51 Irresistible & Easy Thanksgiving Cupcake Ideas for a Festive Feast
Get ready to add a burst of flavor and festive charm to your holiday gathering with this incredible collection of 51 delicious and incredibly easy Thanksgiving Cupcakes. These delightful and creative Thanksgiving cupcake ideas are the perfect way to infuse your dessert table with abundant holiday cheer, offering a fun and individual alternative to traditional pies. From comforting fall spices to whimsical designs, you’ll find inspiration to satisfy every palate and make your celebration truly memorable.

We’ve curated the ultimate list of cupcake recipes specifically chosen for Thanksgiving. Cupcakes are a beloved choice for holiday desserts due to their effortless serving, impressive presentation, and delightful individual portions. They effortlessly transform into a tasty and much-anticipated holiday tradition that guests of all ages adore. Our diverse selection ensures there are many delicious flavors to choose from, perfect for the bestoven-baked desserts.You might also enjoy exploring our collection of Thanksgiving Apple Desserts for more autumnal inspiration.
Table of Contents
- Why These Thanksgiving Cupcakes Are a Must-Try
- 1. Maple Bacon Bourbon Pecan Cupcakes
- 2. Turkey Cupcakes
- 3. Maple Bacon Pecan Cupcakes
- 4. Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes
- 5. Eggnog Cupcakes
- 6. Confetti Cupcakes
- 7. Snickers Cupcakes
- 8. Oreo Cupcakes
- 9. Cherry Limeade Cupcakes
- 10. Orange Crush Cupcakes
- 11. Unicorn Cupcakes
- 12. S’mores Cupcakes
- 13. Rose Cupcakes
- 14. Pink Champagne Cupcakes
- 15. Green Velvet Cupcakes
- 16. Red Velvet Cupcakes
- 17. Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes
- 18. Tres Leche Cupcakes
- 19. Watermelon Cupcakes
- 20. Vanilla Cupcakes
- 21. Rainbow Cupcakes
- 22. Carrot Cake Cupcakes
- 23. Mini Brownie Cupcakes
- 24. Thin Mint Cupcakes
- 25. Upside Down Pineapple Cupcakes
- 26. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes
- 27. Pumpkin Cupcakes
- 28. Pilgrim Hat Thanksgiving Cupcakes
- 29. Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes
- 30. Chocolate Fall Leaves Cupcakes
- 31. Pumpkin Cupcakes With Salted Caramel Frosting
- 32. Harvest Thanksgiving Cupcakes
- 33. Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting
- 34. Sweet Potato Pie Cupcakes
- 35. Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes With Pie Crust Cut-Outs
- 36. Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes
- 37. Pumpkin Brownie Cupcakes
- 38. Caramel Apple Cupcakes
- 39. Pumpkin Churro Cupcakes
- 40. Pecan Pie Filled Cupcakes
- 41. Apple Pie Cupcakes
- 42. Impossible Skinny Apple Pie Cupcakes
- 43. Vanilla Chai Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes
- 44. Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie Cupcakes
- 45. Brown Butter Pecan Cupcakes
- 46. Apple Cider Maple Spice Cupcakes
- 47. Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
- 48. Chai Latte Cupcakes With Caramel Brulée Frosting
- 49. Apple Snickerdoodle Cupcakes
- 50. Pumpkin Cupcakes With Nutella Frosting
- 51. Lady Grey Cupcakes With Orange Zest Frosting
- More Thanksgiving Desserts
Why These Thanksgiving Cupcakes Are a Must-Try
These Thanksgiving cupcake recipes offer a truly creative and utterly delicious way to elevate your holiday spread beyond the ordinary. Instead of traditional pies, cupcakes provide individual portions, making serving a breeze and minimizing mess. This extensive collection ensures there’s a perfect cupcake for every guest, whether they prefer classic autumnal flavors or something delightfully unexpected, like the spiced warmth of chai latte or the rich indulgence of Nutella frosting.
What makes them truly special for Thanksgiving? They combine ease of preparation with incredible flavor and stunning presentation. Many of these recipes utilize simple ingredients or clever shortcuts, allowing you to spend less time baking and more time with loved ones. Their individual size makes them inherently fun and appealing, especially for younger guests, while the variety of designs – from cute turkeys to elegant fall leaves – adds an extra layer of festive decor to your dessert table. These cupcakes are guaranteed to be a massive hit at any Thanksgiving celebration, sparking joy and satisfying every sweet craving. The only challenge you’ll face is deciding which mouthwatering recipe to bake first!
1. Maple Bacon Bourbon Pecan Cupcakes
Indulge in the ultimate Thanksgiving treat with these decadent cupcakes, embodying the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and boozy flavors. Each bite delivers a sophisticated blend of warm spices, crunchy pecans, savory bacon, and a subtle kick of bourbon, making them an unforgettable autumn delight.

Maple Bacon Bourbon Pecan Cupcakes
2. Turkey Cupcakes
Gobble up some fun with these irresistibly cute and tasty cupcakes, artfully decorated as turkeys and topped with rich chocolate frosting. The turkey’s head is fashioned from a medley of candy, making this a truly kid-approved dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat!
Turkey Cupcakes
3. Maple Bacon Pecan Cupcakes
Satisfy your cravings for both sweet and savory with these delightful Maple Bacon Pecan Cupcakes. The rich maple flavor perfectly complements the crispy bacon bits and nutty pecans, creating a harmonious and utterly addictive dessert that’s ideal for a fall feast.

Maple Bacon Pecan Cupcakes
4. Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes
Get ready for some gobble-licious fun with these adorable and Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes! Crafted with care, they ensure everyone can enjoy the festive spirit. The clever use of candy corn for feathers and a beak, paired with vibrant cupcake liners, creates a fabulous, whimsical dessert. Adding candy eyeballs would make them even cuter and more engaging for kids!

Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes
5. Eggnog Cupcakes
Raise a cheer to the holiday season with these festive Eggnog Cupcakes! Achieving a perfectly spiced, moist, and fluffy dessert is incredibly easy, especially when starting with a convenient boxed cake mix. These cupcakes capture the rich, creamy essence of eggnog, making them a warm and inviting holiday treat.

Eggnog Cupcakes
6. Confetti Cupcakes
Sprinkle an extra dose of joy into your Thanksgiving celebration with these delicious and vibrantly colorful Confetti Cupcakes! With the simple assistance of a mixer and a few straightforward ingredients, this recipe transforms into an effortlessly festive and appealing dessert that brightens any holiday spread.
Confetti Cupcakes
7. Snickers Cupcakes
Satisfy your deepest sweet tooth cravings this Thanksgiving with these indulgent chocolate, caramel, and peanut butter delights. Each Snickers cupcake is a glorious tribute to the beloved candy bar, offering layers of rich flavor and satisfying textures in every bite.
Snickers Cupcakes
8. Oreo Cupcakes
Experience the ultimate Oreo lover’s dream this Thanksgiving with these truly decadent Oreo Cupcakes. Each bite is a symphony of crushed cookie goodness, from the moist cake base to the creamy, Oreo-studded frosting, making them an instant crowd-pleaser.
Oreo Cupcakes
9. Cherry Limeade Cupcakes
Add a wonderfully zesty and refreshing twist to your Thanksgiving dessert table with these vibrant, bite-sized Cherry Limeade Cupcakes. Their bright, fruity flavor offers a delightful contrast to richer holiday fare, awakening the palate with every sweet and tangy mouthful.
Cherry Limeade Cupcakes
10. Orange Crush Cupcakes
Satisfy your sweet cravings with these wonderfully zesty Orange Crush Cupcakes. Bursting with bright citrus flavor, they offer a refreshing and fun twist on a classic dessert, sure to be a favorite among guests who love a lively and fruity treat.
Orange Soda Cupcakes
11. Unicorn Cupcakes
Add an enchanting touch of magic and whimsy to your Thanksgiving celebration with these fun Unicorn Cupcakes! Their vibrant colors and fantastical decorations will captivate guests of all ages, bringing a playful and imaginative spirit to your holiday dessert spread.
Unicorn Cupcakes
12. S’mores Cupcakes
Recreate the cozy campfire experience indoors and enjoy the irresistible deliciousness of s’mores in every single bite with these S’mores Cupcakes. Featuring gooey marshmallow, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham cracker, they bring a nostalgic warmth to your holiday desserts.
S’mores Cupcakes
13. Rose Cupcakes
Impress your guests with these truly elegant and stunningly beautiful Rose Cupcakes, perfectly suited for a special occasion like Thanksgiving. Their delicate presentation, resembling blooming roses, adds a sophisticated and artistic touch to your dessert spread.
Rose Cupcakes
14. Pink Champagne Cupcakes
Toast to the holiday season with these utterly delightful and fluffy Pink Champagne Cupcakes! Infused with a subtle hint of bubbly, they bring a sophisticated and celebratory flair to your Thanksgiving dessert selection, perfect for a festive and joyful occasion.
Pink Champagne Cupcakes
15. Green Velvet Cupcakes
Add some vibrant festive flair to your Thanksgiving dessert table with these rich and utterly delicious Green Velvet Cupcakes. Their unique color, combined with a classic tangy cream cheese frosting, offers a fun and visually striking treat that’s both familiar and exciting.
Green Velvet Cupcakes
16. Red Velvet Cupcakes
This classic and delicious Red Velvet cupcake is a perfect treat for any occasion, and its rich color makes it particularly festive for Thanksgiving. With its moist crumb and signature cream cheese frosting, it’s a timeless dessert that always impresses.
Best Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe
17. Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes
Treat your taste buds to a delightful burst of fresh orange flavor with these utterly charming Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes. Their vibrant, nostalgic taste makes them a perfect and refreshing choice, especially for citrus lovers seeking a lighter dessert option amidst the rich holiday spread.
Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes
18. Tres Leche Cupcakes
Elevate your Thanksgiving dessert with these exquisite Tres Leches Cupcakes. Each delicate cupcake is meticulously soaked in a sweet, luscious blend of three milks, then generously crowned with fluffy whipped cream and a dusting of aromatic cinnamon, creating a truly melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Tres Leche Cupcakes
19. Watermelon Cupcakes
Get ready for a refreshingly unexpected twist on cupcakes with this vibrant Watermelon Cupcakes recipe. While perhaps not a traditional fall flavor, their bright, fruity essence can offer a delightful palate cleanser, adding a touch of playful charm and unique color to your holiday dessert table.
Watermelon Cupcakes Recipe
20. Vanilla Cupcakes
Indulge in the universally loved classic vanilla flavor with this easy-to-make Vanilla Cupcake recipe, a perfect and versatile choice for your Thanksgiving dessert table. Their simple elegance and comforting taste make them an ideal canvas for festive toppings or a delightful standalone treat.
Best Vanilla Cupcakes
21. Rainbow Cupcakes
Get ready to taste the rainbow and bring a burst of vibrant color to your Thanksgiving spread with these amazing Rainbow Cupcakes! Each bite is a joyful explosion of hues and delicious flavor, guaranteed to enchant both children and adults alike and add a playful twist to your holiday.
Rainbow Cupcakes
22. Carrot Cake Cupcakes
Delight in the comforting flavors of fall with these homemade Carrot Cake Cupcakes. Each features a soft, incredibly moist texture, generously loaded with crunchy nuts and plump raisins, all crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting – a truly classic and satisfying treat perfect for Thanksgiving.
Carrot Cake Cupcakes
23. Mini Brownie Cupcakes
Indulge in these delightful Mini Brownie Cupcakes, packed with rich, intense chocolate flavor yet conveniently bite-sized and easy to pop in your mouth. They offer all the decadence of a brownie in a charming, individual portion, perfect for a varied dessert spread at Thanksgiving.
Mini Brownie Cupcakes
24. Thin Mint Cupcakes
Indulge in the refreshing combination of chocolate and mint with these Thin Mint Cupcakes. Topped with vibrant green icing and crunchy mint cookies, these cupcakes will have you feeling like a professional baker, offering a festive and sophisticated treat perfect for the holidays.
Thin Mint Cupcakes
25. Upside Down Pineapple Cupcakes
This easy recipe takes a beloved classic, the pineapple upside-down cake, and brilliantly transforms it into delicious, individual cupcakes that everyone will adore. Each moist cupcake features a caramelized pineapple ring and a cherry, making for a beautifully presented and delightfully fruity treat.
Pineapple Upside Down Cupcakes
26. Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes
Indulge your sweet tooth and celebrate a classic flavor combination with these irresistible Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes. The perfect pairing of rich, moist chocolate cake and creamy peanut butter frosting makes these a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering, including Thanksgiving.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes
27. Pumpkin Cupcakes
Embrace the quintessential flavors of autumn with these delightful Pumpkin Cupcakes. With their soft, moist texture and rich, aromatic pumpkin spice, they’re sure to be an absolute hit with everyone at the Thanksgiving table, capturing the essence of the season in every bite.

Pumpkin Cupcake
28. Pilgrim Hat Thanksgiving Cupcakes
These charming Pilgrim Hat Thanksgiving Cupcakes combine classic flavors with a delightful thematic touch. The moist white cupcakes and smooth buttercream frosting are elegantly crowned with an edible pilgrim hat, making them a whimsical and perfectly themed dessert for your holiday gathering.

Pilgrim Hat Cupcakes
29. Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes
Get your ultimate pumpkin fix with these adorable and supremely flavorful Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes. They capture all the comforting essence of a classic pumpkin pie in a convenient, individual serving, making them an irresistible and easy-to-enjoy dessert for your Thanksgiving feast.

Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes
30. Chocolate Fall Leaves Cupcakes
Impress your guests with this easy yet incredibly beautiful dessert for your Thanksgiving celebration. These Chocolate Fall Leaves Cupcakes combine rich chocolate with vibrant, edible leaf decorations, transforming simple cupcakes into a stunning and seasonal work of art.

Chocolate Fall Leaves Cupcakes
31. Pumpkin Cupcakes With Salted Caramel Frosting
These Pumpkin Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Frosting are the perfect marriage of sweet and savory, creating an irresistible flavor profile that perfectly encapsulates the warmth of autumn. The moist pumpkin cake is beautifully complemented by a luscious, slightly salty caramel frosting, making them a sophisticated Thanksgiving indulgence.

Pumpkin Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Frosting
32. Harvest Thanksgiving Cupcakes
These visually stunning and delicious Harvest Thanksgiving Cupcakes are the perfect answer to a festive holiday dessert, and the best part is how incredibly easy they are to create. Adorned with beautiful fall colors, they bring a bountiful and celebratory feel to any Thanksgiving table without demanding hours in the kitchen.

Harvest Thanksgiving Cupcakes
33. Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting
Indulge in the quintessential warm flavors of fall with these exquisite Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes, perfectly topped with a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting. Each bite is a comforting embrace of autumn spices, making them an essential and beloved dessert for any Thanksgiving feast.

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
34. Sweet Potato Pie Cupcakes
Looking for a unique dessert that truly screams fall and Southern comfort? Try these delightful Sweet Potato Pie Cupcakes. Moist, richly flavorful, and perfectly spiced, they’re the ideal addition to any Thanksgiving celebration, offering a beloved holiday classic in a charming individual form.

Sweet Potato Pie Cupcakes
35. Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes With Pie Crust Cut-Outs
These Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes with charming Pie Crust Cut-Outs are the quintessential Thanksgiving dessert. They masterfully combine all the beloved flavors of traditional pumpkin pie into a cute, perfectly portioned, and incredibly easy-to-eat cupcake, making them a festive and delightful choice for everyone.

Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes with Pie Crust Cut-Outs
36. Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes
Warm up your taste buds and embrace the cozy vibes this Thanksgiving with these indulgent Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes. They beautifully capture the comforting essence of your favorite autumn beverage, transforming it into a moist, spiced cupcake topped with creamy, coffee-infused frosting for a truly sophisticated treat.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes
37. Pumpkin Brownie Cupcakes
Experience the best of both worlds with these extraordinary Pumpkin Brownie Cupcakes. Rich and fudgy brownie batter meets creamy, spiced pumpkin, creating a luscious marbled effect, all magnificently topped with a swirl of decadent frosting. They’re a truly unforgettable fall treat that combines two beloved desserts.

Pumpkin Brownie Cupcakes
38. Caramel Apple Cupcakes
Get truly into the spirit of fall with these absolutely delicious Caramel Apple Cupcakes. Featuring moist apple-spiced cake topped with a luscious caramel buttercream, they perfectly capture the nostalgic flavors of caramel apples in a delightful, individual dessert format, ideal for Thanksgiving.

Caramel Apple Cupcakes
39. Pumpkin Churro Cupcakes
Take your taste buds on a delightful journey with these unique Pumpkin Churro Cupcakes. The inviting cinnamon sugar topping, warm cinnamon frosting, and a delicate chocolate drizzle will have everyone wanting more, making them a truly irresistible and creative addition to your fall dessert table.

Pumpkin Churro Cupcakes
40. Pecan Pie Filled Cupcakes
Everyone will absolutely enjoy the harmonious blend of rich pecan pie filling nestled within tender, fragrant brown sugar cupcakes. These Pecan Pie Filled Cupcakes offer a delightful twist on a holiday favorite, combining the comforting flavors of autumn in every perfect bite.

Pecan Pie Filled Cupcakes
41. Apple Pie Cupcakes
Indulge in these utterly delightful Apple Pie Cupcakes, a creative reimagining of a classic dessert. Each cupcake features a scrumptious, spiced apple pie filling nestled within a moist cake, all crowned with a smooth and delicious buttercream frosting, delivering comforting fall flavors in every bite.

Apple Pie Cupcakes
42. Impossible Skinny Apple Pie Cupcakes
Seeking a healthier yet equally delicious option for your Thanksgiving dessert spread? These Impossible Skinny Apple Pie Cupcakes are your perfect answer! They deliver all the comforting flavors of apple pie with fewer calories, making them a guilt-free and delightful treat for the holiday season.

Impossible Skinny Apple Pie Cupcakes
43. Vanilla Chai Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes
These exquisite Vanilla Chai Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes with Cinnamon Brown Sugar Frosting are the ultimate indulgence for your Thanksgiving dinner party. They perfectly blend aromatic chai spices, sweet vanilla, and comforting pumpkin, creating a sophisticated and irresistible autumnal dessert that will impress every guest.

Vanilla Chai Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes with Cinnamon Brown Sugar Frosting
44. Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie Cupcakes
Indulge in the sophisticated and rich flavors of chocolate, bourbon, and pecan pie harmoniously blended in every bite of these exquisite Thanksgiving cupcakes. They offer a luxurious twist on traditional holiday desserts, perfect for adult palates seeking a deeply flavored and memorable treat.

Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie Cupcakes with Butter Pecan Frosting
45. Brown Butter Pecan Cupcakes
These exquisite Brown Butter Pecan Cupcakes offer a truly rich and deeply nutty flavor profile, perfectly complemented by a delightful crunch from toasted pecans. The caramelized notes of brown butter infuse the cake, creating a sophisticated and comforting dessert ideal for your Thanksgiving feast.

Brown Butter Pecan Cupcakes
46. Apple Cider Maple Spice Cupcakes
These Apple Cider Maple Spice Cupcakes are the epitome of cozy fall flavors, blending the crispness of apple cider with the comforting sweetness of maple and a hint of warming spices. They are the perfect individual treats to bring an authentic taste of autumn to your Thanksgiving dessert table.

Apple Cider Maple Spice Cupcakes
47. Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Get ready to indulge in these scrumptious Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes, a delightful fusion of two beloved treats. Featuring soft, tender cinnamon sugar rolls layered with fresh apple filling, and crowned with a sweet glaze, they offer comforting, home-baked goodness perfect for a holiday morning or dessert.

Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
48. Chai Latte Cupcakes With Caramel Brulée Frosting
Get wonderfully cozy this Thanksgiving with these aromatic Chai Latte Cupcakes, gloriously topped with a creamy Caramel Brulée Frosting. This sophisticated dessert combines fragrant chai spices with a luxurious caramelized topping, offering a unique and comforting flavor experience that’s perfect for the holidays.

Chai Latte Cupcakes with Caramel Brulée Frosting
49. Apple Snickerdoodle Cupcakes
Get ready to fall completely in love with these delicious Apple Snickerdoodle Cupcakes, a brilliant twist on the classic cookie! They combine the comforting flavors of warm cinnamon-sugar with fresh apple, creating a delightful and unique autumnal dessert perfect for Thanksgiving.

Apple Snickerdoodle Cupcakes
50. Pumpkin Cupcakes With Nutella Frosting
These moist and fluffy Pumpkin Cupcakes are taken to a new level of indulgence when topped with creamy, rich Nutella frosting. The comforting warmth of pumpkin perfectly complements the decadent chocolate-hazelnut spread, creating a luxurious and incredibly satisfying dessert that everyone will adore this Thanksgiving.

Pumpkin Cupcakes with Nutella Frosting
51. Lady Grey Cupcakes With Orange Zest Frosting
These elegant Lady Grey Cupcakes, adorned with bright Orange Zest Frosting, are an absolute tea lover’s dream and a perfect, refined Thanksgiving treat. The delicate floral notes of Lady Grey tea are beautifully accentuated by the vibrant citrus, offering a sophisticated and refreshing end to your holiday meal.

Lady Grey Cupcakes with Orange Zest Frosting
More Thanksgiving Desserts
We hope this expansive list of 51 easy and delicious Thanksgiving cupcakes has inspired you to bake something truly special this holiday season. Whether you opt for classic pumpkin, a playful turkey design, or an unexpected flavor combination, these individual treats are sure to bring joy and sweetness to your table. Don’t limit your dessert exploration there; we have even more fantastic ideas to complete your holiday menu. Explore these additional festive dessert collections to find the perfect ending to your Thanksgiving feast:
- 35 Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Pies
- 45 Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Desserts
- Thanksgiving Cheesecake Recipes
With so many delightful options, the hardest part will be choosing which fun new dessert to try first! Which of these tempting cupcakes will you bake to share with your loved ones this Thanksgiving? Leave a comment below and let us know your favorite!