I Bake 51 Thanksgiving Recipes Just to Make Someone’s Day
Thanksgiving has a way of turning the kitchen into controlled chaos, and that’s half the fun. With 51 recipes on deck, there’s something for everyone, whether they show up early to “help” or just for the leftovers. It’s the kind of list that makes even the pickiest guest loosen their belt a notch.

Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Warm spices and a crumbly topping make Pumpkin Coffee Cake a treat that feels like a little gift of comfort. It pairs perfectly with morning coffee or tea for an extra-special moment. This cake is moist and rich without being too heavy, offering a nice balance of flavors. Sharing it with someone can truly brighten their day.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Salted Honey Cookies

Soft and chewy with a touch of sweetness, Salted Honey Cookies bring just a hint of salt to balance things out. These cookies are a simple way to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Every bite is a reminder of how small treats can mean so much. They’re perfect for sharing or as a thoughtful gift.
Get the Recipe: Salted Honey Cookies
Sourdough Bagels

A perfect mix of chewy and airy, Sourdough Bagels feel like a homemade treat that’s good anytime. Make everyday breakfasts more enjoyable with these simple yet hearty bagels. They’re great on their own or as part of a sandwich. Offering these to someone is a small, thoughtful way of showing you care.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bagels
Cherry Pie

Bright flavors and flaky crust make Cherry Pie stand out as a dessert that feels special. The filling is rich without being too sweet, striking that perfect balance. Whether it’s for a celebration or just to make someone’s day better, this pie delivers. Sharing a slice turns an ordinary day into something a little nicer.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Pie
Sourdough Bread

Tangy flavor and pillowy texture make Sourdough Bread so comforting with every bite. It works well for any meal, whether you toast it or spread something sweet or savory on top. Freshly baked, it fills the space with warmth and care. Giving a loaf to someone could be a small but memorable gesture of kindness.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Bread
Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

Offering a mix of creamy and crunchy, Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars are a sweet way to spread cheer. They’re easier to share than a full pie but still feel special. Each layer has its own unique texture, making every bite a little interesting. These bars are a quick way to brighten someone’s day without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Sweet swirls of cinnamon and a soft dough make Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls feel like a cozy surprise. Perfect for mornings or an afternoon treat, they’re as comforting as they are delicious. They come together with a nice balance of sweetness and tang. Sharing these rolls can make any morning feel more special.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Blueberry Cheesecake

Creamy texture with a fruity twist sets Blueberry Cheesecake apart as a dessert worth enjoying. The vibrant blueberry topping adds a lovely tartness to every bite. It’s great for dessert after a good meal or just as a sweet way to lift someone’s mood. Perfect for sharing, it makes an ordinary day feel more meaningful.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake
Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Soft and chewy with just the right hint of spice, Cinnamon Sugar Blondies are easy to love. The cinnamon adds a warm flavor, making each bite feel welcoming. They’re quick to whip up and simple to share with friends or family. Offering these feels like a thoughtful way to make someone’s day better.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Sugar Blondies
Blueberry Pie

Filled with sweet and tangy flavors, Blueberry Pie is like a little celebration in dessert form. The golden, flaky crust makes it even more comforting. It’s a dessert that’s equally good for sharing or enjoying alone. Giving someone a slice is a nice way to let them know they’re on your mind.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Pie
Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Fudgy with a unique twist of flavor, Decadent Biscoff Brownies are like a chocolate treat with a little something extra. Rich and lovely, these brownies are easy to enjoy and even easier to share. The addition of Biscoff adds a surprising depth to the classic recipe. A batch of these could absolutely brighten someone’s day.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies
Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes

Small in size but big on flavor, Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes bring the taste of pie into a hand-held treat. The soft base pairs nicely with the spiced apple filling. These cupcakes are a fun, portable way to share a little happiness. They’re perfect for gatherings or just because you want to make someone smile.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes
Pumpkin Muffins

Soft and moist, Pumpkin Muffins are a quick way to share a little joy during breakfast or snack time. Their flavor strikes a nice balance, making them perfect for any time of day. These muffins are simple but thoughtful when baked for someone else. They make for a heartfelt gift or a comforting treat.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Muffins
Pumpkin Cupcakes

Pumpkin Cupcakes are the mix of cute and sweet that’s hard to resist. Topped with a creamy frosting, they’re perfect for making any occasion feel a bit more special. With just the right amount of sweetness, they leave a lasting impression. Baking these and sharing them might just brighten someone’s entire day.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cupcakes
Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Chewy with a rich caramel drizzle, Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies bring both flavor and fun to the table. These cookies feel like a little luxury made for sharing. Rich in texture, they’re a thoughtful way to show consideration to someone you care about. Perfect for anyone who loves a sweet treat with a little bit of flair.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies
Chocolate Cream Pie

Creamy, smooth, and chocolatey, Chocolate Cream Pie is a memorable dessert for any occasion. Every spoonful is rich, making you want more without feeling overdone. Whether it’s topped with whipped cream or enjoyed as is, it’s a small indulgence. Sharing this pie is an easy way to make someone’s day sweeter and brighter.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cream Pie
Coffee Cake

Coffee Cake pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. The flavors make it versatile, good for breakfast or a midday snack. Its texture stands out, making it desirable for anyone who loves baked treats. This cake is a simple yet thoughtful way to add joy to someone else’s day.
Get the Recipe: Coffee Cake
Banana Cream Pie

With layers of rich creaminess, Banana Cream Pie is a dessert that feels both classic and comforting. Its smooth filling and crisp crust work well together. Perfect for sharing with friends or family, it’s a dessert that brings people closer. Sharing a slice with someone might create a small but meaningful moment.
Get the Recipe: Banana Cream Pie
Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Flaky on the outside and fruity on the inside, Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices are an easy way to surprise someone. These slices are easy to grab and share, perfect for making someone’s day brighter. The mix of fruit and spice gives it a timeless appeal. Whether for a simple snack or something special, this treat always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Soft texture and hints of spice make Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies a unique little treat. The oats give it a hearty twist, making them stand out from your usual cookies. Sharing a batch can turn an ordinary day into something more cheerful. These cookies are simple to prepare and perfect for showing someone you care.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Apple Dump Cake

Layers of texture make Apple Dump Cake a dessert that’s both unique and easy to love. It’s quick to make and even easier to enjoy, with fruity flavors and a crumbly topping. Perfect for sharing at casual gatherings or with family on a slow day. Serving this to someone feels like you’re sharing a bit of joy in a simple way.
Get the Recipe: Apple Dump Cake
Banana Pudding Brownies

Creamy meets indulgent with Banana Pudding Brownies, blending two desserts into one. Each square packs a lot of flavor, making it easy to love in just one bite. Bringing these to someone feels like a little unexpected treat. They work well for any gathering or just as a nice surprise for someone special.
Get the Recipe: Banana Pudding Brownies
Apple Crisp

Crunchy topping and warm flavors make Apple Crisp an all-time favorite for many. It’s a dessert that feels satisfying without being overly complicated. This dessert truly shines when shared straight from the oven on a cozy evening. A small dish of this is a simple way to make someone’s day better.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp
Basque Cheesecake

Smooth and rich inside with a slightly toasted crust, Basque Cheesecake feels both simple and unique. Its creamy texture and distinct look make it hard not to love. Sharing it with friends or family adds a small touch of sophistication to any day. Whether served plain or with a topping, it’s a dessert that’s worth remembering.
Get the Recipe: Basque Cheesecake
Apple Pie

Classic flavors and a flaky crust make Apple Pie hard to resist, no matter the occasion. Its filling is warm and rich, making every slice a go-to for comfort. Perfect to share over coffee or alone as a small treat. Bringing someone a slice is a sweet way to show appreciation or kindness.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie
Blueberry Muffins

Soft and fruity, Blueberry Muffins are a breakfast or snack idea that feels both timeless and thoughtful. Their bursts of flavor in every bite make them hard to resist. A batch of these is perfect for sharing, no matter how big or small the occasion. Offering them to someone makes it clear you were thinking of them.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Muffins
Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Layers of flavor come together in this twist on two desserts. Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, fruity filling of apple pie. Each bite gives you smooth, tangy, and spiced notes that work seamlessly together. This dessert is heartwarming and perfect for surprising someone who loves bold dessert combinations.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake
Best Zucchini Bread

Moist and tender, this recipe is a simple way to brighten someone’s day. With Best Zucchini Bread, you get a mildly sweet and soft loaf packed with comforting flavors. Its texture is what makes it such a standout choice, perfect for a quick snack or an extra treat in a lunchbox. Whether shared or given as a thoughtful gift, it always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Best Zucchini Bread
Sweet Potato Pie

A slice of comfort is what this dessert offers. Sweet Potato Pie has a smooth filling, paired with a flavor that feels nostalgic and timeless. Whether served with a topping or just as it is, it’s a classic recipe with a gentle, earthy sweetness. It’s a thoughtful way to make someone feel cared for during a special occasion or even on an average day.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie
Buckeye Brownies

Buckeye Brownies are rich and layered with a smooth, creamy topping paired with a dense, chocolatey base. This dessert can easily impress anyone who loves this timeless flavor pairing. Giving these brownies is a simple way to add a little joy to someone’s day.
Get the Recipe: Buckeye Brownies
Cherry Cheesecake

Bold, rich, and creamy, every bite feels a little more special. Cherry Cheesecake balances the tanginess of cheesecake with the fruity brilliance of cherries. With a smooth topping and a crumbly base, this is one of those recipes meant to be shared. It’s an excellent choice for making someone feel that extra bit appreciated.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake
Chocolate Pie

Smooth filling meets a firm crust in this dessert. Chocolate Pie offers fully rich cocoa flavors that are perfect for indulging or sharing. It’s the kind of recipe that feels luxurious without overcomplicating anything. When you serve this to someone, you’ll make them feel like they’re treated to a little moment of joy.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pie
Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Inspired by a beloved classic, this recipe has nostalgic layers. Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie is soft, flavorful, and filled with a combination that’s hard to resist. It’s exactly what you need to gift someone a little comfort in cookie form. The mix of sweetness and creaminess makes every bite memorable for anyone who tries it.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Two comforting classics are layered into one unique dessert. Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie combines sweet and spiced flavors with apple-filled goodness. Its flaky top, complemented by a warm filling, makes this both fun and creative. Giving this as a treat is sure to deliver a feeling of thoughtfulness.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Bringing coffee shop favorites home in a big way. Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins pair moist muffin bases with a creamy, rich swirl. It mirrors the quality and flavor you’d expect from the original while adding a personal, homemade touch. Perfect for breakfast, desserts, or small pickups for others.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
Dinner Rolls

Soft and buttery, these are the kind of rolls that feel like a warm hug. Dinner Rolls are a simple yet thoughtful way to complement any meal or brighten someone’s day. Their texture is airy yet enjoyable, making them crowd-pleasers every time. Share them freshly baked, and you’ll immediately see their impact.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls
Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Layers combine to create an indulgent dessert experience. Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake is filled with contrasting flavors of rich chocolate and smooth caramel. It’s a treat that feels as indulgent as it sounds, perfect for a special surprise to someone who appreciates bold confections. Every slice feels grand and complete in itself.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake
Pumpkin Pie

Timeless nostalgia lies in each slice. Pumpkin Pie is a recipe that countless people enjoy for its smooth filling and spiced taste. This is the kind of dessert meant for sharing, ensuring anyone who tries it is left feeling warm inside. Offering it to someone becomes a thoughtful act full of simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie
Garlic Knots

Made to pair with almost anything, this snack doubles as a great side. Garlic Knots are soft, chewy, and packed with those signature herb-filled notes. Sharing these warm can brighten up someone’s dinner or add a thoughtful homemade touch to their day. Their simplicity adds flexibility and comfort.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots
Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Levels of flavor and textures are packed into this dessert. Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake blends seasonal inspiration with toasted flavors and cookie softness. With layers you can see and taste, it’s a conversation starter. Giving this feels like adding a little fun element to brighten up dessert time.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake
Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts Recipe

Something fun and sweet perfect for mornings or dessert tables. Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts Recipe takes inspiration from the classic cereal. The doughy, glaze-filled treat blends sweetness with a mild crunch on top. It’s a creative and unexpected addition to surprise someone’s usual favorites.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts Recipe
Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Two popular desserts merge into something noteworthy. Pecan Pie Cheesecake blends nutty, sticky sweetness with a smooth cheesecake base. Its layers ensure that anyone who takes a bite gets a rich yet creamy combination of textures. Making this for someone is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Heart Shaped Cookies

A simple way to show you care in edible form. Heart Shaped Cookies are not only delicious but also have a special way of showing thoughtfulness. Whether decorated or plain, they make a wonderful addition to any gesture for someone special. Their fun shape makes every bite a little more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Heart Shaped Cookies
Red Velvet Cake

Nothing says care quite like a homemade gift in red. Red Velvet Cake strikes the perfect balance between light chocolate tones and a vibrant presentation. Its softer texture pairs wonderfully with its smooth frosting, making it as engaging as it is delicious. It’s great for showing effort without being overly complex.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cake
Mississippi Mud Pie

A nod to timeless dessert, this offering is rich and layered. Mississippi Mud Pie combines a chocolate-filled base and toppings that simply work in its favor. Its classic taste will often feel like a treat for anyone who gets it. Share one to bring sentiments of tradition and warmth.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie
Oreo Cheesecake

Layers of crunch and smooth richness set this apart. Oreo Cheesecake is a no-fail option with its cookie-filled crust meeting creamy dessert stability. It’s one of those recipes that makes everyone feel like there’s some fun in each bite. Whether shared or enjoyed alone, it always delivers a little cheer.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake
Pecan Pie Bars

Crisp on the bottom and sticky-sweet on the top, this bar recipe goes beyond basics. Pecan Pie Bars offer the same classic richness of pie but in a portable form. Its mix of textures ensures the experience is satisfying every single bite. Bringing these to any occasion highlights thoughtfulness in all the right ways.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Bars
Peanut Butter Cake

A dessert where simplicity meets comfort. Peanut Butter Cake delivers creamy peanut butter flavors in each slice. Its balance between light sweetness and hearty flavors gives it an edge for versatile occasions. Gifting this can bring back memories for anyone who enjoys homey desserts.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake
Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Texture and nutty notes come together in this recipe. Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans are light, chewy, and complemented by a nice crunch from their added pecan pieces. They fit virtually any occasion where cookies would be appreciated. Each piece feels welcoming and warm.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans
Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

Rich chocolate meets creamy peanut butter in this mix. Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie takes dessert indulgence up a notch by blending these bold flavors and making them into something incredibly smooth. From its filling to its crust, everything fits just right. For anyone who loves this classic candy pairing, it’s a thoughtful choice.
Get the Recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie
German Chocolate Cake

A combination of richness and texture shines here. German Chocolate Cake mixes smooth chocolate layers with a topping that’s chewy yet flavorful. It’s the kind of dessert full of character but still universal enough to share with others. Offering someone this dessert often reflects the extra mile you’re willing to go.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cake
About the Author

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.
