33 Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes You’ll Wish You Found Sooner

Every holiday table deserves a little extra sweetness, and 33 desserts are more than ready to deliver. They’ve got the kind of charm that makes people show up early and leave late. A few might even become the reason someone volunteers to host next time. Don’t be surprised if your relatives start asking for the recipe.

A slice of layered dessert with a creamy white layer, chocolate filling, and crushed cookie topping. — Chocolate Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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.

When you crave a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, look no further. Blueberry Cheesecake blends creamy layers with fruity notes, making any feast feel extra special. Guests often ask for a second slice, especially when served cold. This one stands out with its smooth finish and colorful topping.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake

Kool Aid Pie

A slice of cream pie on a white plate, topped with whipped cream. An orange slice and a drink are in the background. — Kool Aid Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Some desserts are ready to surprise you with their simple fun. Kool Aid Pie puts a playful twist on classic pie, bringing bold color and bright flavor to the table. Kids always go back for another helping once they spot it. It’s easy to serve and perfect for light-hearted celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Kool Aid Pie

Watergate Salad

A glass bowl filled with pistachio-flavored dessert topped with mini marshmallows and chopped nuts, with another similar bowl in the background. — Watergate Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

At any gathering, a fluffy salad adds something unique to the spread. Watergate Salad offers creamy sweetness with a fun texture, keeping both kids and adults interested. It stays light for after a big meal and always sparkles in photos. People often request this again for future get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

Tiramisu

A hint of coffee in dessert makes for a different experience. Tiramisu brings rich layers and a soft bite, helping everyone wind down after dinner. Fans of smooth textures and coffee will want a big portion. Every piece serves up something comforting and a little familiar.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Apple Cobbler

Baked fruit desserts offer both crunch and warmth all in one scoop. Apple Cobbler stands out with a golden top and a syrupy inside, perfect for serving with ice cream. It’s always a popular pick, especially among those who like old-school recipes. Extra servings are almost certain once people get a taste.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cobbler

German Chocolate Cake

A slice of double-layer chocolate cake with a creamy filling and glossy chocolate frosting on top. — German Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Chocolate fans have something to get excited about with this classic. German Chocolate Cake stacks fluffy layers with rich topping, creating a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Even small slices feel special with their balance of flavors. It’s a tried-and-true option for big celebrations.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cake

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.

Cookies with a soft texture are always the first to go at big family meals. Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies combine a favorite cookie style with a caramel twist, making each bite sweet. People tend to grab more than one as they pass by the plate. It brings a little fun to the dessert table without being fussy.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A slice of pineapple cake topped with fresh raspberries on a white surface. — Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Chefs often try something different by flipping a classic dessert. Pineapple Upside Down Cake brings sweet fruit to the top, with a spongy cake base underneath. Each slice feels both light and rich, perfect for serving to a big group. It’s a fun change from usual cakes.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Banana Cream Pie

Sometimes pie is the only answer for a crowd with mixed tastes. Banana Cream Pie blends smooth filling and soft layers for a chilled treat. The creamy texture keeps everyone reaching for another bite. It’s especially welcome after hearty meals.
Get the Recipe: Banana Cream Pie

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.

Getting ready for dessert means offering something new to guests. Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake pairs chocolate richness with a hint of pumpkin in every slice. It’s a solid pick for those who love bold flavors. You’ll want to make sure there’s enough for second servings.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Pistachio Ice Cream

Sometimes just one scoop makes the night better. Pistachio Ice Cream keeps things smooth and cool, giving a nutty note that stands out from other dessert options. Many people reach for it because it’s not always on the table. It works well as a lighter option for finishing the meal.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Ice Cream

Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

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.

Marriage of classic s’mores and pumpkin is hard to forget. Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake has a soft base with a gooey middle that wins over every crowd. The fun mix keeps everyone talking and comparing slices. Bringing this dessert means there are never any leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Chocolate Pie

Pies with bold flavor can tie up a big meal just right. Chocolate Pie stands apart for its rich filling and smooth top layer, making forks work quickly. It’s a reliable choice when you want dessert with plenty of flavor. Even picky eaters ask for a generous slice at the end.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pie

Coffee Cake

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

Sweet breads fit in at any dessert table, especially with a morning coffee or after dinner. Coffee Cake serves up crumbles and a soft crumb, pleasing everybody who tries it. This cake keeps conversation going as people reach for seconds. A warm slice is always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Coffee Cake

Coconut Cream Pie

Smooth and cool desserts stand out when the room gets busy. Coconut Cream Pie layers soft filling with a fluffy top, always bringing in fans of something tropical. It finishes the meal on a light note people remember. Many ask for the recipe as soon as the plates are cleared.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cream Pie

Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Two glass cups filled with layers of sliced strawberries, chocolate, granola, and chopped pistachios, with a blurred bowl of nuts in the background. — Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Small portions can have a big impact when made with care. Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup offers a mix of chocolate and fruit, blending fresh and rich notes in a single treat. The cups are easy to hold for guests walking around. It’s a fun, elegant finish for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

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.

Mixing two favorite desserts creates a talking point for the table. Banana Pudding Brownies have a soft base and a hint of creaminess that invites extra helpings. They work well for big groups looking for a new spin on sweets. It’s easy to enjoy these with a glass of milk or coffee.
Get the Recipe: Banana Pudding Brownies

Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Sometimes the easiest treats are the biggest hit. Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars have a soft bite and extra chips in every square. These bars always disappear within minutes of being served. Kids and adults both go back for more.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Banoffee Pie

Looking for something new at dessert time keeps things interesting. Banoffee Pie combines banana, cream, and sweet layers for a chilled treat with plenty of texture. Slices hold together well, making it easy to serve on big plates. This one usually disappears faster than the rest.
Get the Recipe: Banoffee Pie

Red Velvet Cake

A dash of color makes every dessert table lively. Red Velvet Cake mixes a soft crumb with a gentle cocoa flavor, topped with neat layers of frosting. Bigger slices make everyone happy once the cake is cut. People tend to remember this one long after the meal is done.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cake

Key Lime Bars

A close-up of dessert bars with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, and whipped topping, garnished with lime slices in the background. — Key Lime Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bars with a citrus punch finish a meal with something bright. Key Lime Bars bring together tart, sweet, and smooth in a tidy square. They’re easy to pass around and loved by both kids and adults. Guests like the fresh flavor after heavier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Bars

Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

A festive plate of Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys crafted with chocolate, pretzels, candy corn, and candy eyes. — Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Little snacks can bring out the smiles during dessert time. Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys add a sweet and salty note in every bite, shaped for extra fun. People enjoy reaching for them as both a dessert and a decoration. Kids especially love how tricky they look on the table.
Get the Recipe: Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

Lemon Bars

Close-up of a lemon bar with a crumbly, light yellow top layer and a thicker, moist filling resting on a shortbread crust. — Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When dessert needs a little sharpness, a citrus bar can perk up the spread. Lemon Bars offer tangy and sweet in every bite, ending the meal on a lighter note. They’re handy for sharing at big tables or for taking home. The powdered top makes them look finished and neat.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Rhubarb Cake

Trying something a little different is always welcome at a big gathering. Rhubarb Cake pairs soft crumb with a tart wave through each piece. This cake stands out from classic options and brings in curious eaters. It’s a smart way to change up usual dessert options.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Cake

Sweet Potato Pie

Many families find pie is a must for group meals. Sweet Potato Pie has a smooth filling and golden finish, making it a hit for all ages. Slices offer sweetness and warmth that works well after a big meal. Even those who skip dessert usually try a piece.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Apple Crisp

Close-up of apple crumble with oats and brown sugar topping. A spoon is partially visible on the left. — Apple Crisp. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crisps line up comfort and crunch for easy serving. Apple Crisp brings baked fruit and a crunchy topping together in each spoonful. It’s ideally served with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. The dish empties fast, no leftovers, just smiles.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp

Tiramisu Ice Cream

A close-up of a glass dish with tiramisu being scooped out, showing layers of cream, cake, and cocoa powder. — Tiramisu Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dessert gets a boost from mixing classics with something cold. Tiramisu Ice Cream whirls coffee flavor with a cool creamy texture in each scoop. It’s popular for both adults and adventurous kids. Pairing it with other desserts makes the table more fun.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Ice Cream

Pecan Pie Cobbler

Cobblers make family desserts easy, especially for large groups. Pecan Pie Cobbler melds gooey center and crunchy topping all in one spoonful. It’s a solid pick for anyone who loves rich flavor and simple serving. This dessert runs out before anyone gets up from the table.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cobbler

Fried Banana

Even fruit can turn into a sweet bite with a quick twist. Fried Banana yields soft centers with a crisp outer layer that guests want again and again. This treat pairs really well with cold desserts. Kids are quick to grab a few pieces for their plates.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

A plate of five sticky buns topped with caramelized nuts and sauce, resting on a red cloth. — Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Combining bread and fruit forms a new kind of treat. Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls deliver sticky sweetness that stands out among other desserts. Each bite includes a soft roll and gooey filling. Friends and family ask about these whenever dessert comes up.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Cherry Cheesecake

Cheesecakes do well at any big event with their creamy centers and neat slices. Cherry Cheesecake layers smooth filling and sweet fruit, making it great for sharing. Each cut gives a sharp, sweet kick. It’s one dessert everyone looks forward to.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake

Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

A slice of Reese's pie sits on a cake slice, ready to be served. — Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Peanut butter takes center stage in this laid-back dessert. Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie comes together with a creamy base and thick layers that make each slice memorable. Fans of sweet and salty will grab a second serving. The easy cut makes it perfect for sharing with a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

Chocolate Lasagna

Layers are always crowd-pleasers when serving a big group. Chocolate Lasagna stacks cookie, cream, and pudding for a playful mix of texture and fun. It’s rich but not too heavy, so it’s perfect for ending a celebration. Most guests end up asking for the recipe right after dessert.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Lasagna