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Wanting to change up your Thanksgiving dessert menu or looking for some new recipes to try this year? Check out these Thanksgiving dessert ideas that are NOT pie for some fun and delicious treats that your guests will ask for year after year.
When you’ve made a career out of being a baking blogger, people expect to see a really great dessert spread at your holiday dinners. I guess it’s sort of an occupational hazard.
Luckily, I have no shortage of holiday desert recipes at my fingertips.
Of course pie is always an option, and I do love a good classic pecan pie, pumpkin cheesecake pie, and sweet potato pie. But if pie isn’t your thing or you’re looking to expand your Thanksgiving dessert table, I’ve got you covered.
Thinking beyond pie
Pie is always a classic holiday dessert, especially for Thanksgiving. Whether it’s pumpkin pie, pecan pie, cherry pie, or apple pie, everyone has their favorite pies they hope to see.
But what if you don’t really like pie? (No judgement here!) Or what if you want Thanksgiving dessert ideas that don’t include pie?
You’ve come to the right place.
There are so many amazing desserts that don’t get enough attention this time of year but still deserve a place at your holiday table!
Cheesecakes, cookies, bar desserts, and even fruit crisps are all great options, and usually pretty easy to make, too. And I can promise you, your friends and family are going to LOVE them.
Setting up the perfect Thanksgiving dessert table
Many of us think about setting a beautiful holiday dinner table, but don’t forget about the dessert table!
If you don’t have enough reusable plates, don’t worry. There are tons of great disposable dessert plate options out there these days. And honestly, easier cleanup is always a win around here!
Of course there are always plenty of themed dessert plates for each holiday season. But if you’re like me and want a more elegant option, look for packs like these gold-trimmed paper plates and gold plastic forks.
My favorite Thanksgiving dessert ideas (that aren’t pie)
I’ve pulled together 30 of my favorite non-pie Thanksgiving dessert ideas for you. You’ll find everything from no-bake recipes to delicious cakes and everything in between.
And be sure to check out all of my Thanksgiving recipes for sides, drinks, breakfasts, and more!
Cheesecakes
Cheesecake is always a favorite with my family. But don’t limit yourself to full-size cheesecakes! No-bake and mini cheesecakes are just as delicious and even easier to make.
Pumpkin Cheesecake
4.47 from 1378 ratings
This pumpkin cheesecake is my family's all-time favorite that I make every year! It's a classic baked cheesecake, but don't be intimidated—I walk you through every step so it will turn out perfect every time.
Sweet Biscoff cookies and tangy cream cheese are a match made in heaven in these simple no-bake cheesecakes. They're a fun alternative to your typical pumpkin and apple desserts!
This is the recipe my nana made every single holiday and is still a hit with my family. We always top it with cherry pie filling, but there are so many options you can explore!
Want all the flavor of pumpkin cheesecake in a no-bake version? I've got you covered! This recipe is so simple, you'll find yourself making it again and again.
This pumpkin trifle is a stunner but don't require much effort to make! Use your favorite homemade pumpkin bread in this recipe or pick up a loaf from the bakery for an extra-easy shortcut.
My family loves to make fluff "salads" for the holidays. This pineapple version is one of our favorites and makes for a fun, easy, non-traditional Thanksgiving dessert option.
Rum balls are traditional around Christmas, but why not make them for Thanksgiving, too? These are also a great make-ahead option, so you can easily knock them off of your prep list early in the week.
Bar desserts are great for holidays because you can cut them into as many servings as you need. These are just a few of my favorites for this time of year.
Caramel Pecan Bars
5 from 4 ratings
Chocolate, pecans, and caramel all in one easy bar recipe? Yes, please!
This delicious bar version of pecan pie can be cut into as many servings as you need and transports easily. You may never bother with making a traditional pecan pie again after trying this recipe!
These chewy apple blondies have an easy caramel frosting and toasted pecans to really pack a flavorful punch. This recipe also includes a gluten-free option.
If you think that pears don't get enough love this time of year, this is the recipe for you! Pears and apples are the perfect combination in this simple yet delicious crisp.
I grew up making this pumpkin roll with my nana and it's still one of my favorites to this day! It looks impressive, but I walk you through all of the steps so you can feel confident as you make this one.
I use my favorite homemade apple butter in this delicious cake, but you can use your favorite store-bought apple butter as well! I top it with brown butter frosting for a fantastic combination of flavors in every bite.
Another of my nana's recipes, this pumpkin crunch cake is one of my favorites! It also uses a boxed mix to make it super simple but delicious every time.
