11+ Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cake Recipes

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, family, and, of course, delicious food. If you’re a fan of pumpkin and cake, these recipes will be the highlight of your holiday feast.

Pumpkin Spice Layer Cake

Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting from King Arthur Baking

Rating: 4.8 (18 reviews). Total Time: 3 h 30 min.

Perfect Pumpkin Layer Cake

Perfect Pumpkin Layer Cake from Sugar & Sparrow

Rating: 5 (13 reviews). Total Time: 3 h 10 min.

Pumpkin Cake

Pumpkin Cake from Sugar Spun Run

Rating: 5 (39 reviews). Total Time: 43 min.

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Imagine biting into a slice of cake that embodies the warmth of fall. This Pumpkin Spice Layer Cake is like a hug in dessert form, packed with the classic spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, perfectly complementing the rich pumpkin flavor.

The secret to this cake’s popularity is its moistness, achieved by using both pumpkin puree and a splash of buttermilk. The layers are generously slathered with a cream cheese frosting that’s just the right amount of tangy and sweet. It’s like having all your favorite fall flavors in a single bite!

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can add chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch or even sprinkle some cinnamon sugar between the layers for an extra touch of sweetness. This cake is perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy slice by the fireplace.

Chocolate Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Chocolate Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Chocolate Pumpkin Bundt Cake from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.9 (15 reviews). Total Time: 45 min.

Chocolate Pumpkin Swirl Bundt Cake

Chocolate Pumpkin Swirl Bundt Cake from Zoe Bakes

Rating: 5 (23 reviews).

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Pumpkin Bundt Cake from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.9 (89 reviews). Total Time: 4 h 30 min.

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This isn’t your average pumpkin cake. The Chocolate Pumpkin Bundt Cake is a rich, decadent treat combining the deep flavors of cocoa with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin. It’s a match made in dessert heaven!

This cake uses bittersweet chocolate to deepen the flavor, while the pumpkin keeps it wonderfully moist. The crowning glory is a glossy chocolate glaze that adds a touch of elegance and extra chocolatey goodness. This cake is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight.

Every bite is like a celebration of flavors, with the chocolate and pumpkin playing off each other in perfect harmony. This cake is great for those who want a twist on the traditional pumpkin dessert, providing a surprising yet delightful combination. It’s guaranteed to be a showstopper at any Thanksgiving table.

Plus, the Bundt shape makes it easy to serve and adds a beautiful aesthetic to your dessert spread. Whether you top it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or leave it plain, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress.

Pumpkin Caramel Drizzle Cake

Pumpkin Caramel Cake

Pumpkin Caramel Cake from Chelsweets

Rating: 4.9 (32 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 50 min.

Pumpkin Cake with Salted Caramel Frosting

Pumpkin Cake with Salted Caramel Frosting from Glorious Treats

Rating: 5 (5 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 50 min.

Pumpkin Caramel Sheet Cake

Pumpkin Caramel Sheet Cake from My Messy Kitchen

Total Time: 1 h 5 min.

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If you’re looking for something that screams indulgence, the Pumpkin Caramel Drizzle Cake is your go-to. This cake combines the earthy flavor of pumpkin with the rich, buttery taste of caramel, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and luxurious.

The cake itself is wonderfully spiced with cinnamon and ginger, making the pumpkin flavor shine. The real magic happens with the caramel drizzle, which is poured over the top, seeping into every nook and cranny of the cake. It’s like a delicious, sticky hug in cake form.

This recipe stands out because it’s not just about the cake; it’s about the experience. The caramel sauce is made from scratch, adding a personal touch that you and your guests will appreciate. Serve it warm for an extra cozy treat that captures the essence of Thanksgiving.

Maple Pumpkin Cake with Streusel Topping

Maple Streusel Pumpkin Cake

Maple Streusel Pumpkin Cake from Liv for Cake

Rating: 4.6 (10 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 5 min.

Cinnamon Streusel Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Maple Glaze

Cinnamon Streusel Pumpkin Coffee Cake with Maple Glaze from Pinch of Yum

Rating: 4 (24 reviews). Total Time: 55 min.

Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake

Pumpkin Crumb Coffee Cake from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.8 (152 reviews). Total Time: 50 min.

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Combine the flavors of maple and pumpkin, and you get a cake that’s both sweet and subtly spiced. The Maple Pumpkin Cake with Streusel Topping is a delightful dessert that brings together the best of fall flavors.

The cake is infused with pure maple syrup, giving it a distinct sweetness that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin. The streusel topping, made from brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts, adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake.

One bite of this cake, and you’re met with a symphony of textures and flavors. The maple syrup adds a unique twist, making it a standout choice for those who love a mix of traditional and novel tastes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be the talk of your Thanksgiving gathering.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cakes

Sweet Potato Cake from Cake by Courtney

Rating: 5 (44 reviews). Total Time: 2 h 26 min.

Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting from Once Upon a Chef

Rating: 4.8 (88 reviews).

Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting from The Kitchn

Rating: 5 (1 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 25 min.

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Embrace the Power of Spices

The secret to a memorable pumpkin cake lies in the spices. Don’t skimp on cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves; they bring out the pumpkin’s natural sweetness and add warmth to your cake. Freshly ground spices can make a world of difference, elevating your cake from good to unforgettable.

Balance the Sweetness

Pumpkin itself isn’t very sweet, so finding the right balance of sugar is key. Consider using a mix of brown and white sugar for depth of flavor. The brown sugar adds a molasses-like richness that complements the pumpkin beautifully, while the white sugar keeps it from being too heavy.

Perfect the Texture

A great pumpkin cake is all about texture. Make sure to not overmix your batter, as this can lead to a dense cake. Instead, gently fold in your dry ingredients until just combined. This ensures a light, airy cake that is moist and delicious.