Create an Easy Fall Dessert Table for Thanksgiving

If you are hosting Thanksgiving this year, you may already be thinking ahead to what you’re going to serve. What you may not be thinking about is the moment when guests arrive with cookies and pies and you’ve run out of space on the buffet fall dessert table! What’s a good host to do?

The short answer is to plan ahead now to incorporate various fall dessert table ideas. This year, you can be prepared with a gorgeous fall themed dessert table to display all of the sweets to be shared. Not only will a dessert table enhance the atmosphere of your holiday set up, but it will be a huge talking point for your guests!

How to Create a Fall Dessert Table for Thanksgiving?

Step One: Build a base using a burlap table topper and table skirt.

Our Table Skirts Tutorial definitely save time during setup.

1. Start with a burlap table topper in natural tan
2. Add our three-tiered rustic burlap table skirt for an effortless yet charming look. Use table skirt clips to secure table skirt on your table.
3. Once you top it with a white crochet lace table runner,  you'll have the perfect beginning to your fall dessert table!

Step Two: Create a dessert centerpiece.

A cake is really the perfect centerpiece for a dessert buffet, so leave a nice space for it in the center of your table. Then, other desserts can be placed around it, along with other decor pieces. If you aren’t making a cake, order one from a local bakery or ask a guest to bring one of his or her specialties to share.

Step Three: Elevate with dessert table decor for visual interest.

For your cake in step two, be sure to have a cake stand to prominently feature and elevate your cake. 

With the rustic Thanksgiving look, a basswood tree slice is an ideal cake stand. In addition to the rustic appearance, these can be used to elevate portions of your table which will add to the visual interest.

Step Four: Add separate dessert plates, napkins, and flatware on the table.

Ideally for desserts, you and your guests will want fresh plates, napkins, and flatware. Use the space on your fall dessert table to place some rolled cloth napkins in bulk in festive colors such as apple red, burnt orange, canary yellow or chocolate brown. Coordinating dessert plates and flatware ensure a cohesive look.

Step Five: Add additional cake table decor elements and backdrop.

Making sure to leave enough room for all the desserts that guests will be bringing, feel free to add decor elements such as pumpkins, leaves, candle holders, and small floral arrangements. Tucking these in and around the desserts once they’ve all arrived adds a celebratory flair. 

If your dessert area needs a backdrop, lovely sheer voile drapes in gold and white will add a dash of understated elegance.

Step Six: Step up and dig in!

Another benefit to the dessert table area is that it can be staged several days ahead, if needed, just waiting to receive all of those delectable pies, cakes, cookies and more. Your rustic dessert buffet can add a lovely decor element to your Thanksgiving set-up as well as provide a landing zone for all of the desserts sure to provide a sweet end to the day.

Stunning Fall Dessert Table Decor Ideas

Creating an eye-catching fall dessert table requires thoughtful decor that matches your theme and treats. Here are some sweet table decor ideas to inspire you:

1. Choose a tablecloth or runner that coordinates with your theme's color palette. Autumn-colored tablecloths, in shades of deep orange, rich burgundy, mustard yellow, or earthy brown, are popular choices. They infuse warmth into your display, perfectly complementing the seasonal treats on offer.

For a more natural and rustic ambiance, opt for the timeless appeal of burlap table runners or tablecloths. Their rough texture adds an authentic, earthy feel to your dessert presentation. If you're aiming for a cozy cabin-in-the-woods atmosphere, plaid or checkered tablecloths in warm tones like red or brown are an excellent choice. 

2. Add an elegant touch with a table skirt or ruffles. These decorative accents, delicately draped along the table's edge, add a layer of charm. Choose fabrics in autumn's rich color palette, such as deep maroons, rustic oranges, or earthy browns, to complement your dessert spread.

3. Use tiered cake and cupcake stand or trays to display your treats at varying heights. This adds visual interest and makes it easier for guests to see and reach everything. If you have a cake, use a decorative cake topper that ties into your theme or showcases a special message.

4. Bring in fresh or silk flowers in vases or mason jars in your fall dessert table for a charming, natural element. Choose blooms that match your color scheme or theme.

5. Small details like decorative gold napkin rings, place cards, or utensil holders can enhance the overall look. You can also fill clear glass jars and containers with colorful candies, nuts, or smaller treats. These containers add a touch of elegance and allow guests to see what's inside.

Must-Have Sweets: Thanksgiving Dessert Table Ideas

Thanksgiving dessert tables are the perfect way to showcase delicious treats and sweeten your holiday celebration. Here are some delightful fall dessert table ideas:

• Showcase various pumpkin pie variations, from classic to mini pumpkin tarts. Decorate with pumpkin-themed tablecloths and rustic centerpieces.
• Offer a variety of mini desserts like bite-sized pecan pies, pumpkin cheesecake bites, and apple crumble cups. Arrange them beautifully on tiered dessert stands.
• For the chocolate enthusiasts, curate a dessert table filled with an array of chocolate treats, from brownies to chocolate-dipped fruits.

Shop our Fall Dessert Table Mock Up