49 Thanksgiving Dessert Recipe Ideas That Taste Like Fall and a Hint of Nostalgia

The best part about Thanksgiving? Besides the turkey, it’s the desserts. These 49 dessert recipes taste like fall and bring that touch of nostalgia to your holiday. From decadent treats people can’t resist to creative spins on classics, each recipe fits perfectly into your Thanksgiving celebration. This lineup has something to make your season even sweeter.

Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A dessert that feels like pure indulgence, Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake marries the creamy tang of cheesecake with the nutty sweetness of pecan pie. Guests can never decide if it’s the buttery pecan topping or the silky texture that wins them over. Bring this to your Thanksgiving table, and you’ll be answering recipe requests before the plates are cleared.
Get the Recipe: Rich Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Warm Apple Fritters

Crispy outside with a tender, cinnamon-laced apple center, Warm Apple Fritters are a seasonal favorite that never fails to please. These golden bites of goodness work equally well with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce, making them a versatile and memorable addition to holiday desserts. Guests might argue over who gets the last one.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Fritters

S’mores Stuffed Cookies

S’mores aren’t just for warm days anymore, and S’mores Stuffed Cookies prove it with marshmallow-filled perfection. Each bite combines gooey chocolate, soft cookie dough, and crunchy graham crackers into a fall-friendly treat that feels right at home on the Thanksgiving dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Warm Apple Cobbler

Comfort food at its finest, Warm Apple Cobbler layers soft, cinnamon-kissed apples under a golden crumb topping. This classic dessert fits seamlessly into fall evenings, and the smell alone invites excitement to the table. Pair it with vanilla ice cream, and you won’t just have a dessert; you’ll have smiles and second helpings all around.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Cobbler

Sweet Churro Cheesecake

Creamy indulgence gets a crunchy twist with Sweet Churro Cheesecake, featuring the signature cinnamon-sugar coating churros are famous for. The combination of textures makes this dessert a unique standout at Thanksgiving, and its festive flavor guarantees compliments all evening. Be ready to make this your new holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Churro Cheesecake

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Nostalgia takes center stage with Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie, a rich, peanut buttery base topped with a dollop of sweet jelly. It’s a cookie open invitation to smile and remember childhood favorites. Pair this with casual conversations and warm laughter, and it effortlessly becomes a guest favorite on Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Fall flavors shine brilliantly in Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake, where a perfectly moist texture meets delicate autumn spices. The crumbly topping adds just the right contrast, and you’ll love how well it pairs with post-meal coffee or leftovers the next day. Easy to slice and share, but don’t be surprised if everyone asks for a second helping!
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream

Refreshingly unique yet indulgent, Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream delivers a cool twist to the Thanksgiving dessert lineup. Its smooth texture and nutty undertones make it the perfect flavor for guests looking for something that surprises their palate; and complements the warm, rich dishes on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream

Southern Sweet Potato Pie

A piece of holiday history on every plate, Southern Sweet Potato Pie brings its velvety texture and perfectly balanced sweetness into the spotlight. Wrapped in a golden crust and featuring a hint of comforting spices. This dessert is a quintessential Thanksgiving tradition that guests can’t get enough of.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Cinnamon and sugar, soft and chewy; Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies bring all the warmth and comfort of fall into one irresistible dessert. They’re easy to grab, easy to share, and impossible not to love for the texture alone. Don’t be surprised if these disappear before any other dessert even gets touched!
Get the Recipe: Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies

Two beloved desserts come together for a rich, unexpected treat in Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies. Layers of gooey pecan pie filling sit atop fudgy brownies, creating a combination so decadent it’s hard to resist. Bold chocolate notes meet nutty pecan sweetness, making this the dessert guests will talk about long after Thanksgiving dinner is over.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies

Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Luxurious and unforgettable, Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake is a dessert designed to impress. Creamy cheesecake serves as the perfect base for caramel with just the right touch of salt to add complexity. Every slice feels extravagant, and guests can’t help but let out a satisfied sigh as they enjoy each bite of this delicious indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Warm Apple Crisp

Classic comfort food at its finest, Warm Apple Crisp is an autumn staple featuring tender, spiced apples baked beneath a layer of crunchy, buttery streusel. Served hot, it’s the perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors, made even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top. This easy-to-make dessert will have guests coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Crisp

Moist Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese

The perfect balance of autumn flavors and creamy frosting, Moist Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese are as fun to look at as they are to eat. The soft texture and cozy pumpkin spices make them a fall favorite, but the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting is what truly sets them apart. These bars never fail to steal the show at dessert time.
Get the Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese

Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream

A creative twist on a classic Italian dessert, Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream captures the bold flavors of espresso and cocoa with a silky texture that melts in your mouth. It’s light enough to complement Thanksgiving’s heavier dishes, yet indulgent enough to leave everyone satisfied. Add this to your dessert table and expect recipe requests to follow.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream

Buttery Coffee Cake

Tender, crumbly, and just the right amount of sweet, Buttery Coffee Cake is a dessert that keeps guests coming back for more. Each piece boasts layers of flavor, topped with streusel that’s downright addictive. Whether served alongside coffee or enjoyed solo, this is one dessert that guarantees smiles and warm memories with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Coffee Cake

Sweet Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

If you’re looking for the perfect combination of flavors and textures, Sweet Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars deliver exactly that. The comforting earthiness of pumpkin blends beautifully with the buttery crunch of pecans, creating a dessert that’s easy to slice and serve. Perfect for fall gatherings, these bars are always the first treat to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

Playful and unique, Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys bring creativity to the dessert table. These mini treats combine salty pretzels and rich chocolate into a bite-sized creation that kids and adults alike adore. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat, turning dessert into an art and conversation starter for the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream

Velvety and rich, Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream transforms the favorite cookie spread into a creamy holiday treat. Guests love its nostalgic, spiced flavor and silky texture paired with pies or cobblers. It’s unexpected yet familiar, and a welcome complement to heavier desserts for anyone craving something cooler.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Biscoff Ice Cream

Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Tiny bites of fall flavor, Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes pack warm spices, a moist pumpkin base, and a frosting that ties it all together. Perfect for sharing and beautifully portioned, these cupcakes make Thanksgiving dessert simple yet enjoyable. When guests reach for seconds, you’ll know they’ve become a new seasonal tradition.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Retro Watergate Salad

A dessert with a history and unmistakable charm, Retro Watergate Salad combines pistachio pudding’s cool sweetness with marshmallows and pineapple for a light yet nostalgic bite. Its refreshing texture adds variety to the Thanksgiving spread. Its iconic bright green color is always a hint that it’s something extra fun.
Get the Recipe: Retro Watergate Salad

Burnt Basque Cheesecake

Rustic and bold, Burnt Basque Cheesecake is all about creamy interior contrasted with a caramelized, crackly top. Its imperfectly perfect texture sets it apart from other desserts. Every slice highlights the beauty of simplicity, and this dessert pairs beautifully with post-dinner coffee or a splash of liqueur.
Get the Recipe: Burnt Basque Cheesecake

Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Flaky, gooey, and bursting with caramel sweetness, Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls turn ordinary rolls into a decadent dessert. Warm apples tucked into dough and topped with buttery caramel make these rolls something guests won’t forget. Perfect straight out of the oven, they combine fall’s best flavors in one soft, shareable dish.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Creamy Coconut Cream Pie

Tropical flavors meet holiday indulgence in Creamy Coconut Cream Pie, a dessert that balances rich, velvety custard with the light sweetness of coconut. Fluffy whipped topping adds an airy contrast, while the golden crust gives every bite structure. It’s an unexpected yet welcome addition to the Thanksgiving table, a retreat from typical fall flavors.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Coconut Cream Pie

Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake

Classic tiramisu gets a decadent twist with Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake, marrying bold espresso and cocoa with creamy layers of cheesecake. Guests rave about the smooth texture paired with the slight bitterness of coffee-soaked ladyfingers. Serve it chilled for an even more refreshing finish.
Get the Recipe: Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake

Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins

While muffins may seem casual, Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins take simplicity up a notch with golden tops and a soft, buttery interior studded with melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chips. Perfectly portioned and irresistibly indulgent, these treats are ideal for sharing or keeping secretly stashed for yourself to enjoy the next day.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins

Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

A sophisticated twist on beloved flavors, Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake combines the caramelly crunch of brûlée sugar with the silky richness of cheesecake. Its crackly top is the ultimate finishing touch, while the creamy filling satisfies even the most discerning dessert lover. Every slice feels like a celebration, right in line with Thanksgiving’s festive atmosphere.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Classic Apple Pie with Cinnamon

A true holiday staple, Classic Apple Pie with Cinnamon is as traditional as Thanksgiving itself. Flaky crust, perfectly spiced apple slices, and just enough sweetness make this beloved dessert disappear in minutes. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and it becomes the perfect balance of warm nostalgia and sheer comfort on a chilly fall evening.
Get the Recipe: Classic Apple Pie with Cinnamon

Rolled Pumpkin Cake with Cream Filling

Elegant yet approachable, Rolled Pumpkin Cake with Cream Filling is what happens when presentation meets flavor. Soft layers of spiced pumpkin sponge roll around creamy filling, making every slice as visually stunning as it is delicious. Guests love the eye-catching spirals, and the taste will have them asking how you made it look so perfect.
Get the Recipe: Rolled Pumpkin Cake with Cream Filling

Apple and Cranberry Pie

A vibrant twist on the Thanksgiving classic, Apple and Cranberry Pie offers the comfort of baked apples paired with the tartness of juicy cranberries. The balance of sweet and tangy ensures this dessert stands out among heavier dishes on the holiday table. Guests will be drawn to its striking red color and warming cinnamon-spice aroma.
Get the Recipe: Apple and Cranberry Pie

Homemade Chocolate Truffles

Small yet decadently mighty, Homemade Chocolate Truffles bring luxurious bites of rich, creamy chocolate to your Thanksgiving dessert lineup. Rolled in cocoa powder or your favorite toppings, they add a touch of elegance while being easy to pass around. Perfect for indulging after dinner without feeling overly full, these truffles are always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Chocolate Truffles

Matcha Tiramisu

Boldly unique yet completely delicious, Matcha Tiramisu transforms the iconic Italian dessert with earthy green tea flavor. Layers of mascarpone, delicate ladyfingers, and matcha powder come together to create a treat that feels refreshing while still indulgent. Guests looking for something different will appreciate its subtle twist and striking presentation.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

When oven space is short, No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake saves the day with its creamy, indulgent filling topped with fresh, sweet strawberries. Smooth and satisfying without much effort, this dessert is perfect for Thanksgiving because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal time in the kitchen. It’s light, airy, and perfect to round out a hefty holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

Mississippi Mud Pie

Decadence meets Southern flair with Mississippi Mud Pie, a multi-layered masterpiece of chocolate filling, crumbly cookie crust, and whipped topping. Guests love its rich flavor and slightly nostalgic feel, as it complements Thanksgiving’s assortment of desserts beautifully. Its indulgent texture is perfect for sharing or keeping every bite for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Mini Cheesecakes

Perfectly portioned desserts that offer big flavor in a small package, Mini Cheesecakes make serving easy without sacrificing indulgence. These creamy treats are endlessly customizable, and a drizzle of caramel or chocolate ganache takes them to the next level. Everyone loves how they’re bite-sized yet satisfy the dessert cravings.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cheesecakes

Rich Homemade Bread Pudding

Cozy, golden, and full of warm spices, Rich Homemade Bread Pudding tastes like the essence of fall baked into every bite. Thick cubes of bread soak up a creamy custard base, creating a dessert that’s both soft and beautifully textured. Guests can’t resist its comforting aroma, not to mention the drizzle of caramel or cream served alongside.
Get the Recipe: Rich Homemade Bread Pudding

Moist Chocolate Cake

A timeless dessert loved by all, Moist Chocolate Cake is the ultimate indulgence for chocolate lovers. Each slice is impossibly tender, with deep cocoa richness that pairs beautifully with whipped cream. This cake delivers nothing short of perfection with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Moist Chocolate Cake

Caramelized Fried Banana

Simple yet stunning, Caramelized Fried Banana transforms ordinary bananas into an irresistible dessert. Sliced bananas are cooked until golden and extra sweet, with caramelized edges that pair beautifully with ice cream, pancakes, or even eaten alone. This dish brings tropical warmth and a sophisticated flair to any Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Fried Banana

Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler

If pecan pie wasn’t indulgent enough, Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler takes things to the next level with layers of gooey filling, buttery crust, and crunchy pecan topping. This dessert feels decadent in every sense and combines the best textures into one dish. Serve warm with ice cream for a cozy and unforgettable ending to your Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler

Sweet Cherry Cheesecake

Vibrant and creamy, Sweet Cherry Cheesecake pairs smooth cheesecake with a topping of sweet, glossy cherries. The tangy cream cheese filling balances the fruity sweetness perfectly, while the graham cracker crust adds a delicate crunch. Every bite is fresh yet indulgent, making this dessert ideal for guests.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cherry Cheesecake

Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie

A true classic that embodies the essence of fall. Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie features a velvety custard filling spiced with warm cinnamon and nutmeg nestled inside a flaky crust. Its nostalgic flavor recalls simpler times and will have guests enjoying every bite. This pie is light enough to complement heavier holiday dishes but bold enough to hold its own.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie

Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Decadent and cozy, Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes bring the beloved cold day drink to life in dessert form. Each cupcake is moist, chocolaty, and topped with creamy frosting that resembles dollops of whipped cream. These are ready to steal the spotlight on the Thanksgiving dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Perfectly soft and packed with flavor. Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies combine the wholesome goodness of oatmeal with the warm, spiced notes of pumpkin. These cookies are ideal for enjoying alongside a cup of tea or coffee and are loved for their comforting homemade feel.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Buttery Pecan Pie Bars

Portable, shareable, and utterly delicious, Buttery Pecan Pie Bars reimagine the classic pecan pie in an easy-to-eat form. A delicate buttery crust holds the gooey, caramel-like pecan filling, delivering everything that makes pecan pie great in bite-sized servings. These bars are perfect for gatherings and offer all the flavor without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Pecan Pie Bars

Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

The ultimate cold day treat baked into a cookie, Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies feature a soft chocolate base packed with marshmallow chunks for a gooey surprise inside. These cookies are ideal for warming up on a chilly Thanksgiving night. It combines the comforting flavors of hot cocoa with the indulgent chewiness of freshly baked cookies.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

For those who love combining fall flavors with a touch of childhood nostalgia, Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake does just that. It creates a dessert that delivers cozy, autumn vibes with every bite. Perfect for sharing, this dessert feels like capturing campfire memories in seasonal form.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Sweet Kool-Aid Pie

Brimming with fun and nostalgia, Sweet Kool-Aid Pie is a no-bake treat that takes simple ingredients and turns them into something vibrant and delicious. This pie is bright and cheerful, with fruity Kool-Aid flavor folded into a creamy filling and nestled in a graham cracker crust. It’s light, easy, and perfect for bringing to any Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Kool-Aid Pie

Rich Peanut Butter Cake

Peanut butter lovers rejoice, Rich Peanut Butter Cake is everything you could hope for in a dessert. Moist, buttery, and packed with nutty flavor, this cake is topped with either a smooth peanut butter glaze or a rich frosting for extra indulgence. Each bite feels like a hug in dessert form, making it an irresistible addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Rich Peanut Butter Cake

Sweet Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

A creative take on two crowd favorites, Sweet Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie replaces traditional crust with layers of gooey cinnamon rolls. Juicy spiced apples fill the pie, bringing out the best of both components. Sticky, sweet, and decadent, this combination of flavors and textures feels like it was destined to be paired together.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie