Thanksgiving Treats

Thanksgiving isn’t just about the turkey—let’s not forget the grand finale: the dessert! If you’re looking to shake things up beyond traditional pumpkin pie, these clever, festive treats are easy to make and different enough to surprise and delight your guests. Whether you’re hosting the whole family or just bringing a dish to share, these sweets will earn you serious seasonal points.

Starting off strong with mini pumpkin cheesecakes, a fresh twist on the classic pie. Made with a simple graham cracker crust and a creamy cheesecake filling swirled with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg, they’re baked in muffin tins for the perfect single-serving indulgence. Top them with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of spice, and you’ve got a dessert that feels special with very little work.

Next up, give a nod to fall flavors with apple cinnamon caramel bites. Think of these as caramel apples without the sticky mess. Just slice apples into bite-sized pieces, toss them in cinnamon sugar, and dip them into warm caramel. Lay them out on parchment to set, and if you’re feeling fancy, drizzle a little melted chocolate over the top. They’re quick to assemble, kid-friendly, and utterly addictive.

If a full pecan pie feels a bit too heavy after the big meal, pecan pie bars are the perfect alternative. They deliver all the flavor of the traditional version but in a more manageable square. Start with a buttery shortbread crust, then pour on a gooey mixture of brown sugar, eggs, butter, and chopped pecans. Bake until golden, cool, and cut into bars that are easy to grab and go.

Bright, zesty, and not too sweet, cranberry orange shortbread cookies offer a more refined end to the meal. The dough is simple—just butter, sugar, flour, and a pinch of salt—but folding in dried cranberries and orange zest gives them a seasonal flair. Slice-and-bake style, they’re great to make ahead and have on hand for guests who like “just a little something” with their after-dinner coffee.

For something far more unexpected, try sweet potato whoopie pies. These soft, cake-like cookies are made with mashed sweet potato, cinnamon, and a touch of ginger, then sandwiched around a tangy cream cheese filling. They’re nostalgic and homey, with just enough twist to make people ask, “What’s in this? It’s delicious!”

Finally, if you’re aiming to impress, a maple pecan trifle may be your ticket. Layer cubes of store-bought pound cake (or homemade, if you're ambitious) with maple custard, toasted pecans, and a drizzle of syrup in a clear glass dish. Not only is it gorgeous to look at, it’s also a wonderful mix of creamy, crunchy, and sweet.

So this Thanksgiving, skip the same old pie lineup and treat your guests to something new. These desserts are festive, flavorful, and just the right mix of comfort and creativity—sure to leave everyone thankful for the sweet things in life.