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The turkey isn't the only star of a great Thanksgiving meal – nowadays, desserts are just as significant as the main course. From warm apple crumbles to the many variations of pie, Thanksgiving desserts are, in many ways, in a league of their own. After your loved ones are stuffed with turkey, indulge in one (or more) of these 13 dessert items that are an upgrade from traditional pumpkin pie.
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Baked Pecan-Stuffed Apples
Apples are a staple this time of year, and a fitting fruit to include in your Thanksgiving desserts spread. This simple baked pecan-stuffed apples recipe is as fun to eat as it is to make, and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. For this recipe, use sweet, tart apples such as Gala or honey crisp to complement the sugary stuffing.
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Sweet Potato Cinnamon Roll Cookies
These sweet potato cinnamon roll cookies are the perfect bite sized-cookies to serve at any fall gathering. They are made with sweet potato puree and filled with brown sugar and cinnamon, adding a subtle hint of autumn flavors to each bite. You can also sub out the sweet potato puree with pumpkin puree for a pumpkin pie-like flavor.
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Raw Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake
For a no-bake cheesecake that will satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike, serve up this tasty raw pumpkin swirl cheesecake. You can prepare this ahead of time and let it sit in the freezer for six hours, then take it out when it is ready to serve. This is a great make-ahead, no-bake recipe that will leave you plenty of oven space on Thanksgiving day.
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Coconut-Pecan Carrot Cake With CinnamonGlaze
This coconut-pecan carrot cake is a delightful twist on the fall classic. The coconut flakes and nutty pecans add a unique and chewy flavor and texture you wouldn't otherwise enjoy in a traditional carrot cake. The cinnamon glaze is a dairy-free frosting that effortlessly complements the coconut pecan carrot cake.
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Apple Pie Crumb Cake
Enjoy a slice of this delicious apple pie crumb cake after you've had your Thanksgiving feast. This recipe combines fresh apples, moist cake and a cinnamon-sugar crust for a warm, crumbly dessert.
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No-Bake Pecan Pie
This no-bake pecan pie is a healthier version of the traditional pecan pie. You can slice these into bite-sized pie-shaped pieces to serve out the perfect portions to your guests.
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Hard Apple Cider Skillet Cobbler
Incorporate some crisp, boozy cider into your baking this year with this hard apple cider skillet cobbler. This skillet cobbler pairs readily with a glass of cider, and can be served in a cast iron skillet for a rustic, countryside feel. The best part? The cider and fresh apple slices meld together when baked, creating a warm and lingering cinnamon aroma that fills any room.
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Healthy No-Bake Pumpkin Pie
This vegan, no-bake pumpkin pie is a great way to end Thanksgiving dinner. The gritty, flavorful crust and smooth filling make this a decadent dessert to complement a grand meal. Prepare as individual tartlets or in small jars for easy serving.
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Homemade Carrot Cake and Frosting
This classic carrot cake recipe is a standout baked dessert and incorporates freshly grated carrots. Slather on some silky homemade frosting and you've got a beautiful cake that looks like it was bought from a gourmet bakery.
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German Chocolate Cake
For a luscious and impressive dessert, treat your family and friends to this mouthwatering German chocolate cake. The dense chocolate cake layered with a creamy coconut, pecan and caramel filling make it perfect to display and eat at any Thanksgiving or holiday party.
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Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cake With CreamCheese Frosting
This spiced, flavorful pumpkin cake will be sure to end your Thanksgiving meal on a high note. The spongy pumpkin cake and delectable cream cheese frosting are an irresistible combination that will have your guests savoring every bite. \\
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Cinnamon Bread Pudding
Cinnamon bread pudding is a fall favorite and classic Thanksgiving dessert. The moist brioche bun baked together with cinnamon, sugar, cream and dark chocolate chunks make this a wholesome and warm treat to enjoy with the family.
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Black Forest Cake
Impress your guests this Thanksgiving with this decadent black forest cake. The poached cherries, spongy cake and rich dark chocolate ganache layer together melodiously to form a beautiful, indulgent creation your family and friends will love.
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