11+ Treats to Make for Thanksgiving Recipes

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and, of course, mouth-watering food. From traditional flavors to delightful sweets, there are treats that can transform your holiday experience into something unforgettable.

Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars from Sugar Spun Run

Rating: 5 (48 reviews). Total Time: 7 h 10 min.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars from Celebrating Sweets

Rating: 5 (206 reviews). Total Time: 9 h 15 min.

Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Perfect Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.6 (109 reviews). Total Time: 9 h 35 min.

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Imagine the creamy richness of cheesecake blended with the iconic flavors of pumpkin spice. These bars offer a symphony of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, balanced perfectly with the tang of cream cheese and the buttery crunch of a graham cracker crust.

The magic of these bars lies in their layers. The bottom layer is a sturdy graham cracker crust that holds the creamy, spiced pumpkin filling. The cheesecake layer on top adds a luxurious twist, making each bite an experience. They are perfect for those who love pumpkin pie but want to try something a bit more decadent.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Plus, they are easy to serve and share, making them ideal for a Thanksgiving gathering where everyone is eager to get a taste of something delicious.

Cranberry Orange Scones

Glazed Cranberry Orange Scones

Glazed Cranberry Orange Scones from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.8 (163 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr.

Cranberry Orange Scones

Cranberry Orange Scones from Tastes Better From Scratch

Rating: 5 (180 reviews). Total Time: 30 min.

Cranberry Orange Scones (Bakery-Style)

Cranberry Orange Scones (Bakery-Style) from Baker by Nature

Rating: 4.9 (40 reviews). Total Time: 40 min.

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These scones are a delightful blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. The crumbly texture is offset by a light glaze, making them both a treat for the eyes and the taste buds.

What’s great about these scones is how they capture the essence of fall with their vibrant flavors. The cranberries add a touch of tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the orange. Plus, the orange zest in the dough and glaze gives these scones a fresh, citrusy aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth.

These scones are not just for breakfast; they make a lovely addition to any Thanksgiving dessert spread. Their bright colors and flavors can complement the richer, heavier dishes typically served during the holiday. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy, whether paired with a cup of tea or coffee.

Maple Pecan Pie

Maple Pecan Pie

Maple Pecan Pie from Cookidoo

Rating: 4.3 (8 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 15 min.

Maple Pecan Pie (Without Corn Syrup)

Maple Pecan Pie (Without Corn Syrup) from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.7 (64 reviews).

Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Maple Pecan Pie Bars from RecipeTin Eats

Rating: 5 (19 reviews). Total Time: 50 min.

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This pie combines the classic pecan pie with the deep, rich sweetness of maple syrup. The result is a gooey, nutty filling that sits atop a flaky, buttery crust, topped with whole pecans for a beautiful finish.

The secret to this pie’s popularity is in its simplicity and depth of flavor. Maple syrup replaces the traditional corn syrup, adding complexity and a slight smokiness. It’s a pie that speaks of autumn, with its warm, comforting notes and satisfying texture.

Maple Pecan Pie is a hit because it’s a unique twist on a classic. It’s perfect for those who want to serve something familiar yet refined. The pie is easy to prepare, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your holiday meal. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch it disappear in no time.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.7 (571 reviews).

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole from Spend With Pennies

Rating: 5 (2335 reviews). Total Time: 45 min.

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows from Simply Recipes

Rating: 5 (3 reviews).

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This is not just any casserole; it’s a sweet and savory delight that brings together creamy sweet potatoes and a gooey marshmallow topping. The sweet potatoes are mashed with brown sugar and butter, then baked until the marshmallows are golden and melty.

The beauty of this casserole is in its contrasting textures and flavors. The smooth, sweet potatoes are complemented by the crunchy pecans and the sticky, caramelized marshmallows. It’s a dish that feels nostalgic yet exciting, perfect for those who crave comfort with a twist.

Sweet Potato Casserole is a staple on many Thanksgiving tables for a reason. It’s incredibly satisfying and can be made ahead of time, freeing up your holiday schedule. Kids and adults alike adore it, making it a crowd-pleaser that you can rely on year after year.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Thanksgiving Treats

Turkey Leg Treats

Turkey Leg Treats from Simple and Seasonal

Rating: 2.5 (4 reviews). Total Time: pretzel rods, cocoa krispies, candy melts, mini marshmallows.

No-Bake Thanksgiving Treats

No-Bake Thanksgiving Treats from Butter Your Biscuit

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

Thanksgiving dessert recipes

Thanksgiving dessert recipes from BBC Good Food

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Mastering the Perfect Crust

For the best pie crust, keep your ingredients cold. Cold butter and water ensure a flaky texture. Chill your dough before rolling it out for an easy-to-handle, stress-free experience.

Balancing Sweet and Spice

When working with spices, less is sometimes more. Start with small amounts and taste as you go. This way, you can adjust to your liking without overpowering the dish.

The Art of Presentation

Visual appeal is key. Use garnishes like fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon on your desserts. It makes a simple dish look stunning and adds a festive touch to your table.