Thanksgiving desserts don’t have to follow the same script every year. Sure, pie has its place, but there’s room on the table for cheesecakes, upside down cakes, air fryer shortcuts, and pumpkin sweets that skip the crust entirely. This list blends traditional favorites with updated takes, like pecan pie without corn syrup, no-bake pumpkin cheesecake, and apple desserts made in an air fryer. You’ll find recipes that are easy to prep ahead, quick enough for the last minute, or creative enough to surprise your guests. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or keeping it simple, these desserts offer something comforting, festive, and just a little different, all while still feeling right at home after the turkey.
Pumpkin Roll Recipe
This rolled cake looks like it took effort, but it’s easier than it seems and slices into neat, spiral portions. The soft pumpkin sponge wraps around a smooth filling for a light bite after a heavy meal. It’s chill-friendly and serves a crowd without needing plates and forks. A solid pick for those who want pumpkin but not pie.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll Recipe
Southern Pecan Pie
Loaded with pecans and baked until golden and glossy, this pie is everything Thanksgiving should taste like. The filling is sweet, rich, and slices clean. It brings that familiar crackle with every bite. One of the first pies to vanish from the table.
Get the Recipe: Southern Pecan Pie
Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies (Only 3 Ingredients!)
These mini pies use premade dough and filling, then cook up crisp in the air fryer. No slicing needed, just grab and eat. They’re great warm and hold their shape at room temperature. Easy to double if your crowd leans apple.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies (Only 3 Ingredients!)
Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies (Only 3 Ingredients)
These cookies come together fast and bake in the air fryer, leaving your oven free for everything else. You only need three ingredients, but they still deliver a chewy, nutty bite. Great for guests who don’t love pie. They hold up well and travel even better.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies (Only 3 Ingredients)
Blueberry Upside Down Cake
Deep purple berries melt into a sticky top layer while the soft cake underneath soaks up the juice. It’s bright, bold, and a bit lighter than the usual Thanksgiving lineup. Sliceable and easy to serve. A good choice for non-pumpkin people.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Upside Down Cake
Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cake
Soft and spiced all the way through, this cake works with or without frosting. Serve it warm or cool, it’s forgiving either way. It’s easy to cut and portion, with a texture that stays fresh for days. A good alternative to pumpkin pie when you want something less expected.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cake
Air Fryer Apple Fries
Apple slices coated in cinnamon sugar get crisp in minutes and make a great snack-style dessert. No crust, no plate, just pick up and eat. Serve with caramel dip for extra flavor. A lighter option that keeps things fun.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Fries
Baked Cranberry Cheesecake
This cheesecake has a tart cranberry swirl that makes it stand out from the usual heavy desserts. It looks polished with very little decoration. The flavor is sharp, creamy, and not too sweet. A fresh option if you want to skip pie entirely.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cranberry Cheesecake
Air Fryer Apple Taquitos (Easy Dessert!)
Tortillas rolled with spiced apple filling get crisp in the air fryer and dusted in sugar. They’re crunchy, warm, and built for dipping. A smart option when you want individual portions without cutting pie. Bonus: no forks required.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Taquitos (Easy Dessert!)
No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake
This chilled dessert gives you the pumpkin flavor without turning on the oven. It’s creamy and spiced with a cookie crust that cuts clean. Perfect for making ahead. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to plate, serve, and go back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake
Black Bottom Oatmeal Pie
This pie has a hidden chocolate layer beneath a gooey oatmeal filling, giving it a surprise with every slice. It’s rich, chewy, and totally unexpected. Think of it as a cross between fudge and pecan pie. A strong contender for the “something different” slot.
Get the Recipe: Black Bottom Oatmeal Pie
Apple Pie Tacos
These crispy taco shells are filled with warm apple pie filling and topped with whipped cream or caramel. It’s a playful take on tradition with all the right flavors. They’re easy to batch and fun to decorate. Perfect for casual gatherings or kids’ tables.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Tacos
Pineapple Upside Down Cakes
These single-serving cakes flip out with golden tops and caramelized fruit already in place. They’re sweet but balanced and feel a little unexpected for Thanksgiving. No slicing or topping needed. A break from tradition that still fits the moment.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cakes
Cake Mix Pumpkin Whoopie Pies (So Good!)
These sandwich-style treats are soft, sweet, and way more fun than a slice of pie. Using cake mix cuts down the steps without skimping on flavor. Make them the day before and they’ll stay fresh. A kid favorite that adults don’t turn down either.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Pumpkin Whoopie Pies (So Good!)
Old Fashioned Pecan Pie Recipe (no corn syrup!)
This version skips corn syrup for a deeper, more balanced filling with brown sugar and butter. The texture is smooth and cuts clean without being overly sticky. It keeps everything you love, minus the cloying sweetness. A modern take on a holiday classic.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Pecan Pie Recipe (no corn syrup!)
Air Fryer Baked Apples
These apples soften in the air fryer and are filled with brown sugar and cinnamon for a warm, simple dessert. No crust, no fuss, just pure fall flavor. Top with whipped cream or ice cream if you want to dress them up. Ideal for lighter eaters at the table.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Apples
