5 Thanksgiving Desserts That Are Actually Healthy
Are you hosting a large family gathering this Thanksgiving? Or are the festivities more intimate with just a close group of friends? No matter what the guest list looks like, there’s one thing you do need to take care of: your line-up of Thanksgiving desserts.В
While the turkey and appetizers take center stage, we all know it's the desserts for Thanksgiving that everyone looks forward to. From traditional pies to innovative fusion recipes and unexpected ice creams to perfectly portioned individual desserts, this list of 45 best Thanksgiving dessert ideas will impress and satisfy every guest at your table.В
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The 45 Best Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas
1. Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie
Imagine your favorite apple pie. Now, picture a gooey, sugary cinnamon bun. Pair them together, and you will have a Thanksgiving dessert for which you will be genuinely grateful. The original recipe works in a multigrain pie dough base, but you can save time and energy using store-bought pastry or frozen cinnamon roll dough. This cinnamon roll apple pie is one of the easy Thanksgiving desserts to add to your dinner menu, but it also makes an ideal leftover for breakfast the next day.В
Recipe Steps: 11
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour 30 minutesВ
2. Baklava Cheesecake
Another fusion masterpiece, this baklava cheesecake is a showstopper among Thanksgiving desserts. Delicate phyllo rosettes are sprinkled with candied nuts and rose petals. A spiced cinnamon-cheesecake base acts as the perfect creamy foil to the crunch of the baked phyllo and honey syrup drizzle. The final effect is definitely worth the multiple steps required in this recipe.В
Recipe Steps: 18В
Total Recipe Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (most of which is baking and chilling time)В
3. Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
These caramel apple cheesecake bars are loaded with everything foodies love about Thanksgiving desserts. There are sweet and spiced caramel apples, a layer of rich, creamy cheesecake filling and a crunchy shortbread base. To top it all off, there's an indulgent caramel sauce sprinkled with kosher salt for that perfect balance of salty and sweet.
Recipe Steps: 15
Total Recipe Time: 5 hours 55 minutes (most of which is baking and chilling time)В
4. Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Treat your guests to these glorious pumpkin cheesecake bars and leave them craving more. This holiday season classic is an all-round upgrade with its gingersnap crust, smooth cheesecake filling, pumpkin purГ©e layers and crunchy pecan topping. A whole lot easier to make than a traditional cheesecake, try this alternative Thanksgiving dessert for a change.В
Recipe Steps: 13
Total Recipe Time: 2 hours 50 minutes (most of which is baking time)В
5. Pumpkin Dump Cake
If you are looking for desserts for Thanksgiving that require the least effort, look no further than this pumpkin dump cake. As the name suggests, you dump all the ingredients in a pan, pop it in the oven and bake for approximately an hour. This Thanksgiving dessert recipe calls for a boxed yellow cake mix to make things easier. Do take the time to make the salted caramel sauce, though. It adds a luxurious element to the dessert that should not be missed.
Recipe Steps: 11
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour 25 minutesВ
6. Vegan Chocolate Pudding
A Thanksgiving dessert spread would be incomplete without a treat (or two) for your vegan guests. This rich and easy-to-make vegan chocolate pudding will appeal to everyone at your table, regardless of dietary preferences. Coconut milk and vegan butter are simple ingredient swaps that transform the pudding into a velvety, sumptuous treat. You can make this dessert ahead of time and refrigerate until it needs to be served.В
Recipe Steps: 12
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour 50 minutesВ
7. Pumpkin Pie Cookie
After an extravagant feast, a lighter dessert is often the perfect ending. If the idea of a smaller treat appeals, try these pumpkin pie cookies — a delightful, non-traditional Thanksgiving dessert your guests will love. For creative Friendsgiving food ideas, pack these cookies in individual boxes as the ideal take-home gift.В
Recipe Steps: 12
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (most of which is chilling time)В
8. Pumpkin Pie Bars
Buttery shortbread crust forms the base of these lush pumpkin pie bars. It's easier to make (and serve) than traditional pumpkin pie, but the key elements remain the same — warm pumpkin filling, a crunchy crust and a streusel topping. You can even make this Thanksgiving dessert recipe gluten-free with a simple swap of flour. If you need a vegan alternative, replace the regular butter with vegan butter or vegan ghee. Your guests won’t notice the difference.
Recipe Steps: 8
Total Recipe Time: 45 minutesВ
9. Churro Cheesecake
Some Thanksgiving desserts look so unique that people find it hard to believe you haven’t spent hours in the kitchen creating them. This churro cheesecake is one such treat. Intricate layers of pastry are filled with cream cheese and dusted with cinnamon and sugar, but ready-to-use crescent roll dough is used to save time and effort. The bars are then baked until deliciously golden and chilled until set.
Recipe Steps: 12
Total Recipe Time: 3 hours 50 minutes (most of which is chilling time)В
10. Pumpkin Custard
This luscious pumpkin custard will be on your Thanksgiving dessert table in less than an hour. Think of a traditional pumpkin pie filling baked in individual portions, and you will have this easy-to-make alternative. Don’t skimp on the spices; they elevate the simple custard to a worthy dessert. For a lighter option, serve with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Recipe Steps: 9
Total Recipe Time: 55 minutesВ
11. Poached Pears in Red Wine
For an intimate dinner with a select few guests, you have the ideal opportunity to choose a Thanksgiving dessert that is both sophisticated and elegant. For example, try this French-inspired recipe for poached pears in red wine for a memorable way to end your meal. Ready in under an hour, all you need to do is poach the pears in a red wine syrup. As the pears gently cook, they take on an attractive rose hue that makes the perfect backdrop for a swirl of cream or a quenelle of ice cream.В
Recipe Steps: 5
Total Recipe Time: 40 minutesВ
12. Pumpkin Pecan Pie
When looking for Thanksgiving desserts to impress, there is no need to stray too far from the classics. Minor ingredient substitutions or an unexpected pairing of flavors are all you need to introduce freshness and zing to your dinner menu. For example, this recipe for pumpkin pecan pie combines the creaminess of a traditional pumpkin pie and the nutty crunch of a baked pecan pie. The result is a dessert that promises to please everyone.В
Recipe Steps: 13В
Total Recipe Time: 2 hours (most of which is baking time)В
13. Vegan Apple Crisp
A vegan apple crisp is the ideal fall recipe. It features warm, cinnamony apples topped with a crunchy, buttery brown sugar and oat topping. You can prepare this Thanksgiving dessert in advance. All it needs is a gentle warm-through before serving. To ensure that all your guests are catered to, swap the oats for your favorite gluten-free brand and the butter in the recipe for vegan butter.
Recipe Steps: 8В
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (most of which is baking time)В
14. Apple Crumble Pie
Thanksgiving desserts typically involve some pie, with classic fillings including apple, pumpkin or sweet potato. This apple crumble pie, however, takes a relaxed approach as there is no worrying about an unreliable crust. The whole wheat base cradles the sweet, crunchy apple filling, while a topping of oats and nuts adds a delightful texture. Every bite is guaranteed to bring pure satisfaction.
Recipe Steps: 14В
Total Recipe Time: 2 hours
15. Mini Pecan Pies
If you crave the nutty deliciousness of a traditional pecan pie but need a quicker Thanksgiving dessert option to feed a larger crowd, these mini pecan pies are the best solution. Made in individual portions, they are a great addition to a Thanksgiving dinner menu or as a thoughtful hostess gift. Packed with all the flavor of a classic pecan pie, these bite-sized wonders offer a guilt-free treat bound to appeal to everyone.
Recipe Steps: 9В
Total Recipe Time: 2 hours
16. Pear Galette
We'd like to introduce you to the galette. A galette is nothing more than an irregularly shaped, freely formed pie made without a pie pan. The more rustic, the better. This allows for a lot more leeway in terms of creativity and flexibility. This pear galette is for you if you prefer your Thanksgiving desserts to be delicious but not necessarily five-star fancy. Don’t forget to serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for the best results.
Recipe Steps: 14В В
Total Recipe Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (most of which is baking time)В
17. Sweet Potato Cheesecake
This sweet potato cheesecake is the perfect make-ahead Thanksgiving dessert. Its tangy cheesecake filling, creamy sweet potato purГ©e and extravagant marshmallow topping will wow your friends and family. Before serving, toast the marshmallow topping with a kitchen torch for an elegant finishing touch.
Recipe Steps: 16
Total Recipe Time: 8 hours 50 minutes (most of which is baking and chilling time)В
18. Crustless Pumpkin Pie
This crustless pumpkin pie recipe is a welcome twist on the classic version. It is deconstructed, allowing the luscious, smooth pumpkin filling to shine. For some crunch and extra texture, sprinkle maple-glazed pecans atop this baked concoction. This refined Thanksgiving dessert is big on flavor yet requires minimal effort.В
Recipe Steps: 11
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour 20 minutesВ
19. Chocolate Flan
A beloved Parisian treat, chocolate flan is traditionally served cold and savored alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. This recipe adds an unlikely twist by encasing the rich chocolate filling in a soft, buttery pie crust. It’s an elegant option for a Thanksgiving dessert that brings a touch of France to your table. Top with fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a stunning addition to your line-up of Thanksgiving foods.
Recipe Steps: 13В
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour 20 minutesВ
20. Gluten-free Cheesecake
This gluten-free cheesecake is a winning Thanksgiving dessert that will appeal to all your guests. The light, fluffy cream cheese filling is baked atop a crunchy pecan crust, delivering the perfect combination of textures and taste. Before serving, you can drizzle over peanut butter or caramel sauce for added flair.
Recipe Steps: 7
Total Recipe Time: 5 hours and 30 minutes (most of which is baking and cooling time0
21. S’mores Pie
Classic childhood favorites like marshmallows and graham crackers never go out of style. For a Thanksgiving dessert that will bring a smile to the table, why not try this s’mores pie? With a graham cracker crust, it’s easier to make than a traditional pie crust but every bit as delicious. The smooth chocolate pie filling and fluffy meringue topping combine all the familiar flavors of s’mores and make it a visual treat.
Recipe Steps: 10В
Total Recipe Time: 2 hours 20 minutesВ
22. Chocolate Chess Pie
There can never be enough pies on the Thanksgiving table and this chocolate chess pie is the perfect choice for Thanksgiving dessert lovers. You can make the pie crust from scratch or save time using a readymade version. The chocolate and espresso filling comes together quickly, and when served with a dollop of cream, the final effect brings out the contrast in colors and flavors.В
Recipe Steps: 15В
Total Recipe Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (most of which is baking time)В В
23. Sugar Cream Pie
If there are children at your Thanksgiving table, you should include this sugar cream pie on your dessert menu. Its smooth custard-like filling (made without eggs) and caramelized brown sugar topping resemble a milk tart and are bound to please kids and adults alike. Serve it along with fruit or cookies for an easy Thanksgiving dessert treat.В
Recipe Steps: 9В
Total Recipe Time: 1 hourВ
24. Lemon Curd Tart
This season, give the classic lemon curd tart a vegan twist. The shortbread crust loses none of its rich, buttery taste by using vegan butter. At the same time, the lemon curd is reinvented into a silky tangy filling using coconut milk and lemon juice. You can bake this in one large pie tin or as mini tartlets for a charming alternative. Serve chilled and decorated with berries for the prettiest Thanksgiving dessert.
Recipe Steps: 7В
Total Recipe Time: 50 minutesВ В
25. Carrot Cake Bundt Cake
A carrot cake bundt cake might not be the first dessert that comes to your mind for Thanksgiving, but it definitely deserves a spot on your table. With sweet carrots, crunchy pecans, shredded coconut and juicy raisins, it's a comforting blend of flavors that blends well with other fall recipes. Bake it in a beautiful bundt pan to turn these staple ingredients into a show-stopping Thanksgiving dessert centerpiece.В
Recipe Steps: 8В
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour 35 minutesВ В В
26. Chocolate Ganache Tart
Browning the butter until it is almost caramel transforms the pastry of this chocolate ganache tart into something extraordinary. The nutty flavor of the browned butter crust cuts through the silky richness of the simple chocolate ganache filling. To make the tart more festive and Thanksgiving dessert-worthy, top it with berries, nuts and caramel sauce and serve it with ice cream.В
Recipe Steps: 10
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour 15 minutesВ В В
27. Instant Pot Rice Pudding
Why not whip up a sweet pudding for a comforting end to a lavish celebration? This instant Pot rice pudding comes together in no time at all. Simple ingredients like arborio rice, milk, vanilla pods and eggs transform into a fragrant and luxurious Thanksgiving dessert that will surely please your guests.В
Recipe Steps: 8
Total Recipe Time: 35 minutesВ В В
28. Bourbon Caramel Sauce
Add this bourbon caramel sauce to your list of Thanksgiving dessert ideas and you will have the perfect finishing touch for a variety of sweet treats. The homemade sauce adds a rich caramel flavor with a hint of smoky bourbon to your favorite desserts. You can drizzle it over pecan pie, cheesecake or even scoops of ice cream to take your Thanksgiving desserts to the next level. As a bonus, pour it into pretty jars for a delicious homemade treat for friends and family during the holiday season.В
Recipe Steps: 6
Total Recipe Time: 18 minutesВ В В
29. Caramel Apple Dip
For a taste of fall without the fuss of pie crusts and baking, try this easy Thanksgiving dessert recipe that can be whipped up in no time at all. Caramel apple dip layers homemade caramel sauce with a fluffy cream cheese filling and is sprinkled with toffee shards and chopped nuts. Serve with crisp apple slices for dipping to create the perfect contrast of flavors and texture. It’s one of the most straightforward Thanksgiving dessert ideas and ideal for a crowd — just double the recipe for a larger serving.
Recipe Steps: 9
Total Recipe Time: 10 minutesВ В В
30. Gluten-free Chocolate Cake
Make a statement on your Thanksgiving dessert table with a rich, gluten-free chocolate cake topped with buttercream and decorated with edible flowers. This stunning dessert isn’t just beautiful; gluten-free flour meets various dietary requirements without compromising taste. For the best effect, remember to refrigerate the edible flowers until just before serving.
Recipe Steps: 7
Total Recipe Time: 1 hourВ В
31. Vegan Carrot Cake
This one-bowl vegan carrot cake proves you don’t have to sacrifice taste when making plant-based Thanksgiving desserts. Using simple, easy-to-find ingredients, this is a hit among vegan Thanksgiving recipes as it bakes into a moist carrot-packed sponge that’s soft and redolent with warm spices. Top it with a luscious cream cheese frosting (or not), and decorate it with vegan marzipan carrots for an extra touch of charm.
Recipe Steps: 5
Total Recipe Time: 52 minutesВ В
32. Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
Get set to make everyone’s favorite Thanksgiving dessert with this cookie ice cream sandwich recipe. Store-bought vanilla ice cream is sandwiched between two soft-baked chocolate chip cookies, creating these cute Thanksgiving desserts that are as fun to make as they are to eat. You can play with other ice cream flavors to offer more variety, such as chocolate or caramel. The best part? These cookie bites can be made in advance and frozen, giving you more time to tackle all those other holiday to-dos.В
Recipe Steps: 15
Total Recipe Time: 9 hours 55 minutes (most of which is chilling and baking time)В В
33. Fried Banana
Are you looking for an unconventional Thanksgiving dessert this year? Why not try these fried bananas for an unexpected twist on your traditional menu? Inspired by a famous Thai delicacy, fresh banana slices are lightly dipped in a coconut-infused batter and fried to golden perfection. A sprinkling of sesame seeds for crunch and a generous scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream will have your guests returning for seconds.В
Recipe Steps: 5
Total Recipe Time: 35 minutesВ
34. Chocolate Lava Cake
A romantic French dessert, chocolate lava cake, or molten chocolate cake, is a special Thanksgiving dessert. It is recommended for a more intimate group rather than a large gathering. With its rich, molten center and delicate cake exterior, it’s an indulgent ending to a festive meal. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect blend of hot, cold, luxurious and comforting.В
Recipe Steps: 6
Total Recipe Time: 25 minutesВ
35. Banana Pudding Brownies
Homemade banana pudding brownies combine all the nostalgic flavors of the ever-popular banana pudding with the fudgy sweetness of a chocolate brownie. For a time-saving hack, bake the brownies a day in advance and wrap them tightly at room temperature until you are ready to whip up the pudding. The layers of fresh banana, vanilla wafers and creamy pudding create a memorable and unusual Thanksgiving dessert.В
Recipe Steps: 12
Total Recipe Time: 9 hours 25 minutes (most of which is baking and chilling time)В
36. Cottage Cheese Ice Cream
When planning a Thanksgiving dessert feast, dietary restrictions can seem like challenges. Perhaps you have guests who are following a high-protein diet? If so, try this protein-packed cottage cheese ice cream. It’s creamy, delicious and fits into a high-protein meal plan. This recipe calls for ingredients such as banana, chocolate and peanut butter, but feel free to let your creativity take over and experiment with other flavor profiles.
Recipe Steps: 6 steps
Total Recipe Time: 4 hours 35 minutes (most of which is chilling time)В
37. Avocado Ice Cream
We urge you to try this avocado ice cream. The mild, creamy avocado flavor works surprisingly well as a dessert. A straightforward no-churn recipe creates a delightfully smooth, velvety Thanksgiving dessert for health-conscious dessert lovers. Avocados are powerhouses of nutrients, from healthy fats to omega-3s, making avocado ice cream a Thanksgiving essential for health-conscious diners.В
Recipe Steps: 8
Total Recipe Time: 4 hours 35 minutes (most of which is chilling time)В
38. Red Velvet Cupcakes
Vibrant and festive red velvet cupcakes blend cocoa sponge cake with a classic cream cheese frosting for eye-catching and cute Thanksgiving desserts. The brilliant red cupcakes make for a very colorful addition to the menu and will surely be loved by guests of all ages.В
Recipe Steps: 14
Total Recipe Time: 40 minutes
39. Brownie Bites
Fudgy brownie bites will satisfy your chocolate cravings in less than half an hour. These bite-sized treats pack all the richness of a gooey chocolate brownie, with crispy edges and a soft, squidgy center. For extra indulgence, don’t skimp on the creamy ganache topping. Make double or triple this Thanksgiving dessert recipe because these addictive little sweets disappear quickly.
Recipe Steps: 11
Total Recipe Time: 27 minutes
40. Champagne Cake
End your holiday celebrations in style with this extravagant champagne cake. This festive dessert pairs airy sponge layers and a rich champagne buttercream frosting, perfectly embodying the holiday spirit. For an added touch of glamor, edible gold dust or sprinkles create a knockout Thanksgiving dessert that promises to impress.В
Recipe Steps: 21
Total Recipe Time: 2 hours
41. Apple Tartlets
You may recognize apple tartlets as a dessert that took Pinterest by storm, but unbeknownst to many is that these photogenic treats are as healthy as they are beautiful. Naturally sweet apple slices are rolled up into a dreamy flakey pastry for a Thanksgiving treat low on sugar and filled with Fall flavor.В
Recipe Steps:В 6
Total Recipe Time:В 30 minutes
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42. Lemon Posset
Incredibly simple to make and perfect for refreshing palates with the tang of citrus, this recipe for lemon posset brings a welcome taste of summer to the cooler holiday season. Cooking the main feast for Thanksgiving can take a lot of time without even thinking about Thanksgiving dessert, which makes this easy-to-make sweet a tasty way to save on time and effort while still wowing your guests.
Recipe Steps:В 7
Total Recipe Time:В 160 minutes (most of which is chilling time)
43. Biscotti
These delectably crispy treats are just begging to be nibbled alongside — or dunked into — hot coffee or tea after a Thanksgiving feast. The simple, yet gourmet status of classic Italian biscotti are both dairy and gluten-free and claim the title of the ultimate after-dinner dessert.В
Recipe Steps:В 8
Total Recipe Time: 55 minutes
44. Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies
The recipe for divinely chewy oatmeal cranberry cookies are chock-full of fresh fruit, making for an inconspicuously healthy Thanksgiving treat. Instead of using sugar-laden dried cranberries, the fresh cranberries utilized in this recipe add a natural sweet-tart flavor and bring a bright pop of color to the dessert table.
Recipe Steps:В 8
Total Recipe Time:В 30 minutes
45. Brownie Brittle
Indulge your sweet tooth with this decadent Thanksgiving dessert. Brownie brittle takes old-fashioned brittle to a new level, adding a double-chocolatey twist to a classic with fine chopped chocolate and mini-chocolate chips.В
Recipe Steps:В 9
Total Recipe Time:В 40 minutes
Learn To Make the Best Desserts
With the holiday season soon upon us, there is no better time to brush up on your baking and cooking skills. Check out the list of cooking classes near you that offer hands-on teaching with experienced professional chefs. You can learn everything about Thanksgiving desserts, from planning a plant-based festive menu to mastering the perfect pumpkin pie.
Doing a class with a group is also a great idea for Thanksgiving activities to keep your guests busy while you prep for the big day.В For those who prefer to learn from the comfort of their own homes, online baking classes are a complete game-changer. These sessions provide all the instructions to create easy Thanksgiving desserts or show-stopping numbers to make it a Thanksgiving to remember.В
With this list of 45 Thanksgiving desserts, you have plenty of options to suit every guest’s taste. Choose between creative cheesecakes, French-inspired sweets, gluten-free treats and vegan wonders to ensure everyone can enjoy a sweet ending to round off the festivities.
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