Thanksgiving Desserts (That Aren't Pumpkin Pie)

Don't get us wrong: we respect pumpkin pie for the classic it is. Bake it from scratch, top it with homemade whipped cream, and maybe even roast a pie pumpkin for the puree. It wouldn't be Thanksgiving without pumpkin pie.

We also think there's plenty of room on the Thanksgiving table for another dessert or two. After all, if you're going to overindulge, why not include creative Thanksgiving desserts in the fun?

Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas: Poached Pear Pie

This recipe for Poached Pear Pie with Rosemary Shortbread Crust from the Weldon Owen blog might have a spot on our Thanksgiving menu. Pears are simmered in red wine with cinnamon, star anise and rosemary, then cooled overnight. Slice them and arrange on top of the mascarpone cheese and heavy cream filling. So elegant and rich, with such subtle flavors. To make this pie, you'll need to start at least 24 hours in advance. You'll also need a stand mixer.

Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas: Pomegranate Mousse Cake

Pomegranates are in season, so it's a perfect time to incorporate them into a unique Thanksgiving dessert like this Pomegranate Mousse Cake from Ask Chef Dennis. Be forewarned, this dessert takes time and attention. We also recommend reading the recipe multiple times -- it's not as clear as it could be. But we're amazed by the results, which look like they're worth the effort.

Again, you'll need a stand mixer, as well as two 9-inch cake pans, like these from USA Pans. Don't forget essential kitchen utensils too, like a whisk to whip the cream for the mousse and a silicone spatula to fold ingredients.

Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas: Kiwi Lime Pie

Kiwi seem like a summer fruit, doesn't it? But kiwi fruit are actually in season right now. This Kiwi Lime Pie, shared by SELF Magazine editor Lucy Danziger on Epicurious, is a lighter -- and possibly healthier -- dessert option.

The crust includes oats, pumpkin seeds and flax seeds. You'll need a food processor to grind the oats, and a coffee grinder to grind the pumpkin seeds. Or try the Microplane spice mill, which is also great for making freshly ground cinnamon and cloves.

Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas: Cranberry Chocolate Truffle Cake

For those of us who love chocolate, Thanksgiving dessert can be somewhat of a disappointment. Not anymore: this Cranberry Chocolate Truffle Cake from Sugar Hero combines seasonal cranberries with rich chocolate. Plus, you can make the cake and cranberry jelly ahead of time, then glaze the cake shortly before serving.

Like the Pomegranate Mousse Cake above, this dessert is definitely an undertaking. Once again, you'll need a stand mixer, and a 9-inch springform pan. Because this cake is so thick and rich, use a sharp knife to cut and rinse it between slices.

Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving dessert that isn't pumpkin pie? We'd love to hear your recommendations!