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Home » Desserts

45 Classic Thanksgiving Desserts That Will Steal the Show

Published: Oct 14, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Thanksgiving desserts are the real stars of the holiday table, and these classics are perfect for anyone looking to impress. From pies to cookies and everything in between, these are the kind of sweet treats that bring comfort and tradition with every bite. Whether you're sticking to tried-and-true favorites or baking something new for the family, these recipes are great for sharing and guaranteed to keep your guests happy. So, if you're ready to steal the show this Thanksgiving, get ready to dive into a lineup of timeless desserts that always deliver.

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.

Pumpkin Blondies

Close-up image of a batch of cooked White Chocolate Pretzel Pumpkin Blondies arranged on a tray.
Pumpkin Blondies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

These white chocolate pretzel pumpkin blondies combine sweet pumpkin, crunchy pretzels, and creamy white chocolate for a dessert that’s hard to resist. This perfect balance of textures and flavors makes it a standout addition to any Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Blondies

Carrot Cake Muffins

Carrot cake muffins on a cooling rack.
Carrot Cake Muffins. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

My carrot cake muffins offer the right mix of spice, sweetness, and crunch with walnuts and raisins. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a perfect Thanksgiving dessert that complements the season's flavors.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Muffins

Peanut Butter Brownies

Close-up image of a batch of peanut butter brownies with a stack of three in the middle, the top one bitten.
Peanut Butter Brownies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Quick and easy peanut butter brownies come together with just a mix, of egg, oil, and a swirl of creamy peanut butter. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re an easy crowd-pleaser for your Thanksgiving dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Brownies

Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close up photo of a stack of pecan chocolate chip cookies.
Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These pecan chocolate chip cookies are crispy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, making them a perfect holiday treat. With a healthier spin, they add a guilt-free option to your Thanksgiving dessert lineup.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies

A plate of pumpkin cookies with white chocolate chips is displayed on a table.
Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pumpkin white chocolate chip cookies bring the fall flavors to life with their chewy texture and just 20 minutes of prep time. Whether vegan or traditional, these make a quick and festive dessert choice for Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pumpkin Pie Cookies

An overhead image of pumpkin pie cookies with whipped cream on top cooled on a wire rack.
Pumpkin Pie Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pumpkin pie cookies are soft, spiced, and buttery, providing a twist on the traditional pie. Coming together in under 45 minutes, they are an easy yet impressive addition to any Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Upside-down Mandarin Cake (with Caramel)

Close up of Mandarin Cake showing the perfect caramelization.
Upside-down Mandarin Cake (with Caramel). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This modern take on a mandarin cake features a gooey caramel layer and a rich cocoa-infused base. Served with vanilla ice cream, it’s a decadent option that adds variety to your Thanksgiving dessert offerings.
Get the Recipe: Upside-Down Mandarin Cake (with Caramel)

Pumpkin Banana Bread

An overhead view of a freshly baked loaf of pumpkin bread with chocolate chips and pumpkin seeds sits in a parchment-lined loaf pan.
Pumpkin Banana Bread. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This one-bowl vegan pumpkin banana bread is moist and packed with flavor, making it a great way to use up ripe bananas. Topped with optional chocolate chips, it adds a healthier dessert option to your Thanksgiving feast.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Banana Bread

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.

The easy, no-bake pecan pie cheesecake requires only 30 minutes of prep time and features a creamy, festive filling. A vegan version is included, ensuring everyone can enjoy this Thanksgiving dessert staple.
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.

Bisquick apple cobbler pairs tart apples with sweet cinnamon and buttery Bisquick, creating a dessert packed with fall flavors. Ready in under an hour, it’s a classic Thanksgiving dessert that guests will love.
Get the Recipe: Bisquick Apple Cobbler

Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding

An image of Jamaican sweet potato pudding being sliced.
Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Jamaican sweet potato pudding combines sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and warming spices for a rich, comforting dessert. Its unique flavor profile brings an international flair to your Thanksgiving dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding

Peach Cobbler with Pie Crust

An image of peach cobbler in a baking dish with a portion of it missing.
Peach Cobbler with Pie Crust. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fresh peaches, buttery pie crust, and a hint of allspice make this peach cobbler a quick and comforting dessert option. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for adding a fresh, fruity option to your Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Peach Cobbler with Pie Crust

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 easy graham cracker crust apple pie is a great alternative to traditional crusts and brings a familiar, comforting flavor. Paired with a warm cup of tea, it makes a wonderful addition to your Thanksgiving dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Overhead view of five pumpkin muffins on a wooden platter.
Pumpkin Streusel Muffins. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fluffy and moist pumpkin streusel muffins are loaded with fall flavors, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. These non-pie pumpkin treats offer a refreshing twist on traditional Thanksgiving desserts.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

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

No-bake pumpkin cheesecake with a gingersnap crust delivers creamy, festive flavors and a crunchy base. Perfect for when you need something quick and non-traditional to wow your Thanksgiving guests.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Pecan Sugar Cookies

Pecan sugar cookies on a white surface.
Pecan Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Brown sugar pecan cookies, topped with frosting and pecans, are sweet and festive treats that fit right into your holiday dessert spread. Their rich flavor and holiday vibe make them a great Thanksgiving dessert choice.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Sugar Cookies

Orange & Pecan Bundt Cake

Close-up image of orange pecan bundt cake.
Orange & Pecan Bundt Cake. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This moist pecan bundt cake is easy to prepare and packed with comforting flavors, making it a hit at any holiday gathering. Perfect for Thanksgiving, it’s a dessert that brings both ease and flavor to the table.
Get the Recipe: Orange & Pecan Bundt Cake

Pecan Butter Balls Cookies

Top view of pecan butter balls on a black plate.
Pecan Butter Balls Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Light, nutty, and buttery, these pecan butter balls are a simple, flavorful cookie to add to your holiday baking routine. Perfect for cookie exchanges or a sweet Thanksgiving dessert option.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Butter Balls Cookies

Pumpkin Sheet Cake

Pumpkin ice cream in a pan surrounded by pumpkins.
Pumpkin Sheet Cake. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Pumpkin sheet cake delivers rich pumpkin flavor and is an easy, large-batch dessert for Thanksgiving gatherings. Skip the pie and impress your guests with this delicious, crowd-pleasing option.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Sheet Cake

Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

A pumpkin bundt cake with vanilla glaze on a white plate.
Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Icing. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

Pumpkin bundt cake with cream cheese icing pairs the rich, spiced flavor of pumpkin with tangy icing. This festive dessert is an easy, yet impressive addition to any Thanksgiving dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

Pecan Tassies

A cup of tea next to a plate of cookies with pecans.
Pecan Tassies. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Pecan tassies are bite-sized pecan pies, perfect for parties and gatherings. Their sweet, nutty flavor makes them a favorite at Thanksgiving dessert tables and beyond.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Tassies

Pecan Pie Brownies

Close-up image of pecan pie brownies on a plate.
Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Pecan pie brownies combine fudgy chocolate with a rich pecan pie topping, making them the ultimate dessert for indecisive guests. This mashup is perfect for any Thanksgiving dessert spread, bringing together two-holiday favorites.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

Pumpkin Brownies

Stacked layered pumpkin brownies.
Pumpkin Brownies. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Three-layer pumpkin brownies mix fudgy chocolate with a spiced pumpkin layer for a rich, seasonal treat. These layered brownies are perfect for those looking to switch up their Thanksgiving dessert lineup.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Brownies

Pecan Upside Down Cake

Slice of pecan upside down cake being lifted by a slicer.
Pecan Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Pecan upside-down cake is surprisingly easy to make, with its sweet caramel layer and fluffy cake base. This stunning dessert will impress guests at your Thanksgiving gathering without the hassle of a complicated recipe.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Upside Down Cake

Spicy Candied Pecans

Spicy candied pecans on a baking tray.
Spicy Candied Pecans. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Spicy candied pecans are a quick and easy way to add a crunch to salads or charcuterie boards. Perfect for snacking or gifting, these versatile pecans are an excellent addition to any Thanksgiving celebration.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Candied Pecans

Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

Top view of chocolate chip pecan cookies.
Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Soft and chewy pecan chocolate chip cookies get an upgrade with melted dark chocolate and salted pecans. Finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, these sweet and salty cookies are sure to be a Thanksgiving dessert favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies

Baked pumpkin donut

Four baked pumpkin donuts in a tray.
Baked pumpkin donut. Photo credit: Food Plus Words.

Baked pumpkin donuts are light, fluffy, and packed with pumpkin spice. They’re a fun, festive dessert option that offers something different than the usual Thanksgiving pie.
Get the Recipe: Baked pumpkin donut

Pumpkin Spice Donuts

An image of Pumpkin Spice Donuts.
Pumpkin Spice Donuts. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Pumpkin spice donuts are airy and full of pumpkin flavor, offering an easy-to-make alternative to traditional Thanksgiving desserts. These homemade donuts are perfect for those looking to mix things up this holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Mini Pumpkin Croissants

Mini pumpkin crescent rolls with dipping sauce on a plate.
Mini Pumpkin Croissants. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Mini pumpkin croissants bring flaky pastry and pumpkin flavor together in bite-sized treats. These quick and easy snacks offer a fresh way to enjoy pumpkin without the need for pie on your Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Croissants

Pumpkin Tiramisu

Piece of Pumpkin Tiramisu on serving spoon.
Pumpkin Tiramisu. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

Pumpkin tiramisu combines pumpkin with espresso-soaked ladyfingers for a sophisticated Thanksgiving dessert. This layered dessert adds elegance and offers a fresh take on classic holiday flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Tiramisu

Apple Cranberry Pecan Crumble

A bowl of crumble with oats and pecans with a spoon.
Apple Cranberry Pecan Crumble. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Apple cranberry pecan crumble blends the season’s best fruits into a warm, comforting dessert. With a crispy topping and tender fruit base, it’s the perfect crumble to cap off your Thanksgiving dinner.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cranberry Pecan Crumble

Pecan Pie

Close up of pecan pie with dulce de leche cream.
Pecan Pie. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Pecan pie with bourbon and maple syrup takes traditional pecan pie to a new level with rich, complex flavors. This crowd-pleaser will steal the show at your Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie

Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie

Close-up image of chocolate chunck pecan pie.
Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Chocolate chunk pecan pie adds gooey chocolate to the classic pecan pie, creating a dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s a rich, indulgent twist on a beloved holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Stack of three pumpkin cheesecake bars on a flat surface.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars. Photo credit: Food Plus Words.

Pumpkin cheesecake bars bring together creamy cheesecake and rich pumpkin flavors in one easy dessert. These bars are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy pumpkins in a fresh way for Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Old Fashioned Pecan Pie

A bite of pecan pie on a fork.
Old Fashioned Pecan Pie. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This homemade pecan pie skips the corn syrup, creating a rich, flavorful dessert without being overly sweet. Perfect for any Thanksgiving gathering, it’s a classic recipe everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Pecan Pie

Butter Pecan Meltaways

A plate of cookies with a bite taken out of them.
Butter Pecan Meltaways. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Butter pecan cookies melt in your mouth and make for a simple, satisfying treat. Add them to your Thanksgiving dessert lineup for a buttery, nutty option that’s easy to make and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Meltaways

Slab Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan dessert squares stack on top of each other.
Slab Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Call Me PMc.

A shortbread crust topped with gooey caramel and toasted pecans makes this dessert an irresistible fall favorite. Celebrate Thanksgiving with a rich, sweet, and comforting treat that’s sure to please a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Slab Pecan Pie Bars

Soft Pumpkin Spice Roll Cookies

Close-up image of soft pumpkin roll cookies.
Soft Pumpkin Spice Roll Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pumpkin spice roll cookies bring all the best fall flavors into one easy-to-make treat. For those ready to explore pumpkin desserts beyond pie, these cookies are the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Spice Roll Cookies

Old-Fashioned Pecan Cake Bars

Stack of four pecan cake bars on marble board.
Old-Fashioned Pecan Cake Bars. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Old-fashioned pecan cake bars combine a soft cake texture with crunchy pecans for a nostalgic dessert. Easy to make with a yellow cake mix, these bars are perfect for a laid-back Thanksgiving dessert.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Pecan Cake Bars

Homemade Pumpkin Pie

Homemade Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Homemade pumpkin pie is always a winner with its flaky crust and spiced filling. No Thanksgiving dessert table is complete without this festive classic.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Bites

Close-up image of punmpkin spice chocolate chip biites.
Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Bites. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pumpkin spice chocolate chip bites pack a punch of pumpkin flavor in a quick, easy-to-make snack. These bites are great for casual Thanksgiving snacking or for guests who want something sweet without committing to pie.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Bites

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

A stack of maple pecan cookies on a white plate.
No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No-bake maple pecan cookies bring together the sweet, rich flavors of maple and pecans in a quick, oven-free dessert. These treats are perfect for last-minute Thanksgiving preparations or as a sweet post-dinner option.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Top view of pumpkin cheesecake.
Pumpkin Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pumpkin cheesecake offers a rich, creamy alternative to traditional pumpkin pie. Perfect for special occasions, it brings a festive twist to your Thanksgiving dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cheesecake

Chocolate Pumpkin Cake

Chocolate Pumpkin Cake on a platter with a slice cut out.
Chocolate Pumpkin Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Chocolate pumpkin cake swirls together the flavors of pumpkin and chocolate for a rich dessert that’s perfect for fall gatherings. For those who crave a chocolatey edge to their Thanksgiving dessert, this cake is a great option.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pumpkin Cake

Pecan Cobbler

Close-up image of pecan cobbler with a spoon on a plate.
Pecan Cobbler. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pecan cobbler is a gooey, crispy dessert that’s easy to make and packed with the comforting flavors of pecan pie. This cobbler is perfect for feeding a crowd at your Thanksgiving feast.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Cobbler

More Thanksgiving Dishes

An overhead view of skillet with stuffing and a fork and spoon in it.
Vegan Stuffing Recipe. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Make your holiday cooking stress-free with 31 Thanksgiving dishes you can prep ahead, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable celebration!
Read it Here: 31 Thanksgiving Dishes You Can Prepare Ahead to Avoid Stress

More Fall Desserts

Close-up image of a batch of cooked White Chocolate Pretzel Pumpkin Blondies arranged on a tray.
Pumpkin Blondies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Indulge in 55 fall desserts that capture the season's flavors, making every gathering or cozy night feel like a celebration!
Read it Here: 55 Fall Desserts So Good, You’ll Wish Every Day Was Autumn

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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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