As the leaves change colors and the temperature cools, it’s time to start thinking about the most important meal of the year: Thanksgiving dinner. While the turkey may be the main event, it’s the desserts that really bring everyone together. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just want to impress your family with a sweet treat, these 20 delicious and easy dessert recipes are sure to be crowd-pleasers.
From classic apple crisp and pumpkin pie to creative twists like peanut butter chocolate pretzel truffles and cinnamon sugar donut holes, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Each recipe is surprisingly simple to make, so you can focus on enjoying time with your loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these 20 easy dessert recipes and provide step-by-step instructions on how to make them. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the world of Thanksgiving desserts!
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars
These Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars are a perfect blend of fall flavors, with the warmth of pumpkin and spices balanced by the creaminess of cheesecake. A crumbly oat crust adds texture to these bite-sized treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, pumpkin, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over baked crust and bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
5. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Apple Crisp
Classic Apple Crisp Recipe
A warm and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, this classic apple crisp recipe is a timeless favorite.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top apple mixture with oat mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Pecan Pie Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without sacrificing flavor or ease of preparation. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll be enjoying these delicious morsels in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought), cut into small squares
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Stir in pecan halves.
5. Place a spoonful of the mixture onto each pie crust square.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Dessert
A creamy, dreamy twist on the classic French dessert, this no-bake eclair is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz. chocolate pudding mix
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together pudding mix, heavy cream, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the pudding mixture over the crust.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is no-bake, so you can skip the oven altogether.
Simple Pumpkin Pie Dip
A sweet and creamy dip that captures the flavors of pumpkin pie in a convenient, snackable form.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish or ramekin.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
7. Serve with crackers, cookies, or fruit.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup of dip
Enjoy your delicious Simple Pumpkin Pie Dip!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Sweet Treat Alert!
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, milk, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 10 minutes.
6. Use a cookie scoop or a spoon to drop small balls of dough into the hot oil.
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Using a slotted spoon, remove donut holes from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. While still warm, toss donut holes in a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Quick Maple Glazed Carrot Cake
Elevate your carrot cake game with this sweet and sticky maple glaze, perfectly balanced to complement the warm spices and tender carrots. This recipe is a breeze to prepare and serves as a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Maple glaze (recipe below)
Maple Glaze:
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp powdered sugar
– 1 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, combine grated carrots, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool before glazing with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Peanut Butter Chocolate Pretzel Truffles
Peanut Butter Chocolate Pretzel Truffles: A delicious combination of crunchy pretzels, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pretzel rods, crushed
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup melted semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels and peanut butter until well mixed.
2. Add the confectioners’ sugar and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, using a fork to fully coat.
7. Place the dipped truffles back onto the baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
8. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking involved)
Easy Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding
Warm up with this delightful bread pudding infused with the flavors of cranberries and orange, perfect for a cozy evening or as a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, heavy cream, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes and toss until well coated.
4. Fold in cranberries and orange segments.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow bread to absorb liquid.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Berry Sauce
This creamy dessert combines the warmth of vanilla bean-infused panna cotta with the sweet-tartness of a mixed berry sauce, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1/4 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes with the vanilla bean.
3. Strain the mixture into a clean bowl, discarding the vanilla bean.
4. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
6. To make the berry sauce, combine mixed berries and granulated sugar in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
7. Serve the panna cotta chilled, topped with the berry sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (steeping time) + refrigeration time
Simple Sweet Potato Pie
Warm up with a classic dessert that’s sure to please: this sweet potato pie is a simple and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in heavy cream and beaten eggs until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and fill with the sweet potato mixture.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Fudge
This decadent fudge recipe combines the classic flavors of chocolate chip cookie dough with a smooth and creamy texture, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup (120g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat until the butter has melted and the mixture is smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in confectioners’ sugar until dissolved.
4. Stir in white chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
5. Fold in milk chocolate chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts (if using).
6. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Easy Spiced Pear Tart
Easy Spiced Pear Tart Recipe
A sweet and spicy twist on a classic tart, this Easy Spiced Pear Tart is perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large bowl, mix together pears, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Arrange pear mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold other half of pastry over pears to form a triangle or a square shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush top with melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy your Easy Spiced Pear Tart!
No-Bake Pumpkin Mousse Parfaits
Transform your fall gatherings with these light, airy, and deliciously seasonal no-bake pumpkin mousse parfaits. Layers of creamy pumpkin mousse, crunchy graham cracker crumbs, and sweet whipped cream come together in a treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, softened butter, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar. Whip until smooth.
3. To assemble parfaits, layer 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs, followed by 1/2 cup pumpkin mousse, and top with 1/4 cup whipped cream. Repeat one more time.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow layers to set.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake treat is ready in a flash.
Quick Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Quick Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie Recipe
Savor the sweet combination of tender apples, gooey cinnamon roll dough, and a hint of warm spices in this surprisingly quick dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 package refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (about 8 oz)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix sliced apples, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and dot with melted butter.
4. Unroll the cinnamon roll dough and place on top of the apple filling, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Warm up with a comforting classic: this bread pudding recipe combines tender bread, sweet spices, and rich vanilla sauce for a cozy treat. Perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Vanilla sauce (recipe below)
– Optional: raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes, milk, eggs, and melted butter; stir until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Vanilla Sauce:
1. Combine 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract in a saucepan.
2. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture simmers and thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
Easy Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
Rich and gooey chocolate meets crunchy pecans in these indulgent bars that are perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup melted butter
– 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
4. Stir in chopped pecans, corn syrup, sugar, and eggs. Pour mixture over crust.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Brighten up your holiday celebrations with these moist and flavorful gingerbread cupcakes, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup whole milk
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add egg and beat until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Beat until smooth and creamy. Spread or pipe onto cooled cupcakes.
Quick Cherry Almond Cobbler
A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of cherries, almonds, and buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons almond extract
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, almond extract, and sugar; stir until combined.
4. Fold in cherries and sliced almonds.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Easy Salted Caramel Apple Pie
A classic dessert gets a sweet twist with this simple recipe that combines the warmth of caramel and the crunch of sea salt with tender apples and flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Arrange apple slices on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Sprinkle sugar, cinnamon, and sea salt over apples.
5. Drizzle with heavy cream and dot with butter.
6. Fold other half of pastry over apples and press edges to seal.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these easy and delicious dessert recipes perfect for Thanksgiving. From classic pumpkin pie to unique treats like pecan pie bites and chocolate chip cookie dough fudge, there’s something for everyone on this list. Impress your crowd with cheesecake bars, apple crisp, or cinnamon sugar donut holes, and satisfy any sweet tooth with a variety of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for no-bake options or quick-and-easy desserts, these 20 recipes are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering.
