17+ Delicious Thanksgiving Desserts Recipes

Thanksgiving is a time for celebration, family, and food. With a table full of savory dishes, the dessert offerings should be just as exciting and memorable.

Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust

This dessert is a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie, combining the creaminess of cheesecake with the warming spices of a traditional Thanksgiving dessert. The gingersnap crust adds a spicy crunch that perfectly complements the smooth, rich filling.

Imagine the aromatic spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger swirling together in a creamy pumpkin mix, then nestled in a crust made from crumbled gingersnaps. It’s like autumn in dessert form. What makes this cheesecake special is its perfect balance of flavors; it’s not overly sweet, allowing the spices and pumpkin to shine.

This recipe is popular because it brings a unique texture to the Thanksgiving table. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the crispy crust, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, which is always a bonus during the busy holiday season.

Apple Crisp with Oatmeal Topping

When you think of comfort food, apple crisp is right at the top of the list. This dessert combines tender, cinnamon-spiced apples with a crunchy, buttery oatmeal topping that makes it irresistible.

It’s a simple dish, but the combination of tart apples and a sweet, crunchy topping is what makes it special. The oats add a rustic texture that’s both hearty and comforting, perfect for a cozy Thanksgiving gathering. The smell of baking apples and cinnamon is sure to draw everyone into the kitchen.

Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet Potato Pie is a Southern classic that deserves a spot at your Thanksgiving feast. With its creamy filling and rich spices, it has a warmth and sweetness that make it a standout dessert.

This pie is all about the smooth, velvety texture of mashed sweet potatoes blended with sugar, butter, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s baked in a flaky pie crust that adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. What makes this pie truly special is its ability to capture the essence of Thanksgiving in a single slice. It’s a comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a chilly autumn evening.

Pecan Pie Bars

If you’re a fan of pecan pie but want something that’s easier to share, pecan pie bars are the way to go. They have all the gooey, nutty goodness of the classic pie but in a convenient bar form.

The magic of these bars lies in their layered construction: a buttery shortbread base topped with a pecan filling that’s both crunchy and chewy. Brown sugar and corn syrup give it that irresistible sticky sweetness, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. They’re easy to cut into squares, making them perfect for serving a crowd.

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

This dessert is a delightful marriage of flavors, combining the tartness of cranberries with the bright, citrusy zing of orange. It’s a festive twist on traditional bread pudding that’s sure to impress.

The creamy custard is soaked into cubes of bread, creating a rich and satisfying texture. Fresh cranberries add pops of tartness that balance the sweetness, while orange zest and juice infuse the pudding with a refreshing citrus flavor. It’s the perfect combination for those who love a bit of tang in their desserts.

Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie

This pie takes the traditional pecan pie to a whole new level with the addition of chocolate and bourbon. It’s a decadent dessert that’s sure to be a hit with chocolate lovers.

The filling is made with a mixture of chocolate chips, pecans, and a generous splash of bourbon, all encased in a flaky pie crust. The chocolate melts into the filling as it bakes, creating a rich, fudgy texture that pairs perfectly with the crunchy pecans. The bourbon adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire pie, making it a truly special treat for the holiday table.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Thanksgiving Desserts

Master the Art of Timing

Preparing desserts ahead of time can save you stress on the big day. Many desserts, like cheesecakes and pies, actually taste better the next day after the flavors have melded together.

Embrace Seasonal Ingredients

Fresh, seasonal ingredients like pumpkins, apples, and cranberries not only enhance the flavor but also add a touch of authenticity to your holiday recipes. Plus, they tend to be more affordable and flavorful when in season.

Get Creative with Presentation

A beautiful presentation can make your desserts even more enticing. Consider using garnishes like whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to add an extra special touch to your dishes.