Easy Thanksgiving Desserts

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These easy Thanksgiving desserts are perfect when you want something festive without spending the entire holiday in the kitchen.

From classic pies and creamy cheesecakes to no-bake treats and cute turkey desserts, there is something here for every Thanksgiving table.

Many of these easy dessert recipes can be prepared ahead of time or made with simple shortcuts.

Choose one family favorite or serve a few different options so everyone can find something they love.

thanksgiving dessert recipes

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Easy Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes 

Collage of various Easy Thanksgiving Desserts, including cupcakes, pie, cookies, and cake, with a central sign reading 40 Easy Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes over the images.

Easy Thanksgiving Desserts You Can Make Ahead

Many Thanksgiving desserts taste just as good—or even better—when prepared in advance. Fall cheesecake recipes, dessert bars, cookie recipes, pies, and no-bake desserts are all good make-ahead choices.

Check the individual recipe for storage instructions, but most desserts can be prepared one or two days before Thanksgiving. Save toppings such as whipped cream, sauces, and crunchy garnishes until shortly before serving.

Tips for Making Thanksgiving Dessert Easier

  • Choose at least one dessert that can be made ahead.
  • Use refrigerated pie crust, cake mix, or canned pumpkin when it makes sense.
  • Pick desserts that don’t require last-minute decorating.
  • Serve bars, cookies, or cupcakes if you want easy individual portions.
  • Ask guests to bring a favorite dessert if you are hosting a large gathering.

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What is the most popular dessert at Thanksgiving?

Pumpkin pie is generally considered the most popular Thanksgiving dessert in the United States. Apple pie, pecan pie, cheesecake, and seasonal cakes are also common choices.

What Thanksgiving desserts can I make the day before?

Most pies, cheesecakes, cookies, brownies, dessert bars, Bundt cakes, and no-bake desserts can be made the day before. Store each dessert according to its recipe and add whipped cream or delicate garnishes shortly before serving.

What can I serve instead of pumpkin pie?

Apple crisp, pecan bars, cranberry cake, chocolate pie, cheesecake, cupcakes, and fall cookies are all good alternatives. Offering one traditional dessert and one non-pumpkin option gives guests more variety.

How many desserts do I need for Thanksgiving?

For a small gathering, one or two desserts are usually enough. For a larger group, plan on two to three options and approximately one serving per person, with a few extras for guests who want to sample more than one.

Reesa Lewandowski is the creator of Momma Lew, a New Jersey-based food blog where she shares easy, family-friendly recipes inspired by everyday life. A mom of two teenagers and a self-taught cook and baker, Reesa has spent over a decade developing simple, approachable meals—from quick weeknight dinners to festive desserts—all tested in her own kitchen. Her recipes focus on comfort food with a modern twist, seasonal favorites, and stress-free baking. Drawing inspiration from her Jersey roots, Reesa’s goal is to help busy families enjoy delicious meals without the fuss.

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