10 Sweet & Tasty Thanksgiving Cake Ideas
We may earn a commission through all links on this website. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.As the aroma of roasting turkey and savory spices wafts through the air, our minds turn to the sweetest part of the Thanksgiving feast: dessert. While pumpkin pie is a classic choice, why not shake things up with a show-stopping Thanksgiving cake that will leave your guests in awe?
From decadent chocolate cakes to vibrant fruit-topped masterpieces, we’ve gathered the most mouthwatering and creative Thanksgiving cake ideas to inspire your holiday baking. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner in the kitchen, these stunning cakes are sure to impress your family and friends, and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Our Specialty Single Layer Spiced Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Icing, Frozen, 8", 30 Ounces
(as of November 30, 2025 10:18 GMT -05:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect autumn dessert to celebrate Thanksgiving. This moist and flavorful cake is infused with warm spices, making it a delightful treat for family gatherings. Topped with a rich and creamy frosting, it’s sure to be a showstopper on your dessert table.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. 2. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of pumpkin spice, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. 3. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 1/2 cup of buttermilk, and 3 eggs, then mix until well combined. 4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. 5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. 7. For the frosting, beat together 8 oz of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of butter, and 4 cups of powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. 8. Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting between the two layers, then coat the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. 9. Decorate with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired, and serve.
Apple Cider Donut Cake
Apple Cider Donut Cake is the ultimate fall dessert, combining the warm, spicy flavors of apple cider and cinnamon. This moist, tender cake captures the essence of classic apple cider donuts in every bite, making it a perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving celebration. Serve it warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple glaze for a delightful treat that will impress your guests.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of apple cider, 1 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of melted butter, mixing well. 3. Add 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until combined. 4. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. 5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. 6. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. 7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. 9. Optionally, sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple glaze before serving.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Pecan Pie Cheesecake is a delightful fusion of two classic desserts, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet, nutty flavors of pecan pie. This dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious cheesecake layer infused with vanilla, and a caramelized pecan topping that adds a crunchy texture. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, this cheesecake is sure to impress your guests and become a new holiday favorite.
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan. 2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of melted butter, and ¼ cup of sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. 3. In a large bowl, beat 4 packages (8 oz each) of cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 cup of sugar and beat until creamy. Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, along with 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. 4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and bake for 55–60 minutes or until the center is set but slightly jiggly. 5. While the cheesecake is baking, prepare the pecan topping by combining 1 cup of chopped pecans, ½ cup of corn syrup, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. 6. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and pour the pecan mixture on top. Bake for an additional 10 minutes. 7. Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving. Enjoy your delicious Pecan Pie Cheesecake!
Maple Walnut Bundt Cake
Maple Walnut Bundt Cake is a delightful dessert that embodies the flavors of fall. This moist and rich cake is infused with pure maple syrup, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness from the toasted walnuts. It’s an ideal centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table, sure to impress guests and family alike with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan. 2. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of brown sugar until light and fluffy. 3. Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. 4. Stir in 1 cup of pure maple syrup and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. 5. In another bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. 6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with 1 cup of sour cream, until fully combined. 7. Fold in 1 cup of chopped toasted walnuts. 8. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top. 9. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. 11. Drizzle with maple glaze or serve with whipped cream if desired.
Cranberry Orange Pound Cake
Cranberry Orange Pound Cake is a delightful holiday treat that boasts the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The moist, buttery cake is infused with fresh orange zest and studded with tangy cranberries, making it a charming addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table. It is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with vibrant red cranberries peeking through the golden cake.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan. 2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy. 3. Beat in 4 eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. 4. Mix in the zest of 2 oranges and 1 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice. 5. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. 6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh cranberries. 7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. 8. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve, optionally dusting with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Sweet Potato Cake with Marshmallow Topping
Sweet Potato Cake with Marshmallow Topping is a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving dessert table. This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the comforting taste of sweet potatoes and spices, making it a seasonal favorite. Topped with a fluffy marshmallow frosting, it offers a perfect blend of sweetness and warmth that will impress your guests.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. 2. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of mashed sweet potatoes, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 2 large eggs. 3. In another bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. 4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix. 5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. 6. For the marshmallow topping, combine 1 cup of marshmallow fluff, 1/4 cup of softened butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a bowl, beating until smooth. 7. Once the cake has cooled, spread the marshmallow topping evenly over the cake and optionally, use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the marshmallow for added flavor. 8. Slice and serve to enjoy this deliciously sweet creation.
Carrot Cake with Spiced Cream Cheese
Carrot Cake with Spiced Cream Cheese is a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving celebration, combining the warmth of spices with the natural sweetness of carrots. This moist cake is layered with velvety cream cheese frosting, enhanced with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, making each bite a comforting experience. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a festive twist to traditional cake recipes.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 2 cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. 3. In another bowl, mix together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of vegetable oil, and 2 cups of grated carrots until well combined. 4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. 5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 6. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before turning them out onto a wire rack. 7. For the frosting, beat together 8 oz of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 4 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth. 8. Once the cakes are cool, spread a layer of frosting between the cakes and on the top and sides. 9. Optional: Garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture. 10. Slice and serve to enjoy a slice of seasonal delight.
Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Cake
Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Cake is a delectable treat that perfectly blends rich chocolate with the nutty flavor of pecans, elevated by a hint of bourbon. This moist and fudgy cake is ideal for Thanksgiving celebrations, offering a unique twist to traditional desserts. Paired with a creamy bourbon-infused frosting, it will surely impress your guests and leave them craving more.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. 2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tsp of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. 3. In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup of buttermilk, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1/4 cup of bourbon until smooth. 4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. 5. Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans. 6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. 7. Allow the cake to cool completely. 8. For the frosting, beat together 1/2 cup of butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons of bourbon until creamy. 9. Frost the cooled cake and garnish with additional pecans before serving.
Gingerbread Cake with Vanilla Glaze
Gingerbread Cake with Vanilla Glaze is a delightful and aromatic dessert perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. The rich, spiced flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses create a warm atmosphere, while the smooth vanilla glaze adds a sweet contrast that elevates the cake. This indulgent treat is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a standout choice for any holiday table.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. 2. In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. 3. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of unsulfured molasses, 1/2 cup of softened butter, and 2 large eggs until smooth. 4. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until fully incorporated. 5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. 6. Let the cake cool completely before preparing the vanilla glaze. 7. For the glaze, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. 8. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, slice, and serve.
Chocolate Pumpkin Layer Cake
The Chocolate Pumpkin Layer Cake is a decadent dessert that beautifully combines rich chocolate and spiced pumpkin flavors, making it a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. Each layer is moist and fluffy, delightfully complemented by a creamy frosting that ties the flavors together. This show-stopping cake not only tastes amazing but also adds a festive touch to your holiday celebrations.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. 2. In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1 cup of vegetable oil until well combined. 3. Add 2 cups of pumpkin puree, 3 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture, then stir until smooth. 4. In another bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. 5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined. 6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 7. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. 8. For the frosting, beat together 1 cup of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 3 cups of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until creamy. 9. Once cakes are cool, spread a layer of frosting between each cake layer and on top and sides of the cake. 10. Decorate with chocolate shavings or pumpkin seeds for a festive touch, and serve to your guests.
