University of Maine Extension’s Kathy Savoie says pumpkin pie can be refrigerated for up to four days and frozen for up to two months, apple pie can sit covered at room temperature for up to two days, and custard pies keep up to four days but do not freeze well. Those storage times shape which desserts suit a holiday you want to prepare early.
This guide to easy Thanksgiving desserts beyond pumpkin pie offers 12 ideas grouped by type, with make-ahead and storage notes. The 12 ideas are our own suggestions, not tested recipes, and the storage facts come from University of Maine Extension, IFAS (24 November 2025) and UGA (2009). Thanksgiving is on Thursday, 26 November 2026.
Fruit Desserts
Fruit desserts are lighter than pie and need less work. These are our ideas.
| Idea | Why it works (our suggestion) |
|---|---|
| Apple crisp | No crust to roll |
| Pear and ginger crumble | Warm spice |
| Cranberry orange tart | Tart against rich mains |
| Baked cinnamon apples | Simple and light |
Our banana bread recipes also work as a sweet breakfast the next morning.
Bars and Cakes
Bars cut easily and feed a crowd. UGA says cheesecake can be made two days ahead.
| Idea | Why it works (our suggestion) |
|---|---|
| Pecan pie bars | Easy to cut; pecan pie is low-risk per IFAS |
| Cheesecake | Make ahead (UGA) |
| Spiced carrot cake | Moist and easy to carry |
| Gingerbread loaf | Keeps well |
No-Bake and Cold
No-bake desserts free up the oven.
| Idea | Why it works (our suggestion) |
|---|---|
| Pumpkin mousse cups | Make the day before |
| Chocolate pots de creme | Chill overnight |
| Cranberry trifle | Layers ahead |
| Maple pudding | Simple and creamy |
Storage and Safety
Maine Extension gives these times. Thaw frozen pies in the fridge. IFAS says pumpkin pie should not sit out more than two hours.
| Dessert | Storage (Maine Extension) |
|---|---|
| Pumpkin pie | Fridge up to 4 days; freezer up to 2 months |
| Custard pie | Fridge up to 4 days; does not freeze well |
| Apple pie | Covered at room temperature up to 2 days, then fridge 2 more; or fridge up to 7 days; freezer up to 4 months |
| Pecan and other egg-based pies | Up to 4 days |
| Fresh fruit, cream and chiffon pies | Up to 4 days |
| Sugar-substitute pies | Eat within 2 days |
Planning the Dessert Table
Choose one fruit, one bar or cake and one no-bake option, so guests have choices. UGA advises bringing cold desserts to room temperature before serving. For more baking ideas, see our holiday cookie recipes.
