29 Thanksgiving Dessert Recipe Ideas for When the Sweet Tooth Wins Every Time

It’s hard to resist a dessert table stacked high, and the 29 Thanksgiving treats in this list always put a sweet spin on the holiday. These are the choices I turn to when I want comfort, nostalgia, and a dash of surprise for any size gathering, because nothing wraps up Thanksgiving quite like a plate piled with dessert.

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.
Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Flaky 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.
Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A bite of this Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices brings the warmth and aroma of fall instantly to the table. Delicate pastry layers filled with tender apples and comforting spice make each slice as inviting as it looks. There’s something about the way these pieces flake apart that keeps guests reaching for another helping every time.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Close-up of three stacked blondies with chocolate chips, resembling cake mix chocolate chip cookie bars, one of which has a bite taken out of it.
Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bright, chewy, and impossibly quick to make, these Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars has a way of making any gathering feel extra special. Dropping a tray on the dessert table feels almost like cheating, since the shortcut is such a crowd-pleaser. I’ve watched people take first and second squares, always marveling at how soft and chocolate-studded each bite stays.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

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.

An unexpected twist on a classic, this Matcha Tiramisu gets people talking as soon as they see the vivid green layers. There’s a mellow earthiness paired with creamy, sweet layers that feels both unique and celebratory. Trying a spoonful is like a mini adventure, and even the skeptics usually come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

A slice of Reese's pie sits on a cake slice, ready to be served.
Creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You can almost hear the excitement as this Creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie lands front and center, there’s an unmistakable pull toward its silky, nutty goodness. Slices go fast because the rich, smooth filling feels decadent but familiar. Whenever I make this, I notice everyone wants to know how something so simple can deliver so much flavor.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Two cupcakes with light brown frosting are shown on a white surface, each in a beige paper liner.
Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Passing around a tray of these Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes turns even an ordinary get-together into a fall celebration. Light, fluffy, and dotted with warm spices, every bite bursts with festive energy. I find that these cupcakes are especially popular when paired with a scoop of vanilla or a drizzle of glaze, but they easily shine on their own.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie

A lemon meringue pie in a white dish, topped with swirled, browned meringue, sits on a light-colored surface next to a lemon.
Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Breaking through the cloud of meringue on this Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie is a memory-making move at any Thanksgiving table. The combination of bright citrus, creamy filling, and soft yet airy topping never fails to wake up your palate after a rich meal. People lean in for just a sliver and usually end up coming back for a bigger slice.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie

Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Two slices of pumpkin s'mores pie on a white plate, topped with chocolate chips, graham crackers, and toasted marshmallows.
Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tables burst with excitement when this Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake becomes the Thanksgiving centerpiece. Each slice offers a playful twist on familiar favorites, blending toasty, nostalgic flavors with autumn pumpkin. I make extra whenever I serve it since everyone tends to cut themselves large wedges in the hopes of grabbing the best marshmallow stretch.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Southern Sweet Potato Pie

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

True comfort comes alive with this Southern Sweet Potato Pie, especially as each creamy, gently spiced bite warms up a chilly evening. Thick, smooth filling and a golden crust work together in a way that makes people feel instantly at home. Slices vanish quickly, and someone always starts reminiscing about past Thanksgivings.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Moist Pumpkin Cake

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

Bold autumn color and rich, inviting flavor make this Moist Pumpkin Cake a standout on festive dessert tables. Every forkful is soft and packed with seasonal cheer, perfect for sharing with friends who want a gentle finish to a huge meal. Often, I bake extra because folks will sneak slices well after dessert is over.
Get the Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Cake

Buttery Pecan Pie Bars

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

Bars like this Buttery Pecan Pie Bars transform classic pie into something you can pick up and share without fuss. Nutty, rich, and layered with a luscious filling atop a golden crust, every square feels like a piece of fall. These treats work for crowds big or small, and there never seem to be enough to go around.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Pecan Pie Bars

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

Letting the oven do the work for this Easy Apple Dump Cake always leads to questions about how something so simple can taste so fulfilling. Soft, gooey fruit pairs with a comforting crumb topping, giving you dessert with just the right hint of nostalgia. I serve it straight from the dish, then watch spoons dip in again and again for warm, autumn flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Dump Cake

Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Two glass cups filled with layers of sliced strawberries, chocolate, granola, and chopped pistachios, with a blurred bowl of nuts in the background.
Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Unwrapping this Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup is like discovering a treasure at the end of your Thanksgiving meal. Silky chocolate and vibrant berries both contrast and complement, striking a memorable balance that feels luxurious for any occasion. I hear guests rave about how different and impressive each spoonful tastes, even after a big dinner.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

Classic Apple Pie With Cinnamon

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

Few desserts say Thanksgiving quite like this Classic Apple Pie With Cinnamon. Beautiful layers of fruit and spice come together under a golden, flaky top, while every slice fills the room with the scent of fall. I always find that people hover with anticipation during the last few minutes in the oven, eager for just one more piece.
Get the Recipe: Classic Apple Pie With Cinnamon

Mini Cheesecakes

Mini cheesecakes topped with strawberry sauce, fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and a small mint leaf on a light surface.
Mini Cheesecakes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Individual servings of these Mini Cheesecakes make dessert feel fun and party-ready. Their creamy, smooth texture makes it almost impossible to eat just one, especially after a savory meal. I’ve noticed people pair them with everything from fruit to chocolate, turning the bite-sized treats into personal favorites.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cheesecakes

Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream

A close-up of a glass dish with tiramisu being scooped out, showing layers of cream, cake, and cocoa powder.
Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A scoop of this Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream adds something cool and creamy to a Thanksgiving filled with warm pies and cakes. The coffee-inspired, dreamy layers hint at a much-loved classic without being overly heavy. I like serving this after a rich meal, since it finishes everything off with just the right amount of indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream

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.

Serving up these Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls means bringing just the right blend of warm, sweet, and fluffy to the fall festivities. Sticky caramel and juicy apple tucked inside soft rolls create a melt-in-your-mouth moment that’s pure comfort. Each roll gets pulled apart by eager hands, always drawing smiles and requests for more.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Buttery Coffee Cake

Close-up of eight square pieces of crumb cake with a textured, crumbly topping.
Buttery Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bright mornings and slow fall afternoons deserve this Buttery Coffee Cake with its tender crumb and hint of sweet topping. Each bite pairs perfectly with a hot drink, making it an easy favorite for all-day snacking. I often make it ahead because the limited effort pays off in a major way when guests arrive.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Coffee Cake

Sweet Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

A slice of apple cinnamon roll on a plate.
Sweet Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Unexpected delight awaits anyone who tries this Sweet Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie, where flaky swirls meet soft autumn apples in every bite. There’s something extra special about the aroma when it’s baking, filling the kitchen with cozy comfort. I always see a little extra excitement when guests realize the crust is anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Rich 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.
Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Two favorites meet in this Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake: you get the creaminess of cheesecake blended with the familiar, coffee-soaked notes of tiramisu. The result is a dessert with serious depth, perfect for those who crave something just a little unexpected. I watch as guests pause after the first taste, caught off guard by how well the two desserts complement each other.
Get the Recipe: Rich Tiramisu Cheesecake

Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

Several squares of chocolate brownies with a yellow and brown marbled pattern are stacked and arranged on parchment paper.
Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s no slowing down once this Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies makes its way to the dessert table. Each square combines rich, dense chocolate with the nostalgic sweetness of banana pudding, all in a single bite. I always notice how quickly these disappear, since they bring together two beloved classics in a completely new way.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

Moist Chocolate Cake

A person holding a slice of chocolate layer cake with frosting from a chocolate cake recipe.
Moist Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cutting into this Moist Chocolate Cake instantly feels like an occasion. The deep chocolate flavor is balanced by a crumb so soft, it practically melts as soon as you try a forkful. For chocolate fans at the table, there’s no question about what to choose.
Get the Recipe: Moist Chocolate Cake

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 lovers fall for these Decadent Biscoff Brownies at first sight, thanks to their swirled top and deep caramel notes. Thick, gooey, and full of warm spice, these treats steal the spotlight from traditional brownies with almost no effort at all. I keep an eye on the plate because they’re often gone before I can even grab one.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Classic Pumpkin Pie

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

No Thanksgiving is quite complete without this Classic Pumpkin Pie front and center. Silky pumpkin filling sits inside a flaky crust, making every slice a taste of pure tradition. I always hear people reminisce about celebrations past when this pie appears on the table. Warm cinnamon and spice fill every forkful, turning each bite into a lasting fall memory.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pumpkin Pie

Easy Banana Pudding

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

Swiftly whipped up and always a crowd-pleaser, this Easy Banana Pudding gives comfort and familiar flavor with every creamy layer. By the time dessert rolls around, I notice spoons racing through the bowl, often leaving only a few crumbs behind. There’s a reason this sweet treat comes back year after year, it’s fuss-free but always brings big smiles.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Close-up of freshly baked cookies with nuts on top, arranged closely together.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized and packed with autumn cheer, this Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans brings out warmth and sweetness in every mouthful. Pecan pieces add a soft crunch while the pumpkin base keeps things light and fluffy. I bake a double batch for gatherings, since they go faster than anything else on the tray.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Rich Blueberry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake topped with glossy blueberry sauce on a white plate, with two black spoons beside it.
Rich Blueberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Not every Thanksgiving dessert needs to be classic pumpkin or apple; this Rich Blueberry Cheesecake proves it. A smooth, creamy layer blended with fresh berry brightness offers a sweet surprise with every slice. Whenever a friend asks for something a bit unexpected, I reach for this recipe to wow them with a touch of summer tucked into a fall presentation.
Get the Recipe: Rich Blueberry Cheesecake

Rich Chocolate Pie

A slice of chocolate pie with a swirl of whipped cream.
Rich Chocolate Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Going bold for dessert is easier than ever with this Rich Chocolate Pie. Dense, creamy, and intensely flavored, it brings the focus straight to chocolate, no distractions needed. I serve it at large gatherings since a single pie stretches further than you might expect. Guests who can’t resist an extra dose of chocolate delight always keep an eye on this offering.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Pie

Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping, resting on parchment paper with a crumbly base visible.
Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Lighting up your holiday desserts, this Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake comes with a crisp, caramelized top and a smooth, custardy interior. Every spoonful blends two comfort classics into one seriously elegant treat. I love hearing forks crack through the sugar shell as everyone digs in.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Buttery 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.
Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A platter of these Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins brings welcome comfort to Thanksgiving mornings or the dessert table. Each muffin offers golden tops and pools of chocolate in every bite, making them impossible to ignore. I whip up a batch when I want something that doubles as breakfast or dessert; nobody complains about that.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins

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