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Home » Desserts

30 Make-Ahead Treats You Need for Stress-Free Holidays

Published: Dec 1, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Holiday treats are the best part of the season, and these recipes are all about making things sweet and easy. With a mix of flavors and textures, each one is sure to bring that perfect touch to your celebrations. What’s great about these recipes is that you can prep them ahead of time, so you can enjoy the holidays without the stress of last-minute baking. If you want to make your season a little sweeter and a lot simpler, these treats are exactly what you need.

An image of a slice of pie on a plate.
Double Crusted Sweet Potato Pie. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Coconut Creamy Pie with Meringue

An image of a slice of coconut creamy pie on a plate.
Coconut Creamy Pie with Meringue. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Coconut cream pie with a golden, fluffy meringue topping is simple to make and always leaves an impression. Its rich, creamy filling makes it a standout dessert for Thanksgiving or any holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Creamy Pie with Meringue

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.

With just five ingredients and 30 minutes of active prep, this no-bake pecan pie cheesecake is a simple yet satisfying dessert. It’s a practical choice for Thanksgiving, offering rich flavors with an optional vegan variation for added flexibility.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Pumpkin Pie with Condensed Milk

Whole Pumpkin Pie with Condensed Milk on a wooden board.
Pumpkin Pie with Condensed Milk. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This creamy pumpkin pie uses condensed milk and cozy spices to deliver classic fall flavors everyone loves. Its smooth texture and effortless preparation make it a must-have for Thanksgiving gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie with Condensed Milk

Double Crusted Sweet Potato Pie

An image of a slice of pie on a plate.
Double Crusted Sweet Potato Pie. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This double-crust sweet potato pie combines aromatic spices with a creamy buttermilk layer for a dessert that feels like home. It’s a comforting addition to Thanksgiving, perfect for those who appreciate traditional flavors.
Get the Recipe: Double Crusted Sweet Potato Pie

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Top view of Pumpkin Bundt Cake.
Pumpkin Bundt Cake. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This pumpkin Bundt cake is easy to make, featuring warm spices and a maple glaze that brings out its seasonal charm. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, it’s a dessert that pairs beautifully with the festive atmosphere.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Lemon Icebox Pie

An mage of a slice of pie on a plate.
Lemon Icebox Pie. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon icebox pie is made with just a handful of ingredients, featuring a tangy, creamy filling that’s both refreshing and easy to prepare. Its bright flavor provides a wonderful contrast to the heavier dishes often served at Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Icebox Pie

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 combines tart apples, cinnamon, and a buttery topping, coming together in less than an hour. It’s a comforting dessert that’s both easy to prepare and a great fit for Thanksgiving tables.
Get the Recipe: Bisquick Apple Cobbler

Pistachio Bundt Cake

Close-up image of a pistachio bundt cake on a cake stand.
Pistachio Bundt Cake. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Pistachio Bundt cake is light and fluffy, with nutty undertones that make it both quick to bake and satisfying to share. Ready in just an hour, it fits seamlessly into Thanksgiving dessert tables.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Bundt Cake

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars

A slice of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars on a white plate in the foreground, with another slice on a pile of plates in the background.
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Brown sugar cinnamon pop-tart bars feature gooey cinnamon layers and a buttery crust, making them a versatile treat. Whether served as a dessert or a holiday breakfast, they’re a fun addition to Thanksgiving celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars

Pumpkin Cheesecake with Chocolate Graham Crust

Pumpkin Cheesecake with Chocolate Graham Crust. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Pumpkin cheesecake with a chocolate graham crust combines rich, spiced pumpkin layers with the boldness of chocolate. It’s a standout dessert that enhances any Thanksgiving or holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cheesecake with Chocolate Graham 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 apple pie uses a graham cracker crust for an easy, no-fuss preparation that’s perfect for casual gatherings. Paired with tea, it’s a simple yet satisfying dessert for Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

Tiramisu Cheesecake

Tiramisu Cheesecake. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This no-bake tiramisu cheesecake brings together creamy layers, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and chocolate, merging two classic desserts. It’s a versatile option that works well for Thanksgiving and pleases a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Cheesecake

Mini Tart Cherry Galettes

Mini Tart Cherry Galettes. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Montmorency cherry galettes are rustic, hand-held pies filled with tart cherries and a touch of orange zest. Simple to prepare yet visually striking, they’re a joy to share during Thanksgiving feasts.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tart Cherry Galettes

No Bake Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake

No Bake Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

No-bake pumpkin pie cheesecake pairs sweet pumpkin spice with the creamy texture of cheesecake, all in a graham cracker crust. Light and airy, it’s an excellent Thanksgiving dessert that doesn’t feel overly heavy.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake

Gluten-Free Carrot Cake

Gluten-Free Carrot Cake. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This one-bowl gluten-free carrot cake is moist and fluffy, topped with a light orange coconut butter glaze. Its straightforward preparation makes it a great choice for Thanksgiving while still delivering plenty of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Carrot Cake

Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie

Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Italian ricotta pie combines creamy ricotta with citrus and spices, creating a dessert that’s both elegant and flavorful. Its lattice crust adds a showstopping element, making it a beautiful addition to Thanksgiving celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Italian Ricotta Pie

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 rich homemade filling, buttery crust, and spiced crumb topping that comes together effortlessly. It’s a timeless dessert that complements the festive flavors of Thanksgiving perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Crumble Pie

Apple Ginger Cake

Apple Ginger Cake. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Apple ginger cake features silky apples baked over a moist gingerbread sponge, inspired by traditional German desserts. This easy yet impressive dish is perfect for Thanksgiving, whether served with whipped cream or ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Apple Ginger Cake

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 blends sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and warm spices into a rich, deeply satisfying dessert. It’s a wonderful choice for Thanksgiving when you’re looking to serve something distinct and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding

Mini Pumpkin Pies

Mini Pumpkin Pies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Mini pumpkin pies require only seven ingredients and are simple to prepare, offering smooth, spiced flavors in every bite. Their charming appearance makes them perfect for Thanksgiving spreads, holiday desserts, or even small gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Pies

Vegan Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie

Vegan Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Made with coconut milk, this creamy pumpkin pie is smooth and sweet, capturing the essence of autumn in every bite. It’s a thoughtful addition to any Thanksgiving table, balancing traditional flavors with a modern twist.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie

Cherry Cream Cheese Puff Pastries

Cherry Cream Cheese Puff Pastries. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Mini cherry cheesecakes baked in puff pastry shells are easy to prepare and filled with sweet cherry pie filling. Their small size and quick prep make them a charming dessert for Thanksgiving parties or family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cream Cheese Puff Pastries

Rustic Polenta Crusted Blackberry Galette

Rustic Polenta Crusted Blackberry Galette. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This blackberry galette features a crispy polenta crust and juicy blackberry filling, offering a rustic charm that’s both inviting and straightforward. It’s a great option for Thanksgiving, blending simplicity with bold seasonal flavors.
Get the Recipe: Rustic Polenta Crusted Blackberry Galette

Egg Custard Pie

Egg Custard Pie. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Egg custard pie, a Southern favorite, features creamy vanilla notes enhanced with pumpkin spice. It’s a nostalgic and easy-to-make dessert that adds a comforting touch to Thanksgiving dinners.
Get the Recipe: Egg Custard Pie

Peanut Butter and Jelly Frozen Yogurt Bars

Peanut Butter and Jelly Frozen Yogurt Bars. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Peanut butter and jelly frozen yogurt bars feature a granola base layered with strawberry jelly and peanut butter yogurt, then finished with a drizzle of chocolate. These playful bars are a convenient addition to Thanksgiving gatherings and appeal to guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter and Jelly Frozen Yogurt Bars

Easy Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes

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

Instant Pot Fireball apple shortcakes pair tender sponge cake with cinnamon whisky apples for a bold, comforting dessert. Ready in a short time, they’re an exciting alternative to traditional Thanksgiving treats.
Get the Recipe: Easy Instant Pot Fireball Apple Shortcakes

Cranberry Curd Tart

Cranberry Curd Tart. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cranberry curd tart showcases a smooth cranberry filling paired with a nutty oat crust for a dessert that’s both bold and festive. Its vibrant color and flavor make it a centerpiece-worthy addition to Thanksgiving tables.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Curd Tart

Tiramisu Swiss Roll

Tiramisu Swiss Roll. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Tiramisu Swiss roll cake merges the lightness of sponge cake with the rich flavors of coffee and mascarpone. A fantastic option for coffee lovers, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits perfectly into Thanksgiving celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Swiss Roll

Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Overhead view of apple pie with apples.
Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Lattice top apple pie combines spiced apple filling with a flaky, golden crust for a dessert that’s both classic and comforting. It’s a timeless option that fits perfectly into the cozy atmosphere of Thanksgiving celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Chocolate Bundt Cake With Cream Cheese Filling

Chocolate Bundt Cake With Cream Cheese Filling. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Chocolate mocha Bundt cake features a creamy cheesecake filling, combining rich flavors in a striking presentation. It’s a showstopping dessert that’s perfect for bringing an indulgent touch to Thanksgiving celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Bundt Cake With Cream Cheese Filling

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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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