11+ Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas Without Pumpkin Recipes

This Thanksgiving, break free from the norm and surprise your taste buds with something new. If you’re ready to explore some delicious alternatives to the classic pumpkin desserts, you’re in for a treat!

Apple Cranberry Crisp

Apple Cranberry Crisp

Apple Cranberry Crisp from Taste of Home

Rating: 4.9 (25 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 5 min.

Apple-Cranberry Crisp

Apple-Cranberry Crisp from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.6 (237 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr.

Easy Apple Cranberry Crisp

Easy Apple Cranberry Crisp from Baker by Nature

Rating: 5 (4 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 10 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

Imagine a warm, bubbling dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweet, juicy goodness of apples. Apple Cranberry Crisp is a delightful mix of these flavors, topped with a buttery oat crumble that adds just the right amount of crunch.

Apples and cranberries are like the dynamic duo of fall flavors. This dish not only brings them together but enhances their natural sweetness with a touch of brown sugar and cinnamon, creating a symphony of autumnal flavors in every bite. The crispy topping, made from oats, butter, and a hint of nutmeg, provides a satisfying contrast to the soft, baked fruit.

What makes this dessert special is its simplicity. You can whip it up in no time, and it fills your home with a cozy, welcoming aroma. It’s perfect for those who want a stress-free dessert that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience.

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Pecan Pie Cheesecake from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.8 (38 reviews).

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Pecan Pie Cheesecake from Baked By An Introvert

Rating: 4.5 (452 reviews). Total Time: 6 h 20 min.

Pecan pie cheesecake cups

Pecan pie cheesecake cups from Cookidoo

Rating: 4.4 (29 reviews). Total Time: 35 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

For a dessert that screams decadence, look no further than Pecan Pie Cheesecake. This luscious creation combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the nutty, caramelized goodness of pecan pie.

The base of this dessert is a buttery graham cracker crust, which provides a sturdy foundation for the velvety cheesecake layer. Infused with vanilla and a hint of cinnamon, the cheesecake is smooth and creamy, offering a delightful contrast to the crunchy pecan topping. The topping itself is a masterpiece, featuring pecans glazed in a mixture of butter, sugar, and corn syrup. It’s like having the best of both worlds in one bite.

Pecan Pie Cheesecake is a showstopper that’s sure to impress your guests. It’s a fantastic choice for those who love a rich and satisfying dessert. Each bite is a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making it an unforgettable addition to your Thanksgiving spread.

Maple Walnut Bars

Maple Walnut Squares

Maple Walnut Squares from Seasons and Suppers

Rating: 5 (6 reviews). Total Time: 55 min.

Maple Walnut Bars

Maple Walnut Bars from Liv for Cake

Rating: 5 (2 reviews). Total Time: 45 min.

Maple Walnut Bourbon Bars

Maple Walnut Bourbon Bars from Sweet ReciPEAs

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

If you’re a fan of maple syrup, these Maple Walnut Bars are a must-try. They offer a chewy, nutty experience that’s both comforting and satisfying.

The base of these bars is made from a buttery shortbread crust, topped with a gooey maple filling. The filling is a blend of maple syrup, brown sugar, and eggs, which gives it a rich, caramel-like flavor. Chopped walnuts are folded into the mixture, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.

These bars are perfect for those who appreciate the natural sweetness of maple syrup. They are easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient choice for busy holiday schedules. Maple Walnut Bars are a great way to bring a taste of the forest to your Thanksgiving table, offering a sweet escape from the ordinary.

Sweet Potato Soufflé

Easy Sweet Potato Soufflé

Easy Sweet Potato Soufflé from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.9 (226 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 20 min.

Sweet Potato Souffle

Sweet Potato Souffle from Celebrating Sweets

Rating: 5 (108 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 10 min.

Sweet Potato Souffle

Sweet Potato Souffle from Food Network

Rating: 4.7 (209 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 55 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

Sweet Potato Soufflé is a delightful twist on a classic side dish, transformed into a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. It’s a light, fluffy creation that highlights the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.

This dish starts with mashed sweet potatoes, combined with sugar, eggs, and a hint of vanilla, creating a smooth and creamy base. The magic happens when you fold in whipped egg whites, giving the soufflé its signature light and airy texture. A sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm, spicy note, making each bite a cozy delight.

Sweet Potato Soufflé is perfect for those who love a dessert that’s both unique and familiar. It can be served on its own or with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. This dish is a wonderful way to showcase the versatility of sweet potatoes and add a sophisticated touch to your Thanksgiving feast.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Thanksgiving Desserts Without Pumpkin

Easy Chocolate Pecan Pie

Easy Chocolate Pecan Pie from Love From The Oven

Rating: 5 (6 reviews).

How To Make The Best Gluten Free Pie Crust

How To Make The Best Gluten Free Pie Crust from A Girl Defloured

Rating: 5 (1 reviews). Total Time: 2 h 15 min.

Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts

Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts from Eating Bird Food

Rating: 5 (1 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 15 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

Get Creative with Spices

Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves can elevate your desserts to a whole new level. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the combination that works best for your taste buds.

Embrace Seasonal Fruits

Fruits like apples, cranberries, and sweet potatoes are in their prime during the fall. Incorporating them into your desserts not only highlights their natural flavors but also adds a fresh, seasonal touch.

Balance Texture and Flavor

A great dessert is all about balance. Make sure you have a mix of textures, like a crunchy topping with a smooth filling, to keep every bite interesting and satisfying.