Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and if you’re anything like us at The GrayVine, your to-do list is already longer than a CVS receipt. Between prepping the turkey, wrangling the grandkids, and making sure Uncle Bob doesn’t hijack the remote, baking a show-stopping dessert from scratch might feel like a stretch.
Fortunately, Target has stepped in to save the day—and your sanity—with a lineup of no-bake Thanksgiving treats that are as effortless as they are delicious.
Whether you’re hosting the whole crew or just bringing a sweet dish to your neighbor’s potluck, these five ready-to-serve, no-bake crowd-pleasers offer even more ways to stretch your budget—without sacrificing flavor or festivity.
1. Mini Pumpkin Pies with Cream Cheese: The bite-sized classic
Pumpkin pie is the undisputed king of Thanksgiving desserts, but Target’s Mini Pumpkin Pies with Cream Cheese take the tradition to a whole new (adorable) level.
For just $6.99, you get a platter of 16 perfectly portioned pies, each topped with a dollop of luscious cream cheese frosting.
Shoppers can’t get enough: “The cream frosting is the chef’s kiss. The crust is just soft enough and fresh. Highly recommend!”
These minis are perfect for guests who want to sample a little bit of everything—or for those who believe dessert should always be eaten in multiples.
2. Mini Pecan Pie Platter: Southern charm, no oven required
Not a pumpkin person? No problem! Target’s Mini Pecan Pie Platter is here to satisfy your sweet tooth.
For the same $6.99 price tag, you’ll get 16 bite-sized pecan pies that are rich, gooey, and packed with that classic nutty flavor.
One enthusiastic shopper declared these “waaaay better than the pumpkin ones sold beside them.” (We say: why not get both and let your guests decide?)
These minis are a great way to add a little Southern flair to your Thanksgiving spread—no rolling pin required.
3. Festive Mini Cupcakes: A colorful crowd-pleaser
If you’re looking to break up the pie parade, Target’s mini cupcakes are a festive and fun alternative.
Choose from Harvest Vanilla Mini Cupcakes or Chocolate Mini Cupcakes, each decorated with icing and sprinkles.
At just $4.49 for a 12-count box, you can afford to grab both flavors—especially with Target’s “buy two for $8” deal on select Favorite Day products (valid through November 22).
These cupcakes are a hit with kids and adults alike, and their petite size means you can indulge without guilt. Plus, they’re the perfect canvas for a little DIY decorating if you want to get the grandkids involved.
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4. Gingerbread Frosted Cookies: Holiday cheer in every bit
Target’s Gingerbread Frosted Cookies ($4.99 for a 10-count box) are soft, spiced, and topped with a generous layer of sweet frosting. They’re also part of the “buy two for $8” deal, so you can mix and match with other cookie favorites.
“THESE COOKIES ARE AMAZING!!! Even shared with friends who don’t like gingerbread and they loved these cookies,” one reviewer gushed.
Serve them with a mug of hot cider or coffee for the ultimate cozy treat.
5. Assorted Macarons: A touch of European elegance
Want to impress your guests with something a little unexpected? Target’s Assorted Macarons bring a pop of color and a dash of sophistication to your Thanksgiving table.
Each box includes two each of six flavors: vanilla, chocolate hazelnut, salted caramel, pistachio, raspberry, and lemon.
These delicate French cookies require almost no preperation—just thaw in the fridge for four hours and they’re ready to serve.
For an extra flourish, try dipping half of each macaron in melted dark chocolate (as Target suggests).
At around $7 a box, they’re a small splurge that delivers big on flavor and style.
Bonus: More no-bake treats to try
If you’re looking to expand your dessert buffet, Target has even more ready-to-eat options:
- Harvest Pumpkin Spice Frosted Cookies (10 count, $4.99)
- Apple Pie Cookies (10 count, $5.99)
- Holiday Christmas Hot Chocolate Frosted Sugar Cookies (10 count, $4.99)
- Harvest Orange and Brown Frosted Mini Cookies (18 count, $4.49)
- Harvest Orange Frosted Cookies (10 count, $4.49)
Mix and match to create a dessert table that’s as varied as your guest list!
Why no-bake desserts are a Thanksgiving game-changer
Let’s face it: Thanksgiving is a marathon, not a sprint. By the time the turkey is carved and the stuffing is devoured, the last thing you want is to be elbow-deep in flour and pie crust. No-bake desserts let you spend less time in the kitchen and more time making memories with your loved ones.
Plus, these store-bought treats are perfect for those with limited mobility, small kitchens, or anyone who just wants to keep things simple.
And with prices under $8, you can treat everyone without stretching your holiday budget.
Have you tried any of these no-bake wonders from Target? Do you have a favorite store-bought dessert trick or a secret for elevating ready-made treats? Maybe you’re a die-hard homemade pie baker with a tip for making things easier? We want to hear your stories, tips, and Thanksgiving traditions!
Drop your thoughts in the comments below and let’s swap some sweet ideas. After all, the best part of Thanksgiving is sharing—whether it’s dessert or a good laugh.
From all of us at The GrayVine, here’s to a delicious, stress-free, and joy-filled Thanksgiving!




