Festive Pumpkin Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, our thoughts often drift to the warmth and indulgence of Thanksgiving celebrations. This year, elevate your festive spread with a collection of delightful pumpkin desserts that capture the very essence of autumn. From timeless classics to innovative twists, these recipes promise to add a touch of seasonal magic to your dessert table, offering a fantastic range of options to complement your main meal. If you’re looking for even more inspiration, explore our 42 Holiday Thanksgiving Desserts And Pies for additional ideas, or perhaps a Soft Apple Breakfast Cookies for a less indulgent option.

Why You’ll Love This List

• Diverse Flavours: Discover a variety of pumpkin desserts, from rich and creamy to light and spiced, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
• Dietary Inclusivity: Find options that cater to different dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan alternatives, making your Thanksgiving menu welcoming for all.
• Streamlined Preparation: Many of these homemade pumpkin recipes are designed to be straightforward, allowing you more time to enjoy the holiday with loved ones.
• Nutrient-Conscious Choices: Each recipe includes a nutritional breakdown, helping you make informed decisions about your festive baking.
• Festive Appeal: These autumnal sweets are not only delicious but also visually appealing, enhancing your Thanksgiving dessert table with their seasonal charm, just as Classic Thanksgiving Desserts And Pies To Bake brightens up any holiday spread.com/sweet-strawberries-and-cream-french-toast/”>Sweet Strawberries And Cream French Toast brightens up any breakfast table.com/easy-avocado-toast-with-tomatoes-and-greens/”>Easy Avocado Toast With Tomatoes And Greens brightens up any meal.

Festive Pumpkin Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas

15 min prep  ·  30 min cook  ·  4 servings

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1. No-Bake Pumpkin Dessert Jars

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These individual no-bake pumpkin dessert jars offer layers of spiced pumpkin cream and crushed biscuits, creating a convenient and elegant festive dessert. They’re quick to assemble and require no oven time, ideal for easy Thanksgiving desserts.

Ingredients

• 200g digestive biscuits, crushed
• 50g unsalted butter, melted
• 200g pumpkin puree
• 100g cream cheese, softened
• 75g icing sugar
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
• 200ml double cream, whipped

Instructions

1. Combine crushed biscuits and melted butter; press a spoonful into the bottom of four individual serving jars.
2. In a bowl, beat pumpkin puree, cream cheese, icing sugar, and pumpkin spice until smooth.
3. Gently fold in half of the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture.
4. Spoon a layer of pumpkin cream over the biscuit base in each jar.
5. Repeat layers with remaining biscuit crumbs and pumpkin cream.
6. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving, topped with remaining whipped cream.

Quick tip: For a vibrant colour, ensure your pumpkin puree is of good quality and has a deep orange hue.

2. Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

Infused with the beloved flavours of a pumpkin spice latte, this tender cake features layers of moist pumpkin sponge and a delicate coffee-infused buttercream. It’s a sophisticated seasonal dessert for any Thanksgiving menu.

Ingredients

• 250g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tbsp pumpkin spice blend
• 200g caster sugar
• 175ml vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 200g pumpkin puree
• 50g strong coffee, cooled
• 300g unsalted butter, softened (for buttercream)
• 600g icing sugar (for buttercream)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C; grease and flour two 20cm round cake tins.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, and pumpkin spice together in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, beat sugar, oil, eggs, pumpkin puree, and cooled coffee until combined.
4. Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just mixed, being careful not to overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly between tins and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.
6. For the buttercream, beat softened butter until pale, then gradually add icing sugar and 2 tbsp cooled coffee until light and fluffy; assemble the cooled cake with buttercream.

Quick tip: Ensure your coffee is completely cooled before adding it to the batter or buttercream to prevent curdling.

3. Pumpkin Mousse

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Light, airy, and wonderfully spiced, this pumpkin mousse is a refreshing alternative to heavier holiday puddings. Its delicate texture and rich pumpkin flavour make it an elegant choice for your Thanksgiving dessert table.

Ingredients

• 200g pumpkin puree
• 100g cream cheese, softened
• 50g caster sugar
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 300ml double cream, chilled

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, cream cheese, sugar, pumpkin spice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. In a separate, chilled bowl, whip the double cream until stiff peaks form.
3. Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture until just combined.
4. Fold in the remaining whipped cream carefully to maintain the airy texture.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving glasses and chill for at least 2 hours.
6. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of extra whipped cream before serving.

Quick tip: For an extra smooth mousse, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.

4. Pumpkin Blondies

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These chewy pumpkin blondies are a delightful fusion of caramel-like sweetness and warm pumpkin spice, making them an easy Thanksgiving dessert. Their dense, fudgy texture and delightful autumnal flavours are simply irresistible.

Ingredients

• 150g unsalted butter, melted
• 200g light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 100g pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 180g plain flour
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 175°C; line a 20x20cm baking tin with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin spice, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared tin and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a skewer comes out with moist crumbs.
7. Cool completely in the tin before slicing into squares.

Quick tip: For an extra layer of flavour, fold in 50g of white chocolate chips before baking.

5. Pumpkin Bread Pudding

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A warming and comforting autumnal sweet, this pumpkin bread pudding transforms stale bread into a rich, spiced delight. Soaked in a creamy pumpkin custard and baked to golden perfection, it’s a truly satisfying holiday pudding.

Ingredients

• 400g day-old bread, cubed
• 400ml milk
• 200ml double cream
• 2 large eggs
• 150g pumpkin puree
• 100g caster sugar
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 175°C; lightly grease a 23x33cm baking dish.
2. Arrange bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, double cream, eggs, pumpkin puree, caster sugar, pumpkin spice, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all bread is soaked.
5. Let sit for 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
6. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown.

Quick tip: For an extra special touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or raisins over the top before baking.

6. Pumpkin Crumble

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This rustic pumpkin crumble features a tender spiced pumpkin filling topped with a buttery, oat-rich streusel, offering a delightful texture contrast. It’s a homely and warm autumnal sweet, ideal for a family Thanksgiving recipe.

Ingredients

• 500g pumpkin puree
• 100g light brown sugar
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
• 150g plain flour
• 100g rolled oats
• 100g unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 50g granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C; lightly grease an ovenproof dish (approx. 20x20cm).
2. In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and pumpkin spice; spread evenly into the prepared dish.
3. In another bowl, rub together flour, oats, cold butter, and granulated sugar until crumbly.
4. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the pumpkin filling.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or custard.

Quick tip: For extra crunch, add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping.

7. Pumpkin Scones

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These light and fluffy pumpkin scones are subtly spiced with autumnal flavours, making them a wonderful festive baking addition. They are delightful served warm with clotted cream and jam, or simply a pat of butter.

Ingredients

• 250g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 50g unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2 tbsp caster sugar
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
• 100g pumpkin puree
• 50ml milk

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 200°C; lightly flour a baking tray.
2. In a large bowl, rub cold butter into flour, baking powder, sugar, and pumpkin spice until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
3. Make a well in the centre, then add pumpkin puree and milk, mixing to form a soft dough.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat to 2cm thickness.
5. Cut out rounds using a 5cm cutter, re-rolling scraps once, and place on the prepared tray.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until risen and golden brown.

Quick tip: Avoid twisting the cutter when cutting scones to ensure they rise evenly.

8. Pumpkin Spice Pudding

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This creamy pumpkin spice pudding is a velvety-smooth, comforting dessert, rich with the flavours of autumn. It’s an easy-to-make option that can be prepared ahead, making it a stress-free addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table.

Ingredients

• 400ml milk
• 100g granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp cornflour
• 2 large egg yolks
• 200g pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornflour, and egg yolks until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl.
5. Press cling film directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Quick tip: For an extra smooth pudding, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve after cooking.

9. Classic Pumpkin Pie

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A quintessential Thanksgiving treat, this classic pumpkin pie boasts a silky-smooth, spiced pumpkin filling nestled within a flaky pastry crust. Its rich, creamy texture and aromatic pumpkin spice blend make it an enduring holiday pudding.

Ingredients

• 1 (425g) can pumpkin puree
• 170g condensed milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ready-made shortcrust pastry case (23cm)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C; blind bake the pastry case for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, condensed milk, and eggs until smooth.
3. Stir in the cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the filling into the pre-baked pastry case and bake for 15 minutes at 200°C.
5. Reduce oven temperature to 175°C and continue baking for 35-40 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the centre comes out clean.
6. Cool completely on a wire rack before serving with whipped cream.

Quick tip: To prevent the crust from browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil during the last part of baking.

10. Pumpkin Cheesecake

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This creamy pumpkin cheesecake offers a luxurious twist on a seasonal favourite, combining the tang of cream cheese with the warmth of pumpkin spice. A buttery biscuit crust provides a delightful contrast to the smooth, rich filling.

Ingredients

• 250g digestive biscuits, crushed
• 100g unsalted butter, melted
• 500g full-fat cream cheese, softened
• 200g caster sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 200g pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 160°C; combine crushed biscuits and melted butter, then press into a 23cm springform tin.
2. Bake the biscuit base for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
4. Gradually beat in the eggs, then fold in the pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for 50-60 minutes, until the edges are set but the centre still wobbles slightly.
6. Turn off the oven, leave the door ajar, and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour, then chill for at least 4 hours before serving.

Quick tip: For a crack-free cheesecake, bake it in a water bath (bain-marie).

11. Vegan Pumpkin Pie

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This vegan pumpkin pie offers all the beloved flavour and creamy texture of the classic, without any dairy or eggs. It’s a wonderful option for those seeking plant-based Thanksgiving treats that don’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients

• 1 (425g) can pumpkin puree
• 200ml full-fat coconut milk (from a can)
• 100g maple syrup
• 2 tbsp cornflour
• 1 tsp pumpkin spice blend
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ready-made vegan shortcrust pastry case (23cm)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 190°C; blind bake the vegan pastry case for 10 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, coconut milk, maple syrup, cornflour, pumpkin spice, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour the filling into the pre-baked pastry case.
4. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the centre is set with a slight wobble.
5. Cool completely on a wire rack, then chill for at least 3 hours before serving.

Quick tip: Use only the thick cream from the top of the coconut milk can for a richer, creamier filling.

12. Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins

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These fluffy gluten-free pumpkin muffins are moist, spiced, and utterly delicious, making them an excellent choice for a family Thanksgiving recipe or even breakfast. They deliver all the autumnal flavour without the gluten.

Ingredients

• 200g gluten-free plain flour blend
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 1 tbsp pumpkin spice blend
• 150g light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 100ml vegetable oil
• 200g pumpkin puree
• 50ml milk

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C; line a 12-hole muffin tin with paper cases.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, pumpkin spice, and brown sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, oil, pumpkin puree, and milk until combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined; do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cases.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Quick tip: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra texture and flavour.

13. Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

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These soft and chewy pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies are rolled in cinnamon sugar, offering a delightful blend of warm spices and subtle pumpkin flavour. They are an easy-to-make festive baking option for any Thanksgiving menu.

Ingredients

• 150g unsalted butter, softened
• 100g caster sugar
• 50g light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 100g pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 250g plain flour
• 1 tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for rolling)
• 50g caster sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C; line baking trays with parchment paper.
2. Cream together softened butter, 100g caster sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, then stir in pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cream of tartar, and bicarbonate of soda.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Combine 1 tbsp cinnamon and 50g caster sugar in a shallow dish; roll dough into walnut-sized balls and coat thoroughly.
7. Place balls on baking trays, spaced apart, and bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set but centres are still soft.
8. Cool on trays for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Quick tip: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before rolling can make it easier to handle.

14. Pumpkin Swirl Brownies

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These decadent pumpkin swirl brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownie with a creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake swirl. The contrast in flavours and textures makes them an exciting addition to any Thanksgiving dessert table.

Ingredients

• 150g unsalted butter
• 100g dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 large eggs
• 150g caster sugar
• 75g plain flour
• 50g cocoa powder
• 100g cream cheese, softened
• 50g pumpkin puree
• 1 tbsp caster sugar (for pumpkin swirl)
• ½ tsp pumpkin spice blend

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 170°C; line a 20x20cm baking tin with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and dark chocolate together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, then set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a bowl, whisk 2 eggs and 150g caster sugar until pale and fluffy, then fold in the cooled chocolate mixture.
4. Sift in flour and cocoa powder, gently folding until just combined, then spread two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared tin.
5. For the pumpkin swirl, beat cream cheese, pumpkin puree, 1 tbsp caster sugar, and pumpkin spice until smooth.
6. Dollop the pumpkin mixture and remaining brownie batter over the base, then swirl with a knife.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centre has a slight wobble.
8. Cool completely in the tin before slicing.

Quick tip: Do not overbake brownies; they should still be slightly fudgy in the centre when removed from the oven.

15. Pumpkin & Apple Crumble

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I stumbled upon this combination by accident, and it’s been a hit ever since. This hearty pumpkin and apple crumble combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the tartness of apples, all under a golden, buttery oat topping. It’s a wholesome and satisfying autumnal sweet, perfect for family Thanksgiving recipes.

Ingredients

• 250g pumpkin puree
• 2 medium cooking apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 75g light brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 150g plain flour
• 75g rolled oats
• 100g unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 50g demerara sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C; lightly grease an ovenproof dish.
2. In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree, diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon; spread evenly into the prepared dish.
3. In another bowl, rub together flour, oats, cold butter, and demerara sugar until a crumbly topping forms.
4. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the pumpkin and apple filling.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
6. Serve warm with a dollop of crème fraîche or custard.

Quick tip: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavour profile in your crumble.

Frequently Asked Questions

From the creamy indulgence of a classic pumpkin pie to the light elegance of a pumpkin mousse, these festive pumpkin Thanksgiving dessert ideas offer a delightful array of autumnal sweets to grace your holiday table. We hope this collection inspires your festive baking and helps you create truly memorable Thanksgiving treats. Why not save your favourites, pin them for later, or try one this season?

Festive Pumpkin Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas: Delicious fall treats for your holiday table

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