Thanksgiving is the sweetest time of the year — quite literally! After the turkey and trimmings, no holiday meal is complete without a stunning dessert. Whether you love traditional pies or prefer creative twists on fall flavors, these Thanksgiving dessert ideas will make your celebration unforgettable.

Classic Thanksgiving Pies

Pumpkin Pie – the Timeless Favorite

No Thanksgiving dessert table is complete without a pumpkin pie. Silky, spiced, and comforting, it’s the heart of every autumn feast. To make it extra special, add a swirl of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

Pumpkin Pie With Ricotta Cheese, Coconut, Almonds Recipe by Jon Michelena
#GoldenApron23
CookpadJon Michelena
Pumpkin Pie Recipe by Charlie
Great recipe for Pumpkin Pie.
CookpadCharlie

Pecan Pie – Sweet, Sticky, and Irresistible

With its rich caramel filling and crunchy nuts, pecan pie is a true Southern gem. For a delicious twist, try creative variation on the classic.

Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe by Linh
An update to the most beloved Thanksgiving treat: Pecan pie now with Bourbon and Chocolate!
CookpadLinh
Pecan Pie Recipe by SherryRandall: The Leftover Chronicles
This was my great aunts recipe from Louisiana. Its been at our Thanksgiving dinner for generations. It’s the best pecan pie I have ever put in my mouth. It’s very simple and the oven does all the work.
CookpadSherryRandall: The Leftover Chronicles

Sweet Potato Pie – A Cozy Alternative

Often mistaken for pumpkin, sweet potato pie has a deeper, earthier sweetness. It’s a beautiful addition to your table for anyone who prefers a slightly lighter, less spiced dessert.

Official Sweet Potato Pie Recipe by Leanzism
This is an easy and amazing recipe and you can use pre made pie crust to make your life easier 😀 These pies are perfect in every way!
CookpadLeanzism
Sweet Potato Pie Recipe by t.j.mojosystems
Great recipe for Sweet Potato Pie.
Cookpadt.j.mojosystems

Apple Pie – A Slice of Home

Golden, flaky crust, warm cinnamon-spiced apples — apple pie is pure comfort. Whether served warm with vanilla ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce, it captures the essence of the season.

Apple Pie Filling Recipe by Duckerella
This is just for the filling - use homemade crust or store bought!
CookpadDuckerella
The Easiest Apple Pie Recipe by Angela
I got this recipe from my sister years ago and lost it. I am not a big apple pie fan. However, I craved this one every holiday season. I found the recipe now and am excited that I can share it!
CookpadAngela

Beyond the Pie Dish

Pumpkin Cheesecake – Creamy Autumn Perfection

Wondering what can you make for Thanksgiving besides pie? Try pumpkin cheesecake. It’s rich and velvety, combining the cozy flavor of pumpkin with the tang of cream cheese — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Three Layers No Bake Pumpkin 🎃 Cheesecake Recipe by Nia Hiura
#givingthanks Well, well, well, thinking about dessert on thanksgiving is always identical with pumpkin. Pumpkin pie is always number one choices dessert on thanksgiving day. But too bad, I am not really a fan of any pies. So instead of making pumpkin pie, I made pumpkin cheesecake for our thanksgiv…
CookpadNia Hiura
Healthy Pumpkin Cheese Cake Recipe by Optimal Nutrition. Healthy Lifestyle by Sonia J.
Always Healthy
CookpadOptimal Nutrition. Healthy Lifestyle by Sonia J.

Maple Pecan Bars – A Sweet Shortcut

If you want something easy yet impressive, maple pecan bars are perfect. They deliver all the buttery flavor of pecan pie in a simple, bite-sized form. Great for sharing or packing as festive treats.

Maple Pecan Shortbread Bars Recipe by Ricardo
A week after the attacks of 9/11, food writer Regina Schrambling wrote about the healing power of cooking. She shared this recipe, and I have been making it ever since. #maple #pecan #shortbread #bars #dessert #sweet #butter #pastry
CookpadRicardo
Honey Pecan Squares Recipe by Chris Gan
If you’re looking for a bar cookie that’s easy to make as well as rich and decadent, then this is the recipe for you! It’s the perfect treat for Holiday cookie exchanges or potlucks. Just be prepared to share the recipe because you’re sure to be asked for it! 😋 This recipe originally appeared in Ta…
CookpadChris Gan

Pumpkin Roll – A Showstopper on the Table

A pumpkin roll is as beautiful as it is delicious. The spiced sponge cake rolled around a cream cheese filling looks stunning when sliced — ideal for guests who eat with their eyes first.

Pumpkin Roll Recipe by Christina
I love these kind of cakes, but I’ve always been intimidated to try to make one myself... but after watching a super helpful video and looking at a step-by-step photo tutorial, I decided to give this a try as one of my Thanksgiving desserts this year. It turned out moist and delicious! The tangy cre…
CookpadChristina
Pumpkin Roll Recipe by Aimee Qualls
Great recipe for Pumpkin Roll.
CookpadAimee Qualls

Apple Cake – Rustic and Comforting

Finish your Thanksgiving meal on a cozy note with apple cake. Moist, fragrant, and full of seasonal charm, it’s a wonderful make-ahead dessert that pairs beautifully with tea or mulled cider.

Super Easy Apple Cake | No Kneading, No Fuss Recipe by OnlyProven Recipes
🍏 Super easy apple cake — the best recipe for anyone who wants a delicious homemade dessert without the hassle! This crumbly apple cake is ready in just a few minutes: no need to knead the dough, just mix 1 cup of flour, semolina, and sugar, layer with apples, and bake in the oven. 🥧 This no-dough…
CookpadOnlyProven Recipes
Juicy And Fluffy! Caramel Apple Cake Recipe by Fumie’s Recipe
Great recipe for Juicy and Fluffy! Caramel Apple Cake.
CookpadFumie’s Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Balance flavors: Mix rich desserts like cheesecake or pecan bars with lighter options such as fruit-based cakes.
  • Add a visual touch: Dust pies with powdered sugar or decorate cheesecakes with nuts or dried fruit.
  • Plan ahead: Many desserts, like pies or rolls, can be made a day or two in advance to save time on Thanksgiving Day.

Pumpkin pie remains the number one choice for Thanksgiving — it’s a symbol of tradition and comfort.

What can I make for Thanksgiving instead of pie?

Pumpkin cheesecake, maple pecan bars, and apple cake are great non-pie alternatives that still feel festive and seasonal.

Can I make Thanksgiving desserts ahead of time?

Absolutely! Most pies, bars, and cakes can be baked in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer.

You might also like:

Thanksgiving Side Dishes: Classic & Creative Ideas for Every Table
Thanksgiving isn’t complete without a table full of delicious sides. From green bean casserole to mac and cheese, explore ideas for heartwarming dishes that bring family and friends together. Perfect for any Thanksgiving feast!
Cookpad USACookpad US Team
6 Dishes to honor Native American culture this Thanksgiving
November brings one of the biggest food holidays of the year. But the real history behind Thanksgiving is less wholesome than the one we tell ourselves. Explore the complex history and traditions of Indigenous Americans with these inspirational recipes.
Cookpad USAGenna Corlett
Pumpkin Spice Ideas: Beyond Pumpkin Pie with Treats and Drinks
Pumpkin spice isn’t just for pies—it’s a cozy blend that transforms drinks, desserts, and snacks. Explore creative pumpkin spice ideas, from lattes to cookies, pancakes, and more, plus how to make your own homemade spice mix.
Cookpad USACookpad US Team