20 Best Thanksgiving Cheesecake Recipes for a Decadent Finish
One bite and you won't even think about pie.
Every item on this page was chosen by an editor from The Pioneer Woman. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Making pie for Thanksgiving is as traditional as it gets, but if you're looking to switch things up this year (or you simply have space on the table for more than one Thanksgiving dessert), then serve one of these Thanksgiving cheesecakes. After all, cheesecake is a decadent dessert with just the right amount of elegance to work for a special occasion, but still feel comforting at the same time.
These cheesecakes are full of fall flavor so they're perfect for a Thanksgiving dinner menu. In fact, you'll even find cheesecakes inspired by your favorite Thanksgiving pies, like a dreamy pecan pie cheesecake. That's like having two desserts in one! If seasonal flavors are what you're after, you'll be happy to know that this list includes pumpkin recipes in the form of cheesecake and apple desserts like the one topped with caramel apples. Plus, there are cheesecake recipes made with cranberries, maple, and sweet potatoes.
If the thought of making a classic cheesecake intimidates you just a little too much, we've got you covered! All you need are blocks of cream cheese and a few basic tips on how to use a springform pan. This list also includes easy no-bake Thanksgiving desserts and mini cheesecake bites if you'd rather not even bother with the traditional mehod. No matter which recipe you choose, you'll be happy you tried something new for Thanksgiving. And you can always serve it up alongside your favorite homemade pies. More dessert is always something to be thankful for!
Pumpkin Cheesecake
A slice of pumpkin pie is delicious, but a slice of pumpkin cheesecake is even more over the top! Garnish the creamy, spiced dessert with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and chopped pecans for even more decadent flavor.
Get the Pumpkin Cheesecake recipe.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Why choose between pie and cheesecake when you can have both at the same time? With an ooey gooey topping and a creamy center, this will surely be a major hit with sweet lovers.
Get the Pecan Pie Cheesecake recipe.
Maple Cheesecake
Double the maple, double the fun! That's what's in store when you make this recipe. There's maple syrup in the cheesecake itself, and then it gets topped with a creamy maple drizzle when served.
Get Ree's Maple Cheesecake recipe.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Anything with apple feels so very fall, doesn't it? And adding a drizzle of caramel and piling all of that goodness on a cheesecake is certainly something to be thankful for.
Get the Caramel Apple Cheesecake recipe.
Oreo Cheesecake
Oreos are always crowdpleasers. You'll find the famous sandwich cookies in the crust, in the filling, and on top so you'll definitely get your chocolate fix this holiday.
Get the Oreo Cheesecake recipe.
Peanut Butter Cheesecake
If rich, bold flavors are what you're after, look no further than this peanut butter cheesecake. It has a chocolate cookie crust and a lusciously smooth ganache topping.
Get the Peanut Butter Cheesecake recipe.
Ricotta Cheesecake
After a heavy holiday meal, you might want to eat something a little bit lighter for dessert. Enter: ricotta cheesecake. It's much less dense compared to a classic New York-style cheesecake.
Get the Ricotta Cheesecake recipe.
No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake
Does the idea of citrus sound strange on Thanksgiving? It shouldn't! Think of how refreshing it will taste after that super savory meal. Plus, it's no-bake and so easy to prep!
Get the No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake recipe.
Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
A simple idea that will make cheesecake feel more festive? Switch the classic graham cracker crust to gingersnaps instead! That added touch will feel so seasonal.
Cheesecake Brownies
A tangy cheesecake swirl makes these brownies look even more impressive. One taste will have you going for seconds.
Get the Cheesecake Brownies recipe.
Carrot Cake Cheesecake
This recipe combines two comfort food desserts: carrot cake and cheesecake. It's loaded with warm spices and toasted nuts.
Get the Carrot Cake Cheesecake recipe.
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
These bite-sized cheesecakes are perfect for a holiday potluck or Friendsgiving. You'll make them in a muffin tin so they're easy to whip up for a crowd.
Get the Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes recipe.
Oreo Cheesecake Bites
You can't go wrong with cookies and cream! The flavor combo is a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, you don't have to worry about taking up precious space in the oven with this no-bake dessert.
Get the Oreo Cheesecake Bites recipe.
Cherry-Topped Cheesecake
This cheesecake is made in a pie pan so it'll look just like a classic Thanksgiving dessert. The best part is that you don't have to use a water bath to make this fun twist on cheesecake.
Get Ree's Cherry-Topped Cheesecake recipe.
Mini Turtle Cheesecakes
These cute little cheesecakes are anything but ordinary. They're swirled with jarred salted caramel and topped with chocolate ganache, pecans, and chocolate chips.
Get Ree's Mini Turtle Cheesecakes recipe.
No-Bake Cookies and Cream Cheesecake
If you need to keep that oven space open for your turkey and sides, then make a no-bake cheesecake! This one, loaded with lots of sandwich cookies, is just as decadent and takes so much less time to make.
Caramel Pumpkin Gingersnap Cheesecake
Ree's suggestion? Make one for your family and one just for you―that's how much you'll love this decadent combination. Make your life easier by using store-bought gingersnap cookies for the crust.
Get Ree's Caramel Pumpkin Gingersnap Cheesecake recipe.
Biscoff Cheesecake
Fans of the famous speculoos cookie know that the spice works perfectly for holiday treats. Take it up a notch by turning them into a creamy cheesecake with melted cookie butter drizzled on top for good measure.
Cranberry Cheesecake Bars
Cookie fans will love that this recipe starts with a shortbread cookie crust. Then, it layers on the flavor with a tangy cheesecake filling, cranberry topping, and oatmeal crumble.
Sweet Potato Cheesecake
Just like sweet potato pie, this sweet potato cheesecake is perfect for fall! The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes is perfectly balanced with the warm spices and tangy cream cheese.
Ree’s Top 10 Favorite No-Bake Desserts
Everything You Can Make in a Muffin Tin
Brown Sugar Oatmeal Cookies
Grandma’s Best Desserts Will Take You Way Back
