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When it comes to favorite Thanksgiving foods, some people can’t live without mashed potatoes, green bean casseroles or stuffing. But for many of us, the real star is dessert. As North Carolina mom Jennifer S. told CafeMom, “Can we talk about the fact that turkey is actually terrible? The only thing I like is pie, so we are doing only pie for our meal!”
So what’s going to be on your Thanksgiving dessert table? Chances are the classics like pumpkin and apple pie will play a role. But anything can happen if you think outside the pie. Here’s a sweet rundown of some delicious dessert ideas, from old favorites to unexpected variations on the traditional.
Thanksgiving dessert ideas: What to have on hand
Before you begin, make sure you’ve got the tools and ingredients you need. Baking Mischief has a list of pantry essentials, such as flour, sugar, and butter. If you’re planning a vegan, gluten-free or paleo dessert, check out the list on Desserts With Benefits.
From Better Homes & Gardens, here are baking equipment essentials that will help you create yummy desserts.
- Measuring cups (liquid and dry) and spoons
- Wooden spoon(s)
- Rubber spatula/scraper
- Spatula/metal turner
- Pastry brush
- Whisk
- Kitchen scissors
- Rolling pin
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Chef’s knife
- Paring knife
- Rectangular baking pan
- Round cake pan (2)
- Loaf pan
- Pie plate
- Square baking pan
- Wire rack
- Muffin pan
- Baking sheet/cookie sheet/sheet pan
- Hand mixer/stand mixer
- Parchment paper
Thanksgiving desserts: From traditional to unique
For some, Thanksgiving wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without traditional faves. But if you want to try something different, there are lots of scrumptious choices. How about mousse, bread pudding, crisps, or cake? Consider chocolate, white chocolate, and fruits beyond apples. And don’t forget about those playful desserts that kids love.
Also keep in mind dietary restrictions such as vegan, gluten intolerance, and those who prefer low sugar and carbohydrate diets. To satisfy all (or most) guests, you might want to try this “Everything-Free” pumpkin pie that is gluten-free, egg-free, dairy-free and nut-free. And it’s even no-bake!
Best Thanksgiving dessert recipes
Here are 18 of the most delectable recipes we’ve found that can really up your Thanksgiving dessert game. Happy baking!
Desserts for pumpkin lovers
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte Pie
If you can’t get enough of PSL, here’s the pie for you.
To make: Better Homes & Gardens
2. White Chocolate Pumpkin Mousse
White chocolate transforms the classic flavors of pumpkin pie into a rich, creamy mousse.
To Make: Epicurious
3. Paleo Low-Carb Sugar-Free Pumpkin Pie
Cutting carbs doesn’t have to mean giving up an old favorite.
To make: Food Faith Fitness
4. Super-Simple Pumpkin Tiramisu
The addition of pumpkin to this Italian dessert recipe turns it into a holiday delight.
To make: Epicurious
5. Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake
From celebrity baker and chef Christina Tosi, a luscious dessert that takes the cake.
To make: Christina Tosi
Non-Pie Desserts
6. The Best Vegan Apple Crisp
This vegan version of a traditional apple dessert can also be made gluten-free.
To make: Minimalist Baker
7. Keto Pecan Pie Cheesecake
With only 3 net carbs, this delightfully rich cheesecake will please more than keto lovers.
To make: Hey Keto Mama
8. 2-Ingredient Cinnamon Roll Apple Cobbler
With just two store-bought ingredients, this easy baked dessert is as delicious as it is simple to make. Top with the ice cream of your choice.
To Make: The Lazy Dish
9. Homemade Cherry Crisp
For an amazingly easy Thanksgiving dessert, try this cherry dessert that cooks in your microwave and is table ready in 15 minutes.
To make: Taste of Home
10. Caramel Apple Cake
This rich, decadent showstopper takes a little work. But it’s oh so worth it.
To make: Southern Living
11. Apple Pie Bread Pudding
The flavors of apple pie in a creamy bread pudding. We’re here for it.
To make: Martha Stewart
12. Frozen Strawberry Shortbread Dessert
Bring summer to the Thanksgiving table with this refreshing strawberry dessert.
To make: Taste of Home
Desserts that kids – and adults – will love
13. Thanksgiving Turkeys
Here’s a favorite kid dessert from celebrity chef and mom Giada De Laurentiis, who told Today that her daughter Jade “LOVES my Thanksgiving turkey cookies — they’re basically little cookies that look like turkeys made from oreos, peanut butter cups and candy corn. Jade would eat them as an appetizer if she could.”
To make: Food Network
14. Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats
The kids are going to love this clever variation on a favorite.
To make: Cooking Classy
15. Pumpkin Cake Pops
Another kid pleaser that grown-ups will gobble up too.
To make: Food Network
Thanksgiving pies with a twist
16. Mini Pecan Pies
These portion-controlled goodies will help calorie-counters indulge without guilt.
To make: Eating Well
17. Gluten-Free Chocolate Avocado Banana Silk Pie
No one would ever guess that avocado is an ingredient in this sugar-free, egg-free, gluten-free, dairy-free chocolate delight.
To Make: Petite Allergy Treats
18. Perfect Apple Tarte Tatin
Apple pie, but make it French.
To make: Smitten Kitchen
