24 Delicious Thanksgiving Desserts That Aren’t Pie

Thanksgiving is that special time of year when food brings everyone together, but the classic turkey and gravy often overshadow the desserts. You may find yourself looking for something sweet and comforting that strays from the traditional pie. If you’ve felt that craving, our list of 24 delicious Thanksgiving desserts that aren’t pie is perfect for you! Each recipe offers a unique flavor, delightful texture, and ease of preparation, making them not just tasty, but also practical for your holiday gatherings. Here’s everything you need to know to make your Thanksgiving dessert table shine this year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavors: Enjoy surprising tastes and textures that break the pie mold.
• Quick Prep: Many of these desserts can be whipped up in under an hour.
• Kid-Friendly: These sweet treats are sure to please the little ones—and adults too!
• Versatile Options: There’s a dessert for every palate, from chocolate lovers to fruit enthusiasts.
• Easy to Share: Most recipes yield generous portions, making them perfect for family and friends.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll typically need for these festive desserts. While some ingredients may vary by recipe, these are commonly found on your Thanksgiving shopping list:

For Cakes and Brownies

• All-purpose flour (for structure)
• Sugar (for sweetness)
• Eggs (for binding)
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (for chocolate desserts)

For Custards and Puddings

• Milk or heavy cream (for creamy textures)
• Vanilla extract (adds depth of flavor)
• Cornstarch (for thickening)

For Frostings and Toppings

• Butter (for richness)
• Cream cheese (for a luscious frosting)
• Fresh fruits (like berries or citrus for toppings)

Feel free to check out our delicious brown butter strawberry peach pie if you’re curious about how to incorporate seasonal fruits into your desserts!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here are some common preparations for these desserts, which may vary based on specific recipes. Let’s guide you through!

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your chosen recipe.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, and any dry ingredients to ensure they’re evenly distributed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until no flour streaks remain.
5. Pour and Bake: Pour the mixture into a greased baking pan and bake according to the directions in your recipe. Look for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out clean as a sign of doneness.
6. Cool and Frost: Allow to cool before adding any frosting or toppings. This will help the flavors meld and enhance the texture.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Texture Tips: For a richer cake, substitute buttermilk in place of regular milk for a deliciously moist texture.
• Flavor Variations: Always experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to add a holiday zest.
• Swaps: Have dietary needs? Consider using gluten-free flour or dairy-free alternatives to accommodate your guests.

If you’re looking for a savory dish to complement your desserts, consider our delicious sticky chicken rice bowls that have quickly become a family favorite!

Storage & Reheating

• Room Temperature: Most cakes and brownies can stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days if covered properly.
• Refrigeration: Desserts with custards or frostings should be kept in the fridge for safety, typically lasting about a week.
• Freezing: Many desserts freeze well, making them a good option for meal prep; just ensure they are well-wrapped to maintain flavor.

FAQ

Can I make these desserts ahead of time?
Absolutely! Many can be prepared a day or two in advance to lessen your workload on Thanksgiving day.

What can I serve with these desserts?
Consider pairing them with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.

Can I substitute fruits if I can’t find fresh ones?
Yes, feel free to use frozen fruit; just thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them.

How can I ensure my cake rises well?
Make sure to use fresh baking powder and give your batter enough time to mix thoroughly; this introduces air for a better rise.

Are these desserts kid-approved?
Definitely! With their fun textures and sweet flavors, these treats are sure to make children smile.

Conclusion

Trying something new this Thanksgiving can open a world of joy and flavor. As you prepare your meal, don’t forget to check out these wonderful alternatives that will delight your guests. Whether trying a cake or a custard, there are plenty of options available when looking for delicious Thanksgiving desserts that aren’t pie. For even more ideas, explore these options for Thanksgiving desserts (that aren’t pie!) to make your holiday even sweeter!

Thanksgiving Desserts

A collection of 24 unique and delightful Thanksgiving desserts that strays from the traditional pie, featuring a variety of flavors and textures.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients
Method
Notes

Ingredients

  

For Cakes and Brownies

• 2 cups All-purpose flour for structure
• 1 cup Sugar for sweetness
• 3 large Eggs for binding
• 1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder for chocolate desserts

For Custards and Puddings

• 2 cups Milk or heavy cream for creamy textures
• 1 tbsp Vanilla extract adds depth of flavor
• 1/4 cup Cornstarch for thickening

For Frostings and Toppings

• 1 cup Butter for richness
• 8 oz Cream cheese for a luscious frosting
• 1 cup Fresh fruits like berries or citrus for toppings

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your chosen recipe.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together your flour, sugar, and any dry ingredients to ensure they’re evenly distributed.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until no flour streaks remain.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased baking pan and bake according to the directions in your recipe, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
6. Allow to cool before adding any frosting or toppings.

Notes

Consider using buttermilk for moist texture, adding spices like cinnamon for flavor, and accommodating dietary needs with gluten-free or dairy-free alternatives. Most cakes and brownies can last three days at room temperature, while custard desserts need refrigeration.