21 Make Ahead Thanksgiving Desserts That Taste Even Better the Next Day

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Pecan Pie Cake

This delicate yellow cake is layered with a rich and buttery pecan filling that melts in your mouth. Every bite captures the comforting flavors of your favorite Thanksgiving pie, but in a fun and portable cake form. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a sweet, nutty treat. The combination of soft cake and gooey pecans makes it impossible to resist. Truly a must-try for anyone who loves classic fall desserts!
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cake

Apple Pie Cupcakes

These tender cinnamon cupcakes are little bites of fall in every mouthful, filled with a sweet-tart apple pie filling that perfectly balances warmth and flavor. Each cupcake captures the essence of a classic apple pie, with soft, spiced cake that melts in your mouth and a gooey apple center that’s full of cozy autumn goodness. They’re the perfect treat when you want all the comforts of apple pie without the fuss of slicing and serving. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or just a sweet snack, these cupcakes make it easy to enjoy the flavors of the season anytime. Grab one and savor the comforting taste of apple pie in the palm of your hand!
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cupcakes

Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes

These pumpkin cupcakes are wonderfully moist and bursting with warm, cozy fall flavors. Each bite is like enjoying a slice of pumpkin pie, but in the perfect handheld form. They’re topped with a cloud of lightly sweetened whipped cream that adds a creamy, dreamy finish. Perfect for a seasonal treat or sharing with friends, these cupcakes capture all the comforting flavors of autumn in every bite. Whether for a holiday gathering or a simple indulgence at home, they’re sure to bring smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes

Southern Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and comforting flavors with this dessert! A buttery, flaky cream cheese crust cradles a rich filling of brown sugar–sweetened sweet potatoes, creating a warm and cozy base. On top, golden, gooey marshmallows melt to perfection, adding the ultimate touch of sweetness and nostalgia. Every bite is a delightful mix of creamy, soft, and slightly caramelized textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds. This show-stopping treat is an absolute must-have for your Thanksgiving table, sure to impress family and friends alike.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sweet Potato Pie Bars

Pecan Hand Pies

These Pecan Hand Pies are little pockets of holiday joy, with a buttery, flaky crust that perfectly cradles a sweet, caramelized pecan filling. Each bite offers that classic, nutty richness we all love in traditional pecan pie, but in a convenient, single-serving size. They’re not only adorable to serve, but also a fun and approachable twist on a holiday favorite. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, these hand pies let you enjoy all the flavors of a classic dessert without the fuss of making a full-sized pie. Guests will love them—and you’ll love how quick and easy they are to prepare!
Get the Recipe: Pecan Hand Pies

Cranberry Galette

This golden brown cranberry galette is the kind of dessert that instantly makes any celebration feel extra special, whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or a birthday gathering. The tart brightness of cranberries pairs beautifully with juicy raspberries, while subtle hints of orange and a touch of cream add layers of flavor that melt in your mouth. It’s incredibly easy to make, whether you’re using fresh or frozen berries and your favorite pie crust. Rustic yet elegant, this galette is as charming to look at as it is to eat, making it a show-stopping treat your guests will rave about.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Galette

Pumpkin Flan Recipe with Ginger Caramel

Thanksgiving is all about enjoying a big, comforting feast, but sometimes that means saving room for dessert can feel like a struggle. That’s why this pumpkin flan is such a game-changer—it’s light, creamy, and full of cozy fall flavors that won’t leave you feeling overly stuffed. Even better, it’s incredibly simple to make, taking less than 15 minutes of prep time and requiring no oven at all. Its silky, smooth texture melts in your mouth, offering just the right amount of sweetness to satisfy your dessert cravings. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, this flan is the perfect way to end your holiday meal on a delightful note.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Flan Recipe with Ginger Caramel

Easy Pumpkin Spice Mousse

This easy Thanksgiving Pumpkin Spice Mousse is a simple yet elegant dessert that brings all the cozy flavors of the season to your table. In just under 20 minutes, you can create layers of creamy pumpkin mousse, perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of clove, and paired with the delightful crunch of gingersnap cookies. Topped with a generous swirl of fluffy whipped cream, each bite is light, airy, and bursting with festive warmth. It’s a dessert that looks as beautiful as it tastes, making it perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving a big family gathering or a small dinner, this mousse is a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat that adds a touch of Thanksgiving magic to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Spice Mousse

Pumpkin Roll

This pumpkin roll is a cozy fall dessert that everyone will love. The cake is perfectly moist and infused with warm pumpkin spice flavors, while the cream cheese filling is light, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweet. Rolling it up creates a beautiful spiral that’s almost too pretty to eat—but trust me, you’ll want to dig in. It’s an ideal centerpiece for any Thanksgiving table, or really any autumn gathering, bringing comfort and festive flavors in every bite. The combination of spice, pumpkin, and creamy filling makes it a treat that feels both indulgent and homemade.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll

Sweet Potato Pie

This Southern Sweet Potato Pie is a warm and comforting treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. With a simple mix of wholesome ingredients and fragrant spices, it delivers that classic, cozy flavor that instantly feels like home. Each slice is rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced, making it a standout dessert for fall or any Thanksgiving table. It’s the kind of pie that brings people together, sparking smiles and conversation with every bite. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, this sweet potato pie is sure to become a beloved seasonal favorite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Easy Thanksgiving Turkey Brownies

These Turkey Brownies are a playful and delicious treat that will bring some extra fun to your Thanksgiving table. They’re super easy to make, using a simple boxed brownie mix and colorful candy decorations that let your creativity shine. Kids will love helping out with the assembly, making it a sweet family activity. Each brownie turns into its own little turkey, adding a festive touch that’s almost too cute to eat—almost! Perfect for sharing with friends, family, or anyone who enjoys a little holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thanksgiving Turkey Brownies

Hershey’s Kisses Acorn Treats

These Hershey Kisses Acorn Treats are as adorable as they are easy to make, coming together in just a few minutes—perfect for when you want a quick, festive snack. Each little acorn-shaped treat is a delightful combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and cookie crunch that both kids and adults will love. They’re ideal for Thanksgiving, holiday parties, or even as a fun after-school treat. With just a handful of simple ingredients—Hershey Kisses, Nutter Butter bite-sized cookies, mini chocolate chips, and Reese’s peanut butter chips—you can whip up a batch in no time. Everyone at the table is sure to smile (and grab seconds!) when they see these charming little treats.
Get the Recipe: Hershey’s Kisses Acorn Treats

Honey Bun Recipe with Yellow Cake Mix

Holiday desserts don’t get much better than a warm, gooey honey bun cake. I’ve seen it make an appearance at both Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, and it’s always one of the first treats to disappear from the table. What’s amazing about this cake is that it starts with a simple yellow box cake mix, yet no one would ever guess it’s from a box—it tastes rich, indulgent, and completely homemade. The layers of sweet cinnamon swirls and soft, tender cake make every bite irresistible. Honestly, it’s the kind of dessert that makes people come back for seconds… or thirds!
Get the Recipe: Honey Bun Recipe with Yellow Cake Mix

Cranberry Shortcake

Move over, strawberry shortcake—there’s a new fall favorite in town! This Cranberry Shortcake is a simple yet stunning dessert that’s perfect for the season. Fluffy canned biscuits are layered with a sweet and tangy cranberry compote, then topped with freshly whipped cream that carries just a hint of bright, zesty orange. It’s the kind of dessert that feels cozy and festive all at once, making it an instant hit on your Thanksgiving table. Whether you’re serving family or friends, this easy treat is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Shortcake

Apple Butter Pie

This Apple Butter Pie puts a fresh twist on the classic pumpkin pie by highlighting the sweet-tart flavor of apples paired with warm, cozy cinnamon spices. Each bite melts in your mouth with the same smooth, creamy texture you love in traditional pumpkin pie, but with a bright, fruity flavor that feels both comforting and unique. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily fit into gluten-free or dairy-free diets, so everyone at the table can enjoy a slice. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any crisp fall evening, this pie fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of autumn spices and homemade goodness. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s the kind of dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Apple Butter Pie

Air Fryer Mini Crustless Cranberry Pie

This mini crustless cranberry pie is a delightful mix of sweet and tart flavors that instantly brightens up any holiday table. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, it’s as charming to look at as it is to eat. Made right in the air fryer, it’s a quick and easy treat that saves your oven for the bigger dishes while still delivering that classic holiday taste in every bite. Each spoonful bursts with vibrant cranberry flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s both festive and fuss-free. You’ll love how effortless it is to bring a touch of holiday magic to your dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Mini Crustless Cranberry Pie

Pumpkin Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

This luscious pumpkin pie with a buttery graham cracker crust is the ultimate Thanksgiving treat. The crust is so easy to press in, yet it adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the creamy pumpkin filling. Each bite is smooth, comforting, and packed with warm, cozy spices that scream fall. It’s a dessert that’s as simple to make as it is to enjoy, making it a guaranteed favorite at the holiday table. Perfect for sharing with family, friends, or anyone who loves that classic pumpkin pie taste!
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

Pecan Pumpkin Tart

The Pecan Pumpkin Tart is the ultimate fall dessert, bringing together the rich flavors of pumpkin and the nutty crunch of pecans in one irresistible treat. It starts with a buttery, cookie-like crust that holds a smooth, spiced pumpkin filling, infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg. On top, a layer of toasted pecans adds the perfect crunch and depth of flavor. Baked to a beautiful golden finish, each slice reveals the distinct layers that make this tart as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or any cozy celebration.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pumpkin Tart

Cranberry Orange Gelato

Cranberry Orange Gelato is a truly festive and refreshing dessert that brings together the best of two worlds. You begin by making a classic cranberry sauce, full of bright, tangy flavor, and then swirl it into a creamy, smooth gelato base for a luscious treat. The result is a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and citrusy notes that feel both indulgent and light. It’s a dessert that not only tastes incredible but also adds a pop of color and elegance to your holiday table. Serve it at Thanksgiving or any special gathering, and it’s sure to wow your guests with its unexpected twist on traditional flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Gelato

Carrot Cake Cheesecake

Carrot Cake Cheesecake is the kind of dessert that makes everyone pause and take notice. Layers of moist, spiced carrot cake are perfectly paired with rich, creamy cheesecake, creating a flavor combination that’s truly irresistible. Every bite melts in your mouth, balancing sweetness with just the right touch of spice. It’s a show-stopper for birthdays, holidays, or any special gathering, and it’s sure to leave your guests asking for seconds—and the recipe! This dessert doesn’t just taste amazing; it brings a little extra joy to the table.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Cheesecake

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of this creamy brown sugar cheesecake, perfectly complemented by a sweet and gooey pecan pie topping. Each bite bursts with the warm, nutty flavors of a classic holiday pie, making it feel festive and comforting all at once. The buttery crust adds the perfect touch of texture, balancing the luscious filling and crunchy pecans. It’s a dessert that’s both elegant enough for special occasions and cozy enough to enjoy any time you’re craving something sweet. One slice is all it takes to bring a little holiday magic to your table.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake