31 non-pie Thanksgiving desserts that still earn a place at the holiday table

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Thanksgiving might be the pie’s big moment, but who says it has to hog the dessert table? There are 31 non-pie treats ready to crash the holiday feast, from cakes to cookies and everything in between. These desserts give your guests more options to drool over, adding some much-needed variety to the usual lineup. Honestly, it’s about time pies had some competition, because the more dessert, the merrier, right?

A square of Apple Dump Cake topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a clear plate.
Apple Dump Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel

Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel are arranged on two metal plates, with cinnamon sticks and a bowl of caramel nearby on a marble surface.
Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Who wouldn’t want to combine a seasonal favorite with something extra special? Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel bring a classic flavor to your table, but add that sticky sweetness on top. It’s like grabbing a regular cookie and stepping it up a notch with something luxurious. A perfect combo for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel

Puff Pastry Apple Tart

A Puff Pastry Apple Tart topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and sprinkled with powdered sugar sits on a light green plate.
Puff Pastry Apple Tart. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

A dessert table always feels more elegant when Puff Pastry Apple Tart is part of the mix. The flaky layers paired with tender fruit create a classic combination that pleases everyone. It’s a treat that’s great for showcasing seasonal fruits in a way everyone can enjoy. Serve it warm or chilled, and it’s guaranteed to make its way to someone’s plate.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars

A white plate with five biscoff cookie butter streusel bars, each drizzled with melted cookie butter.
Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For those who enjoy desserts with unique twists, this treat steps up the game. Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars include the rich cookie flavor combined with crumbly surprises layered perfectly in every bite. It’s the ideal dessert for a crowd, offering a handheld option packed with flavor. Add this to the mix for something slightly different but just as memorable.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars

Dutch Apple Danishes

Golden brown Dutch Apple Danishes, topped with a fruit and nut filling, drizzled with white icing, displayed on a dark baking sheet.
Dutch Apple Danishes. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Individual servings that showcase baked flavors make desserts easier to share. Dutch Apple Danishes are stuffed with warm, cozy flavors, and the flaky pastry creates a perfect base for their filling. They are a simple but effective way to showcase seasonal fruits in the dessert spread. Each bite is approachable and full of charm, rounding out the dessert variety in an understated way.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Apple Danishes

Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

A piece of Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake. sits on a plate with a fork. More cake is visible in the background on a wooden board.
Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Sweet treats that double as centerpieces can be a fun addition to the spread. Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake isn’t just visually appealing but also brings rich chocolate together with a seasonal twist. You’ll appreciate how versatile this dessert is, combining a traditional favorite with a festive touch. From the first slice, it’s easy to see why this cake earns its place on the table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Double Chocolate Brookies

A plate of chocolate cookies with walnuts and chocolate pieces on the side.
Double Chocolate Brookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Anyone who enjoys an indulgent dessert will easily appreciate this hybrid recipe. Double Chocolate Brookies combine the dense richness of brownies and the soft chewiness of cookies, creating the perfect middle ground. It’s a dessert that satisfies multiple cravings in one bite. Adding this to the lineup offers a break from traditional desserts, giving guests something bold.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Brookies

Pumpkin Crunch Cake

A slice of Pumpkin Crunch Cake on a white plate, topped with whipped cream, with a checkered cloth beside it and a baking dish in the background.
Pumpkin Crunch Cake. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

A mix of textures is what makes Pumpkin Crunch Cake unforgettable. It balances moist and crunchy elements to offer variety on the dessert table. The layers create visual appeal, ensuring it stands out among other choices while still blending beautifully with the holiday theme. For fans of rich finishes, this dessert checks all the boxes without trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Chocolate Caramel Cookies with frosting, caramel drizzle, and chopped nuts on a white marble surface.
Chocolate Caramel Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining chocolate with a gooey filling offers a dessert worth reaching for multiple times. Chocolate Caramel Cookies balance a slightly decadent outer shell with a hint of melt-in-your-mouth goodness. It’s a straightforward option that delivers reliable sweetness without being overwhelming. Perfect for holiday tables, this dessert is a surefire way to please all ages.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

A loaf of glazed pumpkin bread with two slices cut sits on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by bowls containing glaze and orange puree.
Best Ever Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Sweet bread can stand on its own in the dessert category, and this one does just that. Best Ever Pumpkin Bread, with its moist and bold flavor, provides a warm option for dessert lovers who enjoy classic choices. It’s easy to serve and works well for sharing while still adding variety to the table. This bread can effortlessly hold its ground amidst a lineup of more traditional desserts.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Six Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls arranged on a black slate serving tray.
Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bite-sized desserts often stand out for their ease and portability. Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls mix a unique cookie flavor with a soft, luscious texture perfect for sharing alongside a cup of coffee or tea. They’re small in size but big on flavor, making them a natural fit for gatherings. These no-fuss treats bring many smiles and little cleanup, suiting group settings wonderfully.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Easy Pumpkin Turnovers

Three white plates with pumpkin turnovers topped with cinnamon sugar, on a rustic wooden table with utensils and autumn-themed decorations.
Easy Pumpkin Turnovers. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Making dessert easy and delicious doesn’t mean skipping the creative aspects. Easy Pumpkin Turnovers present flavors wrapped in buttery, flaky layers, creating a convenient dessert for guests. They combine a classic filling with a grab-and-go design that’s great for casual dining. Having these at the table adds a relaxed and welcoming option for friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Turnovers

Turkey Brownie Cupcakes

Pieces of Turkey brownies served on a white plate beside a bowl of M&Ms.
Turkey Brownie Cupcakes. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Holiday-themed desserts can always bring life to the dessert table. Turkey Brownie Cupcakes not only taste great but also add a playful touch, making them fun for the entire family. It’s the kind of dessert that adds character to your spread without overshadowing the classics. Guests will enjoy these whimsical treats, appreciating the added creativity during the celebration.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Brownie Cupcakes

Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream

An Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream, served in a rectangular dish, topped with two scoops of vanilla ice cream and a caramel drizzle, accompanied by a portion on a plate beside it.
Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Offering something warm and comforting creates a perfect ending to any meal. Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream pairs baked fruit with a simple topping that complements every spoonful. Balancing flavor and texture, it’s a winning dessert for those looking for something adaptable. This warm treat delights and rounds out the meal beautifully when topped with a scoop of cool sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting on wooden serving board.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

So you’re craving something warm and inviting, right? Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls offer that, complete with a swirl of spice that’s hard to resist. The comforting aroma alone entices anyone into the kitchen. It’s an indulgence that’s fit for special occasions or whenever you feel like treating yourself.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Apple Fritter Bread

Three slices of apple fritter bread on a white plate.
Apple Fritter Bread. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Classic twists on traditional favorites always make for a reliable addition to the dessert table. Apple Fritter Bread is your sweet, baked option that combines great texture with timeless flavors. It works well for individuals craving something light and versatile. Each slice holds a great balance to end a meal on a strong, sweet note.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritter Bread

Pumpkin Dump Cake

A slice of layered pumpkin dessert topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a white plate.
Pumpkin Dump Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Layered desserts hold a special appeal, and Pumpkin Dump Cake delivers that effortlessly. It’s a dessert that celebrates texture, flavor, and simplicity in one serving. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this option guarantees everyone grabs a spoon for more. If variety matters, it blends well with both classic and modern dessert options on any table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Dump Cake

Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal raisin cookies on a plate next to a glass of milk.
Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who says you can’t have healthier options that still taste amazing? Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies let you have straightforward cookies that don’t skimp on flavor, all juggled with ease thanks to modern tech. They maintain a nice chew and can still bring smiles. Share them around, or keep them close by.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Pumpkin Brownies

A square piece of pumpkin brownies sprinkled with chocolate chips, placed on a white plate.
Pumpkin Brownies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Sometimes two classics together just make sense. Pumpkin Brownies marry the rich depth of chocolate with the comforting warmth of autumn flavors. They’re the snuggly sweater equivalent in dessert form, easy to love and perfect for the season. Whoever you share them with will appreciate their unique blend.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Brownies

Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

A baking tray filled with a layer of chopped apples coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Caramel Apple Sheet Cake. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Talk about a crowd-pleaser, here’s a simple way to get folks talking. Caramel Apple Sheet Cake offers large servings with sweet and warm tones. It’ll fill your home with enticing scents and ensure everyone feels well-treated. Slicing it up can be as enjoyable an experience as tasting it.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

Fall Brownie Cupcake

Fall brownie cupcakes with whipped cream on a plate.
Fall Brownie Cupcake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Rich and compact, Fall Brownie Cupcake provides the perfect mix of chocolate and individual serving ease. It’s a great dessert option when you need something simple and deeply fulfilling for guests to grab. Covered in festive accents, it looks as special as it tastes. With just the right dose of sweetness, it’s an easy win for any dessert lineup.
Get the Recipe: Fall Brownie Cupcake

Pumpkin Spice Scones with Vanilla Glaze

Pumpkin Spice Scones with Vanilla Glaze are arranged on a light surface, surrounded by cinnamon sticks and star anise.
Pumpkin Spice Scones with Vanilla Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For guests who enjoy baked options without extreme sweetness, scones are a great choice. Pumpkin Spice Scones with Vanilla Glaze deliver a crumbly treat with a gentle topping to enhance the overall experience. The shared servings make them easy to offer at gatherings, complementing other options nicely. It’s the sort of dessert that’s great alongside coffee or tea, offering quiet balance to a festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Scones with Vanilla Glaze

Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies

A plate with several Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie cookies topped with a layer of peanut butter and a swirl of chocolate frosting.
Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Want something unforgettable? Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies are thick, rich, and oh-so-special. They’re the batch for those who prefer their cookies dense, featuring intriguing layers. They stand strong in any spread, inviting everyone to take a moment to relish in them.
Get the Recipe: Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies

Nanna’s Apple Cake

An apple cake on a white plate with cinnamon sticks.
Nanna’s Apple Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nostalgic homemade desserts can bring a heartwarming element to gatherings. Nanna’s Apple Cake, with its soft texture, showcases classic baked sweetness without being overly intricate. This feels like the type of dish everyone’s grandmother made, lending an authentic touch to the holiday table. Guests will appreciate it’s unique but approachable, often asking for seconds or the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Nanna’s Apple Cake

Sweet Potato Cookies

Sweet Potato Cookies on a baking sheet with icing and nuts.
Sweet Potato Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Unlikely combinations can create something special, as shown in Sweet Potato Cookies. These soft bites highlight familiar dessert textures with just enough creativity to stand out from common choices. They make a perfect way to add variety without moving too far out of the typical dessert range. Great for sharing or enjoying solo, these cookies make everyone curious enough to try them.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cookies

Mini Biscoff Cheesecake

A white plate with strawberries and mini biscoff cheesecakes.
Mini Biscoff Cheesecake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Bite-sized portions make sharing easy while keeping the menu fresh. Mini Biscoff Cheesecake blends creaminess with smooth, biscuit-like goodness in a well-balanced dessert. This small-format treat is perfect for those who prefer individual servings without extra fuss. Offering this dessert is a fun way to switch up the typical dessert selections while still sticking to popular flavors everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Mini Biscoff Cheesecake

Pumpkin Linzer Cookies

Plate of pumpkin-shaped cookies with powdered sugar and pumpkin filling, arranged on a black dish with decorative autumn items and spices in the background.
Pumpkin Linzer Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Swapping out traditional flavors without stepping too far from familiarity is always a win. Pumpkin Linzer Cookies layer cross-cut designs with rich fillings that look as great as they taste. It’s the kind of dessert that guests love for its size and eye-catching presentation. A tray of these on your table will provide both charm and smiles for those celebrating together.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Linzer Cookies

Buttermilk Banana Cake

Banana-Buttermilk Cake on a platter.
Buttermilk Banana Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever craved something simultaneously simple and satisfying? Buttermilk Banana Cake combines beloved flavors in a moist, straightforward treat. This one pairs nicely with a warm beverage for quiet moments or casual gatherings. Offering slices of sweetness is a simple pleasure worth sharing.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Banana Cake

Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles on a circle grey and blue plate.
Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Taking cookie classics and adding seasonal variety is a great way to keep desserts dynamic. Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies bring all the best qualities of warm and soft cookies together with an added flavor twist. They’re easy to serve and perfect for quick bites, especially for younger holiday guests. For mixing both comforting and festive, this recipe works its charm simply and effectively.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

Turtle Brownies

A piece of Turtle Brownie with ice cream on a plate.
Turtle Brownies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The mix of textures easily gives this brownie recipe a spot among your favorites. Turtle Brownies combine the decadent richness of chocolate with creamy and crunchy additions for something exciting. With a perfectly balanced flavor, these handheld treats steal the spotlight without feeling too much. Offering these brownies rounds out sweet options for any dessert lover celebrating.
Get the Recipe: Turtle Brownies

No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

A slice of no-bake pumpkin cheesecake delight on a white plate, partially eaten with a fork resting on the plate.
No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Sometimes simpler desserts are the most memorable, and No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake fits that idea perfectly. Its smooth texture, combined with subtle sweetness, makes it a standout option amongst heavier choices. Guests won’t need much convincing to grab a slice thanks to its approachable presentation. Easy to serve and enjoy, it rounds out the dessert offerings with ease.
Get the Recipe: No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Apple Dump Cake

A square of Apple Dump Cake topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a clear plate.
Apple Dump Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Toss-and-bake desserts don’t have to compromise on flavor or presentation. Apple Dump Cake provides that perfectly baked goodness with a straightforward process, making it a host’s best friend. Its tender base proves to be a hit amongst those craving sweet, warm options. This choice welcomes everyone with a sense of home-baked charm while keeping cleanup minimal.
Get the Recipe: Apple Dump Cake

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