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20 Best Thanksgiving Desserts You Must Try in 2024

Chef Gadget Genius

November 26, 2024

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As you prepare for Thanksgiving, dessert is a crucial element that rounds out the festive meal. While traditional pies like pumpkin or pecan might immediately come to mind, the world of Thanksgiving desserts offers a delightful array of options to surprise your guests.

What are the best treats to complement your Thanksgiving feast? From rich cheesecakes to light and fluffy cakes, there’s a scrumptious creation for every sweet tooth. Discovering your favorite among the 20 best Thanksgiving desserts can add that perfect touch of sweetness to your holiday celebration.

1. Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake

Steps to Make Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease an 8-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
2. Mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.
3. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and mix well.
4. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and pumpkin pie spice.
5. Pour the filling over the crust. Bake for 1 hour, or until the center is set.
6. Let the cheesecake cool completely before removing it from the pan. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

2. Pecan Pie Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 13-by-9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang for easy removal later.
2. For the crust, mix the flour, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of softened butter until crumbly. Press the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Stir in the chopped pecans, then pour the filling over the baked crust, spreading evenly.
5. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 30 to 35 minutes until the filling is set.
6. Let the bars cool completely before lifting them out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares and enjoy your homemade pecan pie bars!

3. Apple Crisp

Creating apple crisp is a cozy way to celebrate Thanksgiving. You’ll love the combination of sweet apples with crunchy oatmeal topping.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the sliced apples, ½ cup of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon.
3. Spread this mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
4. In another bowl, mix flour, oats, remaining sugar, and cinnamon.
5. Stir in melted butter until the mixture is crumbly.
6. Spread the topping over the apples.
7. Bake for 45 minutes or until the apples are tender and the top is golden brown.

Enjoy your warm, homemade apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

4. Sweet Potato Pie

You’ll love making sweet potato pie for its rich and comforting flavors. Here’s how you can create this delicious dessert:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get the perfect baking temperature.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, and melted butter until it’s smooth.
3. Add the beaten eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, then stir until everything is well combined.
4. Sprinkle in the cinnamon and nutmeg for that classic fall spice, and mix again.
5. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake in your preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. It’s ready when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Your kitchen will smell amazing and your family will be eager to dig in!

5. Cranberry Orange Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest, and beat until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture.
5. Stir in the dried cranberries and orange juice until evenly distributed.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden. Let them cool before serving. Enjoy!

6. Gingerbread Biscotti

Gingerbread Biscotti is a delightful holiday treat that combines the classic Italian cookie with the warm flavors of gingerbread. These cookies are perfect for dipping in your favorite tea or coffee!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs and molasses until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each into a log about 12 inches long. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool for 5 minutes.
7. Lower the oven temperature to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Slice each log into 1/2-inch slices.
8. Lay the slices flat on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes per side until crisp.

Enjoy your delicious Gingerbread Biscotti!

7. Pumpkin Roll

Making a pumpkin roll can be a delightful experience. Here’s how you can create this treat at home:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15×10 inch jelly-roll pan with parchment paper and start by mixing the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
2. Whisk the eggs and granulated sugar in another bowl until thick. Stir in the pumpkin. Combine with the dry ingredients, spreading the batter evenly in the pan.
3. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes. Allow the cake to cool slightly before turning it onto a towel dusted with powdered sugar. Roll it up gently and let it cool.
4. Prepare the filling by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Carefully unroll the cake, spread the filling, then roll it back up.
5. Chill the pumpkin roll for at least an hour before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade dessert!

8. Maple Pecan Tarts

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface and cut it into circles that fit into your tart pans. Gently press the crust into the pans.

In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Divide the pecans among the tarts, then pour the maple mixture over the pecans, filling the crusts.

Place the tarts on a baking sheet and bake them for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Let them cool before serving to allow the filling to firm up. Enjoy your homemade maple pecan tarts!

9. Salted Caramel Apple Pie

First, prepare your shortbread crust. Combine butter, flour, and sugar, then press the mixture into an 8×8 inch baking pan. Bake it at 350°F for 15 minutes until lightly golden.

Next, toss your sliced apples in flour and cinnamon to coat them evenly. Spread the apples over the baked crust, ensuring an even layer.

Drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over the apple layer. Sprinkle sea salt on top for a delightful contrast.

Bake again for 30-35 minutes or until the apples are tender. Let it cool before cutting into bars. Enjoy your delightful treat!

10. Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and set it aside.
2. Sprinkle the pecans and chocolate chips evenly over the bottom of the crust.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, bourbon, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture over the pecans and chocolate in the crust.
5. Bake for approximately 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is set. Let it cool before serving.

11. Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cut cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces and place them in the prepared dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture over the cinnamon rolls, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let it soak for about 20 minutes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. For a sweet glaze, mix powdered sugar with milk and drizzle over the warm pudding before serving.

12. Pumpkin Mousse Parfaits

1. Start by mixing the canned pumpkin, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl until smooth.
2. In parfait glasses, spoon a layer of the pumpkin mixture at the bottom.
3. Add a layer of whipped cream, smoothing it over the pumpkin layer.
4. Sprinkle some crushed graham crackers for a nice crunch.
5. Repeat the layers until you’ve filled the glasses, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

13. Brown Butter Pumpkin Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until golden brown. Let it cool.
4. In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, browned butter, eggs, and vanilla.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool before frosting with your favorite topping. Enjoy!

14. Caramel Apple Crisp

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Spread the sliced apples evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, oats, and cinnamon.
4. Pour the melted butter into the dry ingredients, mixing until you achieve a crumbly texture.
5. Sprinkle the crumbly topping over the apples in the dish.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over the crisp topping.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden and the apples are tender.
8. Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Enjoy!

15. Chestnut Mousse Tart

Creating a delightful Chestnut Mousse Tart is a breeze, and it’s sure to wow your Thanksgiving guests!

1. Begin by boiling the chestnuts until soft. Drain and blend them with sugar to make a smooth puree.
2. Dissolve gelatin in warm water, then stir it into the chestnut mixture.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms soft peaks. Gently fold it into the chestnut puree.
4. Pour the mousse into a pie crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set the mousse properly.

Once ready, you can add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a few candied chestnuts on top. Your Chestnut Mousse Tart will be a creamy, nutty addition to your Thanksgiving dessert spread!

16. Chocolate Cranberry Tart

1. Begin by melting the dark chocolate chips. Place them in a heatproof bowl and add the heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted.
2. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate until set, about 1-2 hours.
3. For the cranberry topping, combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
4. Allow the cranberry topping to cool slightly, then spread it over the chilled chocolate layer.
5. Chill the tart for another hour before serving. Enjoy your delicious chocolate cranberry tart!

17. Classic Pumpkin Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, and eggs. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt to the mixture. Stir until all spices are evenly distributed.
4. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Place the pie on the center oven rack and bake for 15 minutes.
6. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes. Check if the pie is done by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
7. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature before serving. Enjoy a slice of this classic treat!

18. Snickerdoodle Blondies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-x-9 inch pan with cooking spray. This ensures your blondies won’t stick.
2. With a hand mixer, blend butter, sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy in a large bowl. Add eggs and vanilla. Mix again until smooth.
3. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mix into the wet ingredients and blend until well incorporated.
4. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle cinnamon over the top to create that signature snickerdoodle finish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the blondies cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy your creation! Snickerdoodle Blondies are delicious.

19. Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and baking soda.
3. Combine wet ingredients in another bowl by stirring molasses and hot water. Whisk in melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Combine mixtures by gradually adding the wet ingredients to the dry. Stir until just combined and no dry streaks remain.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 22-25 minutes. Check with a toothpick for doneness.
6. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
7. Prepare frosting by beating cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, then milk to reach the desired consistency.
8. Frost the cooled cakes by spreading a thick layer of cream cheese frosting between the two layers and on top. Enjoy your creation!

20. Spiced Pear Galette

1. Start by mixing flour and salt in a bowl. Add cubed butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add cold water, stirring until the dough holds together. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough into a circle on a floured surface.
4. Arrange the pear slices on the dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar.
5. Fold the edges over the pears, pleating as needed. Sprinkle walnuts on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Understanding Thanksgiving Desserts

Thanksgiving desserts hold a special place on the holiday table, characterized by their rich history and delightful blend of seasonal flavors. The following sections highlight key aspects, from the evolution of these sweets to the distinctive ingredients that make them stand out.

History of Thanksgiving Desserts

Thanksgiving desserts have evolved significantly since the holiday’s early days. Initially, sweet treats like pies and puddings were made using available ingredients such as pumpkins, nuts, and dried fruits. Early settlers relied heavily on pumpkin pies because pumpkins were plentiful during the harvest season. Pies and cakes gained popularity as more diverse foods became readily available, leading to a broader selection of dessert choices.

By the 19th century, other now-cherished desserts like mince pies and gingerbread began appearing on Thanksgiving menus. These sweet traditions were influenced by cultural exchanges and regional specialties as immigration and trade routes broadened, introducing ingredients like sugar and spices. Today, Thanksgiving dessert tables often feature a mix of these historical influences, with many families passing down cherished recipes through generations.

Popular Ingredients and Flavors

Thanksgiving desserts are renowned for their comforting and robust flavors, centered around seasonal ingredients. Pumpkin spice is a staple, with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves providing an aromatic warmth to pies and cakes. Apples and pecans frequently appear in desserts, as their natural sweetness complements fall’s crisp air.

Several desserts feature unique combinations, such as a Graham cracker crust apple pie using apples cooked in butter and brown sugar, inspired by recipes like this apple pie. Chocolate, cranberries, and citrus also make frequent appearances, adding tartness and richness. Among traditional options, like pecan and pumpkin pies, new variations continue to emerge, embracing creativity while celebrating classic flavors.

Tips for Perfect Thanksgiving Desserts

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving dessert involves mastering baking techniques, presenting each treat beautifully, and choosing the right beverages to complement flavors. These tips will help enhance your dessert-making skills and impress your guests.

Baking Techniques and Tricks

Start by choosing high-quality ingredients. Fresh spices, real vanilla, and unsalted butter can make a world of difference in taste. When baking pies and cakes, ensure your butter is cold for a flaky crust and your eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification.

Use a food scale to measure ingredients precisely. This practice helps achieve consistent results. For a lighter cake texture, be careful not to overmix the batter. Finally, a thermometer can ensure your pies and breads are cooked through without being overbaked.

Presentation and Plating Ideas

Visual appeal can elevate the dessert experience. Consider using a mix of textures and colors on your dessert plates. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate can add elegance. Arrange desserts on a platter with contrasting colors, such as white plates for chocolate desserts.

For individual servings, try layering ingredients such as cake, cream, and fruit in clear glasses. Seasonal garnishes like candied pecans or edible flowers can enhance the aesthetic. Remember, neatness counts—keep edges clean and layer neatly for the best presentation.

Pairing Desserts with Beverages

Select beverages that enhance the flavors of your desserts. For pumpkin pie, consider serving a warm spiced chai or a classic black coffee. Apple desserts pair well with cider or a crisp white wine like Riesling.

If serving chocolate-based treats, a rich port or espresso creates a harmonious match. For non-alcoholic options, consider herbal teas like peppermint or chamomile, which cleanse the palate and highlight sweet flavors. Adjust pairings to complement the flavors and richness of each dessert, ensuring a balanced taste experience.