51 Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas That Make Hosting Easier
Thanksgiving desserts deserve to shine just as much as the feast itself, and these 51 ideas you won’t want to miss. From cozy classics to fresh twists, these recipes are perfect for fall gatherings or impressing your guests with minimal effort. Every dessert has its moment to make celebrating even sweeter.

Buttery Pecan Pie Bars

The richness of pecan pie finds a new form in Buttery Pecan Pie Bars, making it easy to serve and share. A buttery crust pairs perfectly with the caramel-like pecan filling, delivering all the flavors of the traditional pie in convenient bar form. These are perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings where you want everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Pecan Pie Bars
S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Nostalgia and indulgence collide with S’mores Stuffed Cookies. Think soft-baked cookies with gooey marshmallows, classic graham cracker crunch, and melted chocolate tucked inside every bite. Perfect for adding whimsical fun to your dessert table, these cookies bring smiles to both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies
Tangy Lemon Cheesecake

For those moments when you need something refreshing, Tangy Lemon Cheesecake delivers. The creamy richness of cheesecake is cut perfectly by the vibrant brightness of fresh lemon. This dessert stands out among heavier Thanksgiving options and leaves guests talking about its balance of light, yet indulgent flavors.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon Cheesecake
Sweet Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

Blending the comforting spice of pumpkin with the nuttiness of pecans, Sweet Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars provide everything you love about autumn in one bite. The soft pumpkin layer causes immediate cravings, while the pecan topping adds the perfect crunch. Great for Thanksgiving spreads where variety is a must.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars
Warm Apple Crisp

There’s something magical about the aroma of Warm Apple Crisp wafting through your kitchen. This classic dessert brings together tender, juicy apples baked under a golden oat topping that’s equal parts crunchy and buttery. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon, it’s the crowd-pleaser your guests will look forward to every year.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Crisp
Sweet Raspberry Cheesecake

Bring vibrant color and creamy decadence to your dessert spread with Sweet Raspberry Cheesecake. Swirls of sweet-tart raspberry transform the classic cheesecake, creating a visually stunning and delicious centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. Guests always note how the tangy fruit balances the creaminess.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Raspberry Cheesecake
Tangy Key Lime Bars

When Thanksgiving calls for a tropical twist, Tangy Key Lime Bars step in. With a bright citrus flavor and silky texture, they’re just the right dessert for lightening a heavy post-meal spread. Every bite captures the refreshing zing of lime combined with the richness of a buttery crust, ideal for fans of balanced sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Key Lime Bars
Rich Blueberry Cheesecake

Cheesecake lovers find everything they crave in Rich Blueberry Cheesecake. Smooth and velvety texture meets the burst of juicy blueberries, creating a bold flavor pair that’s hard to resist. Serve this at your Thanksgiving celebration to bring a sweet yet satisfying dessert to the table.
Get the Recipe: Rich Blueberry Cheesecake
Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream

Ice cream for Thanksgiving? Absolutely. Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream takes center stage with its nutty yet subtle flavor profile that complements warm autumn desserts beautifully. Serve a scoop alongside pie, or enjoy it on its own; it’s the kind of unexpected, refreshing touch your guests will keep talking about long after the meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream
Moist Pumpkin Cake

The moist texture of Moist Pumpkin Cake captures everything cozy about fall in one slice. Infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this cake is soft, fluffy, and perfect for serving alongside coffee or tea after Thanksgiving dinner. These tie together to create an unforgettable dessert.
Get the Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Cake
Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler

Combining the best aspects of cobbler and pecan pie, Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler builds layers of indulgence. A gooey caramel-like pecan filling and golden crust create the ultimate dessert for guests who want seconds. The cobbler format makes serving easy, and it’s especially popular for older family traditions. Perfect warm with ice cream!
Get the Recipe: Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler
Amish Cinnamon Cake

Amish Cinnamon Cake brings simplicity and tradition to Thanksgiving with its pillowy-soft texture and warm, spiced flavor. Layers of cinnamon-sugar bake into delicate cake, creating pockets of sweetness. Ideal for gatherings where guests crave desserts that pair well with post-dinner coffee. This is one recipe you’ll want to keep in rotation year-round!
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Cake
Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Nostalgia meets indulgence in Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies, which pair the creamy richness of peanut butter bases with gooey pockets of jam. The nostalgia factor turns heads, while the surprisingly elegant presentation earns compliments. Perfect for Thanksgiving dessert displays or casual after-dinner snacks.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie
Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins

Rich and compact, Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins pair a comforting golden crumble with sweet bursts of chocolate chips. These mini-size treats are easy to serve and even easier to enjoy. They shine as a simple dessert or a grab-and-go option for relaxed Thanksgiving gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins
Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Pumpkin turns this dessert into a transformed fall favorite. Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake layers chewy cookie dough, melted chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and spiced pumpkin goodness for a dessert that’s as fun as it is indulgent. Perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations where you want bold flavors and textures to complement.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake
Apple and Cranberry Pie

Seasonal fruits come together in Apple and Cranberry Pie, combining the sugary sweetness of baked apples with the tartness of fresh cranberries. Each slice offers bold autumn flavor wrapped in a flaky, golden crust. This pie is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings where traditional desserts need fresh twists.
Get the Recipe: Apple and Cranberry Pie
Rich Chocolate Cheesecake

Every Thanksgiving dessert table needs its showstopper, and Rich Chocolate Cheesecake delivers. The chocolate flavor complements the creamy cheesecake texture perfectly, creating a luxurious bite that guests will enjoy and remember. Add a hint of whipped cream topping to take it up a notch.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cheesecake
Classic Pumpkin Pie

No Thanksgiving is complete without Classic Pumpkin Pie. The smooth, spiced pumpkin filling and golden crust never fail to bring guests back for seconds. Despite its simplicity, this pie stands out for its timeless appeal. Whether paired with whipped cream or served as is, it’s the quintessential Thanksgiving dessert that ties the holiday meal together.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pumpkin Pie
Burnt Basque Cheesecake

For adventurous hosts, Burnt Basque Cheesecake offers a unique twist on the usual holiday sweets. The caramelized exterior balances beautifully with the creamy, delicate center, creating unexpected depth of flavor. This dessert is perfect for adding sophistication to Thanksgiving spreads.
Get the Recipe: Burnt Basque Cheesecake
Classic Tiramisu

The timeless favorite, Classic Tiramisu, effortlessly balances bold espresso tones with delicate mascarpone layers and soft ladyfingers. It’s an elegant addition to your Thanksgiving dessert lineup and is perfect for gatherings where guests don’t want overly sweet options. Dust it generously with cocoa powder for an impressive final touch.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tiramisu
Buttery Coffee Cake

Few desserts work as hard as Buttery Coffee Cake. This tender cake combines layers of buttery softness with a warm cinnamon-sugar topping, making it equally delicious for post-dinner desserts and festive holiday brunches. The light crumble adds a satisfying texture, keeping guests reaching for slice after slice at your Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Coffee Cake
Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Soft, rich, and layered with caramel flavor, Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies take fall desserts to new heights. These cookies combine the comforting warmth of pumpkin spice with gooey caramel centers, delivering decadence in every bite. Ideal for impressing guests who love seasonal flavors without the need for elaborate preparation.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies
Creamy Coconut Cream Pie

Refreshingly light yet irresistibly creamy, Creamy Coconut Cream Pie balances sweet tropical notes with a buttery pastry shell. It’s a welcome break from heavier Thanksgiving desserts, making it ideal for pairing with coffee or serving as the perfect surprise on your holiday dessert table. Fluffy whipped cream garnishes this treat with an elegant flair.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Coconut Cream Pie
Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Get ready for indulgence! Decadent Biscoff Brownies transform traditional brownies into something unforgettable by layering in the spiced sweetness of Biscoff cookies. Their fudgy texture and bold flavor make them an instant hit at Thanksgiving. One bite often leads to requests for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies
Creamy Crème Brûlée Cheesecake

Decadence rises to new levels with Creamy Crème Brûlée Cheesecake, a dessert that blends silky cheesecake with the delicate crunch of a caramelized sugar topping. The silky texture makes for refined elegance without unnecessary effort. Perfect for Thanksgiving feasts where sophistication meets comfort.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Crème Brûlée Cheesecake
Easy Banana Pudding

A classic dessert that never disappoints, Easy Banana Pudding offers creamy layers of pudding, vanilla wafers, and fresh bananas. The flavors meld into something irresistible, making it a perfect no-bake option for busy Thanksgiving hosts. Whether you prepare it ahead or serve it immediately, this dessert earns rave reviews every time.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding
Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake

Seasonal spices meet rich, creamy cheesecake in Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake, making it an unmistakable hit at any Thanksgiving gathering. The velvety pumpkin filling harmonizes perfectly with the crunchy crust for a dessert that feels festive. Guests always request the recipe, and many find themselves coming back for a second (or third) slice!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake
Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Elegant yet surprisingly simple, Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices combine tender cinnamon-spiced apples with layers of buttery, flaky pastry. A perfect choice if you’re looking for bite-sized perfection that fits well on a dessert platter. Light and delicate, each slice feels indulgent without the heaviness of traditional pies.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices
Creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

If you love peanut butter and chocolate, Creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie is a Thanksgiving must-have. Rich peanut butter filling sits in a chocolate crust, offering a dessert that feels nostalgic yet transformed. Topped with whipped cream and crumbled peanut butter cups, this pie guarantees happy guests, and lots of compliments.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie
Homemade Chocolate Truffles

A luxurious bite-sized dessert, Homemade Chocolate Truffles bring decadence to your Thanksgiving table. Creamy and rich, these melt-in-your-mouth treats are perfect for guests who want a small indulgence after dinner. Rolled in cocoa powder or crushed nuts, they’re customizable and uniquely elegant.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Chocolate Truffles
Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

For busy hosts looking for simplicity, Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake delivers autumn flavors in a surprisingly low-effort way. Warm spices, pumpkin purée, and a buttery cake topping bake into a dessert that feels homemade but requires minimal prep. Guests often ask how it comes together so quickly; it’s perfect for last-minute desserts.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake
Moist Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting

Moist Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting combine the best of autumn baking: spice-filled pumpkin and tangy cream cheese frosting. These soft, tender bars make a striking addition to any dessert table, thanks to their vibrant orange color and creamy topping. Easy to slice into shareable portions, they’re perfect for larger crowds.
Get the Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting
Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Delicious and simple, Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars use pantry staples to create buttery bars loaded with chocolate goodness. Perfect for hosts needing something quick without compromising flavor. Ideal for potlucks or large Thanksgiving gatherings where desserts vanish fast!
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Bite into delicate spice and crunch with Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies! These crisp cookies, sandwiched with a creamy filling, bring warmth and texture that perfectly balance heavier Thanksgiving desserts. Guests love the subtle flavors that feel nostalgic yet refined. They’re a fun option to diversify your dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies
Decadent Chocolate Hummus

A fun and unexpected twist on dessert, Decadent Chocolate Hummus turns rich, creamy cocoa into a spreadable treat. Perfect with fruit slices or graham crackers, this is ideal for Thanksgiving tables looking for something unique yet easy to serve. Guests of all ages enjoy dipping and spreading; it’s a conversation starter and crowd-pleaser all in one!
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Hummus
Moist Rhubarb Cake

Tangy and tender, Moist Rhubarb Cake brings bright seasonal flavor to your Thanksgiving spread. The balanced sweetness pairs beautifully with autumn spices in a way that keeps guests returning for another slice. Perfect for those who want desserts beyond traditional pies, this cake serves as a flavorful highlight that’s sure to leave lasting memories!
Get the Recipe: Moist Rhubarb Cake
Rich Chocolate Cream Pie

The elegance of Rich Chocolate Cream Pie steals the show every time. Creamy chocolate filling meets a delicate, buttery crust; this indulgent dessert is loved by any crowd. Decorate with freshly whipped cream for a stunning finish, whether you’re hosting a small group or a larger Thanksgiving feast. Chocolate lovers are guaranteed to ask for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cream Pie
Rolled Pumpkin Cake With Cream Filling

Guests always marvel at the presentation of Rolled Pumpkin Cake With Cream Filling, a dessert as beautiful as it is delicious. Soft sponge cake flavored with pumpkin spices wraps around creamy, dreamy filling for a bite that’s perfectly balanced. This showstopper is ideal for celebrations where you want to impress.
Get the Recipe: Rolled Pumpkin Cake With Cream Filling
Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Think pecan pie, but richer and creamier; that’s Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake. A luscious cheesecake base is topped with gooey caramelized pecans, blending the two desserts into something unforgettable. This is perfect for Thanksgiving tables where classics need a creative update, and it’s guaranteed to be remembered long after everyone’s gone.
Get the Recipe: Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Tangy Lemon Bars

Lighter and brighter than traditional Thanksgiving desserts, Tangy Lemon Bars deliver bold citrus flavor with a silky custard layer atop a buttery crust. The fresh zing offers a much-needed contrast to a rich holiday meal. Ideal for guests who want a small, refreshing bite, they always disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon Bars
Rich Chocolate Pie

Bold flavors dominate in Rich Chocolate Pie, which pairs silky chocolate filling with a golden, flaky crust. Guests praise its creamy richness but appreciate its elegant simplicity. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving hosts who want a timeless dessert that satisfies chocolate cravings while complementing other holiday sweets.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Pie
Warm Apple Cobbler

Few desserts are as comforting as Warm Apple Cobbler, where tender cinnamon-scented apples bake under a golden topping. As spoonfuls hit plates, you’ll find guests smiling at the familiar flavors of fall. Perfect served warm with ice cream, it’s a crowd-favorite that turns any Thanksgiving into a cozy, memorable affair.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Cobbler
Rich German Chocolate Cake

Layers of moist chocolate cake alternate with coconut-pecan filling in Rich German Chocolate Cake, a truly indulgent dessert. This timeless option feels both comforting and elegant, offering a perfect balance between sweetness and texture. Guests who love layered decadence keep coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Rich German Chocolate Cake
Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie

Fluffy meringue crowns an irresistible lemon filling in Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie. This dessert’s delicate balance between vibrant citrus and airy sweetness makes it a refreshing choice on Thanksgiving tables full of heavier options. Beautiful to look at and delicious to eat, it’s always worth the effort for the impact it brings to every holiday meal!
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie
Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Decadent and smooth, Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake layers creamy goodness with the indulgent twist of salted caramel. One slice balances sweetness and richness in a way that captivates even the most discerning dessert-lovers. Perfect for Thanksgiving dinners where you want to offer a sophisticated centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake
Warm Apple Fritters

Golden, crisp, and drizzled with sweetness, Warm Apple Fritters transform tender chunks of apple into a dessert that’s nostalgic and indulgent. These fritters are lightly spiced and served for a cozy bite that guests love. Pair them with coffee or enjoy them as a simple yet memorable addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Fritters
Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake

Two bold flavors combine beautifully in Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake, where creamy mascarpone meets coffee-soaked elegance. The cheesecake base is layered with hints of espresso, cocoa, and ladyfinger crumbs, making it the perfect hybrid dessert for celebrations that call for sophistication. Guests tend to rave over this showstopper.
Get the Recipe: Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake
Sweet Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Dessert doesn’t get more festive than Sweet Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, where the best of two favorites meet in one dish. Imagine the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls wrapped around apple pie filling; it’s holiday perfection. No matter how you slice it, this dessert draws compliments and plenty of curious glances.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies

Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies are the dessert people can’t stop talking about. Rich chocolate mingles with tangy cream cheese for a dessert that wows in both flavor and texture. These brownies are as decadent as they come and deliver impressive results with simple preparation. Serve them anywhere from casual parties to elegant spreads.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies
Sweet Kool Aid Pie

Sweet Kool Aid Pie is all about whimsy. Tart, fruity flavors meet a creamy dessert base, making it an unexpected hit among Thanksgiving guests looking for something unique. Whether it’s the vibrant appearance or refreshing taste, this no-bake option stands out and ensures conversations around the dessert table continue long after the meal ends.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Kool Aid Pie
Moist Red Velvet Cake

A visual and flavorful knockout, Moist Red Velvet Cake holds its place on any Thanksgiving dessert table with its vibrant color and unmistakable richness. The soft texture and subtle cocoa flavor pair beautifully with tangy cream cheese frosting for a dessert that feels both indulgent and timeless. Slice into this after dinner for a memorable holiday treat.
Get the Recipe: Moist Red Velvet Cake
