Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for a dessert that will steal the show this holiday season, look no further than this Thanksgiving Piecaken! Imagine a delightful fusion of pumpkin pie, creamy cinnamon cheesecake, and fluffy spice cake — it’s a mouthwatering masterpiece. This recipe is a cherished favorite because it combines three classic flavors into one stunning dessert, making it perfect for family gatherings, festive dinners, or even cozy nights at home.

What I adore about the Thanksgiving Piecaken is how it brings everyone together around the table. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that sparks joy and celebration. Plus, with its impressive layers and delightful flavors, you’ll be sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Layers: The combination of pumpkin pie, cheesecake, and spice cake creates a showstopper that looks as good as it tastes.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone will love this sweet treat! It’s a fun way to introduce kids to new flavors while keeping the classics they know and love.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare components in advance, making your holiday planning easier and stress-free.
• Delicious Flavor: Each bite offers a delightful mix of spices and creaminess that captures the essence of Thanksgiving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Gather them up, and you’re on your way to creating something truly special for your loved ones.

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 large eggs

For the Spice Cake Layer

• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 cup butter (softened)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon milk

For Assembly

• 1 (9-inch) store-bought pumpkin pie (premade/storebought)

For Frosting

• 12 ounces unsalted butter (softened, 3 sticks)
• 5 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 3-4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream (cold)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some creative ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the Pumpkin Pie: Try using a store-bought pecan pie or apple pie for different flavors.
• Change Up the Frosting: Experiment with chocolate ganache instead of traditional frosting for an indulgent twist.
• Add Some Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts in between layers for added crunch and flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free flour in both the cheesecake and spice cake layers to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Start by beating together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until it’s smooth. This step is crucial because it ensures there are no lumps in your cheesecake layer. Add in flour, vanilla extract, cinnamon, heavy whipping cream, and eggs one at a time. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy. This delicious base layer is what gives the piecaken its rich flavor!

Step 2: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

Pour the cheesecake mixture into a greased round cake pan. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 45 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Allowing it to cool completely before removing from the pan helps maintain its shape when layering later.

Step 3: Prepare the Spice Cake Layer

In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. In a separate mixing bowl, cream together softened butter with brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, milk, and then gradually add in dry ingredients. This will give you a lovely spiced batter that complements your other layers perfectly!

Step 4: Bake the Spice Cake Layer

Spread this batter into another greased round cake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool before removing it from the pan so that you can stack everything without any mess.

Step 5: Assemble Your Piecaken

Start with placing your store-bought pumpkin pie at the bottom of your serving dish. Next up is your spice cake layer followed by the cooled cheesecake layer on top of that. It’s like building your little dessert tower!

Step 6: Make The Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until well combined. Add vanilla extract and optional cinnamon; then mix in cold heavy whipping cream until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost Your Creation

Once everything is assembled and cooled down completely, generously frost around the sides and top of your Piecaken masterpiece!

And there you have it — an unforgettable Thanksgiving Piecaken that will surely be talked about long after your guests have left! Enjoy sharing this beloved dessert with friends and family during this special season!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Creating a Thanksgiving piecaken might seem daunting, but with a few handy tips, you’ll be impressing your family and friends in no time!

• Prep Your Ingredients First – Organizing your ingredients before you start baking can streamline the process and help avoid any last-minute surprises. It ensures you have everything on hand and ready to go!

• Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese – Allow your cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing. This will result in a smoother cheesecake layer that’s free of lumps, making it taste even more delightful.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter – When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy texture.

• Cool Layers Completely – After baking, let each layer cool completely before stacking them. This prevents melting and sliding layers and helps the piecaken maintain its structure.

• Chill Before Serving – Refrigerate the finished piecaken for at least an hour before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing easier!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Serving this stunning piecaken is all about presentation! Here are some creative ideas to make it a centerpiece at your Thanksgiving table.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a touch of elegance and enhances the dessert’s creamy texture.
• Cinnamon Sprinkles: Lightly dusting cinnamon on top not only looks beautiful but also accentuates the warm spices within the piecaken.
• Candied Pecans: Adding these gives a delightful crunch and additional flavor contrast that pairs wonderfully with the soft layers.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted until crispy, these veggies add a savory element that complements the sweetness of the dessert.
• Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweetened with maple syrup, these tender carrots bring warmth to your plate while balancing out richer flavors.
• Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with garlic and topped with toasted almonds provide a nice crunch and bright color that livens up your holiday table.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy homemade cranberry sauce offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the piecaken, making each bite even more enjoyable.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving piecaken will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on your table! Enjoy every moment of sharing this delightful dessert with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Piecaken is not just a showstopper for your dessert table; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time to save yourself some stress on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the piecaken to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Wrap the piecaken tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and cover with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful dessert!

Can I make Thanksgiving Piecaken without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese alternative or a rich cashew cream for a similar texture.

How do I serve Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Slice into wedges and serve chilled or at room temperature. A dollop of whipped cream on top adds an extra touch!

What makes Thanksgiving Piecaken special?

The unique layers of pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake create an unforgettable flavor experience that will wow your guests.

Can I customize the flavors in my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite spices or even swap in different flavored cakes to suit your taste.

How long does Thanksgiving Piecaken last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge and can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating this amazing Thanksgiving Piecaken as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert but a centerpiece that brings people together during the holidays. Whether you’re celebrating with family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress and create lasting memories. Happy baking, and may your holiday season be filled with joy and delicious treats!