40 Apple-Based Thanksgiving Treats That Beat Pie Any Day

When it comes to the Thanksgiving dessert table, classic apple pie often reigns supreme. It is a beloved tradition, a symbol of comfort and nostalgia.

But this year, why not think outside the crust? The humble apple is one of the most versatile fruits of the autumn season, capable of transforming into an incredible array of delicious treats.

Visuals	Recipe Name	Estimated Cost
	1. Classic Apple Cider Bundt Cake	$10 – $15
	2. Rustic Apple Skillet Cake	$8 – $12
	3. Apple Bread with a Cinnamon Swirl	$8 – $12
	4. Apple Upside-Down Cake	$10 – $15
	5. Apple Fritter Loaf Bread	$10 – $15
	6. The Ultimate Apple Crisp	$12 – $18
	7. Brown Sugar Apple Crumble	$12 – $18
	8. Easy Skillet Apple Cobbler	$10 – $15
	9. Individual Apple Betty	$8 – $12
	10. Apple Cranberry Crisp	$15 – $20
	11. Apple Pie Cookies	$10 – $15
	12. Salted Caramel Apple Bars	$15 – $20
	13. Easy Apple Turnovers	$8 – $12
	14. Apple Oatmeal Cookies	$10 – $15
	15. Apple Pie Whoopie Pies	$12 – $18
	16. Layered Apple Trifle	$15 – $25
	17. Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding	$10 – $15
	18. Creamy Apple Mousse	$10 – $18
	19. Apple Pie Rice Pudding	$8 – $12
	20. No-Bake Apple Cheesecake Jars	$15 – $20
	21. Classic Caramel Apples	$10 – $15
	22. Old-Fashioned Apple Fritters	$10 – $15
	23. Chunky Homemade Applesauce	$8 – $15
	24. Apple “Nachos”	$10 – $15
	25. Spiced Apple Butter	$10 – $18
	26. Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider	$10 – $15
	27. Caramel Apple Sangria	$20 – $30
	28. Apple Pie Smoothie	$5 – $8
	29. Bourbon Apple Hot Toddy	$15 – $25
	30. Sparkling Apple Cider Punch	$15 – $20
	31. Baked Apples	$8 – $12
	32. Apple Dumplings	$10 – $15
	33. Apple Donuts	$10 – $15
	34. Caramel Apple Nachos	$10 – $15
	35. Apple Hand Pies	$8 – $12
	36. Apple Galette	$8 – $12
	37. Taffy Apple Salad	$10 – $15
	38. Apple Cinnamon Scones	$8 – $12
	39. Apple Crumble Bars	$12 – $18
	40. Apple Pie Milkshake	$8 – $12

This guide is your passport to an apple-filled Thanksgiving that goes far beyond a simple pie. From moist cakes and rustic crumbles to individual handhelds and creamy puddings, here are 40 stunning apple-based desserts that are sure to steal the show and become new family favorites.

Spectacular Cakes, Breads & Loaves

These recipes take the comforting flavor of apples and bake them into moist, tender, and impressive cakes and breads that are perfect for a crowd.

1. Classic Apple Cider Bundt Cake

A dense, moist, and beautiful cake that is packed with the concentrated, tangy flavor of apple cider.

Recipe Method

• Start by making an apple cider reduction. Gently simmer two cups of apple cider in a saucepan until it has reduced to about a half cup. Let it cool completely.
• In a large bowl, cream together one cup of softened butter with one and a half cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in three large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together three cups of all-purpose flour, two teaspoons of baking powder, and a teaspoon of cinnamon.
• Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the cooled apple cider reduction to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
• Gently fold in one cup of finely shredded apple for extra moisture.
• Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured bundt pan.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
• Once cool, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, a little milk, and a splash of the remaining apple cider.

2. Rustic Apple Skillet Cake

A simple, beautiful, one-pan cake with a caramelized, buttery apple topping. It is rustic, elegant, and incredibly easy.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet, melt a half cup of butter over medium heat.
• Sprinkle a half cup of brown sugar over the melted butter.
• Peel, core, and thinly slice two apples. Arrange the apple slices in a beautiful, decorative pattern over the butter and sugar mixture.
• In a bowl, whisk together one and a half cups of flour, one and a half teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
• In another bowl, whisk together two eggs, a half cup of milk, and one teaspoon of vanilla.
• Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until a smooth batter forms. Do not overmix.
• Carefully pour the batter over the apple slices in the skillet and spread it evenly.
• Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the skillet for about 10 minutes.
• Carefully place a large serving plate over the skillet and invert the cake. Serve warm.

3. Apple Bread with a Cinnamon Swirl

A wonderfully moist and tender quick bread that is perfect for a Thanksgiving breakfast or as a simple dessert.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
• In a large bowl, whisk together two cups of flour, one cup of sugar, and one teaspoon of baking soda.
• In a separate bowl, combine a half cup of melted butter, two beaten eggs, and one teaspoon of vanilla.
• Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
• Gently fold in two cups of finely diced apples.
• To make the swirl, combine a quarter cup of brown sugar with one tablespoon of cinnamon in a small bowl.
• Pour half of the apple bread batter into the prepared loaf pan.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
• Carefully top with the remaining batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the layers together.
• Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let it cool in the pan before slicing.

4. Apple Upside-Down Cake

A classic dessert where the beautiful, caramelized apple topping becomes the star of the show once the cake is inverted.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt a half cup of butter.
• Sprinkle one cup of packed brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
• Peel, core, and thinly slice three apples. Arrange the apple slices in a decorative, overlapping pattern on top of the brown sugar.
• Prepare a simple yellow or vanilla cake batter (a box mix works great here to save time).
• Carefully pour the prepared cake batter over the apple slices in the pan.
• Spread the batter evenly to the edges.
• Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake is golden and cooked through.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for only 10 minutes. It is important to invert it while it is still warm.
• Place a serving platter over the cake pan and carefully flip it over. Serve warm.

5. Apple Fritter Loaf Bread

All the delicious, gooey flavor of an apple fritter, but in an easy-to-make loaf form. It is drizzled with a sweet glaze.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a loaf pan.
• Prepare a simple, thick cake-like batter for the bread.
• Peel, core, and chop two apples into small, half-inch dice.
• In a separate bowl, toss the diced apples with a little brown sugar and a generous amount of cinnamon.
• Pour about half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
• Spoon half of the cinnamon apple mixture over the batter.
• Add the remaining batter, and top with the rest of the apple mixture.
• Use a knife to gently swirl the apples into the batter.
• Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the loaf is cooked through.
• Let the bread cool completely.
• For the glaze, whisk together one cup of powdered sugar with a few tablespoons of milk until you have a thick, drizzly consistency.
• Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled loaf.

Warm & Cozy Crisps, Crumbles, & Cobblers

These rustic, fruit-forward desserts are the epitome of comfort. They feature tender, baked apples under a delicious, textured topping.

6. The Ultimate Apple Crisp

A classic for a reason. Tender, spiced apples are baked until bubbly under a delicious, crunchy topping made with rolled oats.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Peel, core, and slice about six to eight baking apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp).
• In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with a quarter cup of sugar, the juice of half a lemon, and one teaspoon of cinnamon.
• Spread the prepared apples evenly in the buttered baking dish.
• To make the crisp topping, combine one cup of all-purpose flour, one cup of rolled oats, and one cup of brown sugar in a bowl.
• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of salt.
• Cut in a half cup of cold, cubed butter using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
• Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
• Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. It is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

7. Brown Sugar Apple Crumble

Similar to a crisp, but a crumble topping is a simpler streusel, typically made without oats, for a more tender, crumbly texture.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your apple filling as you would for a crisp and place it in a baking dish.
• To make the crumble topping, combine one and a half cups of all-purpose flour with one cup of packed brown sugar in a bowl.
• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon.
• Cut in a half cup of cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles small pebbles.
• For extra flavor and crunch, you can stir in a half cup of chopped pecans or walnuts.
• Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling.
• Bake for 35 to 45 minutes.
• The topping should be deeply golden and the apple filling should be hot and bubbling around the edges.
• Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
• This is delicious served with a drizzle of heavy cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

8. Easy Skillet Apple Cobbler

A comforting, old-fashioned dessert with warm, baked apples topped with soft, cake-like biscuits. Making it in a skillet adds a rustic touch.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet, melt a quarter cup of butter.
• Add four sliced baking apples, a half cup of sugar, and a teaspoon of cinnamon. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the apples soften slightly.
• To make the cobbler topping, whisk together one and a half cups of flour, a quarter cup of sugar, and two teaspoons of baking powder.
• Cut in a quarter cup of cold butter until the mixture is crumbly.
• Stir in a half cup of milk to form a soft, wet dough.
• Drop large spoonfuls of the biscuit dough all over the top of the hot apple filling in the skillet.
• You can sprinkle the top of the dough with a little extra cinnamon sugar.
• Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.
• Serve the cobbler warm, directly from the skillet, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

9. Individual Apple Betty

A simple, old-fashioned dessert made by layering spiced apples with buttered bread crumbs or cubes. It is humble, easy, and delicious.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a bowl, toss four sliced baking apples with a half cup of sugar, a teaspoon of cinnamon, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• In a separate bowl, toss three cups of bread cubes (from a sturdy, slightly stale bread) with a half cup of melted butter.
• Grease several individual ramekins or a small baking dish.
• Create alternating layers of the buttered bread cubes and the spiced apple mixture, beginning and ending with the bread cubes.
• Pour any remaining melted butter over the top.
• You can also add a splash of apple juice or water to the dish to help the apples steam.
• Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the apples are tender and the top is golden brown and crispy.
• This is a fantastic way to use up stale bread.
• Serve warm, perhaps with a drizzle of caramel sauce.

10. Apple Cranberry Crisp

The tartness of fresh or dried cranberries is a perfect Thanksgiving addition to a classic apple crisp. It adds a beautiful, festive color and a complex flavor.

Recipe Method

• Prepare your apple filling as you would for a classic crisp, using about six sliced apples.
• To the apple mixture, add one cup of fresh or frozen cranberries. If using dried cranberries, use about a half cup.
• Toss everything together with sugar, cinnamon, and a little orange zest, which complements the cranberry flavor.
• Place the fruit mixture in a baking dish.
• Prepare your favorite oat-based crisp topping.
• A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans in the topping is a great addition.
• Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple and cranberry mixture.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 to 50 minutes.
• The crisp is ready when the topping is golden and the fruit juices are bubbling thickly around the edges.
• The tart cranberries cut through the sweetness, creating a perfectly balanced dessert.

Handheld & Individual Treats

These recipes are perfect for a party or a buffet-style dessert table. They are easy to serve, require no plates or forks, and are full of classic apple flavor.

11. Apple Pie Cookies

A fun and creative fusion of two classic desserts. These are essentially tiny, individual apple pies in a buttery cookie cup.

Recipe Method

• Prepare a simple sugar cookie dough (store-bought works great to save time).
• Press a small ball of the cookie dough into each cup of a greased mini-muffin tin, creating a small cup shape.
• To make a quick filling, finely dice one large apple and cook it on the stovetop with a tablespoon of butter, a quarter cup of brown sugar, and a teaspoon of cinnamon until the apple is tender.
• Let the apple filling cool slightly.
• Spoon a small amount of the apple pie filling into each raw cookie cup.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, until the cookie edges are golden brown.
• Let the cookie cups cool in the pan for a few minutes before removing them.
• Once they are completely cool, you can drizzle them with a simple vanilla glaze or a caramel sauce.
• For an extra touch, you can add a small lattice top made from pie crust dough before baking.
• These are a perfect, bite-sized treat for a Thanksgiving dessert platter.

12. Salted Caramel Apple Bars

These are a decadent and gooey bar cookie with a shortbread crust, a layer of spiced apples, and a rich caramel topping.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
• For the crust, combine two cups of flour, a half cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in one cup of cold, cubed butter until it is crumbly.
• Press the shortbread crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes.
• While the crust bakes, prepare the apple layer by tossing three cups of diced apples with a little sugar and cinnamon.
• Spread the apples evenly over the hot, partially baked crust.
• For the topping, melt one cup of caramels with a quarter cup of heavy cream until smooth.
• Pour the melted caramel sauce all over the apples.
• You can also add a simple streusel topping over the caramel for extra texture.
• Bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, until the caramel is bubbly and the edges are golden.
• Let the bars cool completely before sprinkling with flaky sea salt and slicing into squares.

13. Easy Apple Turnovers

A classic bakery treat that is incredibly easy to make at home using a brilliant shortcut: frozen puff pastry.

Recipe Method

• Thaw one sheet of frozen puff pastry according to the package directions.
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Make a quick apple filling by cooking two diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a little butter until they are soft. Let it cool.
• Unfold the puff pastry sheet and cut it into four equal squares.
• Spoon a portion of the cooled apple filling onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a border around the edge.
• Brush the edges of the pastry with a little bit of water or an egg wash.
• Fold the empty half of the pastry over the filling to create a triangle. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
• Place the turnovers on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Brush the tops with an egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Cut a few small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
• Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Serve warm.

14. Apple Oatmeal Cookies

A soft, chewy, and comforting oatmeal cookie that is studded with small pieces of fresh apple and warm spices.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar. Beat in an egg and vanilla.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, rolled oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
• Finely dice one apple. It is important that the pieces are very small so they cook through.
• Gently fold the diced apple and a half cup of chopped walnuts or raisins into the cookie dough.
• Drop rounded spoonfuls of the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
• These are a wonderfully hearty and flavorful cookie.

15. Apple Pie Whoopie Pies

A fun twist on a classic dessert. These are two soft, cake-like apple spice cookies sandwiched together with a fluffy cream cheese filling.

Recipe Method

• Prepare a soft, cake-like cookie batter, incorporating apple sauce and apple pie spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Drop rounded tablespoons of the batter onto a baking sheet, leaving space between them.
• Bake until the “cookies” are puffed and cooked through. They should be soft like a cake top.
• Let the cookie cakes cool completely.
• To make the filling, beat together softened cream cheese with softened butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla until it is light and fluffy.
• Take two of the cooled apple spice cookies.
• Pipe or spread a generous amount of the cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
• Gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich.
• Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling.
• Chill the whoopie pies for about 30 minutes to let the filling set.

Creamy, Custardy & Spoonable

These desserts are all about rich, creamy textures and comforting, warm spices. They are perfect for serving in individual bowls or glasses.

16. Layered Apple Trifle

A trifle is a visually stunning, no-fuss dessert that is perfect for a crowd. It involves layering cake, fruit, and a creamy pudding or custard.

Recipe Method

• You will need three main components: a cake, a fruit filling, and a cream.
• For the cake, use store-bought angel food cake or pound cake, cut into 1-inch cubes.
• For the fruit, cook down four sliced apples with some sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of cider until they are tender. Let it cool.
• For the cream, prepare a large box of instant vanilla pudding, or make your own custard.
• In a large, clear glass trifle bowl, start with a layer of the cake cubes.
• Spoon a layer of the cooled, cooked apples over the cake.
• Add a generous layer of the vanilla pudding.
• Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the bowl.
• Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to soften.
• Before serving, top the trifle with a generous layer of sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or some crushed toffee bits.

17. Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

A wonderfully comforting and rustic dessert that is perfect for using up stale bread. It is a warm, custardy bake packed with apples and spice.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a baking dish.
• Cut about six cups of stale, sturdy bread (like challah or brioche) into 1-inch cubes and place them in the baking dish.
• Scatter two cups of diced apples amongst the bread cubes.
• In a large bowl, whisk together four eggs, two cups of milk, a half cup of sugar, and a teaspoon of vanilla.
• Add a generous teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the custard mixture.
• Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples.
• Gently press down on the bread to make sure it is all soaked in the custard.
• Let the mixture sit for about 20 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the liquid.
• Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the pudding is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set.
• Serve the bread pudding warm, with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of ice cream.

18. Creamy Apple Mousse

A light, airy, and elegant dessert. This mousse has a delicate apple flavor and a beautiful, smooth texture.

Recipe Method

• Start by making a smooth, thick apple purée. Cook down three peeled and chopped apples with a little water and sugar until they are very soft, then blend until smooth. Let it cool.
• You will need about one cup of the cooled apple purée.
• In a chilled bowl, whip one cup of heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
• In a separate bowl, gently fold the cooled apple purée into a half cup of plain yogurt or mascarpone cheese.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the apple mixture in two additions. Be careful not to deflate the cream.
• The goal is to keep the mousse light and airy.
• Spoon the finished mousse into individual serving glasses or bowls.
• Chill the mousse in the refrigerator for at least two hours to let it set completely.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a very thin slice of apple.
• This is a sophisticated and light dessert, perfect for after a heavy Thanksgiving meal.

19. Apple Pie Rice Pudding

A cozy, creamy, and comforting rice pudding infused with all the warm, delicious flavors of an apple pie.

Recipe Method

• In a medium saucepan, combine a half cup of Arborio rice with two cups of milk and two cups of water.
• Add a pinch of salt and bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, for about 20 to 25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the mixture is creamy.
• While the rice is cooking, prepare the apple topping.
• In a separate small pan, cook one finely diced apple with a tablespoon of butter, two tablespoons of brown sugar, and a half teaspoon of cinnamon until the apple is soft and caramelized.
• Once the rice pudding is cooked, stir in a quarter cup of sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla.
• To serve, spoon the warm rice pudding into bowls.
• Top each serving with a spoonful of the warm, cooked apple pie topping.
• A sprinkle of cinnamon on top is a nice finishing touch.
• This is a wonderfully comforting and easy dessert.

20. No-Bake Apple Cheesecake Jars

Get the flavor of a creamy apple cheesecake without any of the baking. Layering it in jars makes for a beautiful and easy individual dessert.

Recipe Method

• First, make a simple graham cracker or gingersnap crumb crust and press it into the bottom of several small glass jars.
• Next, prepare the apple filling. Cook down two diced apples with a little lemon juice, cinnamon, and a tablespoon of maple syrup until they are tender. Let it cool.
• To make the no-bake cheesecake filling, beat together cream cheese, a little powdered sugar, and some whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
• Now it is time to layer. Start with a layer of the cooled apple filling on top of the crust.
• Add a generous layer of the creamy cheesecake filling.
• Repeat the layers if your jars are tall enough.
• Finish with a final dollop of the cheesecake filling.
• Chill the jars in the refrigerator for at least two hours to let everything set.
• Before serving, you can top the jars with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of crushed nuts.
• These are a perfect, make-ahead dessert for a Thanksgiving gathering.

Fun on the Stovetop

These recipes are made entirely on the stovetop, which is perfect for when your oven is already full of turkey and side dishes on Thanksgiving Day.

21. Classic Caramel Apples

A nostalgic, fun, and interactive treat that is a classic for a reason. Crisp, tart apples are dipped in rich, buttery, homemade caramel.

Recipe Method

• Start with six small to medium-sized, crisp apples, like Granny Smith. Wash and dry them thoroughly.
• Remove the stems and insert a sturdy wooden stick firmly into the top of each apple.
• Line a baking sheet with greased parchment paper.
• To make the caramel, combine one cup of packed brown sugar, a half cup of corn syrup, a quarter cup of water, and a half cup of heavy cream in a saucepan.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture reaches the “firm ball” stage on a candy thermometer, which is about 245°F (118°C).
• Remove the caramel from the heat and carefully stir in a teaspoon of vanilla.
• Working quickly but carefully, dip each apple into the hot caramel, tilting the pan to coat it evenly.
• Let any excess caramel drip off.
• If you like, you can roll the bottom of the caramel-coated apple in chopped nuts or sprinkles.
• Place the dipped apples on the prepared parchment paper and let them cool and set completely.

22. Old-Fashioned Apple Fritters

These are like little, rustic, apple-filled donuts. They are fried on the stovetop until they are golden and crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Recipe Method

• In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven, heat about two to three inches of a neutral oil to 365°F (185°C).
• While the oil is heating, prepare the batter.
• In a bowl, whisk together one and a half cups of flour, a quarter cup of sugar, and two teaspoons of baking powder.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together two-thirds of a cup of milk, one egg, and two tablespoons of melted butter.
• Combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a thick batter.
• Peel, core, and finely dice two apples. Fold the diced apples into the batter.
• Carefully drop heaping tablespoonfuls of the apple batter into the hot oil.
• Fry the fritters for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they are deep golden brown and cooked through.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain.
• While they are still warm, you can toss them in cinnamon sugar or drizzle them with a simple powdered sugar glaze.

23. Chunky Homemade Applesauce

Homemade applesauce is incredibly easy to make on the stovetop and tastes so much better than the store-bought kind. You can control the sweetness and texture.

Recipe Method

• Peel, core, and roughly chop about four pounds of your favorite apples. A mix of sweet and tart apples is great.
• Place the chopped apples in a large pot or a Dutch oven.
• Add about a half cup of apple cider or water to the pot.
• Add a cinnamon stick and a quarter cup of sugar (or more, to your taste).
• Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
• Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the apples cook for about 20 to 30 minutes.
• Stir occasionally, until the apples are very soft and falling apart.
• For a chunky sauce, you can just mash the apples with a potato masher or a fork.
• For a smoother sauce, you can run the mixture through a food mill or use an immersion blender.
• Serve the applesauce warm or chilled. It is a perfect, simple side dish or a light dessert.

24. Apple “Nachos”

A fun, healthy, and interactive dessert. Crisp apple slices are arranged like nacho chips and then drizzled with delicious toppings.

Recipe Method

• Take two or three crisp apples, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
• Core the apples and then slice them very thinly into rounds.
• Arrange the thin apple slices on a large platter, overlapping them like a pile of nacho chips.
• To prevent the apples from browning, you can spritz them with a little bit of lemon juice.
• Now for the fun part: the toppings.
• Warm some caramel sauce and peanut butter in the microwave until they are a drizzly consistency.
• Drizzle the warm caramel and peanut butter all over the apple slices.
• Sprinkle on a variety of other toppings.
• Good options include mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or granola.
• Serve immediately with forks for a fun, shareable dessert.

25. Spiced Apple Butter

Apple butter is a thick, rich, and concentrated spread made by slow-cooking apples for a long time. It can be made easily on the stovetop.

Recipe Method

• You will need about five pounds of apples, peeled, cored, and chopped.
• Place the apples in a large, heavy-bottomed pot.
• Add one cup of apple cider and one cup of brown sugar.
• Add your favorite warm spices, like a few cinnamon sticks, some whole cloves, and a little allspice.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a very low simmer.
• Cook the mixture, uncovered, for several hours, stirring occasionally.
• The apples will break down completely and the mixture will become very thick, dark, and concentrated.
• You can use an immersion blender at the end to make it completely smooth.
• This is a fantastic, homemade gift and a delicious spread for toast or biscuits on Thanksgiving morning.
• The long, slow cooking process will make your entire house smell amazing.

Delicious Drinkable Apples

Do not forget about dessert in a glass! These warm, festive, and comforting apple-based drinks are a perfect way to end your Thanksgiving feast.

26. Slow Cooker Spiced Apple Cider

This is the easiest way to make a big batch of warm, fragrant cider for a crowd. Your slow cooker does all the work.

Recipe Method

• Pour one gallon of a good quality, fresh apple cider into your slow cooker.
• Add your mulling spices. You can use a pre-made mulling spice packet, or make your own.
• Classic spices include several cinnamon sticks, one tablespoon of whole cloves, and one tablespoon of whole allspice.
• Add one orange, sliced into rounds.
• Stir everything together.
• Cook the cider on low for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to infuse completely.
• Your house will smell absolutely incredible.
• Keep the slow cooker on the “warm” setting throughout your gathering.
• Set up a ladle and some mugs next to the slow cooker for easy self-service.
• You can add a splash of bourbon or rum to an adult’s mug for a spiked version.

27. Caramel Apple Sangria

A fun, festive, and seasonal twist on classic sangria. This is a perfect make-ahead batch cocktail for a Thanksgiving gathering.

Recipe Method

• In a large pitcher, combine one bottle of a crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio.
• Add one and a half cups of fresh apple cider.
• Add a half cup of caramel-flavored vodka.
• Add a quarter cup of caramel sauce and stir until it dissolves.
• Chop two crisp apples into small dice and add them to the pitcher.
• Stir everything together and chill the sangria in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
• This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• When you are ready to serve, you can top off the pitcher with a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale for some fizz.
• Serve the sangria in glasses over ice.
• Garnish with a fresh apple slice and a drizzle of caramel.

28. Apple Pie Smoothie

A healthy and delicious smoothie that tastes just like a slice of apple pie. It is a perfect, quick breakfast for Thanksgiving morning.

Recipe Method

• In a blender, combine one chopped apple (no need to peel it).
• Add a half cup of plain or vanilla Greek yogurt for protein and creaminess.
• Add a half cup of milk or almond milk.
• For the “pie” flavor, add a tablespoon of maple syrup, a half teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg.
• You can also add a tablespoon of rolled oats to make it thicker and more filling.
• Add a handful of ice cubes.
• Blend on high speed until the smoothie is completely smooth and creamy.
• Pour into a tall glass.
• You can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top.
• This is a quick, healthy, and delicious way to get all the flavors of apple pie.

29. Bourbon Apple Hot Toddy

A classic, warm, and comforting cocktail that is perfect for a chilly Thanksgiving evening. It is like a cozy blanket in a mug.

Recipe Method

• In a heatproof mug, combine one and a half ounces of your favorite bourbon.
• Add one tablespoon of honey and one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
• Top with about a half cup of hot water or, for an extra apple kick, hot apple cider.
• Stir until the honey is completely dissolved.
• Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness to your liking.
• Garnish the hot toddy with a thin slice of apple and a cinnamon stick for stirring.
• A lemon slice studded with a few whole cloves is also a classic and fragrant garnish.
• This is a simple, three-ingredient cocktail that is incredibly warming and soothing.
• It is a perfect nightcap after a long day of cooking and celebrating.
• Sit back, relax, and sip it slowly.

30. Sparkling Apple Cider Punch

A festive, family-friendly, non-alcoholic punch that is perfect for a large Thanksgiving gathering. It is bubbly, beautiful, and easy to make.

Recipe Method

• In a large punch bowl, combine one large bottle of sparkling apple cider.
• Add one bottle of sparkling white grape juice.
• For some fizz and a citrusy kick, add one 2-liter bottle of ginger ale.
• Stir everything together gently.
• To make it look beautiful, add some festive garnishes to the punch bowl.
• Thin slices of apples and oranges look lovely floating on top.
• A handful of fresh cranberries and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary add a beautiful, holiday touch.
• You can also create a decorative ice ring by freezing water, fruit, and herbs in a bundt pan.
• Serve the punch in pretty glasses.
• This is a beautiful, celebratory, and delicious drink that everyone in the family can enjoy.

Even More Apple Ideas…

The versatility of the apple means the list of potential Thanksgiving treats is nearly endless. Here are a few more quick-fire ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

31. Baked Apples

A simple, rustic, and healthy dessert that is perfect for showcasing the apple itself.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Choose large baking apples like Rome or Honeycrisp.
• Use an apple corer or a small spoon to remove the core from the top, leaving the bottom intact to create a cup.
• In a small bowl, mix together a quarter cup of brown sugar, a quarter cup of rolled oats, a teaspoon of cinnamon, and two tablespoons of softened butter.
• Stuff this mixture tightly into the core of each apple.
• Place the stuffed apples in a small baking dish.
• Pour a half cup of water or apple cider into the bottom of the dish.
• Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, until the apples are tender and easily pierced with a knife.
• Baste the apples with the pan juices a few times during baking.
• Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream.

32. Apple Dumplings

A classic, old-fashioned comfort food dessert. It is a whole apple wrapped in a flaky pastry and baked in a delicious cinnamon syrup.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Peel and core six small apples, leaving them whole.
• Use a store-bought pie crust for an easy shortcut. Roll it out and cut it into six squares.
• Place one apple in the center of each pastry square.
• Fill the core of each apple with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.
• Bring the corners of the pastry up and around the apple, pinching the seams to seal it completely.
• Place the wrapped apples in a baking dish.
• In a saucepan, create a simple syrup by boiling water, sugar, butter, and cinnamon.
• Pour the hot syrup all around the dumplings in the baking dish.
• Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender. Serve warm with the extra syrup from the pan.

33. Apple Donuts

These are a baked, cake-like donut that is full of apple flavor. They are much healthier and easier than their fried counterparts.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
• In a bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and apple pie spice.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together your wet ingredients: milk, melted butter, an egg, and vanilla.
• Combine the wet and dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
• Gently fold in about one cup of finely shredded apple.
• Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.
• Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let the donuts cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.
• Once cool, you can dip the tops in a simple cinnamon glaze or toss them in cinnamon sugar.
• These are a perfect treat for Thanksgiving morning.

34. Caramel Apple Nachos

Recipe Method

• Choose two or three crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith.
• Core the apples and then slice them very thinly into rounds or wedges.
• Arrange the apple slices on a large platter, overlapping them to create a “pile” of chips.
• To prevent the apples from browning, you can spritz them with a little lemon juice.
• Warm some caramel sauce and some hot fudge sauce in the microwave until they are a drizzly consistency.
• Drizzle the warm sauces all over the apple slices.
• Now, add your “toppings.”
• Sprinkle on mini chocolate chips, crushed toffee bits, chopped nuts, and mini marshmallows.
• You can also add a dollop of whipped cream in the center.
• Serve immediately with forks for a fun and messy dessert experience.

35. Apple Hand Pies

These are essentially mini, portable apple pies that you can eat with your hands. They are charming, rustic, and delicious.

Recipe Method

• Use a store-bought, refrigerated pie crust for the easiest preparation.
• Roll out the pie crust and use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches) to cut out several circles.
• Make a quick apple filling by cooking down one or two finely diced apples with a little sugar and cinnamon until they are tender. Let it cool.
• Spoon a small amount of the cooled apple filling onto one half of each pastry circle.
• Brush the edges of the pastry with a little water.
• Fold the other half of the circle over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
• Use the tines of a fork to crimp the edges tightly sealed.
• Cut a few small slits in the top of each hand pie to allow steam to escape.
• Brush the tops with an egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
• Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, until they are golden brown and bubbly.

36. Apple Galette

A galette is a rustic, free-form French tart. It has all the flavor of a pie but is much easier and more forgiving to make.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Roll out a single, store-bought pie crust into a large circle on a piece of parchment paper.
• Thinly slice two or three apples. In a bowl, toss the apple slices with a few tablespoons of sugar, a little flour, and a teaspoon of cinnamon.
• Arrange the spiced apple slices in the center of the pie crust, leaving a 2-inch border of dough all around.
• You can arrange them in a beautiful, overlapping spiral pattern.
• Gently fold the bare edges of the crust up and over the outer edge of the apple filling. The center will be open.
• Brush the folded crust with a little melted butter or an egg wash.
• Sprinkle the entire galette with a little coarse sugar.
• Slide the parchment paper with the galette onto a baking sheet.
• Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the crust is deeply golden brown and the apples are tender.

37. Taffy Apple Salad

This is a classic, sweet, potluck “salad” from the Midwest. It is more of a dessert than a salad, but it is a Thanksgiving tradition for many families.

Recipe Method

• In a large bowl, whisk together one small box of instant vanilla pudding mix with one cup of milk until it is smooth.
• Fold in one 8-ounce container of thawed whipped topping (like Cool Whip).
• Chop four crisp, red apples into small, bite-sized pieces.
• Stir the chopped apples into the pudding mixture.
• Stir in one cup of salted, dry roasted peanuts.
• You can also add a cup of mini marshmallows.
• Gently fold everything together until it is well combined.
• Chill the “salad” in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
• The combination of sweet, creamy, salty, and crunchy is surprisingly addictive.
• This is a very easy, no-bake addition to the dessert table.

38. Apple Cinnamon Scones

A perfect treat for Thanksgiving morning, served with a cup of coffee. These scones are tender, moist, and packed with fall flavor.

Recipe Method

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
• Grate one stick of frozen butter into the flour mixture using a box grater. Quickly work it in with your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together a half cup of heavy cream and one egg.
• Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
• Gently fold in one finely diced apple.
• Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
• Pat the dough into a circle and cut it into eight wedges.
• Place the scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the tops with a little cream.
• Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until golden brown. Serve warm with butter.

39. Apple Crumble Bars

A portable, easy-to-serve version of a classic apple crumble. They have a buttery crust, a layer of apple filling, and a crumbly streusel topping.

Recipe Method

• This recipe has three components: a crust, a filling, and a topping.
• For the crust, press a simple shortbread dough into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan.
• For the filling, spread a layer of cooked, spiced, and diced apples over the crust.
• For the topping, create a simple crumble mixture of flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter.
• Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple layer.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 to 40 minutes.
• The crust and topping should be golden, and the apple filling should be bubbly.
• It is very important to let the bars cool completely in the pan before you slice them.
• Chilling them in the refrigerator can help you get very clean, neat slices.
• Once cooled, you can drizzle them with a simple vanilla glaze.

40. Apple Pie Milkshake

A truly decadent and fun way to get all the flavors of apple pie in a drinkable format. This is a perfect treat for the kids’ table.

Recipe Method

• In a blender, combine two large scoops of a good quality vanilla bean ice cream.
• Add about a quarter to a half cup of milk, depending on how thick you like your milkshake.
• For the apple pie flavor, add two generous tablespoons of spiced apple butter or a simple cooked apple compote.
• Add a quarter teaspoon of cinnamon and a tiny pinch of nutmeg.
• You can even add a small piece of an actual slice of leftover apple pie (including the crust!) for the ultimate flavor.
• Blend on high speed until everything is smooth and creamy.
• Pour the milkshake into a tall, chilled glass.
• Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream.
• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
• Serve with a wide straw and a long spoon.

Conclusion

When it comes to Thanksgiving dessert, the humble apple offers a world of possibilities that are just as delicious, if not more so, than a traditional pie.

From elegant cakes and rustic crumbles to fun handheld treats and comforting warm drinks, there is an apple dessert to suit every taste and every occasion.

This year, embrace the incredible versatility of this iconic autumn fruit. Step outside the pie crust and surprise your family and friends with a new and exciting apple-based treat.

You might just start a delicious new Thanksgiving tradition. Happy Thanksgiving and happy baking.