47 Easy Thanksgiving Desserts That Save the Day

For Thanksgiving dessert emergencies, I turn to 47 easy ideas that never let anyone down. Plates make room quickly, yet they’re placed among old favorites. Smiles spread as the layers of pudding and fruit create quiet excitement across the table. Guests always ask for this recipe after the first slice disappears from sight.

Classic Banana Cream Pie. Photo credit: .

Sweet Raspberry Cheesecake

A slice of raspberry-topped cheesecake is being lifted from a whole cheesecake with a graham cracker crust.
Sweet Raspberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Swirls of fruit make any end of meal feel special regardless of how busy the day gets. Guests gravitate toward the rich filling in Sweet Raspberry Cheesecake once slices show up for tasting. The smooth texture lingers along with gentle tartness that sets it apart. Requests come in till nothing but crumbs remain on every plate.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Raspberry Cheesecake

Classic Apple Pie With Cinnamon

A slice of apple pie on a plate with a scoop of ice cream.
Classic Apple Pie With Cinnamon. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Spice accents bring comfort to tables where tradition guides every bite. Plates fill up with Classic Apple Pie With Cinnamon when the aroma escapes the kitchen before dinner ends. Forks press gently into the soft layers as conversation peeks up about holiday memories. Slices pass quickly until the last crumb is gone.
Get the Recipe: Classic Apple Pie With Cinnamon

Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Close-up of three stacked blondies with chocolate chips, resembling cake mix chocolate chip cookie bars, one of which has a bite taken out of it.
Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bar desserts earn easy applause on fast-paced days needing sweetness quickly. Hands reach for Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars when trays line up on crowded counters. Compliments roll in over chewy texture and bursts of chocolate. Batches disappear before guests finish sharing stories.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

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

Classic flavors meld into chewy treats guests discover with a bit of curiosity. Satisfied smiles follow every pan of Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies as the gentle banana touch pairs well with sweet chocolate. The surprise from each serving stays with everyone. Requests arrive the moment the tray is emptied.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

Rich Peanut Butter Cake

Close-up of frosted square cake pieces with a light brown crust on parchment paper.
Rich Peanut Butter Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nutty aromas drift around dessert tables crowded with sweet selections. Eyes turn toward Rich Peanut Butter Cake while fluffy frosting and soft layers invite moments of quiet enjoyment. Comments follow about the unforgettable combination filling each bite. The cake leaves a lasting impression long after the celebration is over.
Get the Recipe: Rich Peanut Butter Cake

Classic Tiramisu

A slice of tiramisu is being lifted from the dish, showcasing layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, topped with cocoa powder.
Classic Tiramisu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sophistication finds its way onto the table even when time is short. Applause grows around Classic Tiramisu once slices reveal their creamy filling alongside hints of coffee. Each bite grows into a memory guests want to recreate throughout the year. The plate always returns clean.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tiramisu

Dense Fruit Cake

A close-up of a fruitcake with a slice being lifted out, showing its dense texture and pieces of dried fruit inside.
Dense Fruit Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Slices packed with festive textures make dessert last longer than anyone expects. People talk for days about Dense Fruit Cake since its bold look and unique aroma become the focus. The abundance of every piece keeps the conversation lively with recommendations to share. Trays always come back empty.
Get the Recipe: Dense Fruit Cake

Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie

A slice of cinnamon pie on a cake slice over the remaining pie.
Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple desserts become the anchors of tradition in kitchens bustling with action. Guests remark on the deep flavor of Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie soon after the first bite lands. The familiar scent creates a soothing backdrop while the pie serves as a comfort. Slices vanish fast, leaving only happy chatter.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie

Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler

Pecan Pie Cobbler. Photo Credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes
Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Gooey desserts inspire anticipation as sides bubble in the oven. Admiration lands on Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler when servings fill plates with syrupy layers. The combination wins over hesitant guests who return for seconds. A new favorite is born once the cobbler disappears.
Get the Recipe: Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler

Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta

A plate of baked pasta with a crispy, browned topping and dollops of white sauce.
Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pasta finds new purpose in sweet endings shared around the table. Discussion always follows Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta because people just want to know what makes it so different. Smooth textures and gentle sweetness pair up for a memorable treat. Bowls run dry long before the fun runs out.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta

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.

Bite-sized servings simplify dessert as plates fill quickly for group celebrations. An excited buzz surrounds Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes with their visible swirls and crisp tops. People ask how to make more before the first batch is gone. Cupcakes keep the party lively until the last bite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes

Rich Homemade Bread Pudding

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

Old recipes make a comeback for guests in need of comfort. Quiet applause follows Rich Homemade Bread Pudding with its thick pieces and soft textures. Questions about flavor continue well past dessert. Each serving brings warmth to every gathering.
Get the Recipe: Rich Homemade Bread Pudding

Warm Apple Cobbler

A baked apple cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, partially served in a dish.
Warm Apple Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Gentle aromas send hands reaching for spoons while dessert cools. Crowd approval grows for Warm Apple Cobbler once the first scoop lands on a plate. The blend of soft apples and sweet topping creates cheerful conversation. Empty bowls indicate a unanimous win.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Cobbler

Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie

A lemon meringue pie in a white dish, topped with swirled, browned meringue, sits on a light-colored surface next to a lemon.
Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Light desserts close out lively meals with a burst of brightness. Guests pause for a second helping of Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie when the foam peaks show up on the table. Appreciation builds for the sharp contrast in taste and soft filling. Slices leave the room faster than compliments end.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie

Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

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

Comfort foods win votes at tables stacked high with dessert trays. Chatter breaks out about Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies with their sweet top and dense middle. Slices make repeat appearances before dinner gets quiet. The blondies set a happy tone from start to finish.
Get the Recipe: Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Retro Watergate Salad

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

Classic textures and colors grab attention on buffet spreads, missing nostalgia. Praise comes easy for Retro Watergate Salad once guests scoop their first serving. The mix wins hearts for both its look and simplicity. Bowls clean out faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Retro Watergate Salad

Rich Banoffee Pie

A slice of Banoffee pie with whipped cream and caramel.
Rich Banoffee Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Decadence comes alive where sweet dates meet bold fillings. Lively interest rises around Rich Banoffee Pie once guests notice rich toppings and creamy middle. Every forkful starts animated stories about best desserts ever tasted. Plates make room for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Rich Banoffee Pie

Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Three peanut butter sandwich cookies are stacked, with the top cookie showing a large bite taken out. Crumbs and cookie pieces are scattered on a parchment-lined surface.
Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cookie trays go fast when crunch meets fun at dessert time. Smiles appear for Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies as crisp pieces sandwich a velvety center. Stories about creative baking fill the air. Trays return for refills repeatedly.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream

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

Frozen desserts break up heavy meals with cool bites that everyone wants. Attention builds for Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream since layers of flavor shine through each spoonful. Compliments pass around the table as guests catch a hint of coffee. Dishes find their way back for more until nothing remains.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream

Amish Cinnamon Cake

Three pieces of crumbly coffee cake with a cinnamon swirl are stacked on a plate, with two white mugs partially visible around them.
Amish Cinnamon Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spiced tradition wins the spotlight on tables packed with choices. Admiration grows for Amish Cinnamon Cake once slices show their soft crumb and swirls. The cake raises questions about heritage desserts among many guests. Slices disappear before more stories are even shared.
Get the Recipe: Amish Cinnamon Cake

Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse

A glass dessert cup filled with chocolate mousse, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, placed on a light-colored surface.
Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Airy sweets lighten up the finale for those wanting chocolate. Laughter comes with every serving of Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse as smooth bites keep conversation flowing. Chocolate lovers praise the simple presentation which suits every gathering. Requests for more follow quickly.
Get the Recipe: Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse

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.

Inventive desserts wake up creativity on busy holiday evenings. Curiosity starts with Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake because each slice combines comfort and excitement. The contrast of the soft middle and crisp top brings both amusement and compliments. Slices leave the tray instantly.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Decadent 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.
Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Chocolate shines with elegance when bold layers are revealed. Admiration finds Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup after the first spoonful breaks through its top. The combination wins immediate praise for flavor and appearance. Guests rush to request this recipe every time.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A slice of pecan pie being served on a cake slice.
Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Merging classics keeps guests curious and plates busy. Heads turn for Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake once crust and topping blend together at the first bite. Excitement builds for the simple contrast in textures. The cheesecake takes center stage until the trays are clean out.
Get the Recipe: Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Easy Banana Pudding

Banana pudding in a bowl with whipped cream and bananas.
Easy Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft puddings wrap up meals with smooth comfort for those craving simple sweets. Smiles grow for Easy Banana Pudding with every spoonful that slides down easily. The dessert earns positive remarks about flavor lasting beyond dinner. Seconds show up quickly as the bowl empties.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake

Close-up of a slice of pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting and a drizzle of caramel on top.
Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Fall flavors spread warmth among guests who want to remember traditions. Fluffy praise meets Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake before serving even starts. The caramel touch brings lively conversation with each forkful. Nearly every plate returns for more.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake

Southern Sweet Potato Pie

A slice of sweet potato pie with a swirl of cream on it.
Southern Sweet Potato Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic endings become memorable for their color and creamy fillings. Compliments swirl for Southern Sweet Potato Pie once plates fill with velvety slices. The pie inspires cheerful talk around the table. Seconds are gone before the rest of dinner is finished.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Moist Chocolate Cake

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

Chocolate anchors dessert spreads crafted for comfort and simplicity. A gentle hush falls over Moist Chocolate Cake when slices hit the table before guests speak. The texture finds praise for being soft and even. Compliments continue until nothing remains.
Get the Recipe: Moist Chocolate Cake

Flaky 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.
Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pastry sweets bring out conversation among those craving something special. Admiration rises for Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices once each piece reveals its glistening crust. Questions about making a dessert that looks impressive fill the kitchen. Slices tend to vanish right away.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Mini Cheesecakes

Mini cheesecakes topped with strawberry sauce, fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and a small mint leaf on a light surface.
Mini Cheesecakes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Individual desserts create excitement for people craving variety. The buzz starts for Mini Cheesecakes at first sight of creamy tops. Tiny servings win big praise and spark conversation about ways to personalize each treat. Guests line up for extras once the tray runs out.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cheesecakes

Rich Chocolate Pie

A slice of chocolate pie with a swirl of whipped cream.
Rich Chocolate Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Deep cocoa flavors settle at the table with an invitation to indulge. A sense of anticipation follows Rich Chocolate Pie as slices look ready for sharing. The flavor makes a quiet statement. Plates become clean in record time.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Pie

Moist Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake with whipped cream swirls on a cakestand.
Moist Red Velvet Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bold color draws guests toward cakes waiting for celebration. A hush surrounds Moist Red Velvet Cake once trays reveal each brilliant layer. Bites bring polite applause for texture and flavor. Cake becomes the topic of dessert conversation.
Get the Recipe: Moist Red Velvet Cake

Warm Apple Fritters

Close-up of freshly baked apple cookies drizzled with icing, resting on parchment paper with part of a bowl visible to the right.
Warm Apple Fritters. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fried treats never last long at Thanksgiving dessert tables brimming with options. Sighs of happiness meet Warm Apple Fritters once a hint of sugar coats the surface. The fritter inspires lively chatter about special breakfasts and holidays. Helpings vanish before dinner resumes.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Fritters

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.

Surprise ingredients encourage curious hands to try something new. Comments abound for Decadent Biscoff Brownies as the fudgy texture wins many fans. Each bite provokes stories about inventive treats. Brownies rest in memory after trays are cleared.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake

A person holding a piece of pumpkin cheesecake on a fork.
Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smooth desserts bring variety to classic spreads on busy days. Eager compliments follow Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake as plates crowd with dense slices. Guests debate favorite toppings before the next serving appears. Cheesecake ends up as a repeated favorite.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake

Sweet Blueberry Pie

A slice of blueberry pie with a lattice crust is being lifted from a white ceramic pie dish.
Sweet Blueberry Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fruit-filled favorites find their way onto the most crowded tables. Smiles show up for Sweet Blueberry Pie when thick juices create a glossy top. Stories about berry picking start a spirited conversation. Bowls show no leftovers by dessert’s end.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Blueberry Pie

Tangy Lemon Cheesecake

A slice of lemon cheesecake with a graham cracker crust is being lifted from the whole cake, which is topped with whipped cream and lemon slices.
Tangy Lemon Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sour bites push desserts in a new direction for adventurous eaters. Positive chatter surrounds Tangy Lemon Cheesecake after plates highlight its pale center. The cheesecake earns requests from guests who crave something different. Slices repeat until plates are empty.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon Cheesecake

Sweet 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.
Sweet Kool Aid Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Colorful pies start parties for guests who love cheerful sweets. Heads turn toward Sweet Kool Aid Pie while bold color draws immediate excitement. Positive chatter fills the air as tastes shift toward fun. Plates get emptied instantly once the pie is sliced.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Kool Aid Pie

Sweet Churro Cheesecake

A piece of creamy cheesecake with a dusting of cocoa powder on a white plate, accompanied by a silver spoon.
Sweet Churro Cheesecake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cinnamon takes on new meaning when classic churro flavor turns to cheesecake. Smiles collect around Sweet Churro Cheesecake because dessert feels festive but easy. The texture delivers pleasant contrast bite after bite. Plates fill up till nothing remains.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Churro Cheesecake

Tangy 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.
Tangy Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sharp citrus balances sweet notes for guests needing refreshing desserts. Voices rise for Tangy Lemon Bars as plates crowd with bite-sized pieces. The balance in flavor wins strong approval. Bars disappear before dinner wraps up.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon Bars

Rich Chocolate Cream Pie

A slice of chocolate cream pie with a graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, served on a black plate.
Rich Chocolate Cream Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Pies with deep fillings win praise at tables covered in options. Silence spreads once Rich Chocolate Cream Pie is sliced and passed out. Chocolate enthusiasts linger over every taste. Compliments fly as the pie is finished.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cream Pie

Sweet Cherry Cheesecake

A slice of cherry cheesecake on a plate.
Sweet Cherry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Berry swirls bring lively color to desserts needing personality. Positive remarks flow in for Sweet Cherry Cheesecake after the first slice hits each plate. The cheesecake earns many requests for recipes and stories. The tray returns to the kitchen empty.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cherry Cheesecake

Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies

Close-up of pecan-topped brownies on parchment paper, showing their dense chocolate base and nutty topping.
Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bringing two favorites together gives new life to classic recipes. Praise surrounds Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies as soft centers meet crunchy tops. Stories of the best dessert creations fill the night. Brownies always run out before dinner ends.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies

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.

Inventive creations encourage guests to rethink typical holiday dessert. Questions buzz about Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake once the cake is revealed. A mix of rich chocolate and gentle pumpkin sets up a lively conversation. Slices become instant favorites.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream

Scoops of ice cream with chunks of cookie and a whole cookie piece placed on top in a glass bowl.
Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Frozen treats finish off meals needing a cool touch. Murmurs of approval reach Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream with each scoop leaving the dish. The dessert develops into a popular favorite. Bowls seem cleaner each time they return.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream

Easy Apple Dump Cake

Close-up of an apple crumble dessert with a golden crust, topped with two scoops of vanilla ice cream, and a spoon placed inside the dish.
Easy Apple Dump Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Simple recipes come in handy when dessert needs to be ready fast. Guest excitement bubbles for Easy Apple Dump Cake after pans reveal bubbly tops and sweet aroma. Layers inspire comments on easy baking. Dessert disappears in just a few minutes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Dump Cake

Classic Banana Cream Pie

A slice of banana cream pie topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a plate.
Classic Banana Cream Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Ending the dessert spread with a time-tested favorite allows everyone to relax. Hands return again for Classic Banana Cream Pie as the last servings fill plates. The comfort found in each bite leads guests to share stories and laughter around the table. Dessert wraps up the meal with a sense of contentment for all who stayed.
Get the Recipe: Classic Banana Cream Pie

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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