Think beyond (or in addition to!) pumpkin pie.
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Save some room at Thanksgiving dinner this year, because these Thanksgiving desserts deserve a spot on your table (and in your stomach). Whether you're looking to switch it up from the typical rotation of pumpkin, apple and pecan pie, or you're on the hunt for something special and unique to bring to a friend or family member's feast, we've got you covered.
This roundup of our best Thanksgiving dessert recipes includes classic pumpkin treats and apple sweets, but also new favorites, like Thanksgiving cookies, Thanksgiving cupcakes, cheesecakes, dessert bars, brownies and more. Instead of just turkey and gravy, look forward to colorful cranberry tarts, buttery pie twists, meringue-topped cupcakes and other showstoppers at this year's celebration; they will serve as an epic finale to your main meal.
If you're hosting the party, consider a variety of desserts to please everyone's palate: In addition to the classic fall desserts, set out decadent chocolate desserts, fruity cranberry sweets and treats that satisfy a variety of dietary restrictions, like vegan desserts and gluten-free options. But we wouldn't expect you to prep it all yourself — send these recipes to a friend who asked, "What can I bring?" Armed with this list, they're sure to make something seconds-worthy.
Looking to round out your menu? Kick off the day with a killer Thanksgiving breakfast, then dive right in to the Thanksgiving turkey, mashed potatoes and all the other must-have side dishes.
1
Baked Applesauce Donuts
With the help of a trusty donut pan, these sweet, spiced treats do not require deep frying.
Get the Baked Applesauce Donuts recipe.
2
Ricotta-Orange Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
Ricotta in the batter and the frosting creates a delicious richness that still feels light and fluffy.
Get the Ricotta-Orange Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting recipe.
3
Apple and Thyme Galettes
Not up for making a pie? Consider a galette, which requires far less perfection (and tastes just as scrumptious).
Get the Apple and Thyme Galettes recipe.
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4
S'mores Brownies
While brownies aren't traditionally part of a Thanksgiving menu, we wouldn't turn them down — especially when they're topped with sweet, fluffy meringue.
Get the S'mores Brownies recipe.
5
Apple Pie Sorbet
Made with applesauce, brown sugar and spices, this fall-inspired sorbet will be the surprise hit of the party.
Get the Apple Pie Sorbet recipe.
6
Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars
Even if you're not a fan of cranberry sauce, you'll love these creamy bars with a chocolate cookie crust.
Get the Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake Bars recipe.
RELATED: 19 Cranberry Sauce Recipes That'll Convince You to Ditch the Can Opener
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7
Tiramisu Dip
Turn the classic Italian dessert into an irresistible, party-ready dip with a mascarpone-based whipped cream and luscious melted chocolate.
Get the Tiramisu Dip recipe.
8
Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies are welcome at any celebration — and our vegan version allows for everyone to indulge.
Get the Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe.
9
Cranberry Hand Pies
Here's an idea to use your cranberry sauce in two ways: as a side dish for turkey and also stuffed into these flaky, glazed pies.
Get the Cranberry Hand Pies recipe.
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10
Chunky Nut Butter Cookies
Some people are team creamy and others are team chunky, but everyone is team cookies. Bonus: They take less than 30 minutes to make.
Get the Chunky Nut Butter Cookies recipe.
11
Cranberry Curd Tart
Sugar-coated cranberries and pecans, pie crust leaves and piped whipped cream are optional, but will make this tart a real showstopper.
Get the Cranberry Curd Tart recipe.
12
Spiced Pumpkin Pie
We cracked black pepper into this pie to give it an extra kick.
Get the Spiced Pumpkin Pie recipe.
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13
Flourless Chocolate-Walnut Cookies
These chewy, deeply chocolatey cookies are balanced with a pinch of flaky salt.
Get the Flourless Chocolate-Walnut Cookies recipe.
14
Apple-Cranberry Pie
To make this dessert easier, cut out squares of pie dough and arrange on top instead of weaving a lattice crust.
Get the Apple-Cranberry Pie recipe.
15
Sweet Potato Cupcakes with Toasted Ginger Meringue
If you love sweet potato casserole, try these cupcakes with toasted ginger meringue on top. It’s your favorite Thanksgiving dish in dessert form!
Get the Sweet Potato Cupcakes with Toasted Ginger Meringue recipe.
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16
Apple Pie with Stenciled Crust
Use a pie crust stencil to press an intricate design into the top crust of this classic apple pie.
Get the Apple Pie With Stenciled Crust recipe.
17
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
Grated fresh ginger stirred right into the batter makes this plush, moist pumpkin bread recipe extra special — and spicy!
Get the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread recipe.
18
Jammy Pie Twists
With just five ingredients, these twists are quick to make and will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Get the Jammy Pie Twists recipe.
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19
Vegan Apple Cake
This cake is a treat that everyone at your table can enjoy: It's vegan, gluten-free and totally delicious with warming spices and a fluffy vegan buttercream frosting.
Get the Vegan Apple Cake recipe.
20
Apple Pie Cupcakes
Finish off this treat by making a compote with Granny Smith apples to dollop on top.
Get the Apple Pie Cupcakes recipe.
