topped with whipped cream on a plate.
Peanut Butter Pie. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This no-bake peanut butter pie is a simple dessert with just 6 ingredients. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a peanut butter and chocolate treat, making it a great choice for a low-maintenance Thanksgiving dessert.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Pie

Wild Blueberries Yogurt Cake

Wild Blueberries Protein Cake.
Wild Blueberries Yogurt Cake. Photo credit: Best Clean Eating.

This no-bake yogurt cheesecake with wild blueberries and a nutty crust is a quick and straightforward option for Thanksgiving. With 8 grams of protein per serving, it’s an easy-to-make dessert that’s a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Wild Blueberries Yogurt Cake

Campfire Apple Crisp

Campfire Apple Crisp. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Campfire apple crisp, with juicy apples and a sweet crumb topping, offers a laid-back Thanksgiving dessert. It’s an easy-to-prepare treat, ideal for those looking for a dessert that breaks from pumpkin spice without sacrificing comfort.
Get the Recipe: Campfire Apple Crisp

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake topped with whipped cream and pecans.
No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This no-bake pumpkin cheesecake with a gingersnap crust is a fitting choice for Thanksgiving. It’s easy to prepare and delivers a creamy, seasonal flavor with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Maple Baked Apples

Close-up image of easy air fryer cinnamon maple baked apples.
Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Maple Baked Apples. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Air fryer baked apples are a simple, no-fuss dessert that brings autumn flavors with cinnamon and maple syrup. Perfect for a stress-free Thanksgiving dessert lineup, this dish is quick and highlights the season’s best.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Maple Baked Apples

Air Fryer Apple Pie Bites

Apple pie bites cut open to show the apple filling inside.
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bites. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Air fryer apple pie bites, wrapped in a flaky biscuit crust, offer a simple fall dessert with just 5 ingredients. Their ease and minimal ingredients make them a great, pumpkin-free option for a stress-free Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Pie Bites

Air Fryer Apple Crisp

Air Fryer Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Air fryer apple crisp for two, ready in 30 minutes, brings a refreshing spin on traditional apple desserts. It's a quick, hassle-free option for a cozy Thanksgiving treat without needing a full pie.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp

No-Bake Chocolate Pistachio Cake

Slices of chocolate pistachio cake.
No-Bake Chocolate Pistachio Cake. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This gluten-free chocolate pistachio cake is a no-bake dessert that resembles a fancy ganache tart. It’s a simple way to offer an elegant dessert without the need for baking.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Chocolate Pistachio Cake

Mini Apple Pies

Mini Apple Pies. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

These mini apple pies combine apples and dates with sugar and spice in bite-sized portions. They’re a simple and effective way to offer a sweet treat during Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Mini Apple Pies

Chocolate Pie

A slice of chocolate pie with a swirl of whipped cream.
Chocolate Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This make-ahead chocolate pie is a perfect no-bake dessert for Thanksgiving, saving you time in the kitchen. Its rich chocolate filling and flaky crust make it a memorable yet low-effort dessert option that can be prepared in advance.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pie

Single-Serve Apple Pie

Mini apple pie on cutting board.
Single-Serve Apple Pie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This single-serve apple pie is a straightforward fall treat, great for those wanting a personal-sized dessert on Thanksgiving. It’s a nice change from pumpkin, offering a flaky crust and sweet filling that doesn’t take much time.
Get the Recipe: Single-Serve Apple Pie

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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