Thanksgiving Piecaken

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

---

If you’re searching for the ultimate show-stopper dessert to end your holiday meal, the Thanksgiving Piecaken is a glorious fusion of all your seasonal favorites. Imagine this: a luscious layer of pumpkin pie, a rich pecan pie, and a spiced apple pie, all stacked and sealed between moist layers of cake and whipped frosting. Topped with caramel drizzle and whipped cream swirls, it’s everything you love about Thanksgiving desserts—in one stunning slice.

More than just a cake, this is a celebration in every bite. Each forkful offers a surprise texture and flavor, from the crunch of pecans to the creamy smoothness of pumpkin and the tender sweetness of spiced apples. Whether you’re hosting or attending a Friendsgiving, this dessert will be the talk of the table. It’s decadent, it’s nostalgic, and it’s absolutely unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Piecaken

This dessert is a total crowd-pleaser, merging three holiday classics into one jaw-dropping masterpiece. It saves you the hassle of baking multiple pies and cakes while offering a multi-layered experience that keeps guests coming back for seconds. It also makes for a stunning centerpiece that photographs beautifully, perfect for holiday Instagram posts!

What Kind of Cake Should I Use in a Piecaken?

Spice cake or vanilla bean cake layers work best for a Thanksgiving Piecaken. They provide a neutral yet complementary flavor profile to support the bold notes of the pies. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a gingerbread cake for a festive twist. Just make sure the cake layers are sturdy enough to hold the weight of the pies and creamy fillings in between.

---

Ingredients for the Thanksgiving Piecaken

Creating a Thanksgiving Piecaken requires thoughtful layering of pies and cakes. Each ingredient adds texture and flavor depth, turning this into a dessert like no other.

• Pumpkin Pie – Brings creamy, spiced earthiness and that unmistakable Thanksgiving flavor.
• Pecan Pie – Offers a rich, nutty crunch that balances the softness of other layers.
• Apple Pie – Adds a tart-sweet bite with tender apple chunks and warm spices.
• Spice Cake – A moist, warmly flavored cake that binds the pie layers perfectly.
• Cream Cheese Frosting or Whipped Buttercream – Acts as the glue and adds a luscious sweetness.
• Caramel Sauce – For drizzling between layers and over the top for that gooey finish.
• Whipped Cream – Adds lightness and a decorative flourish.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Optional, for a finishing sprinkle that boosts the fall flavors.

How To Make the Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Bake or Buy the Pies

If you’re short on time, store-bought pies work just fine. Let them cool completely before assembly.

Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers

Choose spice or vanilla cake, and bake in springform pans for easy layering. Cool thoroughly.

Step 3: Prepare the Frosting

Make your favorite cream cheese or buttercream frosting. It should be thick enough to hold layers together.

Step 4: Assemble the Piecaken

Place one cake layer on a cake board. Spread frosting, then gently place one pie on top. Frost again, then add another cake layer, another pie, and so on. Alternate as you like.

Step 5: Frost the Outside

Once stacked, apply a crumb coat and refrigerate. Finish with a smooth frosting layer.

Step 6: Decorate

Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and let it drip down the sides. Add whipped cream swirls and a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for a few hours or overnight to help it set. Slice carefully with a serrated knife to reveal those gorgeous layers!

---

How to Serve and Store Your Thanksgiving Piecaken

This dessert is a celebration centerpiece that serves 12 to 16 people, depending on slice size. For best results, slice with a long serrated knife and wipe the blade clean between cuts to maintain those beautiful layers.

Serve chilled or at room temperature. If made ahead, refrigerate until about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors and textures come to life.

To store, cover the Piecaken with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for longer storage—wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge overnight.

What to Serve With Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Coffee or Espresso

A bold coffee or shot of espresso pairs perfectly with the sweet and spiced complexity of the Piecaken.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla adds cool creaminess that contrasts the richness of the layers.

Hot Apple Cider

Warm and gently spiced, cider complements the apple pie and adds a cozy seasonal vibe.

Bourbon or Spiked Eggnog

Adult guests will appreciate the warmth of a bourbon or eggnog sipper alongside a slice.

Fresh Berries

A handful of tart raspberries or cranberries cuts through the sweetness with a refreshing burst.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Unexpected, but the salty sharpness of cheddar pairs beautifully with apple pie components.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Extra drizzle for those who can’t get enough caramel magic on their plate.

Toasted Nuts

Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on the serving plate for added crunch and visual appeal.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Piecaken ahead of time?

Yes! Piecaken is actually better when made a day ahead. It gives the layers time to set and the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Can I use frozen pies?

Absolutely. Just make sure they’re fully thawed and brought to room temperature before assembling to avoid soggy layers.

Do I need to use all three types of pies?

Not necessarily. You can customize based on your preferences. Two pies and two cake layers still create an impressive dessert.

How do I transport the Piecaken?

Use a sturdy cake carrier or a well-supported cake board placed in a box. Keep it chilled until travel time and avoid sharp turns!

What if I don’t like one of the pies?

Swap it out! Try chocolate cream pie, cherry pie, or even sweet potato pie. The beauty of Piecaken is its flexibility.

Save This Pin For Later

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add caramel? Try a different pie combo? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

For more creative dessert ideas, follow my Pinterest: Life With Livia Desserts

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Piecaken is the ultimate holiday dessert mashup. With its stunning layers of pie and cake, rich textures, and comforting seasonal flavors, it offers something for everyone around the table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying this for the first time, the Piecaken is a rewarding project that delivers joy in every slice. Once you make it, it’ll become a tradition year after year.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?