Thanksgiving is about more than just turkey and traditional pies — it’s also a chance to enjoy creative desserts that bring a little fun to the table.
Cupcakes are a perfect choice because they’re easy to serve, simple to decorate, and loved by both kids and adults. They can be made in all sorts of flavors, from pumpkin and apple to chocolate and caramel.
With festive toppings like leaves, turkeys, or fall sprinkles, cupcakes become a centerpiece that feels seasonal and joyful. The best part is that you can make them ahead, customize them with frosting, and share them easily with family and friends.
This list of 30 Thanksgiving cupcakes will give you tasty, festive ideas that are simple to bake and perfect for holiday celebrations.
1. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes
Pumpkin chocolate chip cupcakes are moist and spiced with a sweet chocolate twist. The pumpkin puree keeps them soft while the chocolate chips make them extra indulgent.
Topped with cream cheese frosting, they’re perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. These cupcakes bring together cozy fall flavors and a crowd-favorite ingredient, making them a dessert that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
2. Cranberry Pecan Cupcakes
Cranberry pecan cupcakes are tart, nutty, and sweet all at once. Fresh cranberries brighten the batter, while chopped pecans add crunch and depth. Topped with smooth frosting, these cupcakes feel festive and colorful on the Thanksgiving table.
They’re a cozy, flavorful option that highlights seasonal ingredients, making them both comforting and special for gatherings with family and friends.
3. Hot Chocolate Cupcakes
Hot chocolate cupcakes are rich and comforting. Made with cocoa powder, they’re topped with fluffy frosting and mini marshmallows to mimic a warm mug of cocoa.
These cupcakes are fun, festive, and kid-friendly, making them a holiday favorite. Perfect for Thanksgiving dessert spreads, they bring a playful and cozy touch to the table while offering a chocolatey treat everyone loves.
4. Maple Bacon Cupcakes
Maple bacon cupcakes are sweet, salty, and bold. Maple syrup in the batter adds warmth, while crispy bacon on top creates a surprising twist. Finished with maple buttercream, they’re indulgent and fun.
These cupcakes are great for Thanksgiving gatherings where you want something creative. A mix of sweet comfort and savory crunch makes them stand out on the holiday table.
5. Apple Cider Cupcakes
Apple cider cupcakes are fruity, spiced, and refreshing. Made with apple cider, they’re topped with cinnamon frosting or caramel drizzle. Each bite captures the flavors of fall and pairs beautifully with Thanksgiving meals.
These cupcakes are moist, tangy, and easy to love. A festive and flavorful option that balances heavier desserts with something light and seasonal on your holiday table.
6. Gingerbread Cupcakes
Gingerbread cupcakes are warm, spiced, and nostalgic. Flavored with molasses, ginger, and cinnamon, they taste like the holidays in cupcake form. Topped with cream cheese frosting, they’re cozy and festive.
These cupcakes are perfect for Thanksgiving when you want to bring seasonal aromas into your home. A simple, comforting option that never fails to make the dessert table special.
7. Pumpkin Carrot Cupcakes
Pumpkin carrot cupcakes are moist, hearty, and full of texture. Pumpkin puree combines with shredded carrots for a flavorful, spiced base. Topped with tangy cream cheese frosting, they’re both wholesome and indulgent.
These cupcakes are perfect for Thanksgiving when you want something seasonal but different from the usual pumpkin pie. A creative twist that blends two comforting fall classics together.
8. Salted Caramel Cupcakes
Salted caramel cupcakes are sweet, rich, and slightly salty. Fluffy cake topped with caramel buttercream and a sprinkle of sea salt makes them irresistible. They’re elegant but simple, adding sophistication to Thanksgiving desserts.
These cupcakes are indulgent without being overwhelming, offering just the right balance. Perfect for gatherings where you want a treat that feels festive yet refined.
9. Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes
Apple cinnamon cupcakes are moist, fruity, and warmly spiced. Fresh apple chunks add sweetness, while cinnamon brings cozy flavor. Frosted with cream cheese or caramel topping, they’re festive and delicious.
These cupcakes taste like apple pie but are much easier to serve. A seasonal favorite that feels homemade and comforting, making them a wonderful choice for Thanksgiving gatherings.
10. Pumpkin Streusel Cupcakes
Pumpkin streusel cupcakes are soft and spiced with a crunchy topping. The streusel layer adds texture, while a drizzle of glaze finishes them off beautifully. These cupcakes are a mix of cake and coffee cake in one.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, they’re fun to eat and easy to prepare. A festive dessert option that combines flavor, crunch, and sweetness.
11. Carrot Cake Cupcakes
Carrot cake cupcakes are rich, moist, and filled with carrots, nuts, and warm spices. Frosted with cream cheese icing, they’re both wholesome and indulgent. These cupcakes are a classic dessert that fits perfectly on the Thanksgiving table.
Loved by many, they bring texture and flavor that balance heavier holiday dishes. A timeless choice that feels both cozy and celebratory.
12. Pumpkin Cheesecake Cupcakes
Pumpkin cheesecake cupcakes are creamy and spiced. The cupcake base is swirled with cheesecake filling, making each bite indulgent and unique. Topped with whipped cream, they’re festive and flavorful.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, they’re a creative twist on traditional pumpkin desserts. These cupcakes are rich but simple to make, offering a holiday treat that feels both classic and new.
13. Maple Cupcakes
Maple cupcakes are sweet, light, and aromatic. Infused with maple syrup, they have a warm, caramel-like flavor that’s perfect for fall. Topped with maple buttercream, they’re cozy and delicious.
These cupcakes pair wonderfully with hot drinks, making them a Thanksgiving favorite. Easy to bake and simple to decorate, they add rustic charm and sweetness to your holiday dessert spread.
14. Snickerdoodle Cupcakes
Snickerdoodle cupcakes are cinnamon-sugar perfection. The moist cake is flavored with spices and rolled in cinnamon sugar before baking. Topped with frosting, they’re sweet, comforting, and festive.
These cupcakes taste like the classic cookie but in cupcake form. Perfect for Thanksgiving, they’re simple to prepare and loved by everyone, adding a familiar favorite to your holiday dessert lineup.
15. Toffee Cupcakes
Toffee cupcakes are buttery, rich, and filled with crunchy bits of toffee. Frosted with caramel buttercream, they’re indulgent and flavorful. These cupcakes are perfect for Thanksgiving when you want something bold and sweet.
Easy to make but impressive on the table, they add variety to your dessert spread. A creative treat that highlights caramel flavors in a new way.
16. Pecan Cupcakes
Pecan cupcakes are nutty, moist, and flavorful. The batter includes chopped pecans, and the frosting is topped with more for crunch. These cupcakes are simple yet festive, making them a perfect Thanksgiving dessert.
They’re a wonderful option for guests who enjoy nutty flavors but don’t want a whole pie. A cozy, homemade-style cupcake that feels classic and satisfying.
17. Sweet Potato Cupcakes
Sweet potato cupcakes are moist, spiced, and unique. They taste like the holiday casserole but in dessert form. Topped with cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of pecans or marshmallows, they’re festive and fun.
These cupcakes are a creative way to use sweet potatoes in a new style. Perfect for Thanksgiving when you want something seasonal but slightly unexpected.
18. Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes
Pumpkin spice cupcakes are a seasonal classic. Soft and moist, they’re flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin puree. Topped with cream cheese frosting, they taste like pumpkin pie in cupcake form.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, they’re simple to make and decorate. A festive, flavorful cupcake that captures the essence of autumn and remains a favorite year after year.
19. Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes
Chocolate pumpkin cupcakes combine two favorites into one. Cocoa and pumpkin puree create a moist, rich cupcake that’s both indulgent and festive. Topped with chocolate or cream cheese frosting, they’re flavorful and fun.
Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, they offer a balance of sweet and spiced flavors. A unique twist that satisfies chocolate lovers while still highlighting seasonal ingredients.
20. Brown Sugar Cupcakes
Brown sugar cupcakes are moist and flavorful with a caramel-like taste. The brown sugar in the batter makes them rich, while buttercream frosting keeps them sweet.
These cupcakes are simple but delicious, making them a cozy Thanksgiving choice. Easy to bake and sure to please, they’re perfect for guests who prefer a classic, comforting dessert that feels homemade.
21. Chai Cupcakes
Chai cupcakes are spiced and fragrant. Inspired by chai tea, they’re flavored with cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, giving them a bold, warm taste. Topped with creamy frosting, they’re festive and flavorful.
Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, these cupcakes add something unique to the dessert spread. A creative, aromatic option that highlights seasonal spices in a fun and simple way.
22. Pumpkin Mocha Cupcakes
Pumpkin mocha cupcakes are bold, rich, and energizing. Cocoa and coffee mix with pumpkin puree for a decadent cupcake full of flavor. Topped with mocha frosting, they’re festive and indulgent.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, these cupcakes bring something different to the table while still fitting the season. A creative dessert idea for guests who love both coffee and chocolate.
23. Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Cinnamon roll cupcakes are soft, swirled with cinnamon sugar, and topped with cream cheese frosting. They taste just like a cinnamon roll but in cupcake form.
Perfect for Thanksgiving brunch or dessert, they’re festive, comforting, and easy to prepare. These cupcakes are a fun alternative to traditional pies, offering something playful and delicious for guests of all ages.
24. Pumpkin Pecan Cupcakes
Pumpkin pecan cupcakes are moist, hearty, and spiced. The pumpkin adds softness, while the pecans bring crunch and nutty flavor. Finished with cream cheese frosting, they’re festive and delicious.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, they’re a cozy choice that highlights two seasonal ingredients in one treat. A classic combination that always feels right for the holiday dessert spread.
25. Cranberry Orange Cupcakes
Cranberry orange cupcakes are fruity, bright, and festive. The tangy cranberries and citrus zest make the cupcakes flavorful and refreshing. Frosted with orange buttercream, they’re colorful and seasonal.
Perfect for balancing richer desserts, they add a cheerful flavor to the Thanksgiving table. A light, tasty option that feels both simple and special, bringing freshness to holiday gatherings.
26. Apple Pie Cupcakes
Apple pie cupcakes are filled with spiced apple filling and topped with sweet frosting. They taste like apple pie but are much easier to serve.
Fun, festive, and simple, they’re a hit for Thanksgiving when you want something familiar but playful. A creative dessert idea that combines classic fall flavors with the convenience of a cupcake.
27. S’mores Cupcakes
S’mores cupcakes bring campfire nostalgia to Thanksgiving. Chocolate cupcakes are filled with gooey marshmallow cream and topped with graham cracker crumbs. Toasted mini marshmallows finish the look for a cozy, fun treat.
They’re sweet, rich, and a little crunchy, making them a playful dessert that guests of all ages will love. Perfect for adding warmth and whimsy to your holiday table.
28. Bourbon Pecan Cupcakes
Bourbon pecan cupcakes are rich, nutty, and elegant. Brown sugar and toasted pecans give them depth, while a splash of bourbon adds a warm, grown-up twist. Topped with butter pecan frosting, they feel indulgent and festive.
These cupcakes are ideal for Thanksgiving dinners, offering a sophisticated dessert option that pairs beautifully with coffee or after-dinner drinks.
29. Brown Butter Pumpkin Cupcakes
Brown butter pumpkin cupcakes are nutty, aromatic, and deeply flavorful. The brown butter adds a toasty richness that complements the pumpkin and spices perfectly. Topped with maple frosting, they’re sweet, soft, and full of fall charm.
These cupcakes are perfect for Thanksgiving when you want a twist on traditional pumpkin desserts that feels gourmet yet comforting.
30. Chocolate Cranberry Cupcakes
Chocolate cranberry cupcakes are rich and slightly tart, creating the perfect flavor balance. The dark chocolate base pairs beautifully with bursts of cranberry for a festive touch. Finished with vanilla or white chocolate frosting, they look elegant and taste indulgent.
A wonderful choice for Thanksgiving gatherings, they bring color, contrast, and a hint of sophistication to your dessert spread.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving cupcakes are fun, festive, and versatile. From pumpkin classics to fruity, nutty, and indulgent flavors, there’s something here for everyone. These 30 cupcakes are easy to bake, simple to decorate, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. They bring sweetness, creativity, and charm to the holiday table, making celebrations more memorable. A cupcake is small, but it adds big joy.
