I am about to admit something distinctly un-American. I’m pretty sure this kicks me out of the Descendants of the Mayflower club (of which I am a card-carrying member, true story).

I do not like pumpkin pie.

It feels ooey gooey in my mouth and it’s just not my favorite.

But worry not, as a lifelong pumpkin pie boycotter I have amassed a group of favorite alternatives–and I think you’ll love them, too.

1. Bittersweet Chocolate Pecan Pie

Gourmet Magazine (RIP) had a delicious recipe the year I cooked my first Thanksgiving meal for our whole family (2007). I will always treasure this recipe for both its sentimental nature and also because it is SUCH A GOOD PIE. Easy, too. This recipe convinced me that I could make pies.

2. Pumpkin Dump Cake

If you have a fear of pumpkin pie because of its congealed quality, have no hesitation about this easy recipe. I’ve found that it pleases the people who love pumpkin pie, but also caters to the people who can’t stand it. Make sure to smush the cake mix into the wet ingredients to get the texture as far away from pumpkin pie territory as possible.

Craft The Perfect Post That Ranks and Converts!

Download this cheat sheet to optimize underperforming posts on your website.

By subscribing, you agree to get emails from me, Matt Giovanisci. I'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time.

3. Gingerbread Blondies

These veer almost to Christmas cookie territory, but if I’m traveling for Thanksgiving this is what I always bring to contribute. They are delicious, easy, and make even people who don’t typically like gingerbread fall in love.

4. Fresh Market Apple Pie

This is hands down my favorite store bought pie. It’s only $7.99, sometimes on sale, and it’s the perfect apple pie. It’s not syrupy like some store bought pies, it’s not too fakey sweet, the apples are firm. It’s perfection. Check to see if you have a Fresh Market near you.

5. Chocolate Nutmeg Tart with Hazelnut Crust

These are a little bit of a labor of love, but they are SO GOOD. If you are only contributing dessert to your Thanksgiving Dinner, this might be just the finishing touch. The nutmeg and hazelnut cut the sweet of the chocolate, and the nutty spice makes it feel perfect for the holiday.

So what do you think? Are you a born and bred pumpkin pie fanatic? Do you dislike it the same as me? What do you prefer for dessert with your Thanksgiving meal? Have a favorite recipe to share? Do it in the comments! I am always up for new things to try.

5 Alternatives to Pumpkin Pie