28 Creative Thanksgiving Cupcake Ideas Your Family Will Love

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Ever found yourself stressing over what dessert to serve on Thanksgiving? I know the pressure of creating the perfect holiday dessert all too well! Even though we’ve retired and moved from Puerto Rico to the Philippines, I’m determined to keep celebrating Thanksgiving in our home here. It’s a tradition we cherish, and one I want my son to experience as he grows up.

Apple pies have always been a staple on our holiday table, but this year, I’m excited to switch things up and surprise my family with something different—cupcakes! Unlike pies, cupcakes are easy to eat on the go—just grab one and take a bite, no need for plates or forks. They’re perfect for a relaxed, laid-back Thanksgiving where you just want to enjoy great food with loved ones.

Cupcakes are also simple to make and can be a fun baking project to do with the kids. So why not add a little extra flair to your holiday table with some festive and adorable Thanksgiving cupcakes? If you’re looking for inspiration, here are 28 Thanksgiving cupcake ideas that are sure to make your feast stand out!

Thanksgiving Cupcake Ideas

1. Apple Pie Studded Cupcakes

Photo Credit: Crazy for Crust

The idea of combining two delicious desserts into one is just too tempting to pass up! Who wouldn’t love a fluffy cupcake infused with the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie? It’s a culinary delight I simply can’t resist.

2. Shake Your Tail Feathers Cupcakes

Photo credit: Woman’s Day

These cupcakes have something truly special about them—they’re not only delicious but also irresistibly adorable! The fluffy cupcake base paired with the charming feather design makes them a standout addition to any dessert table.

3. Carrot-Pineapple Cupcakes

Carrot-Pineapple Cupcakes are a fun twist on traditional carrot cake, perfect for those who want to add a little extra fruitiness to their favorite dessert. 

Photo credit: Bunny Warm Oven

4. Black Forest Cupcakes 

I’ve always loved the combination of rich chocolate and tangy-sweet cherries, so when I found this recipe for chocolate cherry cupcakes, I knew it would be a perfect treat to try.

Photo credit: Butter and Bliss

6. Sparkling Cranberry White Chocolate Cupcakes 

They’re so gorgeous that everyone will be impressed when they see them on the dessert table. These cupcakes are a definite must-have for the holiday lineup!

Photo Credit: Love and Sugar

7. Cheesecake Cupcakes The Recipe Rebel

Photo Credit: The Recipe Rebel

These cupcakes are so easy to whip up, and taste just as amazing as a full-size cheesecake.

What’s best about cheesecake cupcakes is that you can customize them with different toppings and flavors. I like to top mine with fresh berries and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

8. Thanksgiving Cupcakes with Cornucopia Toppers 

Photo Credit: Sprinkle Some Fun

If you are looking for gorgeous cupcakes with all the colors of fall, then this is for you. These cupcakes are not only delicious but also incredibly artistic and fun to make.

9.  Cheesecake-Stuffed Chocolate Cupcakes 

Who doesn’t love indulging in a delicious dose of chocolate every now and then? And what better way to enjoy it than in the form of a cheesecake-stuffed chocolate cupcake? The combination of decadent chocolate and smooth, tangy cheesecake creates a perfect melding of flavors that will leave you craving for more. 

Photo Credit: Handle the Heat

10. Carrot Cupcakes with Honey Cream Cheese 

These cupcakes are not only incredibly tasty but also packed with healthy veggies – perfect for the little ones at our gathering.

Photo Credit: Cook Me

11. Turkey Cupcakes Little Sunny Kitchen

These adorable creations aren’t just nice to look at—they’re absolutely delicious, too! Kids will especially enjoy these fun treats, making them a perfect way to add a touch of whimsy to your Thanksgiving spread.

Photo Credit: Little Sunny Kitchen

12. Sweet Potato Casserole Cupcakes 

If you’re looking for a fun twist on a Thanksgiving classic for dessert, definitely consider these cupcakes! These little treats are the perfect combination of my favorite side dish and a delightful dessert, topped off with a heavenly homemade marshmallow frosting that makes them irresistible.

Photo Credit: Erica’s Sweet Tooth

13. Something-to-Hide Devil’s Food Cupcakes 

For the coffee lovers like me, this is for you ! The coffee flavor in these cupcakes is subtle, not overpowering at all. It adds a depth of richness that perfectly complements the decadent chocolate base. 

Photo Credit: Country Living

14. Pumpkin Cassava Flour Cupcakes 

These delicious treats are paleo friendly, dairy free and nut free! It’s moist , slightly sweet and is full of pumpkin flavor!

Photo Credit: Bake It Paleo

15. Chai Latte Cupcakes 

Imagine a warm and comforting chai latte transformed into a delicious cupcake. The chai spice buttercream on top adds the perfect touch of sweetness and spice for a truly unforgettable dessert.

Photo Credit: The Baking Explorer

16. Caramel Apple Cupcakes 

If you’re like me and can’t resist anything caramel apple flavored, then you’ll definitely want to add these tasty treats to your dessert table. The best part? The gooey caramel drizzle on top that adds the perfect finishing touch to these delectable cupcakes.

Photo Credit: Epicurious

17. Pumpkin Cookie Dough Cupcakes 

These cupcakes are a delightful blend of pumpkin, cookie dough, and cupcake goodness all in one irresistible dessert. Your guests will be raving about these delectable treats long after the holiday is over. 

Photo Credit: Your Cup of Cake

18. One Bowl Moist Vegan Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting 

Indulge in these one bowl vegan pumpkin cupcakes that are busting with wholesome ingredients and a creamy, zesty frosting. These treats are a guilt-free delight for those who crave a little sweetness without straying from their plant-based lifestyle. 

Photo Credit: The Banana Diaries

19. Keto Carrot Cupcakes 

Who says cupcakes are off-limits on a keto diet? Not me! I discovered a delicious recipe for carrot cupcakes that are not only low-carb but also fluffy and moist. These cupcakes are perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion where you want to indulge without feeling guilty.

Photo Credit: Mouthwatering Motivation

20. Coffee and Walnut Cupcakes with Coffee Buttercream

They bring a touch of elegance to the dessert table, perfect for those looking to elevate their sweets. With the most creamy coffee buttercream frosting, these are the perfect afternoon pick me up.

Photo Credit: Sugar Salt Magic

21. Almond Flour Apple Muffins from Cook Eat Well

Are you searching for a healthier option to indulge in this Thanksgiving? These almond flour Apple muffins are naturally sweet, gluten-free, and bursting with flavor, making them the perfect guilt-free treat for the holiday season. 

Photo Credit: Cook Eat Well

22. Fun Pilgrim Hat Cupcakes 

These pilgrim hat cupcakes are just too adorable! Whether you’re hosting a festive Thanksgiving feast or simply want to add a touch of nostalgia to your dessert table, these Pilgrim Hat Cupcakes are a delightful tribute to the spirit of gratitude and togetherness.

Photo Credit: The Farm Girl Gabs

23. Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes 

If you’re feeling nostalgic for pumpkin pie this Thanksgiving but aren’t planning on having any, then these pumpkin pie cupcakes are the perfect treat for you. They capture all the delicious flavors of the classic dessert in convenient and adorable cupcake form. 

Photo Credit: The Blogette

24. Pecan Pie Filled Cupcakes 

Get ready to dive into a delectable treat this Thanksgiving with pecan pie-filled cupcakes. Imagine the delightful blend of pecan pie goodness inside a soft, brown sugar cupcake – it is a match made in dessert heaven.

Photo Credit: Eats Delightful

25. Apple Cider Maple Spice Cupcakes 

These cupcakes are like a taste of fall in every bite, with hits of maple and warm spices. If you’ve got a sweet tooth for maple treats, these cupcakes are a must-try for you.

26. Apple Snickerdoodle Cupcakes 

Photo Credit: Life Love and Sugar

These snickerdoodle cupcakes are a delicious twist on traditional snickerdoodle cookies. Instead of just having a cookie, you can enjoy all the flavors in a fluffy, moist cupcake. 

27. Lady Grey Cupcakes with Orange Zest Frosting from Country Living

I adore the way these cupcakes bring a touch of sophistication to the table. The combination of flavors in each bite is pure perfection.

Photo Credit: Country Living

28. Dulce De Leche Pumpkin Coconut Cupcakes With Cinnamon Cream  Cheese Frosting 

My favorite Thanksgiving treat has to be these Dulce de Leche pumpkin coconut cupcakes. Moist and fluffy Pumpkin Coconut Cupcakes are stuffed with decadent Dulce de Leche and covered in Cinnamon Cream Cheese frosting! So delicious!

Photo Credit: Baker by Nature

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving is a time for feasting and fun, and what better way to add a little extra sweetness to the festivities than with Thanksgiving cupcakes? Cupcakes are easier to make and decorate, and they’re a great treat for the whole family to enjoy. 

There are a ton of awesome Thanksgiving recipes out there, but I thought I’d make things a little easier for you by putting together this handy list. You can totally draw inspiration from the ones I’ve picked out, but feel free to add your own unique twist too! After all, half the fun of baking is experimenting and enjoying the process.