16 Sweet Recipes to Fill the Table After the Turkey

Thanksgiving dessert doesn’t have to stick to tradition to feel right. While pie has its place, there’s room for bakes that twist the format, use fewer ingredients, or skip the oven altogether. This list brings together quick wins, nostalgic flavors, and desserts that still feel special without adding hours of prep. From air fryer takes to chilled cheesecakes, apple-forward treats to pumpkin favorites, these recipes offer something for every kind of table. Whether you’re baking ahead or pulling something together on the day, these options keep it easy and festive, without repeating the same old thing.

Apple Pie Tacos

These taco shells are coated in cinnamon sugar, filled with hot apple filling, and finished with a quick whipped topping. The crunch hits first, followed by that warm, familiar flavor. Great for Thanksgiving dessert bars or when you want something handheld. Easy to stack, pass, and eat without a plate.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Tacos

Southern Pecan Pie

This pie holds a gooey center wrapped in toasted pecans, with a deep caramel flavor from brown sugar. It’s dense, satisfying, and doesn’t need dressing up. Serve warm or room temp, it holds either way. A mainstay for any Southern-style Thanksgiving menu.
Get the Recipe: Southern Pecan Pie

Air Fryer Baked Apples

Whole apples get hollowed and stuffed, then air fried until the skins wrinkle and the filling bubbles. It’s fruit-forward and comforting without relying on pastry. A great make-ahead if you’re skipping traditional pies. Add nuts or oats if you want more texture.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baked Apples

Pineapple Upside Down Cakes

These mini cakes flip clean from the pan with rings of glossy pineapple baked right into the top. They’re sweet, old-school, and a little bit sunny, a contrast to all the fall spice on the table. No slicing needed, just grab a fork. A nostalgic addition for guests who like something lighter.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Upside Down Cakes

Black Bottom Oatmeal Pie

This pie starts with a thin chocolate layer under a golden oatmeal filling that firms up as it cools. Each bite is soft and rich without being too sweet. It looks humble but hits hard. A sleeper hit that works with whipped cream or ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Black Bottom Oatmeal Pie

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cake

This is a one-pan bake with full pumpkin spice flavor and a soft, tight crumb. You can top it or leave it plain, either way, it doesn’t dry out. It travels well and can sit at room temp without fuss. A low-maintenance dessert that fits in anywhere on the table.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cake

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Smooth and creamy with just the right amount of spice, this cheesecake skips the oven entirely. The crust holds up in the fridge and slices like a dream. It feels fancy but takes almost no effort. Good for when the oven’s full but dessert still matters.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake

Air Fryer Apple Fries

Apple slices are dusted in sugar and fried just until crisp on the outside, tender on the inside. They’re bite-sized and perfect for dipping in caramel or yogurt. A fun, snacky dessert when you don’t want to commit to baking. Bonus: no plates needed.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Fries

Air Fryer Apple Taquitos (Easy Dessert!)

Tightly rolled tortillas are stuffed with apples and cinnamon, then air fried until the edges go golden and crunchy. These are sweet finger foods with a crisp shell and soft center. They reheat well, too. Ideal for a buffet-style dessert setup.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Taquitos (Easy Dessert!)

Baked Cranberry Cheesecake

This cheesecake pairs creamy layers with sharp cranberry swirls for something bold and slightly tangy. It stands out next to the usual pies but still fits the season. Each slice has just enough brightness to balance the meal. A nice option for the cranberry fans at the table.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cranberry Cheesecake

Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies (Only 3 Ingredients)

These cookies bake in minutes and don’t need flour or chill time. They come out with crispy edges and soft centers, every time. A quick fix if dessert feels like an afterthought. Good for peanut butter lovers and gluten-free eaters alike.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies (Only 3 Ingredients)

Pumpkin Roll Recipe

This rolled cake looks impressive but takes less time than most pies. The texture is light, and the filling adds just enough richness. Slice it ahead for an easy grab-and-go dessert. A classic that feels fresh when plated.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll Recipe

Old Fashioned Pecan Pie Recipe (no corn syrup!)

This version uses maple syrup or brown sugar instead of corn syrup for a more balanced filling. It’s sweet without being overpowering, and it cuts cleaner too. The crust holds firm and bakes golden. Traditional without being overdone.
Get the Recipe: Old Fashioned Pecan Pie Recipe (no corn syrup!)

Blueberry Upside Down Cake

Baked in a single layer with syrupy fruit on top, this cake offers a soft sponge with berry flavor in every bite. It’s unexpected for Thanksgiving but always gets compliments. Try it warm with whipped cream. A bright break from all the spice-heavy options.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Upside Down Cake

Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies (Only 3 Ingredients!)

Premade dough and filling go into the air fryer for little pockets of crispy, gooey pie. They’re fast, flaky, and completely mess-free. Glaze them or keep them simple. Best served warm with coffee or cider.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Hand Pies (Only 3 Ingredients!)

Cake Mix Pumpkin Whoopie Pies (So Good!)

These soft sandwich cookies come together fast and hold up well at room temperature. The filling is creamy but not too rich, and the pumpkin cakes stay tender. You can make them a day in advance. A fun option when you want pumpkin without slicing.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Pumpkin Whoopie Pies (So Good!)