Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food! After a big feast, a sweet ending can make the day even better. Make-ahead desserts can save you time and stress when planning your Thanksgiving meal. Here are some delightful dessert recipes you can prepare in advance.
Why make this recipe
Making desserts ahead of time means you can enjoy the holiday without rushing around in the kitchen. Whether it’s pumpkin pie, pecan pie, or chocolate mousse, having these treats ready to go allows you to spend more time with loved ones. Plus, many desserts taste even better after resting for a day or two!
How to prepare Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Desserts
Ingredients:
- Pumpkin Pie
- Pecan Pie
- Chocolate Mousse
- Apple Crisp
- Cheesecake
- Cranberry Crumble
- Gingerbread Cookies
- Fudge
- Tarts
- Custard
Steps:
- Choose one or more dessert recipes you want to make ahead.
- Prepare the dessert according to the recipe instructions.
- Allow it to cool completely before storing.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the fridge or freezer depending on how long until you need it.
- Thaw if frozen before serving, and garnish as needed before presenting.
How to serve Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Desserts
Serving your make-ahead desserts is simple. Just take them out of the fridge or freezer, let them sit for a bit (if frozen), and add any final touches like whipped cream or chocolate shavings. Slice the pies or tarts, plate the mousse, and get ready to impress your guests!
How to store Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Desserts
If your dessert is in the fridge, it should last for about 3 to 5 days. If you’ve frozen it, it can stay good for up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Make sure to label the desserts so you know what’s what when you’re ready to serve.
Tips to make Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Desserts perfectly
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- Follow the recipe carefully for perfect results.
- Allow desserts to cool completely before wrapping them.
- Consider garnishing just before serving for a fresh and appealing look.
- Experiment with flavors to find what you and your guests love the most.
Variations
Feel free to get creative! You can mix and match bases and toppings. For example, try a pumpkin cheesecake for a unique twist on traditional pumpkin pie or add nuts to your chocolate mousse for crunch.
FAQ
1. How far in advance can I make these desserts?
You can make most desserts one to two days before Thanksgiving. However, desserts like fudge or cookies can be made up to a week in advance.
2. Can I freeze all of these desserts?
Most desserts freeze well, but items with a lot of cream or custard may not thaw as nicely. Check specific recipes for freezing recommendations.
3. How do I thaw frozen desserts?
Thaw frozen desserts in the fridge overnight before serving. This helps maintain the texture and flavor.
Now you’re all set to make your Thanksgiving sweeter and simpler with these make-ahead desserts! Enjoy the holidays!
PrintMake-Ahead Thanksgiving Desserts
Delicious desserts that you can prepare ahead of time for a stress-free Thanksgiving celebration.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 120 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Pumpkin Pie
- Pecan Pie
- Chocolate Mousse
- Apple Crisp
- Cheesecake
- Cranberry Crumble
- Gingerbread Cookies
- Fudge
- Tarts
- Custard
Instructions
- Choose one or more dessert recipes you want to make ahead.
- Prepare the dessert according to the recipe instructions.
- Allow it to cool completely before storing.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the fridge or freezer depending on how long until you need it.
- Thaw if frozen before serving, and garnish as needed before presenting.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Consider garnishing just before serving for a fresh and appealing look.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Thanksgiving, make-ahead, desserts, pumpkin pie, pecan pie

