15 Easy Thanksgiving Make Ahead Desserts

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that Thanksgiving is so much smoother when I can prepare a few dishes in advance—and desserts are at the top of that list.

As much as I love baking, the holiday itself always feels like a whirlwind, with the turkey roasting, sides coming together, and family filling the kitchen. That’s why make-ahead desserts have become my secret weapon.

From pies you can bake the night before to chilled treats that get even better after resting in the fridge, these recipes save time without sacrificing flavor.

To help take the stress out of your holiday, I’ve rounded up 15 easy Thanksgiving make-ahead desserts that are festive, delicious, and ready when you are.

1. Pumpkin Chiffon Pie Recipe

A light and airy twist on the classic pumpkin pie, this pumpkin chiffon version delivers all the cozy flavor you love with a silky, mousse-like texture. Perfect for Thanksgiving dinner when you want something traditional but a little more special.

2. Pumpkin Pie Breakfast Cookies

Start your morning with the flavors of pumpkin pie! These hearty breakfast cookies are filled with oats, pumpkin puree, and warm spices — a healthy grab-and-go snack that makes fall mornings extra cozy.

3. Pumpkin Donuts

Soft, baked pumpkin donuts are the perfect companion for your pumpkin spice latte. These easy treats come together quickly and fill your kitchen with that irresistible fall aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg.

4. Pumpkin Pecan Pie

Why choose between pumpkin or pecan pie when you can have both? This decadent dessert layers creamy pumpkin filling with a crunchy pecan topping for the ultimate Thanksgiving indulgence.

5. Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

Creamy cheesecake meets pumpkin pie in these luscious layered bars. With a buttery gingersnap crust and a swirl of fall flavor, they’re elegant enough for your holiday dessert table yet simple to make.

6. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced, these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are a fall staple. The blend of pumpkin and melty chocolate chips makes them cozy, comforting, and totally addictive.

7. Easy Homemade Caramel Apples

Crisp apples dipped in glossy homemade caramel — a fall tradition everyone loves! These caramel apples are perfect for gifting, parties, or an afternoon of festive family fun.

8. Rice Krispie Turkey Legs

These playful Rice Krispie Turkey Legs are a kid favorite! Shaped with cereal, marshmallows, and pretzels, they’re easy to make and add a whimsical touch to your Thanksgiving dessert spread.

9. Chocolate Caramel Apple Pops

A fun twist on the classic caramel apple! These chocolate caramel apple pops are dipped in rich chocolate, drizzled with caramel, and sprinkled with nuts — sweet, crunchy, and perfectly portable.

10. Pecan Shortbread Bars with Chocolate and Maple Syrup

These indulgent shortbread bars combine buttery pecan flavor, rich chocolate, and a hint of maple syrup. Like a pecan pie in handheld form, they’re a crowd-pleaser for any fall gathering.

11. Pumpkin Cake Squares with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

Moist, spiced pumpkin cake meets zesty orange cream cheese frosting in this irresistible dessert. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these squares are perfect for potlucks or cozy nights in.

12. Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip

All the flavor of pumpkin cheesecake — in dip form! This creamy, sweet dip is perfect for pairing with graham crackers, apple slices, or cookies. A quick and festive appetizer or dessert for fall parties.

13. Pumpkin Rice Krispie Treats with Tootsie Roll Stems

Classic Rice Krispie treats get a festive makeover! Shaped like pumpkins and topped with Tootsie Roll stems, these adorable no-bake snacks are a hit for Halloween and Thanksgiving alike.

14. Pilgrim Hat Cookies

Bring some whimsy to your Thanksgiving dessert table with these adorable Pilgrim Hat Cookies! Made from fudge-striped cookies and peanut butter cups, they’re a fun, no-bake project for kids and a cute party treat.

15. Turkey Donuts

These cute and festive turkey donuts are a delightful Thanksgiving breakfast idea! Decorate with candy eyes and feathers for a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.