Turkey is good, and mashed potatoes are delicious, but let’s be honest – the real star of the dinner is dessert. This is not the time for boxed brownies or store-bought cookies (although no judgment if that’s your thing). We like to think of dessert as an experience – an excuse to slow down, turn up the music, and fill the kitchen with the aroma of butter, spices, and caramelized sugar. Because if there’s ever a time to bake something memorable, it’s now.
A few hours spent filling, wrapping, and baking the day before the big meal always pays off when your guests take that first bite. We trust you: Your future self (and everyone at the table) will thank you.
From the Classics to the beginning of the conversation
Mains like pumpkin pie, pecan tart, and apple crumble never go out of style. But this year, we lean towards desserts with a twist: caramel pots of caramel de crème, maple custards that feel like a holiday blanket, and other delicious things that make guests pause and wonder, “Wait, What’s in this?” These recipes strike the perfect balance between nostalgic and comforting new, yet unexpected enough to be a talking point.
15 best desserts
Whether you’re baking for a crowd or setting the table close, these indulgent desserts celebrate the great flavors of the season — and the joy of ending a meal well. Ahead, discover recipes that might just become your new holiday tradition.
Maple pecan pie
A repeat favorite, these pie crusts topped with pecans are drizzled with maple syrup, adding a depth of flavor that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Think of it as the older cousin to the classic southern staple.
Pumpkin cookies are cookies
This Pumpkin Cheesecake coul brings together two all-time favorite desserts in one perfect moment. Each cookie combines delicious flavor with a touch of indulgence – a bite-sized answer to all people’s cravings “Just One Slice” for a while.
Pump pie with gingersnap crust
If you’ve been searching everywhere for the perfect Pumpkin Pie recipe, you’re welcome. This pumpkin pie with a spiced, tart gingersnap crust has everything you could want in a pumpkin pie. And, if (like me
Pumpkin Loaf Cake
Whether you wake up this pumpkin this camp is looking for dinner or breakfast for breakfast, everyone will be worried about this dark and healthy scene. Tossed with crunchy pecans infused with hints of cinnamon, the holiday spirit for all occasions.
Tiramisù cookie
This Cookie Tiramisu is absolutely a treat if you’re going to score presentation points for your Thanksgiving dessert. Delicious layers of Espresso and Chocolate Chip Cookies come together in this take on Italian walsic.
Caramel pots demo demere pots
Caramel-frigid custard is combined with whipped crème fraîche to create these individual jars of caramel des crème. If you have never tried your hand at this lovely French dessert, put this on your list.
Pumpkin Bars for A and BASKE PUMPKIK
All the delicious flavor of a classic pumpkin pie, minus the oven time. These silky, sugary bars rest on a buttery graham crust and toast to perfection – proof that they can’t be indulgent.
Walnut Cream Cheese Check Cheke
If someone brings a Thanksgiving coffee cake, you’ll find me scrambling around. The combination of crunchy walnuts and delicious cream cheese gets me every time. And for those who love breakfast the morning after Thanksgiving, this is guaranteed to steal the show.
Dairy- and Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pumpkin Pie
When you bake for a large crowd, you serve desserts that everyone can enjoy. This gluten-free pumpkin pie is as delicious as your traditional recipe while accommodating those with dietary restrictions.
Futlettermilk Pie
Buttermilk Pie is a quintessential Thanksgiving. The creamy, custard-based pie is surprisingly light and airy, and the buttermilk gives it a nutty flavor that nicely complements the pie’s sweetest ingredients.
Pumpkin Pie Tartlets with Pepitas on the side
Isn’t this pumpkin pie as sweet as can be? These are the perfect options for those who prefer a more personal touch to their Thanksgiving desserts, and the flavor will still blow your mind.
Apple Crumble
Apple and cinnamon are a timeless duo for a reason. And if your crowd isn’t big on pie, this buttery, oat-laced confection is perfect — comforting, easy, and irresistible at the dessert table.
CHEWY PUMPKS SPICE COAKCIes
Think of these as mini pumpkin breads in Cookie Form-Soft, Chewy, and never dry. They are so striking that they strike the right balance with the spices, making them hide on the dessert table.
Pumpkin Snack Cake
This pumpkin Snack Cake delivers on all of the delicious coffee cake, complete with a buttery streusel topping and a light dusting of powdered sugar. It’s simple, nostalgic, and every bit as beautiful as it is delicious.
Rum & brewed coffee pour leches
Tres Leches is the ultimate holiday cake – it can be made a day or two ahead of time and only gets better as it rests. If your menu is already full of dishes to prepare, think about this way of the Savior that is done to him.
This post was last updated on November 17, 2025, to include new insights.