Thanksgiving is a time of gathering, gratitude, and of course, great food. Imagine the delight on your guests’ faces when you present them with a stunning cake that not only tastes amazing but perfectly encapsulates the essence of the holiday.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake
Pumpkin spiced latte cake from Waitrose & Partners
Rating: 4.5 (15 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 15 min.
This cake combines the beloved flavors of a pumpkin spice latte into a delightful dessert. With a base of spiced pumpkin cake, it is layered with a coffee-infused cream cheese frosting that captures the warmth and coziness of your favorite fall coffee.
The special touch here is the blend of spices that includes cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a fragrant and flavorful cake that echoes the essence of a pumpkin spice latte. The addition of brewed coffee in the frosting not only enhances the flavor but also provides a subtle caffeine kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake. This recipe is particularly popular because it brings together the warmth of pumpkin spice with the rich, comforting flavors of coffee, making it a go-to dessert for those chilly Thanksgiving evenings.
What makes this cake stand out is its ability to bring people together over the shared love of pumpkin spice and coffee. The combination is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with its beautifully layered appearance and the enticing aroma that fills the room as you cut into it.

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake
This vibrant cake is a delightful blend of tart cranberries and zesty orange, creating a refreshing and festive flavor profile. With the addition of a sweet orange glaze, this cake shines as a centerpiece on any Thanksgiving table.
The magic lies in the use of fresh cranberries, which provide a burst of tartness that perfectly counterbalances the sweetness of the cake. The orange zest and juice infuse the batter with a citrusy aroma that is both refreshing and invigorating. The orange glaze drizzled on top adds a beautiful sheen and extra sweetness that ties the whole cake together.
One reason this cake is so special is its ability to capture the colors and flavors of the season. The cranberries and orange not only taste great together but also add a pop of color that makes this cake visually stunning. It’s the kind of dessert that brings a smile to everyone’s face, whether they’re having a slice at the end of a Thanksgiving feast or sneaking a piece for breakfast the next morning.
Maple Pecan Layer Cake
Imagine a cake that embodies the rich, nutty, and sweet flavors of a pecan pie but in a soft, layered form. This maple pecan cake is the perfect combination of buttery pecans and sweet maple syrup, making it a showstopper.
The cake layers are infused with real maple syrup, which gives them a deep, natural sweetness that is perfectly complemented by the crunch of toasted pecans. The frosting, a velvety maple buttercream, adds an extra layer of indulgence to every bite. What really sets this cake apart is the texture — the contrast of the fluffy cake with the crunchy pecans creates a delightful experience with each forkful.
This cake is particularly popular for Thanksgiving because it takes the classic flavors of maple and pecan, often found in pies, and elevates them into a sophisticated dessert that’s easy to serve. It’s a cake that feels both luxurious and homey, evoking the warmth of a Thanksgiving gathering while providing a unique twist on traditional flavors.
Apple Cinnamon Crumble Cake
This cake takes the comforting flavors of apple pie and transforms them into a moist, crumbly delight. With chunks of fresh apple and a cinnamon-sugar crumble topping, it’s the perfect blend of pie and cake.
The magic in this cake comes from the generous use of cinnamon and sugar, which creates a sweet, spicy aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. Fresh apple chunks are sprinkled throughout the batter, adding moisture and bursts of sweetness with every bite. The topping, a crunchy cinnamon-sugar streusel, adds texture and an extra layer of flavor that makes this cake irresistible.
One of the reasons this cake is a hit during Thanksgiving is its ability to bring comfort and nostalgia to the table. It’s like having a slice of your favorite apple pie, but in a form that’s easier to serve and share. Plus, the combination of apples and cinnamon is a classic that never fails to please, making this cake a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of homey warmth to their holiday spread.
Pro Tricks for Amazing Thanksgiving Cakes
Thanksgiving Cake With Apples + Cranberries from Unpeeled Journal
Rating: 5 (8 reviews). Total Time: 55 min.
Choose the Right Spices
When making Thanksgiving-themed cakes, the spices you use can make a big difference. Stick to warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to bring out those cozy, holiday flavors. Remember, fresh spices make a huge impact on the taste, so make sure yours are not too old.
Don’t Skimp on the Frosting
Frosting isn’t just for decoration; it’s an integral part of your cake’s flavor profile. Be generous with your frosting layers, and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors like maple, coffee, or citrus to complement your cake.
Use Fresh Ingredients
The best cakes start with the best ingredients. Use fresh fruits, high-quality syrups, and real butter to ensure your cake is as delicious as possible. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also make your cakes more aromatic and visually appealing.











