Thanksgiving Piecaken

Save this recipe on:

Move over traditional pies and cakes—there’s a new dessert champion at the holiday table! The Thanksgiving Piecaken is a jaw-dropping, triple-layered masterpiece that stacks layers of pecan pie, pumpkin pie, and spice cake, all smothered in luscious buttercream frosting. It delivers the cozy flavors of Thanksgiving in one outrageous slice, perfect for feeding a crowd and winning the dessert game.

This showstopping dessert is not just for looks. The layers marry textures and tastes in perfect harmony: a rich, nutty bottom, a velvety pumpkin center, and a moist spiced cake topper. Wrapped in smooth frosting and topped with whipped cream or festive decorations, this dessert does it all—beauty, balance, and bold flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Piecaken

• Combines three iconic Thanksgiving desserts in one slice.
• Makes a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.
• Feeds a crowd easily with just one creation.
• Make-ahead friendly for less stress on the big day.
• Offers a fun, modern twist on traditional holiday treats.

---

What Kind of Cake and Pie Should I Use?

The joy of the Thanksgiving Piecaken is that it’s customizable, but for a classic flavor lineup, we recommend a base layer of pecan pie, a middle layer of pumpkin pie, and a top layer of spiced or cinnamon cake. Bake your pies in 8-inch tins (store-bought or homemade) and use a matching 8-inch cake pan for uniform stacking. If you’re feeling adventurous, try an apple pie or sweet potato pie variation!

---

Ingredients for the Thanksgiving Piecaken

A dessert this epic calls for ingredients that deliver flavor and structure in equal measure. Here’s a breakdown of the key components and why they matter:

• Pecan Pie: This dense and sweet base brings a crunchy, nutty richness that balances the other layers.
• Pumpkin Pie: Silky smooth with warm spices, it adds that quintessential Thanksgiving taste.
• Spice Cake: Aromatic and fluffy, the top layer ties the flavors together with cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
• Buttercream Frosting: For sealing the layers and covering the exterior in a smooth, creamy finish.
• Whipped Cream or Garnish: Optional but festive—perfect for decorating the top with rosettes, dusting with cinnamon, or adding pie crust cutouts.

---

How To Make the Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Bake the Cake Layer

Make your spice cake in an 8-inch round pan. Let it cool completely before stacking. You can bake it a day in advance.

Step 2: Prepare the Pies

Use pre-baked pumpkin and pecan pies. If homemade, bake them in matching 8-inch tins. Chill completely—this helps them hold shape.

Step 3: Level and Trim

Remove pies from tins. Carefully trim the rounded tops (especially the pumpkin pie) to create flat surfaces. Level the cake layer too, if needed.

Step 4: Stack the Layers

Place the pecan pie on a cake board. Add a layer of buttercream. Stack the pumpkin pie next, followed by another frosting layer. Top with the spice cake.

Step 5: Frost Generously

Apply a crumb coat first, chill, then frost the whole piecaken generously. Smooth out the sides or leave rustic swirls.

Step 6: Decorate and Chill

Pipe whipped cream or add festive touches. Chill for at least an hour before serving to firm everything up.

---

Serving and Storing Thanksgiving Piecaken

This layered dessert is perfect for feeding a large holiday gathering—one Thanksgiving Piecaken easily serves 12 to 16 people with generous slices. Slice with a hot, sharp knife for clean cuts.

To store, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also make it up to 2 days in advance and add decorations just before serving. Leftovers? Slice and freeze individually!

---

What to Serve With Thanksgiving Piecaken?

A Scoop of Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Let it melt gently over the warm slice for creamy contrast.

Warm Apple Cider

The spices pair beautifully with the layers of cake and pie.

Bourbon Whipped Cream

Adds a little grown-up kick and richness.

Spiced Hot Chocolate

A kid-friendly companion that boosts the cozy vibes.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

For that extra sweet-and-salty elevation.

Cranberry Sauce

Yes, really! A tart spoonful can cut through the sweetness wonderfully.

Espresso or Strong Coffee

Balances the richness and perks up the party.

---

Want More Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas?

If you’re wowed by the Thanksgiving Piecaken, here are more must-try dessert ideas to round out your holiday table:

• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for fruity richness.
• Whipped Shortbread Cookies Recipe for a buttery melt-in-your-mouth bite.
• Sweet Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls if you want berry bliss.
• Mississippi Mud Cake when you’re craving deep, fudgy comfort.
• Magic Lemon Cobbler for a citrusy zing that surprises.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go full traditional or mix in a different pie? Did you pipe frosting or go rustic?

I love seeing all the creative spins you bring. And if you have any questions—drop them below!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and daily food inspo on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next delicious obsession!

Print

Save this recipe on: