47 Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas Sweet Enough to Steal the Spotlight

47 Thanksgiving dessert options are perfect for finishing a meal with a sweet note. Certain desserts suit shared platters, while others are best served individually. Busy holiday weekends often call for recipes that are straightforward yet satisfying. Choosing versatile desserts helps keep the table inviting and relaxed.

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.

Mini Cheesecakes

Bite-sized treats like this Mini Cheesecakes make holiday gatherings feel extra special. Guests love how easy they are to grab and enjoy. I find these are always the first dessert gone from the buffet. Creamy texture and festive plates bring joy in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cheesecakes

Creamy Coconut Cream Pie

A slice of coconut cream pie on a plate. — Creamy Coconut Cream Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Toasty and comforting, creamy slices win over coconut fans at Thanksgiving. Passing this Creamy Coconut Cream Pie around gives everyone a taste of something smooth and sweet. I always see smiles with the first spoonful. The gentle coconut flavor feels just right for November.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Coconut Cream Pie

Rich Homemade Bread Pudding

A close-up of decadent bread pudding, topped with creamy vanilla sauce, is being lifted from a serving plate. — Rich Homemade Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm bread topped with cozy sauce gets everyone talking at the table. I look forward to serving this Rich Homemade Bread Pudding since it fills the room with nostalgic aroma. Each bite is soft, sweet, and hard to resist. Guests always ask for seconds before it’s gone.
Get the Recipe: Rich Homemade Bread Pudding

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.

Apples baked with sweet crumble on top disappear faster than almost any autumn dessert. Bringing this Easy Apple Dump Cake out as the air turns crisp makes the house smell amazing. I always want an extra scoop. Each serving feels comforting on chilly November nights.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Dump Cake

Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Close-up of a frosted cookie with a bite taken out, sprinkled with cinnamon, on a parchment surface. — Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pumpkin and caramel together make these cookies a true crowd-pleaser every fall. This Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies feels like a Thanksgiving tradition in the making. Their soft, rich centers keep everyone guessing and reaching for more. The sweet aroma wraps the table in warmth.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Rich Chocolate Pie

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

Deep chocolate layers create smiles with every slice on the dessert tray. I love how this Rich Chocolate Pie brings together chocolate fans from every generation. Each mouthful is perfectly smooth and never lasts long. Cold November evenings call for a dessert as comforting as this.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Pie

Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake

A slice of pineapple cake topped with fresh raspberries on a white surface. — Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Festive meals get a dash of retro charm with golden cake and sweet caramelized fruit. Setting out this Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake invites curiosity from all ages. I enjoy how the juicy topping sparkles at any holiday spread. Each bite delivers a playful mix of tart and sweet.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pineapple Upside Down 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.

Layers of chocolate and berry create excitement before the first forkful is even taken. Guests linger around this Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup admiring its luscious look. I’m always asked for the secret after someone tries it. It makes pumpkin pie feel a little less lonely.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Cup

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.

Bright citrus notes add a welcome twist to the Thanksgiving season’s desserts. Bringing this Tangy Lemon Meringue Pie to the table lightens up any heavy meal. I appreciate how the golden peaks steal the spotlight. Silky, tart filling lands on everyone’s plate with a smile.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon Meringue 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.

Crackling sugar on top of a creamy base gives this dessert a dramatic flair. This Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake draws a crowd every single time. I find the rich layers pair perfectly with coffee after dinner. It’s perfect for making Thanksgiving dessert a little more fun.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Creme Brûlée 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.

Dessert fans stop and stare when stripes of cream and chocolate meet banana goodness. Sharing this Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies guarantees an empty plate within minutes. I reach for these after the main meal wraps up. Each piece delivers sweet comfort and a touch of surprise.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

Rich Banoffee Pie

A slice of Banoffee pie with whipped cream and caramel. — Rich Banoffee Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bananas, caramel, and cream swirl together for the ultimate Thanksgiving treat. A slice of this Rich Banoffee Pie never fails to spark interest and delight. I admire how the flavors blend without overpowering the others. It’s a dessert that never makes it back to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Rich Banoffee Pie

Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Close-up of two stacked pieces of chocolate cake drizzled with caramel sauce on a plate, with more cake in the background. — Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combining rich layers of chocolate and caramel makes any gathering feel more special. I watch as this Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake disappears slice by slice. The hint of salt sets it apart from regular chocolate cake. People often request the recipe before Thanksgiving is over.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel 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.

Fall baking feels complete once an old-fashioned pie appears on the table. Making this Southern Sweet Potato Pie brings out earthy sweetness that feels just right during the holidays. I know I need to make two because there are never leftovers. Each slice comforts and delights.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sweet Potato Pie

Decadent Chocolate Lasagna

A slice of layered dessert with a creamy white layer, chocolate filling, and crushed cookie topping. — Decadent Chocolate Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s always excitement for desserts with layers of chocolate, cream, and cookie. This Decadent Chocolate Lasagna turns heads as soon as it arrives at the party. I like the playful look and cool, fluffy filling. November tables get a sweet boost with every serving.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Lasagna

Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler

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

Gooey cobbler with crunchy topping brings something extra to the Thanksgiving dessert table. People can’t get enough of this Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler once the aroma fills the air. I make sure to scoop up a bowl before it’s gone. It blends tradition and comfort into every serving.
Get the Recipe: Rich Pecan Pie Cobbler

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.

Forks pause for a moment before diving into tall, soft chocolate crumb. This Moist Chocolate Cake to the spread reminds everyone why dessert always matters. I notice people come back quietly for seconds. The rich layers complement the season’s cozy mood.
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.

Spiced cookie meets fudgy brownie for an autumn treat that stands out at any party. Presenting this Decadent Biscoff Brownies draws curious smiles and plenty of interest. I’ve found even folks who don’t usually like sweets give these a try. Each bite feels adventurous yet familiar.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Biscoff Brownies

Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

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

Swirls of creamy cheesecake meet classic apple pie for the best of both worlds. Guests love seeing this Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake appear on the table. I’m always impressed by the rich layers tucked inside. Bold apple and smooth cheese combine for dessert perfection.
Get the Recipe: Delicious Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse

A glass dessert cup filled with chocolate mousse, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, placed on a light-colored surface. — Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light, airy mousse makes a subtle yet festive finish to a big Thanksgiving meal. Passing this Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse ensures every guest has a sweet bite. I like how it’s both smooth and quick to vanish. The chocolate flavor cheers everyone up as fall sets in.
Get the Recipe: Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse

Warm Apple Cobbler

A baked apple cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, partially served in a dish. — Warm Apple Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Baking with fresh apples fills the kitchen with mouthwatering warmth and nostalgia. This Warm Apple Cobbler brings people together after the main course. I always grab a spoonful while it’s still piping hot. Classic comfort and gentle sweetness finish the evening just right.
Get the Recipe: Warm Apple Cobbler

Sweet Cherry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake topped with cherry sauce, sitting on a beige plate. — Sweet Cherry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Juicy cherries over a cool, creamy layer give this dessert a cheerful look at holiday parties. Inviting this Sweet Cherry Cheesecake to the dessert table attracts both the young and old. I see it vanish before any other cakes. Each forkful is a sweet finale to Thanksgiving dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cherry Cheesecake

Homemade Chocolate Truffles

A bowl containing chocolate truffles, some coated with shredded coconut and others with cocoa powder; one truffle has a bite taken out of it. — Homemade Chocolate Truffles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Handmade truffles rolled in chocolate send a message: this dessert is something extra. This Homemade Chocolate Truffles means sharing a bit of luxury with each guest. I see eyes light up when the platter arrives. Smooth and rich, these are almost too beautiful to eat.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Chocolate Truffles

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.

Playful desserts always draw kids and grown-ups to the treat table. Laying out this Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys sparks laughs and sparks appetite. I make a batch just for the fun of it. Each one captures the spirit of Thanksgiving in a single bite.
Get the Recipe: Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake

A stack of pumpkin coffee cake squares with crumb topping and white glaze, arranged on a wooden board. — Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fragrant spices swirl with pumpkin to brighten any Thanksgiving morning. This Spiced Pumpkin Coffee Cake pairs perfectly with hot drinks and good company. I find myself making an extra batch just in case. Every piece adds comfort to the chilly fall air.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Coffee 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.

Crowd-pleasing bars balance sweet, nutty flavor in perfectly cut squares. This Buttery Pecan Pie Bars always leads to empty trays and happy chatter. I like the mix of soft filling with a sturdy base. They travel well for potlucks and keep everyone coming back.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Pecan Pie Bars

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.

Warm rolls filled with gooey apple and caramel disappear quickly at holiday gatherings. Passing around this Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls starts the dessert hour with smiles. I appreciate how they offer bite-sized comfort in every mouthful. Their buttery flavor is worth waiting for.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Chocolate cupcakes with white frosting and small pastel-colored marshmallows on top, arranged in a group against a neutral background. — Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Whipped topping and marshmallows make these cupcakes feel like a celebration. Offering this Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes is a fun twist on everyone’s favorite cold-weather drink. I keep them on the table until every last one is gone. They turn dessert into a party.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

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.

Big trays of cookie bars bring joy and simplicity to the Thanksgiving table. This Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars makes it easy for everyone to grab a square. I find these are great for sharing and packing up after the meal. Chocolate chips warm hearts with every bite.
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.

A splash of green and soft cream sets this tiramisu apart from the rest. Guests quickly reach for this Matcha Tiramisu to try something new at the end of dinner. I delight in the balance of flavors and playful color. Traditional dessert fans catch on quickly.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Crimson cakes topped with creamy swirls always bring a pop of excitement to the dessert tray. Passing around this Red Velvet Cupcakes lights up the whole room. I bake these for their festive look and nostalgic taste. Each bite is as pleasant as the holiday colors.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cupcakes

Caramelized Fried Banana

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

Sweet bananas with a perfect crisp show up as crowd-pleasers after a big meal. This Caramelized Fried Banana adds a warm finish to the Thanksgiving table. I see people appreciate the hint of caramel. Each bite is simple, comforting, and impossible to forget.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Fried Banana

Apple and Cranberry Pie

A slice of mixed berry pie with a golden crust sits on a plate next to a spoon, with fruit filling spilling out. — Apple and Cranberry Pie. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tart cranberries with sweet apples create the perfect red and gold filling for November. Setting out this Apple and Cranberry Pie gets guests talking before dessert even begins. I make this for its beautiful color and gentle tang. It’s a seasonal classic from start to finish.
Get the Recipe: Apple and Cranberry Pie

Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Slice of cheesecake topped with caramel, pretzel, pecan, and sea salt on a plate, with a spoon beside it. — Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Silky cheesecake with salted caramel always stands out as a showstopper during the holidays. This Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake invites more “oohs” and “aahs” with every slice. I rarely see leftovers once dessert is done. Sweet, creamy, and salty, this dessert never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies

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

Swirls of cream cheese and layered chocolate make brownies even more tempting than usual. This Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies reveals beautiful ribbons in every piece. I serve these when I want dessert to start a conversation. They travel well and always go quickly.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies

Chess Pie

A close-up of a sliced custard pie dusted with powdered sugar, with two metal spoons resting on top of the pie in a white dish. — Chess Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thanksgiving spreads call for a pie that’s rich, silky, and irresistibly sweet. Giving out this Chess Pie earns big smiles with every slice. I look forward to the gentle crunch and comforting filling. Each piece is a sweet finish to fall meals.
Get the Recipe: Chess Pie

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.

Rustic pumpkin cake with toasty topping fits perfectly at the center of a Thanksgiving dessert table. This Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake starts conversation and second helpings. I appreciate the easy assembly and harvest flavor. It’s always a new favorite by night’s end.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Tiramisu Brownies

A close-up of a tray of tiramisu with a chocolate base, with one slice being lifted out, topped with dusted cocoa powder. — Tiramisu Brownies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Italian dessert lovers perk up when brownies take on coffee and cream for fall. This Tiramisu Brownies invites curiosity and third helpings. I love making these to surprise longtime guests. Layers of brownie and mascarpone blend comfort and adventure beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Brownies

Moist Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting

A close-up of a slice of spiced cake topped with white icing and small decorative sprinkles. — Moist Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Autumn baking would not feel complete without pumpkin treats topped with rich frosting. This Moist Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting brings smiles during Thanksgiving dessert hour. I mix up extra frosting so there’s enough for every bar. Light, fluffy, and flavorful, these are always a big hit.
Get the Recipe: Moist Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting

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.

Ruby berries and a cool, creamy base make this dessert stand out on Thanksgiving tables. This No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake keeps the mood light and fruity after a heavy meal. I bring it when I want a sweet, simple finale. It surprises guests used to traditional pies.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

Easy Banana Pudding

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

Chilled pudding with cookies is a classic favorite for holiday gatherings in the South. This Easy Banana Pudding wraps up the meal with a nostalgic note. I often sneak an extra spoonful for myself. It’s the type of dessert nobody leaves unfinished.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Ambrosia Salad

Whipped fruit dessert covers Thanksgiving in cheerful color and cool sweetness. This Ambrosia Salad means sharing a bit of nostalgia in every scoop. I like how light and fluffy it feels after a big dinner. Each bowl reminds everyone of joyful childhood meals.
Get the Recipe: Ambrosia Salad

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.

Silky peanut butter and chocolate fill every bite with rich flavor. Guests buzz about this Creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie the moment it shows up at the celebration. I keep extra slices aside so everyone gets their share. Cool, smooth filling pairs perfectly with crisp autumn air.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Pie

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.

Warm muffins dotted with chocolate chips turn breakfast into dessert for Thanksgiving weekend. Breaking apart this Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins reveals a soft, luscious crumb. I always set some aside for next day snacking. Each muffin carries simple joy in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Chocolate Chip Muffins

Oreo Balls

Assorted chocolate truffles, some coated in white and dark chocolate, with one bitten to show the rich chocolate filling inside. Crumbled cookies are sprinkled on top. — Oreo Balls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No-bake treats rolled in chocolate are always popular during the holidays. This Oreo Balls starts conversations and sweet cravings. I like making these in big batches for Thanksgiving parties. Each one offers the kind of bite-sized happiness that works for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Balls

Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake

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

Swirls of pumpkin in soft cheesecake create a dessert that feels extra special for the holiday. Guests request this Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake before Thanksgiving dinner is over. I make it for both its silky feel and stunning look. Spiced aroma makes the house feel cozier.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake

Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream

Coffee flavor mixed with creamy, cold ice cream is a playful way to end a heavy meal. After dinner, serving this Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream gives dessert an Italian flair. I enjoy surprising people with something unexpected. Each bite blends classic and new.
Get the Recipe: Smooth Tiramisu Ice Cream