Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas

Can you believe it?! Thanksgiving is just a few days away. Whether you are hosting dinner, visiting family, friends, or flying solo for the holidays, there’s one important question that may occupy your thoughts; “what’s for dessert?”.

The menu for Thanksgiving is vast and may vary my household. In my family, some of the more traditional foods include, turkey, ham (though my mom’s side does not eat pork), beef short ribs, fried chicken, baked macaroni and cheese, candied yams, collard greens, string beans, squash, cornbread stuffing, cornbread, toss salad, and the list can go on and on.

For dessert, sweet potato pie is a must. Apple pie with whipped cream and vanilla ice cream, and pound cake are other popular options in my family.

If you are looking for dessert ideas for this holiday, here are a few of my favorite options:

1. Cake

Whether it’s a pound, cake, bundt cake or layered cake with frosting, bringing a cake to a Thanksgiving feast is a sure crowd pleaser.

2. Pie

I mentioned, sweet potato and apple are some popular options in my family. Still, there are so many pie options available from pecan, to blueberry, and even Oreo. You are sure to find a pie recipe to meet your taste buds.

3. Banana Pudding

Banana Pudding is another crowd pleaser. What I like about this dessert, and other pudding-based treats is, they can be made ahead and pulled out the fridge.

4. Cobblers

Fruit cobblers, like apple and peach, for example are another good option to make ahead. I also believe it allows the sugars and the spices in the fruits to blend for an enhanced flavor. Cobblers are also a good option because you can use seasonal fruits.

5. Cookies

Cookies may be a less “traditional” option for Thanksgiving, still this grab and go option is great for children and adults alike. Not to mention, they are great to snack on during the football games.

6. A store brought dessert

Strawberry Cheesecake from Juniors Bakery

Thanksgiving is certainly a food-centered dessert. Still, there is no shame in picking up a dessert from a local bakery or purchasing a pre-made dessert from the market and baking it at home. Whether it is due to time constraints or not wanting to experiment with new recipes for a crowd, getting a store-brought dessert is a thoughtful (and yummy) addition to the dinner table.

7. Gift a treat

We all know that one host that insists you don’t bring anything for the event. No matter how many times you offer to bring a dish, dessert, or paper goods, they insist they have everything they need. This very well may be true. But, if you’re like me, you don’t like to show up to dinners empty handed. Bringing drinks, whether it be a bottle of wine or a bottle of soda is almost always a scenario you can’t go wrong with. Whether it’s served at the party or its left behind, it probably won’t go to waste. Gifting a treat, such as chocolate bar, or assorted nuts for example carries a similar sentiment. Foods and drinks that do not have to be consumed immediately are a good option to show your appreciation. You don’t have to worry about overlapping with other dishes, it doesn’t have to be eaten right away, and it ultimately minimizes food waste.

There you have it, several options for Thanksgiving desserts. I’d love to hear about your favorite Thanksgiving desserts. Also have a happy holiday!

Best,

Marissa :)