Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for a dessert that will wow your family and friends this holiday season, look no further than the Thanksgiving Piecaken! Imagine three of your favorite desserts layered together in one spectacular treat. This delightful creation combines pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake into an unforgettable dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering. The best part? It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make!

When I first tried making this piecaken, I was amazed at how easy it was to pull off such an impressive dessert. Every bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it an instant favorite here at home. Whether it’s for a big family feast or just a cozy dinner with loved ones, this Thanksgiving Piecaken is sure to create lasting memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: This stunning dessert will be the star of your holiday table!
• Layered Flavors: Enjoy the delicious combination of pumpkin, cheesecake, and spice cake in every slice.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this fun dessert.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance so you can enjoy more time with your guests on the big day.
• Easy to Follow: The step-by-step instructions make it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Thanksgiving Piecaken is a breeze! You’ll find that these wholesome items are staples in many kitchens. Let’s get started on creating this delightful dessert!

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 recipe is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to get creative with these variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Change up the spices: Experiment with different spice blends in the cake layer for unique flavors.
• Use different pie bases: Try using a sweet potato pie or pecan pie instead of pumpkin for a fun twist!
• Add chocolate: Incorporate chocolate chips into the cheesecake layer for an extra decadent touch.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.

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, combine softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy—this step is crucial as it ensures your cheesecake layer has that luscious texture we all love. Add in flour, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, mixing until fully incorporated. Finally, fold in heavy whipping cream and eggs until well blended. Pour this mixture into a greased springform pan and bake for about 60 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 2: Make the Spice Cake Layer

While your cheesecake cools, it’s time to whip up the spice cake! In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, spices, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Then add vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, and milk. Gradually add your dry ingredients to this mixture until just combined. This cake batter is what will hold everything together beautifully!

Step 3: Assemble Your Piecaken

Once both layers are completely cooled, it’s assembly time! Place your store-bought pumpkin pie on a serving platter as the base. Carefully stack your baked cheesecake on top of the pumpkin pie followed by spreading an even layer of spice cake batter over it. Bake again according to spice cake instructions until golden brown. Let cool completely before frosting.

Step 4: Frosting Time!

For frosting that ties everything together perfectly, beat softened unsalted butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and optional cinnamon for flavor. Add cold heavy whipping cream gradually until you reach your desired consistency—smooth yet spreadable works best!

Now you have created an amazing Thanksgiving Piecaken! Slice it up and watch everyone’s faces light up when they take their first bite!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Creating a stunning Thanksgiving piecaken might feel daunting, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to a show-stopping dessert that everyone will love!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with softened cream cheese and eggs ensures a smooth batter, which leads to a creamier cheesecake layer.

• Don’t skip the chilling time: Allowing the cheesecake layer to chill before assembling helps it set up nicely, making slicing easier and cleaner when serving.

• Layer carefully: When stacking the layers, be gentle to prevent any sliding. A spatula can help you lift and position each layer without too much pressure.

• Make ahead: This piecaken can be made a day in advance. Just cover it well and refrigerate; the flavors meld beautifully overnight!

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings like whipped cream or caramel sauce. They add a personal touch and enhance flavor!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Presenting your Thanksgiving piecaken is all about creating an inviting atmosphere that showcases your beautiful dessert. Consider displaying it on a festive cake stand or platter adorned with seasonal decorations like small pumpkins or leaves.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light, airy texture that complements the richness of the piecaken.
• Cinnamon Dust: Lightly dusting cinnamon over the top not only looks beautiful but also enhances the warm spice flavors within the dessert.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spiced layers of the piecaken, offering a delightful contrast.

• Green Bean Almondine: The crispness of green beans sautéed with almonds brings a fresh crunch that balances out the rich dessert nicely.

• Cranberry Sauce: This tart and sweet condiment is a classic Thanksgiving staple that cuts through the richness of the piecaken perfectly.

• Stuffing: A savory stuffing with herbs provides a comforting side that complements the flavors of your dessert while keeping things traditional.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving piecaken is sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving piecaken is not only a showstopper but also a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing you to enjoy quality time with family and friends without the stress of last-minute baking.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The piecaken will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, slice it into individual pieces for easy serving.

Freezing

• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, 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!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the desired slice from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a quick warm-up, pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Alternatively, you can heat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dessert!

What is a Thanksgiving Piecaken?

A Thanksgiving piecaken is an extravagant dessert that layers pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake into one mouthwatering treat. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings!

Can I make Thanksgiving Piecaken ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Thanksgiving piecaken can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or even frozen. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep during the busy holiday season.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Thanksgiving Piecaken recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute low-fat cream cheese or plant-based cream cheese alternatives if desired. You can also use dairy-free whipping cream instead of heavy whipping cream.

How should I serve my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Serve your Thanksgiving piecaken chilled or at room temperature. A dollop of whipped cream on top adds an extra touch of indulgence!

What other flavors can I add to my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

You can experiment with adding flavors like maple syrup or chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer or even incorporate nuts into the spice cake for added texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Thanksgiving piecaken finds its way onto your holiday table! It’s a unique blend of flavors that brings together beloved holiday desserts into one unforgettable creation. Enjoy making this special treat, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones. Happy baking, and may your celebrations be filled with joy and sweetness!