Wow Your Thanksgiving Crowd – No Pie Required!
Thanksgiving dinner isn’t complete without something sweet! And while apple, pecan and pumpkin pie have their place on a traditional holiday table, I like to shake things up a bit when it comes to dessert.
This collection of 6 crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving desserts brings together all the cozy, fall-inspired flavors you love – think warm spices, rich flavors, and seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a show-stopping cheesecake, chai-spiced treats (my favorite fall flavor!), or easy-to-share bars, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Bonus: These recipes are all super easy to make and most are make-ahead friendly, so you can whip them up in advance and spend more time with family and friends on Thanksgiving Day. Perfect for hosting or bringing to a Thanksgiving gathering – trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe!
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Whether you’re looking for a fuss-free dessert to serve a crowd or a show-stopping centerpiece for your dessert table, we’ve got you covered with our favorite Thanksgiving treats. And don’t forget the whipped cream – it makes everything better!
Best-Ever Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
This pumpkin cheesecake features the creamiest pumpkin filling paired with a zippy, spiced gingersnap crust – the perfect fall bite! If making cheesecake feels intimidating, don’t worry – I’ve got 3 simple tricks to help you bake a crack-free, foolproof cheesecake every time.
Make-ahead friendly.
Thick and Chewy Chai Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Chai Glaze
Old-fashioned oatmeal cookies, infused with rich, nutty brown butter and warm, chai-inspired spices for that extra-cozy fall flavor. These cookies bake up thick with crisp edges and a perfectly chewy center, topped off with a sweet chai maple glaze.
Make-ahead friendly.
Mom’s Apple Pie Bars with Walnut Crumble
Apple pie bars start with a tender, flaky pie crust base, topped with sweet, spiced apples and baked to perfection on a sheet pan. This recipe makes plenty, so it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Don’t forget to serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate fall treat!
Chai Scones With Maple Chai Glaze
These flaky, buttery homemade scones are laced with warm chai spices and finished with a sweet maple chai glaze. They’re the perfect spicy-sweet treat to enjoy with post-dinner coffee or as a cozy breakfast for holiday guests.
Make-ahead friendly.
Chai Spiced Apple Crisp
This twist on classic apple crisp features tart Granny Smith apples, seasoned with my warm homemade chai spice blend. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the coziest fall dessert – the perfect way to welcome autumn!
Make-ahead friendly.
Brown Butter Blondies with Chocolate Chunks & Walnuts
This is a next-level take on classic blondies! Using browned butter in the batter creates an extra-rich, nutty flavor. Fold in chocolate chunks and walnuts – or try seasonal mix-ins like pecans, cranberries, or cherries – for an extra-special touch.
We can’t wait for you to try these easy Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes! They’re simple to make, delicious, and sure to end your Thanksgiving dinner on a sweet note.
If you do give them a try, be sure to let us know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo and tag @playswellwithbutter on Instagram. We LOVE hearing about and seeing your PWWB creations! ♡ Happy Thanksgiving!
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