If you’re looking to bring a real showstopper to your Thanksgiving table, look no further than the Thanksgiving Piecaken! This whimsical marvel layers cozy spice cake, rich pumpkin pie, and creamy cheesecake, all blanketed in a cinnamon-kissed buttercream frosting. Every bite is the best of Thanksgiving desserts in one epic forkful—sweet, spiced, creamy, and totally irresistible. Whether you’re entertaining a houseful or just want to treat your loved ones to something unforgettable, Thanksgiving Piecaken is the delicious conversation piece you never knew your holiday needed.

Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s so wonderful about Thanksgiving Piecaken is that the ingredients are simple and familiar, but when combined, they create a truly magical dessert. Each element brings its own unique flavor, texture, and color, making every layer shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cream cheese (3, 8-ounce packages): Choose full-fat for the creamiest cheesecake layer—let it soften on the counter first for a smooth batter.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake layer just enough without overpowering.
All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons + 2/3 cup): Stabilizes the cheesecake filling and forms the base of the spice cake.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a deep, cozy note to both cake and cheesecake.
Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons + 3/4 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon for frosting): Brings the classic holiday spice to every layer—plus a sprinkle on top for a festive look.
Heavy whipping cream (1/2 cup for cheesecake, 3-4 tablespoons for frosting): Makes both your cheesecake and frosting incredibly rich and fluffy.
Large eggs (2 for cheesecake, 1 for cake): Bind the layers and add tenderness.
Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Lifts the spice cake to fluffy, tender heights.
Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Adds gentle warmth to your cake layer.
Nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for balanced holiday flavor.
Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): A little goes a long way with this bold spice—don’t skip it!
Allspice (1/4 teaspoon): Gives the cake that extra autumnal depth.
Butter (1/4 cup for cake, 12 ounces/3 sticks for frosting): The backbone of both cake and dreamy buttercream—use unsalted and let it soften.
Brown sugar (1/3 cup, packed): Adds caramel tones to the spice cake.
Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Keeps the spice cake moist for days.
Milk (1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon): Loosens and tenderizes the cake batter.
Premade 9-inch pumpkin pie: Store-bought saves time! You’ll trim it to fit so don’t worry about crust perfection.
Powdered sugar (5 cups): The key to a smooth-as-silk buttercream frosting.

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Start by preparing your 9-inch springform pan with parchment and nonstick spray—trust me, you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to assemble! Cream the softened cream cheese until it’s luscious and lump-free, then gradually add sugar and flour. Vanilla extract and a pinch of cinnamon step in next, making the whole kitchen smell heavenly. Once the heavy cream is in, the batter gets even silkier. Eggs are the last to join the party; add them one at a time and mix gently to keep things airy. Pour this dreamy batter into your prepared pan, tap out the air bubbles, and bake first at 350°F, then lower the oven to gently finish cooking at 200°F, ensuring a center that’s set but still a little jiggle—like Jell-o! Cool it gradually, then chill overnight so it’s set and easy to handle.

Step 2: Mix and Bake the Spice Cake Layer

For the spice cake layer, gather those pantry spices—they’re the unsung heroes here. Whisk your dry ingredients, then cream butter and brown sugar in a stand mixer until fluffy. In goes the oil, egg, and vanilla for a smooth, aromatic mix. Alternate adding flour mix and milk so your batter stays light and even. Pour into a well-greased, floured 9-inch cake pan, bake until a toothpick comes out clean, then let it cool before wrapping and chilling. This overnight rest makes the cake sturdy for stacking and slicing.

Step 3: Whip Up Cinammon Buttercream Frosting

Butter and powdered sugar are creamed together for that classic bakery-style frosting—don’t rush this step, as more mixing means fluffier results. Cinnamon, vanilla, and cold heavy cream round out the flavors and texture. Start slow with the powdered sugar to avoid a snowstorm on your counter, then finish on high for a dreamy, airy frosting that spreads like a charm.

Step 4: Assemble the Thanksgiving Piecaken

Carefully trim each layer to make them all the same diameter—I usually use a serrated knife and a gentle touch. Place the cheesecake on your serving stand and add a hearty layer of frosting. Next stack the spice cake, top with more frosting, then carefully transfer the pumpkin pie (trimmed to fit) on top. Cover the whole tower with a generous crumb coat of frosting, chill to set, then finish with a final thick coat. Now’s your chance to pipe a pretty border or give a final sprinkle of cinnamon—time to let your creativity shine!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Garnishes

Dress up your Thanksgiving Piecaken with a light shower of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth. A piped buttercream border around the top edge looks classic, but you could also crown it with sugared cranberries or candied pecans for a wow-worthy finish. For a pro tip, add a few dollops of whipped cream just before serving—pure holiday magic!

Side Dishes

With a dessert as rich and layered as Thanksgiving Piecaken, simple sides are your best friend. Offer coffee or hot apple cider to balance the sweetness, and maybe a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for those who love an à la mode moment. Fresh fruit, like orange segments or poached pears, adds a burst of brightness between indulgent bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your Thanksgiving Piecaken steal the spotlight by serving it on a beautiful cake stand surrounded by fresh seasonal greenery or little pumpkins. For gatherings, slice and plate with a drizzle of maple syrup or cinnamon caramel sauce. Feeling adventurous? Try making mini piecakens in mason jars for individualized servings—guests will be dazzled!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any remaining Thanksgiving Piecaken slices into an airtight container and refrigerate—they’ll stay delicious and moist for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, making leftovers just as irresistible as the first slice (if not more!).

Freezing

If you want to get ahead for a future celebration (or just ration your leftovers), wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying—this helps preserve that dreamy texture without sogginess.

Reheating

Thanksgiving Piecaken is actually best served chilled or at cool room temperature, but if you prefer a slightly warm slice, microwave individual pieces for 10-15 seconds. Just don’t overheat, or the frosting may melt and the layers might lose their lovely structure.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade pumpkin pie instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite pumpkin pie recipe, feel free to bake it yourself—just make sure it cools completely and chills in the fridge, so it holds up well during assembly.

Why do the layers need to chill overnight?

Chilling ensures that the cheesecake and spice cake layers firm up, making assembly so much easier and preventing any disastrous slippage. It also gives the flavors time to develop even more fully.

What’s the best way to trim the pumpkin pie to fit?

First, gently remove it from its tin, then use a serrated knife to trim around the outer crust until it’s about the same diameter as your cake and cheesecake. It’s easier than it sounds—and a slightly rustic edge only adds charm!

Can I make Thanksgiving Piecaken gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Use a reliable gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in both the cheesecake and spice cake layers. Double check that your pumpkin pie is gluten-free as well, or bake your own pie with a GF crust.

Is this as complicated to make as it sounds?

While Thanksgiving Piecaken does have a few steps, each element is straightforward—and you can make each component a day in advance. Think of it as a fun kitchen project, and you’ll be wowed at how impressive (and delicious) the final result is!

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Piecaken is the kind of dessert that makes memories and brings smiles year after year. It’s playful, indulgent, and guaranteed to spark conversation at your holiday table. Gather your ingredients, invite a helper or two, and bake this delicious masterpiece—you’ll be starting a brand-new Thanksgiving tradition!