The turkey is great and the mashed potatoes are delicious, but let’s be honest: the real star of Thanksgiving dinner is the dessert table. This isn’t the time for boxed brownies or store-bought cookies (though don’t judge if that’s your thing). We like to think of dessert as an experience, an excuse to slow down, turn up the music, and fill the kitchen with the aroma of butter, spices, and caramelized sugar. Because if there’s ever a time to bake something unforgettable, it’s now.
Spending a few hours whisking, rolling, and baking the day before the big meal is always worth it when your guests take their first bite. Trust us: your future self (and everyone at the table) will thank you.
From classics to conversation starters
Essentials have their place: pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and apple crumble never go out of style. But this year, we’re leaning toward desserts with a twist: salted caramel pots of cream, maple custard that feels like a blanket in dessert form, and other sweet surprises that make guests stop and ask: “Wait, what’s in this?” These recipes strike that perfect balance between nostalgic and new: comforting, but unexpected enough to become a conversation starter.
15 Best Thanksgiving Desserts
Whether you’re baking for a crowd or setting an intimate table, these Thanksgiving desserts celebrate the best flavors of the season and the joy of finishing a meal beautifully. Below, discover the recipes that could become your new Christmas tradition.
Walnut and maple pie
A refined version of a holiday favorite, this pie tops toasted pecans with a bright maple syrup filling, adding a depth of flavor that’s both nostalgic and new. Think of it as the grown-up cousin of the classic Southern staple.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies
This pumpkin cheesecake collaboration brings together two of my all-time favorite desserts in one perfect bite. Each cookie combines the coziest flavors of fall with a touch of indulgence—the bite-sized answer to everyone’s inevitable. “just one more slice” moment.
Pumpkin pie with ginger crust
If you’ve been searching high and low for the perfect pumpkin pie recipe, you’re welcome. This pumpkin pie with a spicy, buttery ginger crust has everything you could want in the ultimate pie. Plus, if you (like me) aren’t a big fan of traditional pie crust, you may change your mind with this one.
Pumpkin Pie
Whether or not you make this pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving dinner or breakfast, everyone will be obsessed with this fluffy, nutty bread. Topped with crunchy pecans that complement hints of cinnamon, your Christmas spirit is in every bite.
Cookie Tiramisu
This cookie tiramisu is a real stunner if you’re looking for presentation points with your Thanksgiving dessert. Delicious layers of espresso and chocolate chip cookies combine to create this whimsical take on the Italian classic.
Salted Caramel Creme Pots
Caramel-flavored custard is combined with fresh whipped cream to create these individual salted caramel cream pots. If you haven’t tried this delicious French dessert, put it on your list this Thanksgiving.
No Bake Pumpkin Pie Bars
All the cozy flavor of classic pumpkin pie, minus the oven time. These silky, spicy bars rest on a buttery graham crust and are chilled to perfection, proof that it can still be effortlessly enjoyable.
Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese and Walnuts
If someone brings coffee cake to Thanksgiving, you’ll probably find me around. The combination of crunchy pecans and sweet cream cheese always gets me. And for those who love the post-Thanksgiving breakfast, this one is sure to steal the show.
Dairy- and Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie
When baking for a large crowd, it’s imperative to serve desserts that everyone can enjoy. This gluten-free pumpkin pie is just as delicious as its traditional recipe while also accommodating those with dietary restrictions.
Classic Buttermilk Pie
Buttermilk pie is a Thanksgiving essential. The creamy custard-based cake is surprisingly light and airy, and the buttermilk gives it a nice tangy flavor that contrasts perfectly with the sweeter components of the cake.
Pumpkin Pie Tartlets with Candied Pepitas
Aren’t these pumpkin pie tarts so cute? These are the perfect options for those who prefer a more personal touch to their Thanksgiving desserts, and the flavor will still blow you away.
apple crumble
Apple and cinnamon are a timeless duo for a reason. And if your audience isn’t a big fan of cake, this buttery oatmeal crumble is the perfect alternative: comforting, simple, and just as irresistible on the dessert table.
Chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Think of these like mini pumpkin breads in cookie form: soft, chewy, and never dry. They strike that perfect balance between sweetness and spice, making them an unexpected hit on the dessert table.
Pumpkin Pie
This pumpkin cupcake offers all the cozy coffee cake vibes, complete with a buttery streusel topping and a light dusting of powdered sugar. It is simple, nostalgic and as beautiful as it is delicious.
Spiced Tres Leches with Rum and Coffee
Tres leches is the best Christmas cake – it can be made a day or two in advance and only gets better as it sits. If your menu is already packed with dishes to prepare, consider it your prep-ahead savior.
This post was last updated on November 17, 2025 to include new insights.
