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Home » Recipe Collections

35 Show-Stopping Thanksgiving Desserts That Look Way Harder Than They Are

Published: Nov 15, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Show-stopping Thanksgiving desserts are the perfect way to bring that “wow” factor to your holiday spread. These recipes don’t just taste great; they’re a feast for the eyes too, with every treat looking like it took hours to make—even though they’re way easier than they look. Seasonal flavors and festive touches make them a great fit for Thanksgiving, and the visual appeal will get everyone excited to dig in. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just want something a little extra special, these desserts will help you pull off a stunning finale without all the extra work.

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

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 bring gooey layers, sweet cinnamon filling, and a buttery crust together, making them perfect for breakfast or a dessert treat. With their nostalgic flavor and impressive presentation, these bars make a show-stopping addition to any Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars

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 blend sweet pumpkin, crunchy pretzels, and creamy white chocolate into a dessert that’s both easy to make and hard to resist. This standout dessert with a perfect balance of textures is bound to be a hit among your Thanksgiving guests.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Blondies

Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies

Overhead image of two pumpkin pie rice krispies on a plate in the center, with an additional slice on a smaller plate nearby.
Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Pumpkin pie rice krispies are a simple, crowd-pleasing fall treat that’s packed with creamy, peanut buttery goodness. This easy-to-make dessert is cute, festive, and perfect for rounding out your Thanksgiving dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Rice Krispies

Pistachio Bundt Cake

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

Light, fluffy pistachio bundt cake offers a nutty flavor twist that’s quick to make and richly satisfying. Ready in under an hour, this stunning cake brings an elegant, show-stopping element to any Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Bundt Cake

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, a buttery pie crust, and a hint of allspice make this peach cobbler a quick, comforting dessert that’s ready in under an hour. For those looking to add a fresh and fruity choice to their Thanksgiving dessert spread, this cobbler is a perfect pick.
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.

An easy graham cracker crust gives this apple pie a familiar, comforting flavor that’s a great alternative to traditional crusts. Paired with tea or coffee, it makes a cozy, show-stopping addition to any Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

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, creamy coconut milk, and warm spices for a rich, international twist. This unique, show-stopping dessert brings an exciting flavor profile to your Thanksgiving spread, surprising guests with its depth.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Sweet Potato Pudding

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

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

Pumpkin bundt cake is a fall favorite—super easy, perfectly spiced, and topped with a dreamy maple glaze. It’s a surefire hit at Thanksgiving gatherings, delivering big flavor with show-stopping simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bundt Cake

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 layers gooey caramel over a rich, cocoa-infused base, creating a dessert that’s bold and delicious. Served with vanilla ice cream, it adds a decadent touch to your Thanksgiving dessert lineup.
Get the Recipe: Upside-Down Mandarin Cake (with Caramel)

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 and features a rich, creamy filling perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. Its vegan option ensures everyone can enjoy this classic show-stopping dessert.
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.

A rich, creamy pumpkin pie with condensed milk and cozy spices is a Thanksgiving staple that’s easy to make and hard to resist. This dessert brings instant fall flavors to the table and is sure to be a show-stopping favorite.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie with Condensed Milk

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, offering a unique twist on traditional pie flavors. Ready in under 45 minutes, these easy treats make an impressive addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Cookies

White Chocolate Fudge

An image of white chocolate fudge on a plate.
White Chocolate Fudge. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

My white chocolate fudge recipe is a sweet, three-ingredient wonder that’s rich, creamy, and topped with sprinkles for extra fun. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, it’s a quick way to add a show-stopping dessert to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Fudge

Pumpkin Spice Donuts

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

Pumpkin spice donuts bring airy texture and bold pumpkin flavor in a simple, homemade dessert. These festive donuts are perfect for Thanksgiving, giving a fresh take on classic holiday treats.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Donuts

Butter Pecan Meltaways

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

Butter pecan cookies that melt in your mouth offer a simple, nutty option for Thanksgiving. Add them to your dessert table for a buttery, crowd-pleasing addition that’s as show-stopping as it is easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Meltaways

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 big flavor and makes a large-batch dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. Skip the pie this year and impress guests with this delicious, crowd-pleasing option.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Sheet Cake

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 is a cozy fall dessert with crispy topping and a tender fruit base, making it a fitting finale for Thanksgiving dinner. This warm, fruit-filled dessert will bring a show-stopping touch to any Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cranberry Pecan Crumble

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

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

Pumpkin cheesecake bars pair creamy cheesecake with rich pumpkin flavors, creating a perfect bite-sized dessert. These easy bars offer a fresh way to enjoy pumpkin for Thanksgiving and will surely steal the spotlight on the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

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 combines creamy, festive flavors with a crunchy base, perfect for Thanksgiving. This quick, no-fuss dessert adds a non-traditional but show-stopping element to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

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 brings together rich, spiced pumpkin and tangy icing for a festive dessert. It’s a show-stopping, easy addition that will wow guests at your Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

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 mix fudgy chocolate with a gooey pecan pie topping for a dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. This ultimate dessert mashup combines two holiday favorites into one show-stopping treat for indecisive guests.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

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 rich pumpkin flavor with chocolate, creating a fall dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. With a chocolatey twist, this cake will be a standout on your dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pumpkin Cake

Orange & Pecan Bundt Cake

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

Pecan bundt cake is easy to prepare and full of comforting flavors, making it a hit at any holiday gathering. For Thanksgiving, it’s a show-stopping choice that brings both ease and flavor to the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Orange & Pecan Bundt Cake

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 an elegant Thanksgiving dessert. This layered treat offers a sophisticated, show-stopping take on classic holiday flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Tiramisu

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 surprises with its sweet caramel layer and fluffy cake base, making it a show-stopping addition to your Thanksgiving table. Easy to make yet impressive, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Upside Down Cake

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 a simple, easy-to-make treat. For those exploring beyond pie, these cookies are a unique addition to any Thanksgiving dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Spice Roll Cookies

Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie

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

Chocolate chunk pecan pie elevates classic pecan pie with gooey chocolate, creating a decadent holiday dessert. Perfect for Thanksgiving, it’s a rich twist on a beloved favorite that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pie

Pecan Cobbler

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

Pecan cobbler offers a gooey, crispy dessert packed with flavors of classic pecan pie. This easy-to-make cobbler is perfect for feeding a crowd at Thanksgiving, making it a show-stopping choice for large gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Cobbler

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 brings complex, festive flavors to a Thanksgiving favorite. This crowd-pleaser will easily steal the spotlight on your holiday dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie

Slab Pecan Pie Bars

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

Shortbread crust topped with gooey caramel and toasted pecans creates a rich, sweet dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. This indulgent fall treat is a show-stopper that’s sure to please any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Slab Pecan Pie Bars

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 that work perfectly for parties and gatherings. Their sweet, nutty flavor and easy-to-eat size make them a favorite on Thanksgiving dessert tables.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Tassies

Pumpkin Cheesecake

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

Pumpkin cheesecake is a rich, creamy twist on traditional pumpkin pie that’s perfect for special occasions. For Thanksgiving, it brings festive flair and a show-stopping appearance to your dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cheesecake

Mini Pumpkin Croissants

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

Mini pumpkin croissants combine flaky pastry with pumpkin flavor, offering a bite-sized, fresh way to enjoy pumpkin for Thanksgiving. These quick snacks are perfect for a dessert table that’s both traditional and creative.
Get the Recipe: Mini Pumpkin Croissants

Spicy Candied Pecans

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

Spicy candied pecans are a simple way to add crunch to charcuterie boards or salads for Thanksgiving. Perfect for snacking or gifting, these spiced pecans are a versatile, show-stopping addition to any holiday celebration.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Candied Pecans

Pumpkin Brownies

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

Three-layer pumpkin brownies bring together fudgy chocolate and spiced pumpkin in a decadent, seasonal treat. These layered brownies add a rich, show-stopping element to any Thanksgiving dessert lineup.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Brownies

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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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