10 Indulgent Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas to Savor

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to treat your taste buds with some delightful desserts that everyone will love. From classic pumpkin pie to mouthwatering pecan tarts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to impress your guests with these delicious ideas that will add a sweet finish to your festive feast!

Pecan Pie with Bourbon Caramel

Pecan pie is a classic dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any Thanksgiving table. The combination of crunchy pecans and a rich, gooey filling makes it a favorite. Adding bourbon caramel elevates this pie to a whole new level, giving it a delightful twist that everyone will love.

To make this pie, start with a buttery crust that cradles the sweet filling. The filling is a mix of eggs, sugar, corn syrup, and of course, those delicious pecans. The bourbon caramel adds a hint of warmth and depth, making each bite unforgettable.

As you prepare to serve, consider garnishing with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This pie not only looks stunning but tastes divine, making it the perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving feast.

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup corn syrup
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/2 cup sugar (for caramel)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork and pre-bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Stir in the chopped pecans and bourbon. Pour the mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. Let it cool completely.
6. For the bourbon caramel, heat sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it melts and turns amber. Carefully stir in heavy cream and bourbon until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
7. Drizzle the bourbon caramel over the cooled pie before serving. Enjoy!

Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake

Pumpkin spice cheesecake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving. The creamy texture combined with the warm spices creates a cozy flavor that everyone loves. It’s a great way to incorporate the seasonal pumpkin flavor into your holiday feast.

To make this cheesecake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The crust is typically made from crushed graham crackers mixed with butter, while the filling includes cream cheese, pumpkin puree, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with whipped cream, it’s a showstopper on any dessert table.

Making this cheesecake is straightforward. Start by preparing the crust, then mix the filling ingredients until smooth. Pour the filling into the crust and bake until set. After cooling, chill it in the fridge for a few hours before serving. This dessert not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful, making it a perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving celebration.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Whipped cream for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center is set and slightly jiggles. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. Before serving, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse

Chocolate hazelnut mousse is a delightful treat that brings together rich chocolate and the nutty flavor of hazelnuts. This dessert is perfect for Thanksgiving, adding a touch of elegance to your holiday table. The creamy texture and sweet taste make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s simple enough to whip up in no time.

To make this mousse, you’ll need just a few ingredients. Start with high-quality chocolate and fresh hazelnuts for the best flavor. The combination of whipped cream and melted chocolate creates a light and airy mousse that melts in your mouth.

Garnish your mousse with chopped hazelnuts and a sprig of mint for a beautiful presentation. It’s a dessert that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning, making it a great choice for any festive occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup hazelnut spread
• 2 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Melt the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.
2. Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Set aside.
3. Mix egg yolks: In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract until pale and creamy. Stir in the melted chocolate and hazelnut spread until well combined.
4. Beat egg whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture.
5. Combine: Carefully fold in the whipped cream until no streaks remain. Be gentle to keep the mixture light and airy.
6. Chill: Spoon the mousse into serving glasses and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
7. Serve: Before serving, top with chopped hazelnuts and a mint leaf for garnish.

Gingerbread Trifle

Gingerbread trifle is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and cheer to any Thanksgiving table. Layers of spiced gingerbread cookies, creamy filling, and tart cranberries create a beautiful and tasty treat. It’s a fun way to showcase the flavors of the season.

To make this dessert, start with gingerbread cookies. You can use store-bought or bake your own. The cookies are layered with a rich cream cheese mixture and fresh cranberries, creating a lovely contrast in flavors. The trifle is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect centerpiece for your dessert spread.

As you assemble the trifle, think about how the layers will look in the glass dish. The combination of colors and textures will impress your guests. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the holiday festivities without stress.

Ingredients

• 1 batch of gingerbread cookies (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/4 cup ginger syrup (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth.
2. Layer the Trifle: In a glass trifle dish or individual cups, start with a layer of gingerbread cookies. If using ginger syrup, drizzle a little over the cookies for added flavor. Next, add a layer of the cream mixture, followed by a layer of cranberries. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish.
3. Chill: Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve: Before serving, garnish the top with extra cranberries or a sprinkle of crushed gingerbread cookies for a festive touch.

Apple Crisp with Oat Topping

Apple crisp with oat topping is a classic dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any Thanksgiving table. The sweet, tender apples pair perfectly with a crunchy oat topping, making it a delightful end to your holiday feast. It’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without stress.

Start by choosing your favorite apples. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully for their balance of tartness and sweetness. Slice the apples and toss them with a bit of sugar and cinnamon for that warm, cozy flavor. The oat topping is made with oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter, creating a crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft apples.

Serve your apple crisp warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream over the warm crisp is a treat that everyone will love. It’s a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings.

Ingredients

• 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
3. In another bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, softened butter, and salt. Mix until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the apples in the baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream!

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. This dish combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright flavor of oranges, creating a warm and comforting treat perfect for Thanksgiving. The bread pudding is soft and custardy, making it a cozy addition to your holiday table.

To make this dessert, you’ll need some simple ingredients. Stale bread works best, as it absorbs the custard beautifully. Fresh cranberries add a pop of color and flavor, while orange zest brings a refreshing citrus note. Serve it warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream.

Ingredients

• 4 cups stale bread, cubed
• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and cranberries.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, eggs, sugar, orange zest, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well blended.
4. Pour the custard mixture over the bread and cranberries. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
6. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, possibly with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of cream!

Sweet Potato Pie with Marshmallow Topping

Sweet potato pie is a classic dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any Thanksgiving table. With its creamy filling and fluffy marshmallow topping, it’s a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie. The vibrant orange color of the sweet potato filling is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor.

Making this pie is easier than you might think. Start with a buttery crust that perfectly complements the sweet and spiced filling. The marshmallow topping adds a fun texture and a touch of sweetness that balances the pie beautifully. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear!

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups mini marshmallows

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the pie crust and smooth the top.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set.
5. Remove the pie from the oven and top with mini marshmallows, spreading them evenly.
6. Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
7. Let the pie cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Maple Pecan Tart

Maple pecan tart is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The sweet, rich flavor of maple syrup pairs beautifully with the crunchy pecans, creating a treat that everyone will love. This tart is not only visually appealing but also brings warmth and comfort to your Thanksgiving table.

Making this tart is easier than you might think. Start with a buttery crust that cradles a luscious filling made from maple syrup, eggs, and toasted pecans. The combination of textures—crisp crust and chewy filling—makes each bite satisfying.

To serve, consider garnishing with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg yolk
• 3 tablespoons cold water
• 1 cup maple syrup
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in egg yolk and cold water until the dough forms. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press it into the pan and trim any excess dough.
4. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon. Stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling into the crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the tart cool before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream, if desired.

Spiced Pear Tart

Spiced pear tart is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any Thanksgiving table. The combination of tender pears and a buttery crust creates a perfect balance of flavors. This tart is not just visually appealing; it also fills the room with a sweet aroma that will have everyone eager for a slice.

The tart features thinly sliced pears arranged beautifully on top of a spiced filling. The spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, enhance the natural sweetness of the pears, making each bite a treat. It’s a wonderful way to showcase seasonal fruit and impress your guests.

Pair this tart with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch. It’s a dessert that feels both elegant and homey, making it a perfect choice for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made tart shell
• 4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced pears, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the pears evenly.
3. Arrange the pear mixture in the pre-made tart shell, overlapping the slices for a beautiful presentation.
4. Brush the edges of the tart shell with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the crust is golden brown.
6. Let the tart cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Chocolate Pumpkin Cake

Chocolate pumpkin cake is a delightful twist on traditional desserts. It combines rich chocolate flavors with the warm, comforting taste of pumpkin. This cake is perfect for Thanksgiving, offering a unique option that stands out on the dessert table.

The cake is beautifully decorated, featuring a smooth chocolate frosting and topped with fluffy dollops of whipped cream. The colorful sprinkles add a festive touch, making it visually appealing for any holiday gathering.

To make this cake, you’ll need simple ingredients that come together easily. It’s a fun baking project that everyone can enjoy, and the result is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup chocolate frosting
• Whipped cream for topping
• Colored sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Add the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Once cooled, frost the cake with chocolate frosting. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with colored sprinkles.
8. Slice and serve to your guests, enjoying the blend of chocolate and pumpkin flavors!