47 Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas I Keep Coming Back To

Thanksgiving isn’t complete without that stretch where dessert suddenly appears and everyone forgets how full they are. Having 47 dessert ideas ready to go means the usual pie has some serious company. It’s a lineup built to keep traditions alive while sneaking in fresh favorites.

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

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.

Dessert plates stack up quick when someone brings out Decadent Biscoff Brownies. Each square comes soft with a swirl of cookie flavor baked inside. These slices always look like you spent a long time making them. You won’t get leftovers with these in the mix. Friends usually ask for one more piece.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Coconut Cream Pie

A slice of coconut cream pie on a plate.
Coconut Cream Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy filling and a crisp crust make Coconut Cream Pie a family favorite. Each slice stirs up big smiles around the table. It works well after a heavy meal. Tropical flavors stand out right away. Not a crumb stays on the plate.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Cream Pie

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.

Guests never miss a chance to snag a slice of Blueberry Cheesecake at any meal. Smooth filling and a berry top make it special for those extra sweet cravings. Every forkful feels light but packed with flavor. Lone slices vanish long before you expect. Bring this one when you want people to beg for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake

Pecan Pie Bars

Two pecan-topped dessert bars are stacked on parchment paper, showing a dense, crumbly base and a caramelized nut topping.
Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Grab a napkin because hands reach quickly for Pecan Pie Bars. Buttery crust packs in all the gooey filling right in bar form. Perfect for any crowd needing a quick sweet fix. They pop up at bake sales or family dinners with no fuss. These always leave guests asking where you hid the extras.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Bars

Raspberry Cheesecake

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

Tart berry swirl and creamy cheese mix well in Raspberry Cheesecake. People take small slices and then head back for a second one. This dessert works for almost any occasion. The bright color always stands out on a dessert table. Never any left to save for later.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Cheesecake

Apple Pie

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

Nothing draws folks to the table faster than fresh Apple Pie. Cinnamon flavor runs through every bite. The flaky crust is just begging for a scoop of cold ice cream on top. This gets eaten even before dinner plates are cleared. Hard to beat for a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie

Peanut Butter Cake

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

Slices of Peanut Butter Cake show up fast on snack trays and dessert spreads. Each bite is smooth and rich. The cake pairs great with drinks or just on its own. Kids and grownups both beg for seconds. You’ll want this on every holiday list.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

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.

Two favorite flavors come together in Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars for a unique bite. These squares stay soft and have a little crunch on top. Pack them up for picnics or keep them for next-day treats. Guests will ask where you found the idea. No one stops at just one.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

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.

Chocolate lovers never skip a slice of Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. The caramel layers feel rich and extra special. People talk about this one for days after the meal. Big slices disappear the fastest. Plates come back completely clean.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

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.

Pastry layers and sweet filling make Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices a winner. The slices break apart with just the right crunch. Fruity aroma fills the room while baking. It’s a fun change from plain pie. You might get asked to bring these every year.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Blueberry Pie

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

With a glossy top and soft middle, Blueberry Pie makes dessert look easy. Sweet berries pair great with a scoop of something cold. Slices never last once they’re on the table. Friends always go back for seconds or thirds. It’s a favorite for the whole group.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Pie

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.
Lemon Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tangy flavors meet creamy filling in Lemon Cheesecake. The crust gives just enough bite with every forkful. It always feels a little lighter than usual rich desserts. This one brightens up the table’s dessert section. Most guests take some home if there’s any left.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cheesecake

Chocolate Hummus

A bowl of chocolate hummus topped with chickpeas and coarse salt, surrounded by sliced peaches, apples, biscuits, and rolled wafers.
Chocolate Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Dips get sweet when you pile up Chocolate Hummus with cookies or fruit. It’s smooth and different from the usual after-dinner treats. Folks go for it with crackers too. Packs well for lunchboxes or snack breaks. Just set out a bowl and watch it drop.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Hummus

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.

Dessert trays clear fast when you put out Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies. The caramel center adds a gooey twist. People talk about the flavor combination for weeks. Pop them in a box and watch them vanish. The soft chew always stands out.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Easy Banana Pudding

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

Comfort foods rule dessert tables when Easy Banana Pudding arrives. Layers scoop out perfect every time. The creamy sweet mix works for anyone with a sweet tooth. No leftovers after seconds go around. Little effort with big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

A close-up of several oatmeal cookies stacked and scattered on parchment paper, with one cookie broken in half to show the inside texture.
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Soft chewy bites win with Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies by your side. These cookies never dry out and taste fresh with each bite. Pair well with coffee or tea for snacking later. Great for breakfast on the move too. No one has just one.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Banana Cream Pie

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

Bright yellow slices of Banana Cream Pie grab attention at dessert time. The soft filling and crumb crust are always a hit. It feels light but fills you up after a big meal. This one disappears quickly at potlucks. Watch guests hover for the last piece.
Get the Recipe: Banana Cream Pie

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.

Mixing pasta and dessert is unique with Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta. Slight sweet and creamy sauce hugs every noodle. Doubles up as both an after-dinner treat and a light meal. Perfect for guests who want something new. People ask for seconds just out of curiosity.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta

Chocolate Cheesecake

A slice of chocolate cheesecake with a cookie crust and whipped cream topping is being lifted from the whole cake.
Chocolate Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Deep flavor meets soft texture in every bit of Chocolate Cheesecake. There’s enough richness to satisfy any chocolate fan. Slices stack up fast for party trays. Pairs well with fruit or just stay classic. Never a bite left when you leave it in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate 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.

Candy twist makes Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie the center of every dessert table. It cuts smooth with every pass of the knife. Creamy filling holds up with or without extras. Friends call about this one before the meal even starts. This sets a new favorite at the potluck.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

Basque Cheesecake

A close-up of several slices of a dense, golden-brown custard or cheesecake on parchment paper.
Basque Cheesecake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cracked brown edges make Basque Cheesecake different from anything else served. It comes out soft in the middle but looks bold. The creamy taste keeps folks talking for days. Great with berries or even on its own. Slices never last very long.
Get the Recipe: Basque Cheesecake

Mississippi Mud Pie

A slice of Mississippi mud pie on a plate.
Mississippi Mud Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Stacked layers get eaten up quickly when Mississippi Mud Pie shows up on the table. The mix of creamy chocolate and crumb base wins every time. Rich filling means small slices work best. This dessert gets remembered more than most. Not a bite to take home.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

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.

Tall layers hold sweet filling together in every slice of German Chocolate Cake. The topping goes fast thanks to the crunch and chew. Bakes up nice for special events or just a family get together. Always remembered for the texture. No cake gets left behind.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate 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.

Tangy squares go down easy with Key Lime Bars on the tray. Brings a bright pop to the dessert spread. Goes well with coffee or tea. Strong flavor in each bite without being too sweet. Plates get licked clean around the table.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Bars

Red Velvet Cake

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

Crumbly cakes in a bold color make Red Velvet Cake a decorator’s favorite. The creamy layers hold up for any big meal. Friends love it as much for the look as the taste. Good for birthdays or holidays. No fork stays out of the pan for long.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cake

Pumpkin Spice Fudgy Brownies

Close-up of several chocolate brownies with a swirl of orange filling on top, arranged on parchment paper.
Pumpkin Spice Fudgy Brownies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Brownies get a cozy twist in Pumpkin Spice Fudgy Brownies with extra soft centers. Folks expect chocolate then get surprised by a hint of spice. Slices pack away neatly for sharing. Easy to keep around for snacks. Stack them high because they’re popular.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Fudgy Brownies

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 sweets show off with Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes at the end of dinner. Each cupcake holds both fruit flavor and soft cake. Piles up well on party plates. Everyone loves the little surprise in the middle. You’ll want a double batch.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes

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.

Pretzels take a fun shape in Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys. Each bite mixes sweet and salty. Great way to keep little hands busy at dessert time. Plates clear fast when these are stacked up. Leave a few by the coffee maker for stragglers.
Get the Recipe: Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

Tiramisu Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of layered tiramisu cake with cream, coffee-soaked sponge, and dusted cocoa powder on top, served on a white plate.
Tiramisu Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic dessert flavors combine for Tiramisu Cheesecake. Creamy layers hold a soft kick that wakes you up. It’s a lovely addition to any table. People are always impressed by the mix of tastes. Definitely a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Cheesecake

Matcha Tiramisu

A close-up of a slice of tiramisu topped with green matcha powder, served on a ceramic plate.
Matcha Tiramisu. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thin layers bring a pop of green with Matcha Tiramisu on the plate. Soft cake and creamy filling make the dessert light but stand out. Friends ask how you came up with it. Goes well with tea or coffee. Usually gone before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

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.

Chocolate meets pumpkin in Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake for a strong dessert mashup. Slices come out thick with a smooth finish. Not too sweet but totally rich. Decorates well for themed dinners. Plates end up spotless.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

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.

Chewy squares make Cinnamon Sugar Blondies a top pick for easy desserts. Golden corners add just the right crunch. Pairs up great with coffee for late-night chats. Stack high for friends and family. Never gets old from one year to the next.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

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.

Lifting a slice of Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake brings out a mix of spongy cake and gooey topping. Friends say it feels bakery-level without much work. Sweetness blends in just right. Good warm or cold. Rarely any to pack up by the end.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake

Dubai Chocolate

Close-up of sliced dessert bars with layers of chocolate, crumbly filling, and green topping, garnished with chopped pistachios.
Dubai Chocolate. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rich desserts look fancy with neat squares of Dubai Chocolate on the serving tray. Deep flavor goes best with hot drinks. Melt-in-your-mouth edges make for easy bites. Use it as an after-dinner handout. Watch the big batch disappear.
Get the Recipe: Dubai Chocolate

No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, topped with strawberry sauce and fresh strawberry pieces, sits on a serving tray.
No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Chilled slices help with quick sweets like No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake. It cuts soft and keeps shape on every plate. Light filling is welcome after a big meal. Easy to prep ahead for groups. Pairs up with fresh berries when it’s party time.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

Hot Cocoa Cookies

A close-up of a chocolate cookie with chocolate chips and small white marshmallows on top.
Hot Cocoa Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Warm up dessert with chewy rounds like Hot Cocoa Cookies on a plate. Each cookie holds a touch of smooth filling. Good for dunking or straight from the tin. Line them up for the snack table. They’re usually the first thing gone next to milk.
Get the Recipe: Hot Cocoa Cookies

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.

Layers spoon up soft and sweet every time in Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake. Great for serving big groups who want seconds. Tastes good with whipped cream or straight up. Makes the house smell good while it bakes. You might not have leftovers after dessert.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

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.

Sweet bowls fill up with cool bites of Watergate Salad at the end of a meal. Light crunch and creamy bits keep it interesting. This gets passed around twice before plates are even ready for dessert. Serve in small cups for easy sharing. Everyone wants one more spoon.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

Pumpkin Roll

A slice of pumpkin roll being sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Pumpkin Roll. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Festive slicing happens every time someone brings Pumpkin Roll to the table. Looks fancy with all the swirls and creamy filling inside. People get excited when it’s dessert time. Makes a good gift to drop off for others too. No slice lasts long once it’s out.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll

Chocolate Lasagna

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

Chilled layers go fast at dessert time with Chocolate Lasagna on hand. Mix of cream and crunch sets it apart from regular cake. Forks go back for second helpings right away. One tray feeds a lot but it always finishes early. Good for potlucks and no-bake nights.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Lasagna

Pecan Pie Cobbler

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

Warm bowls of Pecan Pie Cobbler show up for big group desserts. Sticky topping sticks to every scoop. Easy to pair with ice cream for more fun. Eats like pie but with extra crunch. The smell fills up the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cobbler

Fried Banana

A close up of a plate of fried bananas with sauce.
Fried Banana. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy edges and sweet insides come from quick-fried Fried Banana. Good for topping ice cream or eating alone. Kids ask for them before dinner’s even gone. Not much mess but big flavors. Makes any meal feel special.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

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.

Dessert crosses over with Banana Pudding Brownies for chewy bites with a soft swirl. Every square feels rich but fresh. Great for snacks on the go. Top with a drizzle of something sweet for more fun. Gone from the pan by morning.
Get the Recipe: Banana Pudding Brownies

Apple Cobbler

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

Warm fruit and crumbly topping bring friends around for Apple Cobbler quick. The mix of soft and crisp keeps forks busy. Good warm from the oven or chilled later. Reason alone for extra whipped cream. No need to save any for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cobbler

Sweet Potato Pie

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

Smooth filling and soft crust make Sweet Potato Pie an easy crowd favorite. It cuts smooth so everyone can grab a serving. Sweet enough without being over the top. Pairs well with coffee or tea. Gone by the second round.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

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.

Simple comfort foods win folks over with Homemade Bread Pudding. Every spoonful hits soft and sweet. Use up leftover bread or make it special with toppings. Easy to prep for big families. Seconds are expected at every table.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Bread Pudding

Churro Cheesecake

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

Layers of crispy and creamy make Churro Cheesecake stand out next to regular cake. It’s got a cinnamon pop in every bite. Works both hot and cold for dessert. Great pick for sharing with friends. The leftovers are even better.
Get the Recipe: Churro Cheesecake

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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