5 Delicious And Easy Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing gratitude, and, of course, indulging in a feast of delicious food. While the main course and side dishes often take center stage, the dessert table is an equally important part of the celebration. If you're looking for some easy and mouth-watering dessert ideas to conclude your Thanksgiving meal, look no further! In this article, we'll explore five delectable options that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests.

1. Apple Crumble Pie: A Classic Fall Favorite

Nothing says autumn like a warm and cozy apple crumble pie. This dessert is a perfect blend of crisp, tart apples, a sweet and buttery crumble topping, and a flaky pie crust. It's a classic for a reason—the combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible. To make it even more festive, consider adding a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of apple cider to the filling for an extra burst of seasonal spice.

Ingredients:

• 6 medium-sized Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
2. Pour the apple mixture into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly. In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar, 1/2 cup of flour, oats, and melted butter until crumbly.
3. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples, patting it down lightly. Bake the pie for about 40-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crumble is golden brown.
4. Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

2. Pumpkin Cheesecake: A Creamy Delight

Pumpkin cheesecake is a perfect marriage of two classic Thanksgiving desserts: pumpkin pie and cheesecake. This creamy and rich dessert combines the warm, spicy flavors of pumpkin with the smoothness of a New York-style cheesecake. It's a show-stopper on any dessert table and will leave your guests raving.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust. Bake for about 50-55 minutes, or until the center is almost set. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for an additional 30 minutes with the door slightly ajar.
4. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.

3. Pecan Pie Bars: A Portable Treat

Pecan pie is a traditional favorite, but sometimes you want a more portable version. Enter pecan pie bars—all the rich, nutty goodness of pecan pie in a convenient bar form. These treats are perfect for sharing and can be easily customized with different types of nuts or even a chocolate drizzle.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, baking powder, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press about two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir in the chopped pecans. Pour the pecan mixture over the crust in the pan.
3. Crumble the remaining crumb mixture over the pecan layer. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.

4. Sweet Potato Pie: A Southern Delight

Sweet potato pie is a staple in many Southern households during Thanksgiving. This dessert offers a unique twist on traditional pumpkin pie, with a smooth and creamy filling that showcases the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. The hint of spice and a touch of citrus make it a truly special treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Pour the sweet potato filling into the unbaked pie crust. Bake for about 50-55 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the pie cool completely before serving.

5. Cranberry-Orange Upside-Down Cake: A Fresh Twist

This unique upside-down cake combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the bright citrus flavor of oranges. It's a beautiful and flavorful dessert that adds a pop of color to your Thanksgiving spread. The caramelized cranberries and orange slices create a stunning presentation, making it a true showstopper.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 2 oranges, sliced into thin rounds
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt the butter in the oven. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the melted butter.
2. Arrange the cranberries and orange slices in a single layer on top of the brown sugar. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the flour mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the batter over the cranberries and oranges in the cake pan. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

With these five delicious and easy Thanksgiving dessert ideas, you’re sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these recipes offer a wonderful opportunity to indulge in the flavors of the season and celebrate the spirit of gratitude.