14+ Dessert Recipes for Thanksgiving with Pumpkin

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and the star ingredient that brings warmth and flavor to the table is pumpkin. With its rich, earthy taste, pumpkin transforms desserts into delightful creations your family and friends won’t forget.

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Pumpkin Cheesecake from Natasha's Kitchen

Rating: 5 (12 reviews). Total Time: 7 hr 30 min.

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Pumpkin Cheesecake from Sugar Spun Run

Rating: 4.9 (167 reviews). Total Time: 7 hr.

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Pumpkin Cheesecake from Butternut Bakery

Rating: 5 (40 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 50 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

Imagine a creamy cheesecake perfectly blended with spiced pumpkin puree and a buttery graham cracker crust. This dessert combines the best of both worlds: the richness of cheesecake and the cozy flavors of pumpkin spices. The ingredients include cream cheese, canned pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

What makes this recipe special is the harmonious blend of spices that complement the creamy texture, making it a crowd favorite at any Thanksgiving gathering. The graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smooth, velvety filling. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Pumpkin Pie with Maple Whipped Cream

Pumpkin Pie with Maple Cinnamon Whipped Cream

Pumpkin Pie with Maple Cinnamon Whipped Cream from Golden Barrel

Total Time: 50 min.

Chai Pumpkin Pie with Maple Whipped Cream

Chai Pumpkin Pie with Maple Whipped Cream from Half Baked Harvest

Rating: 4.3 (488 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 45 min.

Pumpkin Pie with Maple Whipped Cream

Pumpkin Pie with Maple Whipped Cream from Good Housekeeping

Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

This classic dessert has been a staple on Thanksgiving tables for generations, but with a twist. The filling is a silky mixture of pumpkin puree, eggs, evaporated milk, and aromatic spices, all nestled in a flaky crust. The surprise element? A generous dollop of maple-infused whipped cream that elevates this pie to gourmet status.

The maple whipped cream adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that marries beautifully with the spiced pumpkin filling. It’s a perfect balance of traditional and innovative, making it a surefire hit with guests who appreciate a little twist on a classic.

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Pumpkin Bread Pudding from My Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.5 (109 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 20 min.

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Pumpkin Bread Pudding from Cooking Classy

Rating: 4.9 (18 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 5 min.

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Pumpkin Bread Pudding from Tornadough Alli

Rating: 5 (4 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

Warm, comforting, and bursting with fall flavors, pumpkin bread pudding is a must-try for those who love a cozy dessert. This dish features cubes of day-old bread soaked in a rich custard made with pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, and a mix of spices. The pudding is then baked until golden and crispy on top, yet soft and custardy inside.

What sets this dessert apart is its simplicity and the way it captures the essence of autumn in every bite. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread and transforms it into a decadent treat. For an added touch, serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pumpkin Spice Trifle

Easy Pumpkin Trifle

Easy Pumpkin Trifle from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.8 (124 reviews). Total Time: 3 h 10 min.

Pumpkin Spice Trifle

Pumpkin Spice Trifle from Inquiring Chef

Rating: 4.8 (12 reviews). Total Time: 30 min.

Pumpkin Trifle Recipe

Pumpkin Trifle Recipe from Suburban Simplicity

Rating: 5 (3 reviews). Total Time: 4 h 25 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

This dessert is a showstopper with its beautiful layers of pumpkin spice cake, creamy pudding, and whipped cream. It’s a visual delight and a taste sensation, combining the moistness of the cake with the smoothness of the pudding. The layers are repeated, creating a symphony of flavors with every spoonful.

One of the best parts about this trifle is its versatility. You can customize the layers by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture. The presentation is impressive, and it’s an easy dessert to assemble, making it perfect for those who want to make a great impression without too much fuss.

Pumpkin Crème Brûlée

Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe

Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe from Natasha's Kitchen

Rating: 5 (63 reviews). Total Time: 50 min.

Pumpkin Crème Brûlée

Pumpkin Crème Brûlée from Bonni Bakery

Rating: 4.8 (18 reviews). Total Time: 45 min.

Chef John's Pumpkin Creme Brulee

Chef John's Pumpkin Creme Brulee from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.5 (41 reviews). Total Time: 2 hr 45 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

For a sophisticated twist on a classic French dessert, pumpkin crème brûlée offers a creamy custard with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spice, topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. Each spoonful is a delightful contrast between the smooth custard and the crunchy caramelized top.

The addition of pumpkin puree and spices gives this dessert a unique autumnal touch, making it a perfect finale to a Thanksgiving meal. It’s a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, and its elegant presentation will surely impress your guests.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Pumpkin Desserts

Pumpkin Dessert Recipes: Pumpkin Chocolate Cupcakes from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 5 (2 reviews).

Pumpkin Cheesecake from The Kitchn

Rating: 4.8 (31 reviews). Total Time: 2 h 5 min.

Pumpkin Bars from I Heart Naptime

Rating: 5 (125 reviews). Total Time: 45 min.

Links open in new window. Source: Google.com

Choosing the Right Pumpkin

When it comes to pumpkin desserts, sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins are your best bet. They have a sweeter flavor and a smoother texture compared to larger carving pumpkins. This ensures your dessert has the best taste and consistency.

Balancing Spices

Pumpkin pairs well with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, but it’s important to find the right balance. Too much spice can overpower the pumpkin flavor. Start with small amounts and adjust to taste, ensuring a harmonious blend.

Perfecting the Texture

For creamy desserts like cheesecake or crème brûlée, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety texture that will make your pumpkin desserts truly irresistible.