As Thanksgiving approaches, the thought of prepping a turkey with all the fixings for your holiday celebration is likely already on your mind. But here's one thing you can be thankful for on Cape Cod: the large number of amazing local bakeries who can take the dessert preparation off your plate.

Here's where you can go for Thanksgiving desserts that are sure to wow your guests. Just remember to place your bakery orders soon and early - as you likely won't be the only one in on this little secret!

The Casual Gourmet is well known on Cape Cod for catering weddings and functions, but they can just as easily step in to take over your Thanksgiving dessert planning. Their old-fashioned mile-high apple pie, bourbon pumpkin pie and turkey-themed cakes will make your holiday table even more festive. And if you're willing (and ready) to relinquish the full menu planning, they can also cater a full meal, from fresh-roasted turkeys and sausage-apple stuffing right down to the whipped butternut squash.

Centerville Pie Company in Centerville has been enthusiastically endorsed by even the likes of Oprah, and there's good reason. Their savory chicken pie is a favorite, but their delectable dessert menu features a long list of homemade pies that will leave your mouth watering - everything from pumpkin, apple and cranberry-apple to coconut, strawberry rhubarb and chocolate cream.

For a mix of sweets that extend beyond traditional pies, stop in to Hot Chocolate Sparrow in Orleans for some exquisite hand-dipped chocolate. Be warned: the smell of their signature fudge and turtles will put your willpower to the test on the car ride home, daring you not to nibble while stopped at traffic lights.

You won't exactly be lying when you tell Thanksgiving guests that the pastries, apple fritters, pumpkin breads and gourmet pies they're enjoying from Hole In One Bakery & Coffee Shop in Eastham are homemade. They are, of course (just not by you)! They're made fresh daily at this family-run shop, and the glorious smells greeting you at the door are proof of that. While there, pick up some of Hole in One's homemade donuts to munch on as you prepare your Thanksgiving feast.

Cupcake Charlie’s in Falmouth and Mashpee bake their award-winning gourmet cupcakes fresh each day. One of our favorite flavors, Grammy's Carrot Cup, is available year-round, while other specialties like their delectable pumpkin-flavored cupcakes only make an appearance in autumn. Step up your game by treating your Thanksgiving guests to one of Cupcake Charlie's Whoop Cakes, made with their cupcake tops and then sandwiched around sweet buttercream frosting and special fillings. You'll find a selection of gluten-free treats, too.

PB Boulangerie & Bistro in Wellfleet does double duty, as both a French-influenced bistro and one of the area's most beloved bakeries. Choose from cream puffs, eclairs, tarts, and cookies made from scratch, in addition to crusty breads and rolls.

Mashpee's Washashore Bakery is a go-to for decadent sticky buns, pies, cupcakes and even homemade pop-tarts. They amp up the pie production for Thanksgiving, with options including pumpkin, apple, cherry, apple cranberry and chocolate cream.

Rounding up our list is Far Land Provisions, a not-so-secret gem in Provincetown. Their pies - including apple, pumpkin, pecan, fall fruit and chocolate cream - are a favorite with those who would rather pick up dessert than bake it.

Again, don't wait - book your Thanksgiving bakery orders early so you (and your guests) aren't disappointed!