Thanksgiving is all about the food, and dessert is where things really shine. After the turkey and sides, a great dessert table brings warmth, tradition, and just the right amount of indulgence to the end of the meal. Some stick with time-honored pies like pecan or sweet potato, while others like to throw in something a little unexpected, maybe a no-bake pumpkin cheesecake, a nostalgic upside-down cake, or a shortcut recipe that still brings all the flavor. This list covers everything from air fryer sweets to Southern classics and fall-flavored favorites, giving you plenty of options to round out your holiday spread with something everyone will want seconds of.
Pumpkin Roll Recipe
Soft pumpkin-spice cake is rolled around a smooth cream cheese filling for a festive swirl in every slice. The texture is light but rich, and the flavor leans into classic fall spices. It slices clean and looks impressive on the table. This one’s always a favorite for pumpkin lovers.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll Recipe
Southern Pecan Pie
A flaky pie crust holds a gooey, buttery filling topped with toasted pecans. The top bakes into a crisp layer while the inside stays soft and rich. It’s sweet, nutty, and unmistakably Southern. A must-have for traditionalists.
Get the Recipe: Southern Pecan Pie
Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Mashed sweet potatoes are blended with sugar, butter, and warm spices before being baked in a tender crust. It’s smooth, custardy, and slightly earthy with just enough sweetness. It holds its own against any pumpkin pie. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream to finish it off.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Black Bottom Oatmeal Pie
A dark chocolate layer hides beneath a gooey, oat-packed brown sugar filling in this unique pie. The texture is chewy and the flavor is deep with caramel notes. It’s part cookie, part pie, and a little unexpected. A fun pick when you want something a bit different.
Get the Recipe: Black Bottom Oatmeal Pie
Air Fryer Apple Taquitos (Easy Dessert!)
Tortillas are rolled up with apple filling, crisped in the air fryer, and finished with a cinnamon-sugar coating. They’re crunchy, sweet, and easy to eat by hand. A quick dessert that feels festive without much work. Try them with caramel drizzle for extra flair.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Taquitos (Easy Dessert!)
Blueberry Upside Down Cake
This cake bakes with juicy blueberries on the bottom that turn into a shiny topping once flipped. The fruit soaks into the sponge, keeping it moist and sweet. It’s bright and just tart enough to balance the sweetness. A good way to bring something a little different to the pie-heavy table.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Upside Down Cake
Old Fashioned Pecan Pie Recipe (no corn syrup!)
This take on pecan pie skips corn syrup and uses brown sugar and maple for a richer flavor. The filling stays gooey but not overly sticky, and the pecans toast beautifully. It’s a deeper, less sweet take on the classic. A great option for those looking for a more natural version.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Pecan Pie Recipe (no corn syrup!)
Pineapple Upside Down Cakes
These mini cakes bake with pineapple rings and cherries at the bottom, which become a golden topping when flipped. The brown sugar glaze gives them a glossy finish. They’re sweet, bright, and a little retro in the best way. A good single-serve dessert option for guests.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cakes
Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies (Only 3 Ingredients)
Made with peanut butter, sugar, and egg, these cookies are quick, chewy, and packed with flavor. The air fryer gives them a crisp edge without needing an oven. They’re great for last-minute baking. No flour needed and no leftovers expected.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies (Only 3 Ingredients)
No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake
Creamy pumpkin-spice filling is layered into a graham cracker crust and chilled until set. It’s smooth, fluffy, and full of warm flavor without needing any baking. The texture is light but satisfying. Perfect for prepping ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake
Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cake
This cake is full of fall flavor, thanks to cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves blended into a pumpkin batter. It’s moist and soft with a tender crumb. Add a cream cheese frosting or glaze on top to finish it. A strong alternative for anyone skipping pie.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cake
Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies (Only 3 Ingredients!)
Store-bought pie dough and canned filling come together fast in these crispy, handheld pies. The air fryer gives them a golden shell without heating the oven. A quick glaze or sugar sprinkle makes them feel special. Great for a smaller crowd.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies (Only 3 Ingredients!)
Apple Pie Tacos
These mini shells hold warm spiced apple filling and get coated in cinnamon sugar. They’re crunchy, sweet, and easy to serve in a batch. Add whipped cream or caramel for a full finish. A fun way to turn apple pie into something new.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Tacos
Cake Mix Pumpkin Whoopie Pies (So Good!)
Pumpkin cake rounds made from boxed mix are sandwiched with a sweet cream cheese filling. They’re soft, spiced, and easy to make in batches. The texture is chewy and the flavor screams fall. A good pick for casual dessert tables.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Pumpkin Whoopie Pies (So Good!)
Air Fryer Apple Fries
Thin apple slices are tossed in cinnamon sugar and air fried until golden and crisp at the edges. They’re warm, lightly sweet, and a little crunchy. Serve them with caramel dip or whipped cream. A fun snack-style dessert for a cozy gathering.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Fries
