Thanksgiving isn’t just about the savory turkey on the table; it’s also about the sweet delights that follow. Uncover new and exciting ways to incorporate turkey into your desserts, perfect for a festive twist.
Turkey Pumpkin Pie Bars
Pumpkin Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust from The Chunky Chef
Rating: 4.9 (56 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 20 min.
Pumpkin Pie Bars Recipe from Browned Butter Blondie
Rating: 4.8 (5 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 10 min.
Imagine the rich, creamy flavor of pumpkin pie with a deliciously unexpected twist. Turkey pumpkin pie bars combine the earthy sweetness of pumpkin puree with the savory notes of turkey, topped with a crunchy pecan crust.
These bars are a delightful surprise, offering a balance of sweet and savory that leaves everyone curious for more. The secret lies in the spiced turkey crumble that sits atop the creamy pumpkin layer, bringing a depth of flavor that’s truly special.
Served chilled or at room temperature, these bars are a perfect make-ahead dessert, saving you time on Thanksgiving day. The juxtaposition of textures—creamy pumpkin filling against the crumbly topping—makes each bite a memorable experience.

Sweet Turkey Apple Crisp
Make Ahead Apple Crisp from Sweet Peas and Saffron
Rating: 4.7 (6 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 10 min.
Easy Apple Crisp with Buttery, Crunchy Oat Topping from Life is but a Dish
Rating: 4.9 (11 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 20 min.
This dessert combines the comforting flavors of apple crisp with the nuanced taste of turkey, creating a dish that’s both familiar and novel. The golden-brown oat topping provides a satisfying crunch, while the turkey adds a savory depth to the sweet, cinnamon-laced apples.
What makes this dish stand out is its unique blend of spices, which enhances the natural sweetness of the apples while complementing the savory turkey. With each spoonful, you’ll discover layers of flavor that keep your taste buds guessing.
Perfect for those who love a bit of adventure in their desserts, this turkey apple crisp is both hearty and comforting. It’s best served warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it an ideal ending to a Thanksgiving feast.
Turkey Cranberry Cheesecake
Turkey, Cranberry and Cream Cheese Sandwich from Creative Culinary
Rating: 4.4 (16 reviews). Total Time: 10 min.
Cheesecake never fails to impress, and this turkey cranberry version is no exception. The creamy texture of the cheesecake paired with tart cranberry and savory turkey pieces creates a medley of flavors that’s both indulgent and refreshing.
The cranberries add a pop of color and a burst of tartness, perfectly balancing the creamy, rich filling. The inclusion of turkey might sound unusual, but it adds a subtle savory note that makes this dessert truly one-of-a-kind.
Maple Turkey Bread Pudding
Maple-Pumpkin Bread Pudding from Epicurious
Maple turkey bread pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that’s perfect for the Thanksgiving table. The combination of day-old bread, tender turkey pieces, and a maple custard base results in a dish that’s both sweet and savory.
This pudding is special because it transforms leftovers into something magical, using simple ingredients to create a dessert that’s greater than the sum of its parts. The maple syrup infuses the pudding with a rich sweetness, while the turkey adds heartiness.
Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat, maple turkey bread pudding is versatile and satisfying. Don’t forget to drizzle a little extra maple syrup on top before serving for an added touch of sweetness.
Pro Tricks for Amazing Turkey Dessert Dishes
Chocolate Strawberry Turkeys from hello, Yummy –
Total Time: chocolate almond bark, pretzel sticks, strawberries, candy melts, mini marshmallows.
Turkey Leg Treats from Simple and Seasonal
Rating: 2.5 (4 reviews). Total Time: pretzel rods, cocoa krispies, candy melts, mini marshmallows.
Balance Flavors with Care
When incorporating turkey into desserts, ensure the balance between sweet and savory is just right. Use spices and herbs that complement both the turkey and the sweet elements of your dish.
Focus on Texture
Texture is key in making these desserts unforgettable. Aim for a contrast between creamy, crunchy, and chewy components to keep each bite interesting and delightful.
Presentation Matters
Serve your turkey desserts with flair. Consider garnishes like fresh herbs, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of sauce to make your dishes visually appealing and enticing.











