12 Easy Thanksgiving Treats for Coworkers Recipes

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to show appreciation for your hardworking colleagues! These 12 thanksgiving treats for coworkers are easy to make, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re looking for portable snacks, no-mess desserts, or impressive treats that travel well, this collection has everything you need.

Just like our popular Christmas Cookie Exchange Ideas, these recipes are designed for sharing and spreading holiday cheer. Get ready to become the office favorite with these crowd-pleasing goodies!

What Are Thanksgiving Treats for Coworkers?

Ever wondered why office treats taste better than homemade ones? Maybe it’s the joy of sharing! Thanksgiving treats for coworkers are portable, easy-to-eat goodies perfect for office potlucks and break rooms. They’re designed to be mess-free, individually portioned, and simple to transport.

After all, the way to a coworker’s heart is through their stomach! These treats bring people together and create memorable moments around the office coffee maker. Ready to become the workplace hero this Thanksgiving?

Why You’ll Love These 12 Thanksgiving Treats for Coworkers

Office-Friendly and Portable

These treats are specifically designed for workplace settings. No plates, forks, or elaborate serving dishes required! Each recipe creates individually portioned goodies that colleagues can grab between meetings. They’re mess-free, travel well in containers, and stay fresh throughout the workday.

Budget-Friendly Batch Cooking

Making treats at home saves you serious money compared to buying from bakeries. Most recipes use simple pantry staples like flour, sugar, butter, and seasonal spices. You can make large batches for under $20, feeding an entire office department. Similar to our Affordable Party Appetizers guide, these recipes prove homemade doesn’t mean expensive.

Irresistible Seasonal Flavors

We’re talking warm cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin spice, maple, pecans, and cranberries. These quintessential fall flavors make every bite feel like a celebration. The combination of sweet and savory options ensures there’s something for every palate. Your coworkers will be asking for recipes all season long!

Ready to start baking? Let’s dive into these 12 amazing thanksgiving treats for coworkers that will make you the office MVP!

How to Make These 12 Thanksgiving Treats for Coworkers

Quick Overview

This collection features 12 diverse recipes ranging from simple no-bake treats to impressive baked goods. You’ll find options that take just 15 minutes and others that require about an hour. The beauty of these recipes is their flexibility—make them ahead on Sunday and bring them to work throughout the week. Most recipes are beginner-friendly and require basic kitchen equipment.

Time Guide:

• Quick treats (under 30 minutes): 4 recipes
• Moderate prep (30-60 minutes): 5 recipes
• Make-ahead options (can be prepared days in advance): 8 recipes
• No-bake options: 3 recipes

Key Ingredients for Thanksgiving Treats for Coworkers

Pantry Staples:

• All-purpose flour (3 cups)
• Granulated sugar (2 cups)
• Brown sugar (1 cup)
• Unsalted butter (2 sticks)
• Eggs (1 dozen)
• Baking soda (1 tablespoon)
• Baking powder (1 tablespoon)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)

Seasonal Ingredients:

• Pumpkin puree (2 cans, 15 oz each)
• Fresh cranberries (2 cups)
• Pecans (2 cups, chopped)
• Mini chocolate chips (1 bag)
• Cream cheese (16 oz)
• Vanilla extract (2 tablespoons)

Spice Blend:

• Cinnamon (3 tablespoons)
• Nutmeg (1 tablespoon)
• Ginger (1 tablespoon)
• Pumpkin pie spice (2 tablespoons)

For Decoration:

• Powdered sugar (2 cups)
• Maple syrup (1/2 cup)
• White chocolate chips (1 bag)
• Candy corn (optional)
• Fall-colored sprinkles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Recipe 1: Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 1/3 cup honey, 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips, and 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps the mixture firm up and makes it easier to shape into balls.

Step 3: Using clean hands or a cookie scoop, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. You should get approximately 20-24 bites.

Step 4: Place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes until firm.

Step 5: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These keep fresh for up to 5 days and are perfect for a quick office snack.

Recipe 2: Maple Pecan Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: For the crust, mix 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cut in 1/2 cup cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press firmly into the prepared pan.

Step 3: Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven but keep the oven on.

Step 4: For the topping, whisk together 3 eggs, 1 cup maple syrup, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Stir in 2 cups chopped pecans.

Step 5: Pour the pecan mixture over the warm crust and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling is set and golden.

Step 6: Cool completely in the pan, then use the parchment overhang to lift out. Cut into 24 squares using a sharp knife.

Recipe 3: Cranberry Orange Muffins

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 3/4 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and zest of 2 oranges.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, combine 2 eggs, 1/2 cup melted butter, 3/4 cup milk, and 1/4 cup fresh orange juice. Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix—some lumps are okay. Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries.

Step 5: Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Sprinkle tops with coarse sugar if desired.

Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Recipe 4: Caramel Apple Dip with Pretzels

Step 1: Beat 8 oz softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup brown sugar until fluffy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Add 1/4 cup caramel sauce and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Continue beating until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Transfer dip to a serving container. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with toffee bits or chopped pecans.

Step 4: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. The dip will firm up slightly and flavors will meld together.

Step 5: Serve with pretzel rods, apple slices, or graham crackers. This makes a great communal snack for the break room.

Recipe 5: Pumpkin Cream Cheese Roll-Ups

Step 1: Beat 8 oz softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice until smooth.

Step 2: Lay out 6 large flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spread the pumpkin cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border.

Step 3: Starting from one end, roll each tortilla tightly into a log. Wrap individually in plastic wrap.

Step 4: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This helps them firm up and makes slicing easier.

Step 5: Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 1-inch rounds. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled.

Recipe 6: Mini Pecan Pie Bites

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Roll out 1 package refrigerated pie crust. Use a 2-inch round cutter to cut circles. Press each circle into a mini muffin cup.

Step 3: For the filling, whisk together 1 egg, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup corn syrup, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla.

Step 4: Place 3-4 pecan pieces in each pastry cup. Pour the filling over the pecans, filling each cup about 3/4 full.

Step 5: Bake for 18-20 minutes until the filling is set and the crust is golden. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before carefully removing.

Recipe 7: Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Seeds

Step 1: Rinse 2 cups fresh pumpkin seeds and remove any pulp. Pat completely dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Toss seeds with 2 tablespoons melted butter, 3 tablespoons sugar, and 2 teaspoons cinnamon.

Step 3: Spread in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure seeds aren’t overlapping.

Step 4: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 30-35 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Cool completely before storing. These will continue to crisp up as they cool.

Recipe 8: Turkey-Shaped Rice Krispies Treats

Step 1: Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a large pot over low heat. Add 4 cups mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted.

Step 2: Remove from heat and stir in 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal. Mix quickly but gently until all cereal is coated.

Step 3: Press mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Let cool for 10 minutes, then cut into circles using a large round cookie cutter.

Step 4: Decorate each circle to look like a turkey using candy corn for feathers, a chocolate chip for the eye, and orange frosting for the beak.

Step 5: Let decorations set completely before stacking or packaging. These are great for kids and adults alike!

Recipe 9: Autumn Spice Snack Mix

Step 1: Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine 3 cups Chex cereal, 2 cups pretzels, 1 cup pecans, and 1 cup dried cranberries.

Step 3: In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter with 1/4 cup maple syrup, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg.

Step 4: Pour the butter mixture over the dry ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Spread mixture on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.

Step 6: Cool completely before breaking into pieces. Store in airtight containers or portion into individual bags for easy office distribution.

Recipe 10: Chocolate Covered Pretzel Turkeys

Step 1: Melt 2 cups chocolate chips according to package directions. You can use milk, dark, or white chocolate.

Step 2: Dip pretzel rods 3/4 of the way into melted chocolate. Let excess drip off.

Step 3: Before chocolate sets, attach candy corn around the top to create turkey feathers. Use 5-7 pieces per pretzel.

Step 4: Place on parchment paper and add candy eyes and an orange candy beak. Work quickly before chocolate hardens.

Step 5: Refrigerate for 15 minutes to set completely. Wrap individually in cellophane bags with ribbon for a festive presentation.

Recipe 11: Sweet Potato Bread Bites

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini loaf pan or line with paper liners.

Step 2: In a large bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg.

Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup mashed sweet potato, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 1 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed. Fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans if desired.

Step 5: Fill each mini loaf cup 2/3 full. Bake for 18-22 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool completely before removing from pan. These miniature loaves are perfect individual portions.

Recipe 12: No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups

Step 1: Crush 1 cup graham crackers and mix with 3 tablespoons melted butter. Divide among 12 small cups or mason jars, pressing firmly to create a crust.

Step 2: Beat 12 oz softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Fold in 1 cup whipped topping until fully incorporated. The mixture should be light and fluffy.

Step 4: Pipe or spoon the pumpkin mixture into each cup over the graham cracker crust. Fill to just below the rim.

Step 5: Top each cup with additional whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a small piece of graham cracker for garnish.

Step 6: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. These cups are elegant, portable, and absolutely delicious!

What to Serve Thanksgiving Treats for Coworkers With

Create a Dessert Board

Arrange several of these treats on a large wooden board or platter. Mix textures and colors—crunchy snack mix next to soft muffins, dark chocolate pretzels beside golden cookie bars. Add fresh fruit like apple slices and grapes to balance the sweetness.

Office Potluck Pairings

If your workplace is hosting a full Thanksgiving potluck, these treats work perfectly as desserts or snacks. They pair wonderfully with savory dishes like turkey sandwiches, butternut squash soup, or spinach salad.

Individual Packaging Ideas

Place treats in clear cellophane bags tied with fall-colored ribbons. Small mason jars work beautifully for dips and layered desserts. Create gift boxes with an assortment of 3-4 different treats for a thoughtful presentation.

Top Tips for Perfecting Thanksgiving Treats for Coworkers

Prepare Ahead for Stress-Free Mornings

Most of these treats taste even better the next day. Bake on Sunday evening and store properly so you’re not rushing before work. Cookie bars and muffins can be made 2-3 days in advance. Energy bites and dips actually improve in flavor after sitting overnight in the refrigerator.

Transport Like a Pro

Invest in good storage containers with tight-fitting lids. Use cupcake carriers for muffins, flat containers for bars, and mason jars for dips. Layer treats with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep temperature-sensitive items like cream cheese treats in an insulated bag with ice packs during transport.

Accommodate Dietary Restrictions

Always include at least one gluten-free and one nut-free option. Label treats clearly with ingredient lists so colleagues with allergies can make informed choices. The pumpkin energy bites can easily be made gluten-free with certified GF oats. Consider making a batch of vegan treats using dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes.

Scale Recipes Appropriately

For a small office (10-15 people), choose 3-4 different treats. For larger departments (30+ people), make 6-8 varieties with double batches. Always make slightly more than you think you’ll need—these treats disappear quickly!

Quality Ingredients Make a Difference

Use real butter instead of margarine for superior flavor. Buy pure vanilla extract, not imitation. Fresh spices make a noticeable difference—if your cinnamon is over a year old, replace it. For chocolate, choose high-quality chips that melt smoothly.

Prevent Common Mistakes

Don’t overbake—dry treats are disappointing. Check muffins and bars 2-3 minutes before the recommended time. Let baked goods cool completely before cutting; patience prevents crumbly disasters. When melting chocolate, use low heat and stir constantly to prevent seizing.

Presentation Matters

Arrange treats on pretty platters rather than leaving them in plastic containers. Use seasonal decorations like mini pumpkins, fall leaves, or wheat stalks around the display. Create height variations by using cake stands or overturned bowls. Add small cards with treat names and key ingredients.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Room Temperature Storage

Cookie bars, Rice Krispies treats, chocolate-covered pretzels, and spiced snack mix can sit at room temperature for 3-4 days. Store in airtight containers or zip-top bags. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources. In humid climates, room temperature storage time decreases to 2 days.

Refrigerator Storage

Treats containing cream cheese, pumpkin, or fresh fruit must be refrigerated. Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days. The pumpkin energy bites, caramel apple dip, cream cheese roll-ups, and no-bake cheesecake cups all require refrigeration. Muffins and quick breads stay fresher longer when refrigerated, though they can sit out for a day.

Freezer Storage for Make-Ahead

Most baked goods freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap cookie bars individually in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to bags once solid. The sweet potato bread bites are perfect for freezing—grab one whenever you need it. Do not freeze cream-based dips or anything with fresh fruit toppings.

Reheating Instructions

Muffins and quick breads taste amazing when gently warmed. Microwave individual muffins for 15-20 seconds. For a crispier exterior, wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Cookie bars are best at room temperature. Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving.

Office Storage Tips

If bringing treats early in the morning, store perishable items in the office refrigerator until serving time. Leave a note asking coworkers not to eat them until break time. For multi-day sharing, portion treats into daily servings and only bring out one batch at a time to maintain freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these thanksgiving treats for coworkers the night before?

Absolutely! In fact, most of these treats taste better when made ahead. Muffins, cookie bars, energy bites, and snack mixes all benefit from overnight storage as flavors develop and meld together. Cream-based treats like dips and cheesecake cups need several hours to set, making them perfect for advance preparation. Just store everything properly in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

What are the easiest thanksgiving treats to transport to work?

The easiest options are individually wrapped or portioned treats that don’t require refrigeration. Cookie bars travel beautifully in flat containers. Rice Krispies turkey treats can be stacked between parchment paper. Chocolate-covered pretzels are sturdy and won’t break during transport. Snack mix can be portioned into individual bags. Avoid delicate items like cheesecake cups if you have a long commute or bumpy roads.

How many treats should I make for 20 coworkers?

Plan for each person to have 2-3 pieces. For 20 coworkers, make 40-50 individual treats across 3-4 different recipes. This provides variety and ensures everyone gets to try multiple options. A good combination might be: 24 muffins, 24 cookie bar squares, and 20 chocolate-covered pretzels. Factor in that some people may want seconds, and it’s better to have leftovers than run out.

Are there nut-free options for coworkers with allergies?

Yes! Several recipes are naturally nut-free or can be easily adapted. The cranberry orange muffins, turkey-shaped Rice Krispies treats, chocolate-covered pretzels (made without pecans), pumpkin cream cheese roll-ups, and no-bake pumpkin cheesecake cups contain no nuts. Simply omit nuts from recipes like maple pecan bars and substitute sunflower seeds or additional chocolate chips. Always label treats clearly and keep nut-containing items separate from nut-free options.

Can I make healthier versions of these thanksgiving treats?

Definitely! Reduce sugar by 1/4 cup in most recipes without significantly affecting taste. Use whole wheat flour for half the all-purpose flour in muffins and breads. Replace butter with coconut oil or applesauce in some recipes. The pumpkin energy bites are already a nutritious option. Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for added antioxidants. Greek yogurt can replace some of the cream cheese in dips.

How far in advance can I prepare thanksgiving treats for coworkers?

Most baked treats can be made 2-3 days ahead and stored properly. Items that freeze well can be prepared up to 3 months in advance. The sweet potato bread bites, muffins, and cookie bars freeze excellently. Make the snack mix up to a week ahead and store in airtight containers. Fresh dips and cream-based treats should be made only 1-2 days ahead for optimal freshness.

What’s the best way to present these treats in an office setting?

Use disposable platters or bring dishes you don’t need back. Arrange treats on tiered stands for visual appeal and space efficiency. Include small plates, napkins, and serving utensils. Create label cards with treat names and key ingredients for those with dietary restrictions. Set up near the coffee station or break room where people naturally gather. Consider bringing hand wipes or small trash bags to keep the area tidy.

Can I customize these recipes for different dietary needs?

Yes! Make gluten-free versions by using certified GF flour blends and GF oats. For vegan treats, use plant-based butter, flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and dairy-free cream cheese. The chocolate-covered pretzels can be made with dairy-free chocolate. Sugar-free versions work with stevia or monk fruit sweeteners, though texture may vary slightly. Always test substitutions at home before bringing to the office.

Nutrition Information Per Serving (Average Across Recipes)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	180-250
Total Fat	8-12g
Saturated Fat	4-6g
Cholesterol	15-30mg
Sodium	120-200mg
Total Carbohydrates	24-35g
Dietary Fiber	1-3g
Sugars	12-20g
Protein	2-4g

Note: Nutritional values vary by recipe. Cookie bars and chocolate treats are higher in calories and sugar, while energy bites and muffins offer more fiber and protein. Portion sizes are based on standard serving recommendations.

Final Thoughts

These 12 thanksgiving treats for coworkers bring warmth, flavor, and gratitude to your workplace. From quick no-bake options to impressive baked goods, there’s something for every skill level and time constraint.

The best part? You’ll create lasting memories and strengthen workplace relationships through the simple act of sharing homemade treats. Your colleagues will appreciate the thoughtfulness, and you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch.

Start with two or three recipes that appeal to you most. As you gain confidence, experiment with the others. Before you know it, you’ll be the go-to person for office celebrations!

Happy baking, and Happy Thanksgiving! May your office be filled with delicious treats and grateful hearts this holiday season.