Cake for Thanksgiving: 11 Tasty Reasons to Ditch the Traditional Pie

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Who says Thanksgiving is all about the pie? This year, let’s turn the tables and make room for cake! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a delicious twist on the usual holiday fare, these 11 cake recipes are your ticket to a dessert table that truly stands out.

Chocolate Pumpkin Cake on a platter with a slice cut out.
Chocolate Pumpkin Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Because, let’s be honest, there’s only so much excitement a pie can bring. This year, we’re saying goodbye to the same old, same old and hello to a world of fluffy, moist, and downright indulgent cakes. Whether you’re a baking guru or can barely tell flour from sugar, these cake recipes will upend your Thanksgiving dessert game.

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Chocolate Pumpkin Cake

Chocolate Pumpkin Cake is a match made in heaven for Thanksgiving. The swirl of chocolate and pumpkin batter creates a festive, autumn flavor that’s a decadent alternative to pie. Its cocoa sprinkle and chocolate glaze add the perfect finishing touches to this fall treat.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pumpkin Cake

Blueberry Upside Down Cake

blueberry upside down cake on a platter.
Blueberry Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Swap out the classic pie for a Blueberry Upside Down Cake this Thanksgiving. Its vibrant layer of blueberries adds a burst of freshness to each slice, making it a delightful alternative to traditional desserts.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Upside Down Cake

Double Chocolate Fudge Coca Cola Cake

Chocolate coca cola cake on a white plate topped with ice cream and a cherry.
Double Chocolate Fudge Coca Cola Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

For the chocolate lovers at your Thanksgiving table, the Double Chocolate Fudge Coca Cola Cake is a dream. Rich, moist, and packed with a deep chocolate flavor, this cake stands out with its unique soda-infused twist. It’s a fun and indulgent Thanksgiving treat.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Fudge Coca Cola Cake

Pumpkin Dump Cake

Pumpkin Dump Cake on a plate with whipped cream.
Pumpkin Dump Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

The Pumpkin Dump Cake is a fuss-free option for those who love pumpkin but want to skip the pie. Simply dump, mix, and bake for a dessert that’s as easy as it is tasty, offering a comforting blend of classic fall flavors in cake form. It’s perfect for a stress-free Thanksgiving treat.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Dump Cake

Swedish Almond Cake

Slices of Swedish almond cake dusted with powdered sugar and topped with almonds.
Swedish Almond Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Thanksgiving, why not try the Swedish Almond Cake for a touch of European elegance? Its delightful almond flavor and easy preparation make it a sweet alternative to more complex desserts. Topped with powdered sugar or glaze, it’s simplicity and sophistication in every slice.
Get the Recipe: Swedish Almond Cake

Cranberry Upside Down Cake

Cranberry Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Bring a pop of tartness to your Thanksgiving dessert table with a Cranberry Upside Down Cake. This cake offers a beautiful blend of tangy cranberries and sweet cake. It’s a vibrant, eye-catching addition to your feast.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Upside Down Cake

Blueberry Swiss Roll Cake

Slice of blueberry Swiss roll cake on a plate.
Blueberry Swiss Roll Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Dazzle your guests with the Blueberry Swiss Roll Cake. A springy sponge cake rolled with whipped cream and blueberries, it’s a visually stunning and lighter dessert option. This roll cake is an exquisite and refreshing choice, perfect for adding some elegance to your Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Swiss Roll Cake

Mini Lemon Bundt Cakes

Mini lemon bundt cakes on a cool rack drizzled with icing and topped with raspberries and blueberries.
Mini Lemon Bundt Cakes. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

Brighten your Thanksgiving dessert spread with Mini Lemon Bundt Cakes. These delightful cakes, topped with berries, offer a zesty, refreshing break from the usual fare. Their individual serving size also makes them a charming and convenient dessert option.
Get the Recipe: Mini Lemon Bundt Cakes

Chocolate Cherry Cake

Slice of chocolate cherry cake topped with cherry pie filling.
Chocolate Cherry Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

For a quick and delightful twist, try the Chocolate Cherry Cake. Combining cake mix with cherry pie filling, this cake is both easy to make and deliciously different. Topped with a chocolate glaze, it’s a rich and fruity.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cherry Cake

Norwegian Cream Cake

Norwegian Cream Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

The Norwegian Cream Cake, or Bløtkake, is a splendid choice for a Thanksgiving cake. This light sponge cake filled with pudding and peaches, and topped with whipped cream and berries, offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a festive and unique option.
Get the Recipe: Norwegian Cream Cake

Apple Upside Down Cake

A slice of apple cinnamon coffee cake on a plate.
Apple Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

The Apple Upside Down Cake is a fantastic cake for Thanksgiving. With its layers of caramelized apples and moist cake, it offers all the flavors of a classic apple pie in a delightful cake form. The sticky caramel apple topping ensures each bite is as delicious as it is comforting.
Get the Recipe: Apple Upside Down Cake

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Make cake for thanksgiving.
anne

Hi, I’m Anne!

I love to cook and I want to share my recipes with you. I believe cooking should be approachable and fun, not a chore. I want to make simple recipes using everyday ingredients that you can make again and again, whether it is for a busy weeknight, a summer cookout or a special dessert. Read more...

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