Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for a dessert that will steal the show this holiday season, look no further than this Thanksgiving Piecaken! This delightful creation combines three beloved desserts—pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake—into one stunning centerpiece. It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter as they savor each delicious bite.

This recipe has become a favorite in my home, especially during family gatherings. The blend of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making it perfect for celebrating Thanksgiving or any special occasion. Trust me, your friends and family will be talking about this dessert long after the last slice is gone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: This multi-layered dessert is visually stunning and will wow your guests.
• Delicious Flavor Explosion: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake creates a flavor profile that’s out of this world.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare some layers in advance, making your holiday prep less stressful.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves pie and cake—this is the best of both worlds!
• Perfect for Leftovers: If there are any leftovers (which I doubt!), they make a delightful breakfast treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! Each component adds its unique touch to create the ultimate Thanksgiving Piecaken that your loved ones will adore.

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 the 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 Thanksgiving Piecaken is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Add a Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the spice cake layer for added texture.
• Switch Up the Spices: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or even cocoa powder to give unique flavor twists.
• Fruit Layer Surprise: Add a layer of apple or pear filling between the cheesecake and spice cake layers for fruity delight.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use coconut whipped cream to make it dairy-free.

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Adding flour helps stabilize the mixture while baking. Don’t forget to mix in vanilla extract and ground cinnamon for that warm holiday flavor. Finally, fold in heavy whipping cream and eggs until everything is well combined. This layer will provide a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the other components.

Step 2: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the cheesecake mixture into a greased springform pan. Bake it for about 45-50 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggles in the center. Allow it to cool completely before removing from the pan. Cooling is important because it helps firm up your cheesecake layer making assembly easier later on.

Step 3: Make the Spice Cake Batter

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and spices. In a separate bowl, mix softened butter with brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs and milk gradually until well combined. Then gently fold in your dry ingredients until just mixed. This step ensures you capture all those wonderful spice flavors without overworking the batter.

Step 4: Bake the Spice Cake

Pour this luscious batter into a greased cake pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely before taking it out of the pan. A well-baked spice cake provides structure needed for layering your piecaken.

Step 5: Assemble Your Piecaken

Now comes the fun part! Place your store-bought pumpkin pie at the bottom of your serving dish or platter. Next, carefully place your cooled cheesecake layer on top of it followed by your spice cake layer. It might feel intimidating, but take it slow; you’ve got this!

Step 6: Frost Your Creation

For frosting, beat softened butter with powdered sugar until fluffy; add vanilla extract and optional cinnamon for extra flavor! Gradually mix in cold heavy whipping cream until you achieve your desired consistency. Spread this heavenly frosting over your assembled piecaken generously—make sure every inch is covered!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Slice up generous pieces of this Thanksgiving Piecaken and watch everyone fall in love with each delicious bite! It’s truly an over-the-top dessert that embodies all things festive—perfect for creating beautiful memories around your holiday table.

Enjoy making this delicious Thanksgiving Piecaken! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Creating a Thanksgiving piecaken can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll ensure your dessert turns out beautifully!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Gather and measure your ingredients before starting. This not only streamlines the process but also minimizes stress as you bake.

• Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth cheesecake mixture. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps, which you definitely want to avoid in this creamy delight.

• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Bring your eggs to room temperature before mixing them in. This helps them incorporate better into the batter, resulting in a fluffier texture.

• Cool Layers Completely: Allow each layer to cool completely before stacking. This prevents the layers from melting into one another and helps maintain distinct flavors and textures.

• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate your assembled piecaken for at least a few hours or overnight if possible. Chilling helps the flavors meld together beautifully and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

When it comes time to serve your stunning Thanksgiving piecaken, presentation can elevate the entire experience. Here are some ideas on how to make it shine on your holiday table!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the richness of the piecaken.
• Cinnamon Sprinkles: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top enhances the spiced notes and looks beautiful against the creamy layers.
• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce adds sweetness and a lovely visual contrast while enhancing flavor complexity.

Side Dishes

• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with lemon juice and toasted almonds offer a refreshing crunch that pairs nicely with the richness of the piecaken.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These flavorful veggies, caramelized until golden brown, provide a savory element that balances out the sweetness of dessert.
• Mashed Potatoes with Garlic: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic bring comforting warmth to your plate while providing a hearty companion to your meal.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds brightness and acidity that complements both savory dishes and sweet desserts beautifully.

By following these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting atmosphere that showcases your Thanksgiving piecaken as the star of the dessert table! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving piecaken is not only a showstopper but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other festive preparations. Here’s how to store and save your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover piecaken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Consider covering each slice with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• The piecaken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of its freshness.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about this Thanksgiving piecaken recipe.

Can I make Thanksgiving Piecaken without cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese alternative or even vegan options that mimic the texture and flavor if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.

How do I ensure my Thanksgiving Piecaken layers bake evenly?

To ensure all layers of your Thanksgiving piecaken bake evenly, make sure to follow the baking times precisely and check for doneness with a toothpick. Each layer should spring back lightly when touched.

What is the best way to serve Thanksgiving Piecaken?

For an impressive presentation, serve your Thanksgiving piecaken on a beautiful platter. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream on top adds an extra touch!

Can I use homemade pumpkin pie for the Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Absolutely! Using homemade pumpkin pie will elevate your Thanksgiving piecaken even more. Just ensure it is fully cooled before layering it with the cheesecake and spice cake.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Thanksgiving piecaken brings joy and delight to your holiday table! It’s truly a special dessert that combines beloved flavors into one stunning masterpiece. Enjoy creating this delicious treat, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends. Happy baking!