Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about desserts! Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just want to bring a show-stopping treat to your family gathering, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 deliciously easy dessert recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic pumpkin and apple desserts to creative twists on old favorites, these sweet treats are perfect for Thanksgiving and beyond.
So, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine), get cozy, and let’s dive into the top 20 easy dessert recipes that will make your Thanksgiving dinner a hit. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for some inspiration, we’ve got something for everyone.
[Insert link to next section or article title]
Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these adorable and delicious Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats! Perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or just a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 oz marshmallows
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Yellow and orange food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted.
2. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a large bowl with the Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until cereal is evenly coated.
4. Press mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
No-Bake Pecan Pie Bars
A classic pecan pie flavor gets a no-bake makeover with these easy and delicious bars.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
2. Press the mixture into a 9×9-inch pan lined with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, peanut butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Pour the pecan mixture over the crust and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: No-bake, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Easy Apple Dump Cake
This classic dessert recipe is a crowd-pleaser, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction. Perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings, this easy apple dump cake is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sliced apples (14.5 oz)
– 1 package of yellow cake mix
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the apple slices evenly.
3. Pour the melted butter over the apples, followed by the cinnamon and nutmeg.
4. Open the cake mix package and pour it over the apple mixture.
5. Sprinkle the brown sugar on top of the cake mix.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and the apples are tender.
7. Remove from oven and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Chocolate Lava Cake
Experience the rich flavors of a traditional lava cake without heating up your oven! This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 ounces best-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 4 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Grease a slow cooker insert with butter, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the prepared slow cooker insert.
6. Sprinkle the flour mixture evenly over the top of the chocolate layer.
7. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
3-Ingredient Pumpkin Cookies
These soft and chewy pumpkin cookies are perfect for a fall treat or a sweet surprise any time of the year. With just three ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 package cream cheese softened (8 ounces)
– 1 3/4 cups rolled oats
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree and cream cheese until smooth.
3. Gradually add the rolled oats to the mixture and stir until combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Glazed Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day with a sweet treat by making these scrumptious Maple Glazed Cinnamon Rolls. This classic breakfast pastry gets an added layer of flavor and moisture from the maple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
– Maple glaze: 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon sugar in a large bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the top.
6. Roll up the dough and cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. While warm, drizzle with maple glaze (mix syrup and powdered sugar).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Microwave Pumpkin Mug Cake
Whip up a warm and comforting pumpkin mug cake in just minutes with this simple recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a sweet pick-me-up any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe mug, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add in pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. If desired, add a pinch of ground cinnamon on top.
4. Microwave on high for 1 minute 30 seconds to 1 minute 45 seconds or until the cake is cooked through and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Let cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1:30 – 1:45 minutes
Stuffed Baked Apples with Caramel Drizzle
Transform ordinary apples into a decadent dessert by filling them with sweet and crunchy ingredients, then drizzling with a rich caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baking apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Core the apples, leaving the bottom intact.
3. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Stuff each apple with the sugar mixture, dividing it evenly among the apples.
5. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the filling.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the nuts.
7. Place stuffed apples in a baking dish, leaving some space between each apple.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
9. Remove from oven and drizzle with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
5-Minute Cranberry Cheesecake Dip
A sweet and tangy dip perfect for the holiday season, this 5-minute cranberry cheesecake dip is a delicious addition to any gathering. With its creamy texture and burst of fruity flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered and granulated sugars, beating until well combined.
3. Add the heavy cream and mix until smooth.
4. Stir in the cranberry sauce and vanilla extract.
5. Refrigerate for at least 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in 5 minutes!)
Brown Butter Snickerdoodle Blondies
These chewy blondies are infused with the deep, caramel flavor of brown butter and the warmth of snickerdoodle spices. A perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugars until dissolved. Let cool slightly.
4. Whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter mixture.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
7. Pour into prepared pan and smooth top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Pumpkin Cheesecake
Elevate your fall gatherings with this rich and creamy pumpkin cheesecake, perfectly cooked to a silky smooth texture using the Instant Pot. With its subtle pumpkin flavor and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode.
2. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl; press into the Instant Pot’s springform pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth; add granulated sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust.
5. Cook on “High Pressure” for 25 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Let cool before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mini Pecan Pie Tarts
These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or as a sweet surprise for friends and family. With a flaky crust, gooey filling, and crunchy pecans, you’ll be hard-pressed to stop at just one!
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry and use a cookie cutter or glass to cut out small circles.
3. In a small bowl, mix together corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Spoon a small amount of the mixture onto each pastry circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the filling.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Place tarts on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
This sweet bread combines the spices of pumpkin pie with the richness of dark chocolate chips, perfect for a cozy fall treat. Moist and flavorful, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Easy Sweet Potato Pie
Easy Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
Sweet potato pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any other special occasion. This easy recipe yields a deliciously creamy and sweet pie that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, baked and mashed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, heavy cream, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Beat until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Roll out pie crust and fill with sweet potato mixture.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caramel Apple Crumble Bars
A sweet and satisfying dessert that combines the crunch of a crumble topping with the tender taste of caramel-coated apples.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup crumble topping (see below)
– Caramel sauce, for serving
Crumble Topping:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Pour apple mixture into prepared baking dish and dot with melted butter.
4. Top with crumble topping, breaking it up with your fingers to form small pieces.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
6. Serve warm with caramel sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
One-Bowl Chocolate Pecan Pie
This rich and decadent pie combines the deep flavors of chocolate and pecans in a single bowl, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 3/4 cups sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler; let cool slightly.
5. Stir in pecan halves and melted chocolate into the egg mixture until well combined.
6. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the chocolate-pecan mixture and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Slow Cooker Bread Pudding
Transform stale bread into a rich and comforting dessert with this easy slow cooker recipe. Perfect for busy days, this bread pudding is perfect for serving warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, cream, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add bread cubes to the wet ingredients and stir until evenly coated.
3. Pour mixture into a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Spiced Pear Cobbler
This classic dessert combines the sweetness of pears with the warmth of aromatic spices, topped with a crispy cobbler crust. Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe pears, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cobbler crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pears, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until coated.
3. Pour the pear mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and melted butter. Add cobbler crust and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the pear mixture, spreading to cover the surface.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the pears are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Whipped Cranberry Mousse
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this delightful and refreshing whipped cranberry mousse. This sweet and tangy treat is perfect for topping desserts or serving as a light and fruity snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the cranberries and sugar. Mash with a fork or puree in a blender until coarsely chopped.
3. Fold the cranberry mixture into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Stir in the orange liqueur (if using) and vanilla extract.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Oreo Turkey Cookie Balls
These adorable treats are perfect for a holiday party or as a fun activity with kids. Made with crushed Oreos, cream cheese, and turkey-themed decorations, these cookie balls are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
• 1 package of Oreos
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup crushed Oreos (for coating)
• Turkey-shaped sprinkles or decorations
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Crush 1 package of Oreos into fine crumbs.
4. Roll the cream cheese mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. Coat each ball with crushed Oreos, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Use turkey-shaped sprinkles or decorations to add a festive touch.
Cooking Time:
None! These cookie balls are no-bake and ready in minutes.
Summary
Get ready to impress your Thanksgiving guests with these delicious and easy dessert recipes! From classic pumpkin pie to creative twists like maple glazed cinnamon rolls and chocolate chip pumpkin bread, there’s something for everyone. Try making no-bake pecan pie bars or slow cooker chocolate lava cake that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Or, opt for quick and easy treats like microwave pumpkin mug cakes or 5-minute cranberry cheesecake dip. With these recipes, you’ll be the star of the show this Thanksgiving!