17+ Delicious Candy Recipes for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family get-togethers, and of course, delicious treats. Imagine the joy of biting into homemade candies that melt in your mouth and leave you craving more.

Maple Pecan Caramels

Maple pecan caramels from Gail's Goodies

Maple Pecan Caramels from Epicurious

Paleo Maple Pecan Turtles from Salt in my Coffee

Rating: 5. Total Time: 1 hr 5 min.

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These little squares of sweetness are a luxurious blend of rich maple syrup and creamy caramel, studded with crunchy pecans. The buttery flavor mingles beautifully with the nutty pecans, creating a classic fall treat that’s hard to resist.

What makes this recipe special is the use of pure maple syrup, which provides a unique, earthy sweetness that’s distinctly different from regular sugar. The pecans add a nutty crunch that perfectly complements the soft, chewy caramel. These candies are perfect for wrapping up in pretty papers and sharing with family and friends during your Thanksgiving feast.

Cranberry Pistachio Bark

Pistachio Cranberry Bark

Pistachio Cranberry Bark from Taste of Home

Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 20 min.

Pistachio & Cranberry White Chocolate Bark

Pistachio & Cranberry White Chocolate Bark from Brown Eyed Baker

Rating: 4.7. Total Time: 45 min.

Cranberry & Pistachio Chocolate Bark

Cranberry & Pistachio Chocolate Bark from Love and Lemons

Rating: 5. Total Time: 10 min.

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This candy bark is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. The vibrant red cranberries and the vivid green pistachios are set against a backdrop of creamy white chocolate, creating a festive look and a burst of flavors.

The tartness of the dried cranberries perfectly balances the sweetness of the white chocolate, while the pistachios add a subtle earthiness and a satisfying crunch. It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require any baking, making it a quick yet impressive addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table. Plus, it can be made in big batches, ideal for those large family gatherings.

Pumpkin Spice Fudge

Pumpkin Fudge

Pumpkin Fudge from Sugar Spun Run

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 6 hr 20 min.

Pumpkin Spice Fudge

Pumpkin Spice Fudge from Little Sunny Kitchen

Rating: 5. Total Time: 3 hr 15 min.

Pumpkin Fudge

Pumpkin Fudge from Simple Joy

Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 10 min.

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Pumpkin spice and everything nice, that’s what this fudge is made of! With the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this fudge captures the essence of fall in every bite.

What sets this fudge apart is the incorporation of pumpkin puree, which adds a moist, creamy texture and an authentic pumpkin flavor. It’s like biting into a piece of pumpkin pie, but in a rich, melt-in-your-mouth fudge form. This is a must-try for all pumpkin spice lovers, bringing the warmth and coziness of the season to your candy dish.

Cinnamon Sugar Almonds

Candied Almonds (Cinnamon Sugar Almonds)

Candied Almonds (Cinnamon Sugar Almonds) from JoyFoodSunshine

Rating: 5. Total Time: 1 h 5 min.

Easy Cinnamon Candied Almonds

Easy Cinnamon Candied Almonds from Plated Cravings

Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 10 min.

Candied Almonds

Candied Almonds from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.7. Total Time: 35 min.

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Cinnamon sugar almonds are a crunchy, sweet treat that will fill your home with the warming scent of cinnamon. These addictive little snacks are perfect for nibbling throughout the day.

They are incredibly simple to make yet deliver a delightful crunch with every bite. Coated in a layer of sweet cinnamon sugar, these almonds provide a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. They also make a great gift, wrapped up in a charming bag with a bow, showcasing your homemade confectionery skills.

Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Sticks

Chocolate Covered Pretzel Rods

Chocolate Covered Pretzel Rods from House of Nash Eats

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 45 min.

Chocolate Covered Pretzel Rods

Chocolate Covered Pretzel Rods from Tastes Better From Scratch

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 1 hr 20 min.

Chocolate Covered Pretzel Rods

Chocolate Covered Pretzel Rods from Cookie Dough and Oven Mitt

Rating: 4.7. Total Time: pretzel rods, chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, mini chocolate chips.

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For a combination of sweet and salty, chocolate-covered pretzel sticks are a classic choice. The smooth, rich chocolate coats each pretzel, providing a satisfying snap with every bite.

These treats are incredibly versatile: you can use dark, milk, or white chocolate, and add toppings like sprinkles, crushed candies, or nuts to personalize them. They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Prepare these delicious sticks in advance and watch them disappear in no time at your Thanksgiving gathering.

Butterscotch Haystacks

Butterscotch Haystacks

Butterscotch Haystacks from Little Sunny Kitchen

Rating: 5. Total Time: 50 min.

Butterscotch Haystacks

Butterscotch Haystacks from OwlbBaking.com

Rating: 5.

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Butterscotch haystacks are a nostalgic treat that brings back childhood memories. These no-bake goodies are a delightful mix of crunchy chow mein noodles and creamy butterscotch chips.

The combination of textures is what makes these haystacks so irresistible. The sweet, smooth butterscotch envelops the crunchy noodles, creating a candy that’s both chewy and crispy. They’re quick to whip up, making them an excellent last-minute addition to your Thanksgiving dessert offerings. These fun little treats are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Tricks for Sweet Thanksgiving Success

Thanksgiving Candy Bar Pretzel Bites

Thanksgiving Candy Bar Pretzel Bites from The Gunny Sack

Rating: 4.5. Total Time: square pretzels, mini candy bars, candy coating.

Thanksgiving Treats

Thanksgiving Treats from Chelsea's Messy Apron

Rating: 5. Total Time: peanut butter, cream cheese frosting, candy corn, mini vanilla wafers, coconut oil.

Thanksgiving Turkey Leg Candy

Thanksgiving Turkey Leg Candy from Noshing with the nolands

Rating: 5. Total Time: 31 min.

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Perfect Your Caramel

When making caramels, patience is key. Cook your sugar mixture slowly and evenly to prevent burning, and use a candy thermometer for that perfect chewy texture.

Choose Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality ingredients, like real maple syrup and premium chocolate, can make a significant difference in the taste and texture of your candies, elevating them to a gourmet level.

Get Creative with Toppings

Toppings can add a fun and personal touch to your candies. Consider using crushed peppermint, sea salt, or even edible glitter to make your treats stand out visually and tastefully.