33 Thanksgiving Baking Recipes I Always Make First

The Thanksgiving table always seems to have one thing in common: a plate or pan that mysteriously vanishes before the meal is even over. These 33 baked creations earn their spot every single time, like the relatives who show up early and leave with leftovers.

Two slices of pumpkin s'mores pie on a white plate, topped with chocolate chips, graham crackers, and toasted marshmallows. — Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Salted Honey Cookies

A stack of three round, golden-brown cookies with chocolate flecks and a sprinkle of salt on top, resting on a cooling rack with more cookies around them. — Salted Honey Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Salted Honey Cookies offer a balance of flavors that feels just right. They’re the perfect mix of rich honey with a hint of salt that enhances every bite. These cookies are simple yet stand out thanks to their unique flavor combination. Perfect for lunch boxes, afternoon snacks, or even dessert spreads.
Get the Recipe: Salted Honey Cookies

Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Close-up of two stacked pieces of chocolate cake drizzled with caramel sauce on a plate, with more cake in the background. — Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of rich chocolate and a gooey caramel drizzle make Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake something special. The contrast of sweetness and a slight saltiness creates a dessert you won’t forget. This cake is ideal for feeding a crowd or just treating yourself.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Apple Cobbler

Warm and comforting, Apple Cobbler brings tender baked fruit and crumbly topping together in each spoonful. It’s just as good for dessert as it is for breakfast the next day. The lightly spiced fruit mixture pairs perfectly with the crisp, buttery crust on top. Serve it up with a scoop of your favorite topping for an extra bit of indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cobbler

Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Close-up of a frosted cookie with a bite taken out, sprinkled with cinnamon, on a parchment surface. — Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Inspired by a fan-favorite bakery, Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies mirror all that soft, spiced, and caramel-topped goodness. These cookies bring together a flavor made for cozy gatherings. They strike the perfect match between pumpkin and caramel with just enough sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Banana Pudding Brownies

Several squares of chocolate brownies with a yellow and brown marbled pattern are stacked and arranged on parchment paper. — Banana Pudding Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Blending soft banana flavor with dense, fudgy brownie layers, Banana Pudding Brownies are a rich dessert experience. It’s perfect when you can’t pick between a fruity treat or a chocolate fix. The creamy pudding layer tucked in gives them an even creamier texture.
Get the Recipe: Banana Pudding Brownies

Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Close-up of freshly baked cookies with nuts on top, arranged closely together. — Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Chewy and nutty, Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans combine a gentle sweetness with crunchy bites. The pumpkin flavor comes through lightly, with the pecans adding a welcome texture. These cookies are just the right size for snacks or party trays.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Blueberry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake topped with glossy blueberry sauce on a white plate, with two black spoons beside it. — Blueberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Blueberry Cheesecake blends a silky filling with a fruity topping you’ll love. The sweetness of blueberries balances perfectly with the richness of the cheesecake layer. The texture is dense and velvety, making it an ideal choice for special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake

Sourdough Bagels

A plate with a bagel seasoned with seeds sits next to a baking tray holding more bagels, also topped with seeds. — Sourdough Bagels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Chewy, hearty, and full of flavor, Sourdough Bagels bring out the best in fresh-baked bread. They’re fantastic for a quick breakfast or as the base of a filling sandwich. Their slightly tangy edge sets them apart from other breads you might bake. Perfect for anyone looking to try something a little more hands-on and handmade.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bagels

Best Chocolate Cake

A person holding a slice of chocolate layer cake with frosting from a chocolate cake recipe. — Best Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

All-out chocolate flavor defines Best Chocolate Cake and makes it something dessert lovers can’t resist. Each layer is rich and moist, holding up beautifully to your favorite frosting or toppings. It’s super versatile; dress it up for a celebration or keep it simple for casual occasions. A classic for chocolate lovers of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Best Chocolate Cake

Banana Cream Pie

With every bite, Banana Cream Pie brings perfectly layered sweetness and creaminess. The smooth filling paired with a crisp crust keeps the texture interesting. It’s ideal for sharing with those who enjoy lighter desserts. A must-have that’s sure to stand out among other family favorites.
Get the Recipe: Banana Cream Pie

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

A close-up of a sourdough cinnamon roll topped with creamy icing and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a plate. — Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Soft and fluffy with a slightly tangy touch, Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls make mornings just a bit more special. Each swirl is packed with flavorful filling that bakes to perfection. They’re great fresh out of the oven or reheated for a quick treat. If you love warm, spiced flavors paired with a unique dough base, these are for you.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

A plate of blueberry muffins with crumb topping, arranged in a pile. — Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

A mix between a dessert and a breakfast favorite, Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins combine fresh fruit with a creamy filling. They’re light yet satisfying, filled with hints of sweetness in every bite. These are great for easy on-the-go snacks or relaxing mornings with coffee. You’ll want to make extra because they’ll go quickly.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

Sweet Potato Pie

Creamy and flavorful, Sweet Potato Pie firmly takes its place on many dessert tables for a good reason. Its smooth filling pairs nicely with a flaky crust that’s hard to match. Perfect for any gathering or holiday table, it’s easy to prepare and share. If you haven’t tried adding it yet, it could be the dish that surprises everyone.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Sourdough Bread

Sliced loaf of bread on a cutting board with a knife beside it. — Sourdough Bread. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Making a bread that feels both rustic and homemade, Sourdough Bread is a true classic. It brings a chewy texture and a lightly tangy flavor that’s hard to resist. This bread easily pairs with anything on the table, from soups to leftovers. With its crusty exterior, it’s a staple worth baking again and again.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bread

Buckeye Brownies

Several squares of chocolate cake with a layer of peanut butter filling and a chocolate topping are arranged on brown parchment paper. — Buckeye Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rich, fudgy layers meet peanut butter perfection when baking Buckeye Brownies. Each bite balances chocolate and a nutty creaminess. A must-have on the dessert table, they add variety to the mix of sweets. They are a fun combination of textures, making them a go-to for any chocolate lover.
Get the Recipe: Buckeye Brownies

Chocolate Cheesecake

Nothing blends smooth and indulgent quite like Chocolate Cheesecake. It’s a silky, chocolate-packed dessert that feels like a step up from typical sweets. Perfect for anyone looking for something a little richer, it’s always a conversation starter at gatherings. The creamy filling pairs perfectly with a simple crust.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cheesecake

Best Zucchini Bread

Sliced zucchini bread on a white surface, showing a moist interior with visible green flecks of zucchini. — Best Zucchini Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For those who love sneaky veggie additions, Best Zucchini Bread is an excellent option. It’s moist and perfectly sweet, with flavors that are anything but “healthy” tasting. Great for serving at breakfast or alongside coffee, it’s a crowd pleaser. Whether served fresh or stored for later, this bread never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread

Chocolate Chip Muffins

Close-up of three chocolate muffins in brown paper wrappers, topped with chocolate chips, with part of a bowl of chocolate chips visible in the background. — Chocolate Chip Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Muffins packed with chocolate chips are always a great go-to treat. Chocolate Chip Muffins are the kind of baked good that feels just as right in the morning as in the afternoon. They have a great balance of fluffy texture and bursts of chocolaty richness.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Muffins

Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

A close-up of a baked pastry ring dusted with powdered sugar, featuring multiple layers of golden-brown, flaky dough and hints of cinnamon apple strudel slices peeking through. — Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Flaky layers combined with spiced apple filling make this dessert both comforting and impressive. Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices have just the right amount of sweetness with every bite. The soft fruit and warm spices blend seamlessly into the crispy exterior. It’s perfect for when you want something with both texture and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

A square piece of pumpkin dessert bar topped with a swirl of white frosting and pecans sits on a cooling rack. — Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Transforming the classic pie flavor into an easy-to-share format, these bars are packed with flavor. Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars combine the richness of pie filling with a crunchy touch. They’re ideal for serving big groups without the worry of slicing a traditional pie. A simple twist on a classic dessert that always works.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

Coffee Cake

Close-up of eight square pieces of crumb cake with a textured, crumbly topping. — Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Topped with a crumbly layer, this dessert choice pairs especially well with hot drinks. Coffee Cake stands out with its soft base and sweet topping, making every bite enjoyable. It is a straightforward dessert that feels warm and welcoming at any table. Perfect for mornings or afternoon gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Coffee Cake

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

A slice of apple cinnamon roll on a plate. — Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mixing two favorite desserts, this treat combines the warmth of cinnamon rolls with the sweet filling of apple pie. Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie is a creative way to bring something new to a classic dish. The result is a dessert with rich layers and a comforting spiced apple filling. It’s a perfect mix of familiar flavors in a fun format.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Close-up of a muffin with a bite taken out, topped with cream and pumpkin seeds. — Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding bakery-style options to a home table is always a win. Offering Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins feels like bringing café treats to family gatherings. Their filling makes them stand apart from regular muffins. People enjoy them because they feel special, but they are still easy to grab.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Close-up of sliced crumbly cakes topped with white icing. One piece is positioned vertically to show its texture. — Cinnamon Sugar Blondies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet and warm flavors make blondies an easy dessert choice with an extra spiced twist. Cinnamon Sugar Blondies bring a toasty flavor to each square that’s anything but boring. They’re ideal for quick baking and easy sharing for any occasion. Perfectly chewy and full of flavor each time you try one.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes

Close-up of cupcakes topped with frosting and apple chunks, sprinkled with cinnamon. A knife is spreading the frosting. — Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A creative spin on the classic pie, this treat gives you all the flavor in a handheld form. Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes have soft, spiced filling wrapped up in a cupcake format. They’re simple to serve and a fun alternative for those who love traditional apple desserts. Everyone will appreciate this portable version of a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes

Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Homemade loaves bring comfort to any spread. Offering Cinnamon Swirl Bread gives guests a warm slice that pairs well with butter or jam. It works both as a breakfast option and as a sweet side at dinner. People enjoy it because each slice has a soft sweetness that feels familiar.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Close-up of a Pumpkin Dump Cake, a baked dessert topped with chopped pecans and drizzled with caramel sauce, served in a white dish on a wooden surface. — Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Desserts that don’t take much effort still shine on big days. Adding Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake brings a moist, layered treat that looks appealing on a dessert table. Its simple style makes it approachable for everyone. People often go back for another square once they try it.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Close-up of a stack of gooey caramel-filled Biscoff Brownies, sprinkled with flaky sea salt, on parchment paper. — Decadent Biscoff Brownies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A flavorful twist on classic brownies, these treats bring together chocolate and cookie flavors. Decadent Biscoff Brownies add a layer of creaminess that stands out. The cookie spread mixes perfectly with the fudgy brownie base to create something unique. This dessert feels indulgent without being overly complicated.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Garlic Knots

Warm bread sides never last long at gatherings. Serving Garlic Knots adds a fun pull-apart option that pairs with many main dishes. They look inviting on the table in a basket or bowl. Guests often finish them before the main plates even arrive.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Dinner Rolls

No holiday table feels complete without a simple bread basket. Dinner Rolls bring a soft, fluffy option that works for both small and large gatherings. They are easy to pair with butter, spreads, or use for small sandwiches. People always expect to see them when the meal is served.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Close-up of five bright orange physalis fruits placed on a chocolate pumpkin patch brownie surface, garnished with fresh green mint leaves. — Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dessert tables shine when there’s a centerpiece that draws attention. That’s where Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake fits in with its bold look and rich texture. It combines cake and brownie elements into one pan. People notice it right away and usually want to try it.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Homemade Bread Pudding

A close-up of decadent bread pudding, topped with creamy vanilla sauce, is being lifted from a serving plate. — Homemade Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Comfort desserts often remind people of family gatherings. Serving Homemade Bread Pudding gives a warm, soft option that balances nicely against richer treats. It can be made ahead and served when guests are ready. People usually enjoy a scoop, even after a large meal.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Bread Pudding

Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Creative desserts often spark excitement at the table. That’s why Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake becomes a favorite when served. Its layers give variety in each bite, making it stand out from simpler cakes. Guests usually want a piece once they see it cut open.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake