47 Thanksgiving Desserts That Shut Everyone Up for a Minute

Thanksgiving might be about gratitude, but it’s the dessert that earns the respect. When nearly fifty options land on the table, small talk disappears faster than the last slice. The silence isn’t awkward, it’s sacred. That’s the power of having 47 desserts to pause mid-sentence and remember why dessert deserves its own holiday.

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.

Cherry Pie

A slice of cherry pie with a flaky crust is served on a black plate with a spoon; another plate with pie is in the background.
Cherry Pie. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Slices get stacked on every plate as soon as dinner’s over. Cherry Pie keeps things sweet with a tangy punch in every bite. The crust is flaky which always brings people back for seconds. Works well with whipped topping or on its own. One of those classics nobody skips.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Pie

Pumpkin Cheesecake

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

Layers make dessert way more interesting especially with creamy filling. Pumpkin Cheesecake pulls a crowd every time it’s put on the table. Slices look neat but feel rich and smooth. Always a favorite for people who want something different from the usual pies. Gone fast at parties.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cheesecake

Pecan Pie Cobbler

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

Crunchy and gooey in every spoonful keep this option high on the list. Pecan Pie Cobbler has a soft base with a sweet topping that’s hard to say no to. Easy to cut into big chunks for sharing. Goes great warm or room temp. Friends always come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cobbler

Red Velvet Cake

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

Rich cakes with soft layers get praise with every forkful. Red Velvet Cake shows off with its deep color and smooth crumb. Slices hold up next to any topping. Makes celebrations feel special. Always the first thing to run out during dessert hour.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cake

Pumpkin Pie

A slice of pumpkin pie on a plate with cranberries.
Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tables never look right without this classic being there. Pumpkin Pie serves up smooth filling with a light crust. Slices always go fast even when there are extra desserts around. Works well topped with a little whipped cream. People still want it next day for breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin 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.

Sweet fruit mixed with creamy filling scores points with picky eaters. Blueberry Cheesecake is smooth and simple but still stands out. Bright color brings a fun touch to the dessert table. Slices cut easily and stay fresh. Always requested for parties and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake

Pumpkin Bars

A group of pumpkin bars with icing on top.
Pumpkin Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Snacking isn’t done right until pan bars get set out. Pumpkin Bars cut clean and hold together with a soft bite. Good for stacking on small plates or packing up for later. Poofs up well in the oven. Gone by the end of the night at any table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bars

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.
Apple Dump Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Dump and go desserts are the secret to fast wins after dinner. Apple Dump Cake turns out sweet and crumbly and is super simple to serve. Pairs great with vanilla ice cream. Everyone lines up for a second help. Great for feeding a full house.
Get the Recipe: Apple Dump Cake

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.

Bars bursting with bright flavor always get attention. Lemon Bars have a sweet base with a tart finish that cleans the palate. Looks pretty with a dusting on top. Packs well for snacks outside of dessert time. People ask for the recipe every time.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

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.

Spiced sweets blended with chocolate make a solid combo. Pumpkin Spice Fudgy Brownies hit the spot with every bite. Soft centers and crispy edges make these stand out. Serve as bars or topped with more chocolate. Disappear quickly at any party.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Fudgy Brownies

Rhubarb Cake

Slice of rhubarb cake dusted with powdered sugar, on a white plate, with a silver spoon beside it.
Rhubarb Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sharp and sweet in one bite keeps things fresh. Rhubarb Cake goes well after heavy meals. Good with coffee or tea for a nice ending. The texture is light, which balances big dinners. It’s a hit even with folks who say they aren’t cake fans.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb 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 bars deliver a punch and leave plates clean. Key Lime Bars look bright and perfect for cutting small slices. Works great with a crunchy base. Pops out among heavier desserts. Always gets people reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Bars

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.

No need for fancy tricks with this one. Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is quick, soft, and great for scooping big portions. Brings spice and smooth bites for everyone. Good match for some vanilla ice cream. Bowl gets emptied every single time it shows up.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

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.

Smooth dips make dessert spreads unique. Chocolate Hummus is creamy but packs a sweet kick. Goes great with fresh fruit or pretzels around the table. Handy for people who want something lighter after dinner. Disappears faster than you’d expect.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Hummus

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.

Coffee dessert gets a new look with this version. Matcha Tiramisu brings out bold flavors without heavy sweetness. Layers stay soft and easy to serve. Good for folks who like trying new sweets. Looks cool on any dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

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.

Nutty sweets never fail to please a group. Peanut Butter Cake holds up well with a moist crumb and sweet top. Slices fill a plate nicely. Good for potlucks or bake sales. Stays fresh if you have any left for the next day.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

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.

Snack plates need these rounds with a soft center. Hot Cocoa Cookies mix chocolate with a gooey twist in every bite. Kids reach for them first but adults steal a few more too. Perfect for dunking. The plate is always wiped clean by the end of the night.
Get the Recipe: Hot Cocoa Cookies

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.

Mixing up two favorites keeps things fun for dessert. Tiramisu Cheesecake layers smooth filling with a hint of bold flavor. Stacks up well for events. Slices stay neat on the plate. Everyone wants to know how you made it so good.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Cheesecake

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.

Comfort food wraps up dinner in a big way. Homemade Bread Pudding is warm and soft inside with a sweet finish. Works best with some sauce over top. Brings back memories for a lot of people. Often requested for seconds before coffee is poured.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Bread Pudding

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.

Hand-held sweets win over big desserts every time. Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes mix up classic flavor in a small bite. Kids love to help pass them around the table. They stay soft and easy to eat, no fork needed. Perfect for making ahead for a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes

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.

Dessert layers win over new fans every slice. Chocolate Lasagna stacks up creamy and crunchy elements that are hard to beat. Best served cold for a smooth finish. Friends keep asking for more once it is set out. Good for big events or chill nights at home.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Lasagna

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.

Surprising flavor combos steal the spotlight after dinner. Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta mixes up soft noodles with a hint of sweetness. It’s a cool way to add something new to tradition without going too wild. Serves up well warm or cold. Gone in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta

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.

Cookie and chocolate together make a wild combo. Decadent Biscoff Brownies are dense and creamy in every bite. Cuts clean for sharing at parties. Easy to dress up with toppings. Never any leftovers when these come out.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Sweet Potato Pie

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

Hearty pies like this are always a hit with a crowd. Sweet Potato Pie goes smooth and dense with every slice. Great with whipped topping or just as is. Holds up well if you make it ahead. Usually is gone well before dinner is over.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Pumpkin Cake

Close-up of sliced pumpkin cake topped with cream cheese frosting and a dusting of cinnamon, with plates in the background.
Pumpkin Cake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Soft single-layer cakes suit every laid-back gathering. Pumpkin Cake goes fluffy inside with just enough moisture. Good with cream cheese or plain. Slices stay firm but don’t dry out. Gets more requests each year you serve it.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cake

Cream Cheese Brownies

Brownies with a cream cheese layer in the center are cut into squares and arranged on parchment paper.
Cream Cheese Brownies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dessert gets better when there’s swirl on top. Cream Cheese Brownies land both tangy and sweet in one square. Warm or cold, both work. People jump up for seconds after trying the first one. Fast to make for any bake sale or party.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Brownies

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.

Fluff on the dessert table means everyone stops and asks what it is. Watergate Salad is light and a bit nutty with cool texture. Served cold, it’s fun with crunchy add-ins. Great for potlucks or quick treats. Rarely makes it to the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Watergate Salad

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.

Bright sweets grab attention at the end of a heavy meal. Raspberry Cheesecake comes out creamy and pops with color. Slices cut clean and stay firm. Great with fresh topping or just as is. Gone fast when shared with a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Cheesecake

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.
Chocolate Cream Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Rich and cool pies keep everyone happy after a meal. Chocolate Cream Pie has a smooth filling and a clean crust. Serve chilled or top with extra cream. Works well for both formal or casual events. Always sees empty plates all around.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cream Pie

Easy Banana Pudding

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

Sweet layers bring out the best in this classic. Easy Banana Pudding is smooth with every scoop and works with crunchy or soft toppings. Makes a great chilled snack for later. Quick to serve for big gatherings. Always finishes fast at any get-together.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

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.

Going for something rich doesn’t get better than this. Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake is dense, soft, and packs a punch. Easy to serve in thick slices. Folks often sneak back for seconds. Stays a new favorite at every table.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

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.

Crumbled toppings and sweet filling set this apart from standard pies. Apple Cobbler works great hot out of the oven or cold the next day. Good with a scoop on top. Pans empty out fast. Always asked about the recipe by the end of dessert hour.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cobbler

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.

Exotic twist shakes things up for classic chocolate treats. Dubai Chocolate mixes sweet and spice in a smooth square. Perfect for gifting or just passing around at the table. Texture stands out every time. Good with coffee or tea.
Get the Recipe: Dubai Chocolate

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese

Close-up of cake slices topped with white frosting and decorated with small, star-shaped sprinkles.
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy toppings make bar desserts even better. Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese are light but rich in every bite. Quick to pack up for lunch or share at a get-together. Most people reach for seconds. Great for making in bulk for parties.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese

Apple Pie

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

No dessert table is really set without this one present. Apple Pie gives flaky layers and soft filling that’s sweetened just right. Always a top pick for any age group. Simple toppings make it feel brand new each time. The pan looks empty by the end of dessert.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie

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.

When turning on the oven feels like too much, no-bake saves the day. No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake chills to a smooth texture and fresh flavor. Serves well as individual treats or a big pie. Good for warm weather gatherings. Loved for its easy prep.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

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.

Cool creamy pies keep everyone coming back for more. Banana Cream Pie layers a sweet filling with a smooth crust. Great for slicing up ahead or keeping extra for breakfast. Goes with whipped topping or just as it is. Never seems to stick around long.
Get the Recipe: Banana Cream Pie

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.

Sticky sweetness makes rolls disappear off the plate. Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls bake up soft with gooey centers. Pairs up with ice cream for a bigger finish. Works well, packed up for treats the next day. Makes people pause their conversations for bite.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

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

Two dessert favorites blend into one slice for special meals. Pecan Pie Cheesecake has a thick base with a nutty brown topping. Good for impressing guests with little work. Tastes even better the second day. Stays on family request lists after one bite.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Fried Banana

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

Warm and pleasing treats bring comfort in every bite. Fried Banana comes out golden with a soft center. Pairs well with ice cream or alone as a quick sweet. Great for a last-minute snack. Leaves everyone looking for more.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

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.

Fun colored pies always get conversation going. Kool Aid Pie comes together fast with a cool finish. Good for parties or just something different for dessert. Kids love the bright flavors. Great for sharing with a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Kool Aid Pie

Chocolate Chip Muffins

Close-up of three chocolate muffins in brown paper wrappers, topped with chocolate chips, with part of a bowl of chocolate chips visible in the background.
Chocolate Chip Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Muffins full of chocolate work any time of day. Chocolate Chip Muffins are soft and fluffy for snacking or breakfast. Kids grab these off the tray first. Great for packing or freezing ahead. They get requested again every week.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Muffins

Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

A slice of apple pie stuffed cheesecake on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Mixing two dessert stars never fails. Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake layers creamy and soft with a fruit surprise in the middle. Slices up perfectly for sharing with friends or family. Good for storing in the fridge for snacks. Nobody forgets this one when planning dessert.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Pistachio Ice Cream

A glass bowl holds two scoops of pistachio ice cream topped with crushed pistachios, with a waffle cone placed upside down in the bowl.
Pistachio Ice Cream. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy and delicious desserts with a nutty crunch keep things interesting. Pistachio Ice Cream is smooth with every spoonful. Best served in bowls or cones. Goes fast on warm days. People nearly always want seconds.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Ice Cream

Cherry Cheesecake

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

Fruity toppings always look restaurant-ready. Cherry Cheesecake blends sweet fruit with thick filling for a killer combo. Perfect slices for decorating a dessert tray. Stays firm for slicing. Hard to make just one batch.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake

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.

Easy bars with crunch make dessert tables simple. Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars turn classic pies into snack-size bites. Good for picnics or office potlucks. Cuts neatly and stacks up well. Always the first tray to empty by the end.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Pie 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.

Cute treats always make people smile. Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys combine sweet and salty in every bite. Kids love helping prep these for dessert. Ready in no time for parties. Crowd favorite for both fun and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

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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