Easy Thanksgiving Desserts: 15 Classic Holiday Treats

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, the excitement for Thanksgiving grows. For many, the highlight isn’t the savory main course but the desserts. Classics like pumpkin pie and pecan bars hold a special place in our hearts and memories.

We’ve gathered 15 easy, crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving treats for you. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or need a quick dessert, these recipes are perfect. Each dessert serves 18.8125 people, with sizes ranging from 10 to 36. Most recipes serve around 12 people.

From pumpkin pie’s creamy goodness to apple crisp’s crunch, these desserts will delight everyone. Enjoy the cozy flavors of the season and make memories. Let’s explore the sweetest part of the Thanksgiving feast!

Key Takeaways

• Discover 15 classic Thanksgiving dessert recipes that are easy to make
• Desserts range from 10 to 36 servings, with the most common serving size around 12
• Recipes feature popular ingredients like pumpkin, pecans, chocolate, and apples
• Prep times are quick, ranging from 15 to 25 minutes
• Difficulty level is listed as “Easy” for all recipes

1. Introduction to Thanksgiving Desserts

The Importance of Desserts on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a special time for family and friends to come together. The feast is filled with savory dishes, but the sweet treats at the end are what make it complete. Desserts are a key part of Thanksgiving, offering a delicious finish and creating memories with loved ones.

How to Choose the Right Dessert

Choosing the right desserts for Thanksgiving is all about variety. It’s good to have a mix of options for everyone. While pumpkin pie is a classic, apple crisp, pecan pie bars, and sweet potato cupcakes can add something new to the table. It’s important to balance traditional favorites with new ideas so everyone finds something they like.

When picking desserts, think about how easy they are to make and serve. No-bake cheesecake or homemade ice cream can be a nice change from pies and cakes. The aim is to have a dessert spread that’s tasty and easy to enjoy.

“Desserts are the punctuation marks at the end of the Thanksgiving meal, the final exclamation point that leaves everyone eager for the next holiday gathering.”

2. Pumpkin Pie: A Timeless Classic

Pumpkin pie is a must-have at Thanksgiving, loved by many during the fall. The Libby’s Pumpkin recipe is a hit for its simplicity and taste, making about 10 servings. It needs sugar, salt, spices like cinnamon and ginger, eggs, pumpkin, evaporated milk, and a pie crust.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Canned pumpkin puree
• Eggs
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Sugar
• Ground cinnamon, ginger, and cloves
• Salt
• Unbaked pie crust

Tips for the Perfect Crust

For a flaky pie crust, keep butter cold and don’t overwork the dough. These tips help make a crust that’s both crisp and tender, perfect with the pumpkin filling.

Variations to Try

While traditional pumpkin pie is a favorite, there are many other tasty options. Try pumpkin cheesecake bars, a pumpkin roll with cream cheese, or a pumpkin mousse trifle with spice cake. These variations can make your holiday desserts stand out.

“Nothing says ‘Thanksgiving’ like a slice of homemade pumpkin pie.” – Unknown

3. Pecan Pie: A Southern Favorite

Pecan pie is a beloved Southern dessert with a rich history. It started in Georgia, where pecans are plentiful. Today, it’s a favorite on Thanksgiving tables across the U.S..

A Brief History of Pecan Pie

The first pecan pie recipes were from the 1870s in Texas. The recipe we know today was written in 1898. Over time, it has evolved with new twists, like adding spices or making a pecan pie cheesecake.

Steps to Achieve the Perfect Consistency

To get the perfect pecan pie, mix chopped pecans with molasses, maple syrup, or honey. Bake it at 400°F for 15 minutes, then at 350°F for 35 minutes. This makes the center slightly wobbly, which sets as it cools. Traditionally, pecans are used to top the pie for a beautiful look.

For a delicious pecan pie recipe that serves 8, it takes 15 minutes to prepare and 50 minutes to cook, for a total of 1 hour and 5 minutes. The filling includes 3 eggs, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of flour, 1 cup of corn syrup, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. It needs 2 cups of pecans, either halves or chopped, in a (9-inch) pie shell. Bake at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes.

Pecan pie can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days if made ahead. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. It’s best served at room temperature, as it sets best when fully cooled.

“Pecan pie became my favorite pie after tasting it at Thanksgiving dinner about ten years ago.”

Whether you like the classic pecan pie or a modern twist, it’s sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

4. Apple Crisp: Embrace the Fall Flavors

As the autumn air gets crisp, apple crisp becomes a top pick for Thanksgiving. It mixes the tart sweetness of apples with a crunchy topping. This creates a perfect balance of flavors that warms your heart.

Why Apple Crisp is a Must-Try

Apple crisp is a versatile and simple dessert that’s great all year but especially in fall. It uses basic, wholesome ingredients to make a comforting dish. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones, celebrating the season’s harvest.

Easy Toppings to Elevate Your Dish

While apple crisp is wonderful on its own, you can make it even better. Try it with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or whipped cream. For a twist, mix in cranberries, raisins, or cinnamon-spiced pears.

Apple crisp is a classic fall dessert that embodies the season. Its comforting flavors and simple recipe make it a great choice for Thanksgiving or any cozy gathering.

“Apple crisp is the ultimate comfort food – it’s warm, satisfying, and captures the essence of autumn in every bite.” – Food Blogger, Jane Doe

This easy recipe makes a warm, comforting apple crisp perfect for fall gatherings. The ingredients are simple to find and measure. It’s great for both new and experienced cooks.

5. Cheesecake: A Creamy Alternative

Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition, and what better way to celebrate than with a decadent dessert? Cheesecake offers a creamy alternative to classic pies like pumpkin and pecan. It can delight your guests. Whether you prefer the traditional New York-style or a flavorful twist like pumpkin or cranberry, this versatile dessert is a must-try for your Thanksgiving feast.

Classic vs. Flavored Cheesecakes

The classic New York-style cheesecake is a rich, dense, and creamy treat. It can be enjoyed on its own or with various toppings. For a festive touch, try flavored cheesecakes with seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, cranberries, or a mix of both. These unique creations can add a delightful twist to your Thanksgiving dessert lineup.

Baking Tips to Avoid Cracks

Achieving the perfect cheesecake can be a bit tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can ensure a smooth and crack-free result. Baking the cheesecake in a water bath helps regulate the temperature and prevent the top from cracking. Also, cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven before transferring it to the refrigerator can help the texture set properly and prevent unsightly cracks.

For those who prefer a no-bake option, a creamy cranberry cheesecake with a graham cracker crust can be a refreshing and easy-to-prepare alternative. This chilled dessert offers a tangy and sweet flavor profile that perfectly complements the richness of the cheesecake.

Whether you opt for a classic or a flavored cheesecake, this versatile dessert is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering. With a little attention to detail and some creative flair, you can wow your guests with a delectable and visually stunning cheesecake. It will have them coming back for seconds. So why not try your hand at baking a Thanksgiving cheesecake and elevate your holiday dessert game?

6. Sweet Potato Pie: A Nutritious Twist

Pumpkin pie is a classic Thanksgiving treat, but sweet potato pie is a tasty and healthy alternative. It’s made with fresh sweet potatoes, eggs, milk, and spices.

Making It from Scratch

To make a great sweet potato pie, start by parbaking a 9-inch pie crust. Then, roast the sweet potatoes for 60 minutes until they’re tender. After cooling, blend the sweet potato flesh with butter, sugar, flour, and spices.

Preheat the oven to 425°F, then lower it to 350°F for baking. The pie bakes for 45-50 minutes. Let it cool for 1-2 hours, then chill it for at least 3 hours or overnight.

Flavor Pairings to Consider

Classic sweet potato pie is great, but you can also add maple, pecan, or marshmallow for extra flavor. Try making sweet potato casserole into cupcakes with marshmallow frosting for a fun twist.

Sweet potato pie is a great choice for a healthier Thanksgiving dessert or a new flavor to try. Its bold taste and simple recipe make it a holiday favorite.

“Sweet potato pie is a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic Thanksgiving dessert. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to add a new flavor to their holiday spread.”

7. Chocolate Mousse: For the Chocolate Lovers

Chocolate mousse is a rich and decadent dessert perfect for chocolate lovers. It’s made with just a few simple ingredients. This velvety treat is a showstopping finale for your holiday feast.

Simple Ingredients for a Decadent Treat

High-quality chocolate is key to a mouthwatering chocolate mousse. MariaTheSoaper suggests making the quick chocolate bites up to a week before. The recipe needs 1 ½ cups of milk and 1 ½ cups of sweetened whipped topping. It’s best to use real whipped cream sweetened with powdered sugar.

With a prep time of about 5 minutes for melting the chocolate, this dessert is easy to make. It’s a crowd-pleaser.

Presentation Ideas for a Showstopper

Chocolate mousse can be served in elegant individual portions, like ramekins or martini glasses. Or, it can be prepared in a 4-cup bowl or baked into a 9-inch pastry shell for a dramatic presentation. For a unique twist, layer it with pumpkin-flavored cake or brownies for a pumpkin-chocolate mix.

Reviewer MARIANNE JOSEPH loved the chocolate and pumpkin dessert, calling it a great twist on traditional pumpkin pie.

Whether you choose the classic chocolate mousse or a creative twist, it will delight your Thanksgiving guests. Reviewer Doc Simonson calls the cornstarch pudding smooth, creamy, intensely chocolate-flavored, and soul-satisfying.

8. Cranberry Orange Tart: A Fresh Option

As Thanksgiving gets closer, desserts with cranberries and oranges are a great choice. They offer a nice change from pumpkin and pecan pies. The cranberry orange tart is a refreshing mix of tart cranberries and sweet oranges. It’s perfect for the fall season.

Unique Flavor Combinations

The tart starts with a flaky crust. It’s the base for the vibrant filling. A 12-ounce package of fresh cranberries is simmered with sugar and spices like cinnamon and ginger. This makes a tangy-sweet compote.

Then, a creamy custard is added. It’s made with eggs, yogurt, and melted butter. The tart is topped with orange zest and juice for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

The tart is best chilled. This lets the flavors mix well and the texture set. A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream adds a creamy touch.

For a beautiful look, top it with fresh cranberries, orange slices, or nuts like pecans. The cranberry orange tart is a unique and tasty choice for Thanksgiving. It’s a nice change from the usual pies.

9. Bread Pudding: A Comforting Delight

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s no better way to embrace the cozy spirit of Thanksgiving than with a warm, indulgent slice of bread pudding. This classic comfort dessert has long been a staple on holiday tables. It offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that never fail to satisfy.

Traditional vs. Modern Recipes

Traditional bread pudding recipes often feature a simple custard-like base. This base is made with ingredients like eggs, milk, sugar, and a touch of vanilla. But modern renditions have embraced a variety of creative twists. They incorporate seasonal flavors like pumpkin or apple, or add a decadent touch with bourbon or caramel sauces.

Tips for the Best Texture

The secret to achieving the perfect bread pudding texture lies in the bread itself. For the best results, opt for day-old challah or brioche. These will soak up the custard mixture beautifully. Avoid using sourdough bread, as its tangy flavor can overpower the dish. Once assembled, the bread pudding should be baked until the top is golden and puffy, and the center is set. This usually takes around 55-60 minutes at 350°F.

To elevate your bread pudding even further, consider adding a touch of spice with cinnamon or nutmeg. Or fold in chocolate chips, toasted nuts, or dried fruit for a delightful textural contrast. Serve it warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This will make your comfort dessert truly indulgent. It will have your guests coming back for seconds.

10. Pumpkin Roll: A Festive Twist on Pie

As Thanksgiving nears, pumpkin roll brings a festive twist to pumpkin pie. This rolled cake, filled with creamy pumpkin, is a stunning dessert that will wow your guests.

Steps to Roll Perfectly

To roll a perfect pumpkin roll, follow these steps. Bake the pumpkin cake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes. While it’s still warm, roll it up in a towel dusted with 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Let it cool for at least 1 hour before filling.

Frosting Choices

There are many fillings for a pumpkin roll, but cream cheese frosting is classic. You can also try maple cream cheese or cinnamon-spiced whipped cream. Drizzle it with chocolate, caramel, or nuts for extra flavor. Add espresso powder for a pumpkin spice latte taste. Or, mix in coconut cream for a tropical twist.

With practice, you can roll a perfect pumpkin roll. This Thanksgiving, add this festive treat to your desserts. Enjoy it with hot apple cider or coffee for a cozy finish.

If you want a quicker dessert, try the Easy Pumpkin Pie Twists recipe. It’s ready in 20 minutes and uses crescent roll dough. These twists, rated 4.80 out of 5, are great for small gatherings or snacks.

There are many Thanksgiving desserts to choose from. Pecan Pie and Pumpkin Pie Bars are just a few examples. Whether you want a showstopping pumpkin roll or a quick snack, there’s something for everyone.

11. Thanksgiving Themed Cupcakes: Fun and Festive

As Thanksgiving gets closer, festive cupcakes can make the dessert table sparkle. These treats are not just sweet but also capture the holiday’s spirit.

Decoration Ideas

Decorating Thanksgiving cupcakes is all about creativity. You can use autumn colors, fondant leaves, and candy corn turkeys. These decorations make the cupcakes look amazing and taste even better.

Favorite Flavor Combinations

Classic flavors are the stars of Thanksgiving cupcakes. Pumpkin spice with cream cheese frosting, apple cinnamon, and chocolate with salted caramel are favorites. These flavors please everyone, making sure everyone finds a treat they love.

Thanksgiving cupcakes are a fun way to celebrate the holiday. With so many decoration and flavor options, they add joy and sweetness to any gathering.

The “Easy Thanksgiving Desserts: 15 Classic Holiday Treats” article highlights a variety of cupcakes. From pumpkin spice to chocolate, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

12. Conclusion: Embrace the Sweetness of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving desserts are more than treats; they’re a way to make lasting memories with loved ones. There’s a dessert for everyone, from traditional pies to new creations. These desserts bring people together, creating a sense of community.

Making Memories Through Desserts

Preparing Thanksgiving desserts can become family traditions. Baking and decorating together creates special moments. Every bite captures the joy of the season.

Encouragement to DIY This Holiday Season

This Thanksgiving, make homemade desserts and add your personal touch. Try classic recipes or new flavors. Making desserts from scratch adds flair and connects you with loved ones. Let’s enjoy the season and make this Thanksgiving unforgettable.