47 Thanksgiving Dessert Recipe Ideas You’ll Want to Make a Tradition Every Year
Browsing 47 Thanksgiving dessert ideas means you can find something new to try or something familiar to bring back. Special recipes help set the tone for lasting memories around the table, even if the crowd changes. Showing up with a homemade dessert never goes unnoticed, especially during the holidays.

Rich German Chocolate Cake

Deep chocolate flavor combined with creamy, nutty layers guarantee smiles during chilly fall celebrations. Folks around the table usually ask how I made this Rich German Chocolate Cake so moist and dramatic. I turn to cake for those seeking comfort with a touch of elegance.
Get the Recipe: Rich German Chocolate Cake
Easy Banana Pudding

Classic pudding stacked with old-fashioned goodness always brings cheer to autumn gatherings. Guests snag helpings of this Easy Banana Pudding before cookies or cake enter the mix. I make extra so there’s enough for late-night snacking after dinner. Pudding fits in with every dessert spread thanks to its creamy, nostalgic appeal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding
Classic Tiramisu

Light layers of coffee-soaked cake and creamy filling add sophistication to any Thanksgiving table. Curious guests start conversations over this Classic Tiramisu, drawn in by its festive look. I serve this to please those craving a European touch during dinner. Elegant flavors pair perfectly with hearty fall menus.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tiramisu
Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Autumn spice collides with rich, gooey fun for a dessert that feels like an indoor campfire. Every time people taste this Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake, they come back with wide grins. I bake this when I need something playful and comforting. The warm chocolate and marshmallow layers set a sweet scene in November.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake
Decadent Chocolate Lasagna

Creamy layers offer a modern twist that instantly draws everyone’s attention at the dessert table. There’s always excitement about this Decadent Chocolate Lasagna after the first taste. I bring this when pie feels too predictable for the holiday. Rich, velvety texture keeps every forkful memorable.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Lasagna
Classic Apple Pie With Cinnamon

Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like a slice of pie, especially when golden crust meets tender filling. Anyone tasting this Classic Apple Pie With Cinnamon winds up asking for seconds. I bake pie each fall to guarantee nostalgia. Warm scents and familiar flavors fill the house with holiday spirit.
Get the Recipe: Classic Apple Pie With Cinnamon
Rich Chocolate Cheesecake

Dense cheesecake delivers everything decadent dessert fans hope for once Thanksgiving dinner wraps up. Curiosity peaks when this Rich Chocolate Cheesecake arrives on the table. I serve cheesecake for those who want to skip the fruit and go straight for indulgence. Creamy texture and bold cocoa flavor make for a showstopper ending.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cheesecake
Mississippi Mud Pie

Gooey layers piled high bring Southern charm and a playful look to fall festivities. Laughter picks up whenever this Mississippi Mud Pie appears at a holiday event. I rely on pie when crowd-pleasing drama is needed. Velvety filling and crunchy bits guarantee attention well past the first slice.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie
Homemade Chocolate Truffles

Hand-rolled chocolates look elegant yet simple enough to share throughout the evening, making every bite feel special. People sneak back to the plate for just one more of this Homemade Chocolate Truffles. I prepare truffles for gifting and easy dessert grazing. Small portions mean everyone gets a treat without filling up too soon.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Chocolate Truffles
Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Layers of warmly-spiced pumpkin cake go perfectly with a hot drink during cold-weather gatherings. Gentle chatter usually follows the first taste of this Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake. I bake cake for slow mornings when time with guests matters. Subtle flavor and crumbly topping create comfort in every slice.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake
Decadent Chocolate Hummus

Curious eaters lean in for creamy chocolate dip and discover an unexpected way to finish Thanksgiving. Dessert plates always clear out after this Decadent Chocolate Hummus hits the table. I set out hummus with fruit and cookies for a lighter end to the meal. Smooth texture and rich taste catch everyone off guard.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Hummus
Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies

Deep chocolate and tangy cream cheese deliver a rich finish no one expects during the busy holiday. Slices of these Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies go fast at gatherings. I bake brownies when I want a fuss-free dessert with standout flavor. Swirls and fudgy bites make an easy crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies
Easy Apple Dump Cake

A scoop of cake is all you need to wrap up fall dinner on a sweet note. Guests linger for extra servings of this Easy Apple Dump Cake after they sample the warm, cinnamon flavors. I rely on cakes when time is tight. Simple layering means dessert is ready without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Dump Cake
Classic Cherry Pie

Glossy, red filling under a flaky crust brings smiles and questions about holiday baking secrets. First slices of this Classic Cherry Pie vanish faster than the rest. I make pie for its tart brightness and visual appeal. Familiar comfort pairs well with any Thanksgiving spread.
Get the Recipe: Classic Cherry Pie
Decadent Dubai Chocolate

Celebrations reach new heights with chocolate that’s extra smooth, dark, and luxurious for special occasions. Friends buzz with excitement after tasting this Decadent Dubai Chocolate. I offer this for moments calling for indulgence and drama. Intense flavors linger long after the holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Dubai Chocolate
Moist Rhubarb Cake

Tangy rhubarb baked into a soft cake shares autumn’s harvest with every bite. New guests often surprise themselves enjoying this Moist Rhubarb Cake at Thanksgiving. I turn to cake while mixing up traditional favorites. Gentle sweetness and color keep dessert trays looking fresh.
Get the Recipe: Moist Rhubarb Cake
Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Bites of spiced apple tucked in crisp pastry capture a sense of European tradition that fits right into fall gatherings. Plates empty quickly when I serve these Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices at dessert time. I love the light yet homey feel of this for holidays. Layers of cinnamon and fruit bring just the right amount of warmth.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices
Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta

Unexpected creaminess and sweet squash flavor surprise guests used to only seeing pasta at dinner. Conversation sparks around this Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta from its very first serving. I make this for an inventive twist when pumpkin is everywhere. Creative bites keep Thanksgiving meals from feeling predictable.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Butternut Squash Dessert Pasta
Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Autumn spices mingle in a simple cake that’s easy to make yet bold enough to anchor dessert at big fall gatherings. Smiles light up the room once this Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake is served. I rely on dump cake for a fuss-free finale to Thanksgiving. Moist texture and comfort draw everyone back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake
Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler

Gooey filling with crispy topping delivers classic pie in a scoopable, crowd-friendly style. Folks around the table reach for more of this Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler before the pie platter runs out. I bake cobbler for easy sharing at Thanksgiving. Combining two favorites ensures everyone’s satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler
Warm Apple Fritters

Crunchy fritters bursting with apple and warm spice offer an inviting start or end to any fall meal. People look for seconds of this Warm Apple Fritters when the kitchen smells sweet. I fry fritters for memorable bites that pair with morning coffee or evening dessert. Cinnamon and fruit set the mood for gratitude season.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Fritters
Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake

Light, airy cake mixed with caramel makes dessert feel festive without being heavy after a big dinner. Guests ask for the secret to this Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake once the first slice hits their plate. I bake cake for moments that need a sweet, showy centerpiece. Gentle pumpkin flavor balances out the richness perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake
Rich Homemade Bread Pudding

Warm, custardy pudding piled with sweet bread delivers comfort thicker than any slice of pie. People rave about this Rich Homemade Bread Pudding for days after the holiday. I serve pudding along with whipped cream on special nights. Each bite brings nostalgia and joy to Thanksgiving celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Rich Homemade Bread Pudding
Classic Pumpkin Pie

Thanksgiving feels incomplete without at least one slice of creamy pumpkin packed with autumn spices. Everyone’s eager for this Classic Pumpkin Pie before the spread even begins. I bake pie for its traditional role in holiday cheer. The simple, comforting taste makes every celebration better.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pumpkin Pie
Rich Blueberry Cheesecake

Creamy cheesecake smothered with blueberries stands out as a fresh, vibrant option when most desserts are spiced. Slices of this Rich Blueberry Cheesecake always get high praise for color and flavor. I put cheesecake front and center for variety on the dessert table. Bright berry topping breaks up the usual choices.
Get the Recipe: Rich Blueberry Cheesecake
Caramelized Fried Banana

Sautéed banana with sticky caramel transforms an ordinary fruit into something fit for a feast. Guests pause after the first bite of this Caramelized Fried Banana, then ask for more. I serve banana for its simple but eye-catching finish. Its sweetness fits right in with all the rich flavors of fall.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Fried Banana
Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Crisp bites filled with creamy cookie spread make dessert fun and easy to share at big gatherings. People cluster near the tray of these Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies whenever I put them out. I love how cookies keep dessert light after a filling meal. The combination of spice and crunch wins over newcomers and regulars alike.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies
Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Silky cheesecake beneath a caramelized sugar topping delivers drama and elegance at Thanksgiving. The buzz hits immediately when this Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake is served. I trust cheesecake for the wow factor it brings. That crackly top signals something special is about to happen.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake
Apple and Cranberry Pie

Tart cranberries and sweet apples baked together bring new life to the pie tradition during cold-weather holidays. Slices of this Apple and Cranberry Pie win praise for the colorful contrast and lively flavor. I bake pie for guests tired of all-pumpkin spreads. Each bite feels festive and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Apple and Cranberry Pie
Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Soft, chewy cookies loaded with caramel draw fans as soon as I bring out the autumn-themed tray. The first taste of this Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies is usually met with satisfied smiles. I replicate cookies for fun, trendy desserts. Pumpkin and caramel flavors offer something new for holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies
Sweet Churro Cheesecake

Layers of creamy filling with cinnamon and sugar crust add a playful thrill to dessert plates. Excited chatter is the norm when I serve this Sweet Churro Cheesecake at Thanksgiving. I choose cheesecake for guests seeking something offbeat. Each bite blends crispy warmth with rich, familiar comfort.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Churro Cheesecake
Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Nostalgic flavors in an oversized cookie make brunch and dessert feel joyful and a little whimsical. Friends gravitate toward this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie whenever I want leftovers to vanish. I bake cookies for lighthearted occasions. The blend of classic and modern wins every round.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie
Creamy Coconut Cream Pie

Rich coconut filling layered under fluffy topping promises a tropical escape alongside autumn comfort foods. Everyone comments on this Creamy Coconut Cream Pie at fall potlucks. I serve pie for dessert spreads needing extra variety. Silky texture and subtle flavor match perfectly with pumpkin, apple, or chocolate.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Coconut Cream Pie
Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

A layer of spiced apple pie tucked inside smooth cheesecake ensures double celebration with every slice. Slices of this Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake always go first at my holiday parties. I combine apple pie and cheesecake for guaranteed excitement. Rich, creamy base with fruity filling stands out against traditional desserts.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake
Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream

Cool, nutty sweetness makes a refreshing finish on the Thanksgiving dessert table, especially after so many rich dishes. Smiles appear as guests taste this Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream post-dinner. I churn ice cream for lighter options. Each spoonful offers something unexpected and keeps evening conversations going.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream
Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Earthy, spiced filling baked in a flaky crust encapsulates the real flavor of fall in every slice. People request this Southern Sweet Potato Pie year after year at my Thanksgiving table. I bake pie for a classic with Southern hospitality. Comfort and tradition blend perfectly in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Dense Fruit Cake

Spiced, rich and packed with fruit, this cake is a festive nod to generations-old holiday traditions. Newcomers soon ask about this Dense Fruit Cake and its lasting appeal. I serve cake when classic, hearty flavor is wanted at celebrations. Textured slices carry forward the warmth of an old-fashioned holiday.
Get the Recipe: Dense Fruit Cake
Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie

Creamy filling, gentle spice, and a simple crust bring an unexpected comfort that makes Thanksgiving feel even cozier. Curious diners gravitate toward this Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie whenever it is served. I bake pie for old-world charm on chilly nights. Familiar notes keep guests chatting long after dessert ends.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Cinnamon Pie
Retro Watergate Salad

Fluffy pastel salad packed with fruit and nuts delivers cheerful nostalgia on fall buffets. Reunion chatter grows when this Retro Watergate Salad gets passed around the room. I prep this for potlucks needing a sweet, light side. The color and playful taste make it a surprise favorite.
Get the Recipe: Retro Watergate Salad
Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake

Lush, coffee-spiked cheesecake topped with cream layers draws an excited crowd every time autumn arrives. The drama of this Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake guarantees questions and compliments at the table. I blend tiramisu and cheesecake for wow factor. Bold flavors stand up to the heartiest holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake
Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Chocolate and strawberries layered in small cups create an eye-catching dessert perfect for sharing after Thanksgiving dinner. Enthusiasm builds as soon as this Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup hits the buffet. I serve this for stylish, easy-to-eat treats. Elegant layers promise lasting holiday memories.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup
Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Warm cocoa spiked into soft cookies gives dessert a nostalgic, wintry feel during Thanksgiving gatherings. Kids and adults alike sneak extra of these Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies. I bake cookies for snacking or pairing with drinks. Easy, fun flavors make conversation sweeter.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies
Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Salted caramel topping matched with deep chocolate provides dessert drama that guests still talk about weeks later. Anticipation grows over each slice of this Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. I serve cake for standout celebrations. The salty-sweet blend feels just right for late fall.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake
Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream

Espresso-infused ice cream swirled with creamy accents gives Thanksgiving a sophisticated, cool dessert option. Guests come back for more of this Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream before the meal wraps up. I scoop ice cream for unique, modern finishes. Subtle coffee flavor fits perfectly with autumn evenings.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream
Warm Apple Crisp

Baked apples under an oat topping fill the kitchen with coziness that straight-up pie can’t always offer. Every spoonful of this Warm Apple Crisp feels like a hug in November air. I scoop extra for people who linger after dinner. Crunchy topping sets it apart at holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Crisp
Moist Pumpkin Cake

Tender pumpkin layers with a gentle crumb offer the comfort we all seek as the fall weather swings in. Platefuls of this Moist Pumpkin Cake vanish fast every Thanksgiving. I make cake when pie needs company on the buffet. Warm, spicy notes round out the meal.
Get the Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Cake
Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Rich brownie base paired with spiced cookie layers has everyone asking what makes dessert so memorable. Reactions to these Decadent Biscoff Brownies always spark laughter and stories. I bake brownies for fun, trendy options at holiday parties. The unique cookie twist puts a new spin on a classic treat.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies
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.
