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Delicious Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes to Delight Your Guests

  • Writer: KA's Cupcakes
    KA's Cupcakes
  • 60 minutes ago
  • 3 min read

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with family and friends, and what better way to celebrate than with amazing food? While the turkey and stuffing often grab the spotlight, it’s the dessert table that truly creates the lasting memories. This year, elevate your Thanksgiving feast with delightful dessert recipes that will leave your guests craving seconds — and maybe even thirds! Here are four scrumptious options perfect for your holiday gathering.


Pumpkin Pie with a Twist


No Thanksgiving celebration is complete without the iconic pumpkin pie. This recipe gives a fresh take by adding a luscious layer of cheesecake beneath the classic pumpkin filling. The combination is not just delicious; it will also impress everyone at your gathering.


Ingredients:


  • 1 pre-made graham cracker crust

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg

  • 1/2 tsp ginger

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • Whipped cream for serving


Instructions:


  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).


  2. In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.


  3. Pour the cream cheese mixture into the graham cracker crust and bake for 15 minutes.


  4. In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until combined.


  5. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the baked cream cheese layer and bake for an additional 45 minutes.


  6. Allow it to cool before serving with a dollop of whipped cream.


Close-up view of a slice of pumpkin pie with a creamy cheesecake layer
A delicious slice of pumpkin pie with a creamy cheesecake layer

Apple Crisp with Oat Topping


If you want a warm and comforting dessert, apple crisp steals the show. With tender, sweet apples topped with a crunchy oat mixture, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Did you know that eating just one medium apple provides about 4 grams of dietary fiber?


Ingredients:


  • 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)

  • 1 cup brown sugar

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup rolled oats

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • Vanilla ice cream for serving


Instructions:


  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).


  2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with half of the brown sugar and cinnamon. Lay the apples in a greased baking dish.


  3. In a separate bowl, mix the remaining brown sugar, flour, oats, and melted butter until it becomes crumbly.


  4. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the apples.


  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.


  6. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly delightful experience.


High angle view of a warm apple crisp dessert in a baking dish
A warm apple crisp dessert in a baking dish

Pecan Pie Brownies


Can’t decide between rich brownies and a classic pecan pie? This recipe unites the two for a sweet treat that is both fudgy and satisfying. Pecan pie has a beloved mix of textures and flavors, and now you can have the best of both!


Ingredients:


  • 1 cup unsalted butter

  • 2 cups sugar

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder

  • 1 cup chopped pecans

  • 1 cup corn syrup

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar


Instructions:


  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.


  2. In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the sugar. Allow it to cool slightly.


  3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla, then mix in the flour and cocoa powder until just combined.


  4. Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes.


  5. In another bowl, mix the corn syrup, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Pour this over the partially baked brownies.


  6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes.


  7. Let cool before cutting into squares for serving.


Cranberry Orange Tart


Brighten your dessert table with a cranberry orange tart. The tartness of the cranberries paired with the sweet zing of orange creates a flavor balance that is simply irresistible. Plus, cranberries are low in calories, making them a nutritious addition to your holiday menu.


Ingredients:


  • 1 pre-made tart shell

  • 2 cups fresh cranberries

  • 1 cup sugar

  • 1/2 cup orange juice

  • Zest of 1 orange

  • 3 large eggs

  • 1/4 cup cornstarch


Instructions:


  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).


  2. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and zest. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.


  3. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add the cranberry mixture, stirring constantly.


  4. Pour the filling into the tart shell and bake for 30-35 minutes.


  5. Allow to cool before slicing and serving for a vibrant addition to your dessert lineup.


Sweet Treats to End Your Feast


This Thanksgiving, surprise your loved ones with these delicious dessert recipes that satisfy any sweet tooth. From the pumpkin pie with a twist to the vibrant cranberry orange tart, there’s a delightful option for everyone. So gather your ingredients and create unforgettable holiday treats that will warm hearts and fill bellies! Happy Thanksgiving!

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