Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert to impress your friends and family this holiday season, look no further than this Thanksgiving Piecaken! It’s the ultimate combination of delicious pumpkin pie, creamy cinnamon cheesecake, and moist spice cake all layered together in one fabulous creation. This dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but also brings comfort and joy with every bite. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving dinner or just a cozy family gathering, this piecaken is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home.

Making this Thanksgiving Piecaken is easier than it looks! The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones on those busy days. Trust me, once you share this masterpiece at the table, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: This stunning dessert will wow your guests and make your holiday table unforgettable.
• Layered Flavors: Enjoy the delightful mix of pumpkin, cheesecake, and spice cake flavors that blend beautifully.
• Make-Ahead Delight: Prepare it in advance to save time on the big day while still serving something special.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pie and cake! This dessert is bound to please both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this Thanksgiving Piecaken come to life. Most of these items are probably already in your pantry!

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 the Pumpkin Layer

• 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 flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices like cardamom or vanilla bean for a unique flavor twist.
• Try different layers: Instead of pumpkin pie, use a chocolate or pecan pie for an exciting change.
• Add nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the spice cake layer for added texture.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for an inclusive dessert option.

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Start by beating together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. This step creates a creamy base for your cheesecake layer. Add in flour, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, heavy whipping cream, and eggs one at a time. Mixing well after each addition ensures that everything combines beautifully without lumps.

Step 2: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

Pour the cheesecake mixture into a greased springform pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 60 minutes or until set. It’s important not to overbake this layer; you want it creamy and slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out.

Step 3: Make the Spice Cake Layer

In another bowl, combine all dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and spices. In a separate bowl, mix softened butter with brown sugar until fluffy. Add vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, and milk to this mixture before blending it with the dry ingredients until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble Your Layers

Once both layers have cooled completely, it’s time to assemble! Place your cooled cheesecake layer on top of the store-bought pumpkin pie. Then gently spread your spice cake batter over everything. Bake again until set—this will create that stunning layered effect we love!

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

For an indulgent finish, beat together softened unsalted butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and cold heavy whipping cream to create a luscious frosting that’s perfect for slathering over your piecaken.

Step 6: Frost and Serve!

Let your piecaken cool completely before frosting it generously with your prepared icing. Once frosted, slice into this glorious creation and watch as everyone marvels at each delectable layer. Enjoy every bite of this Thanksgiving Piecaken!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving piecaken is a delightful journey, and with a few handy tips, you’ll ensure it turns out beautifully!

• Prep in Advance: Make the cheesecake layer the day before. This allows it to chill and firm up, making assembly much easier.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, resulting in a creamier cheesecake layer.

• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary widely in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to confirm that your oven is preheating to the correct temperature for even baking.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let each cake layer cool completely before frosting it with buttercream. This prevents melting and ensures a neat finish when you slice into your piecaken.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a twist by incorporating different spices or extracts into your layers. A touch of orange zest in the pumpkin layer or chocolate chips in the spice cake can elevate flavors wonderfully!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Serving your Thanksgiving piecaken can be just as fun as making it! It’s all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors that enhance this already spectacular dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a lightness and balances the richness of the piecaken.
• Cinnamon Dust: A light sprinkle of cinnamon on top not only looks beautiful but also enhances the warm spices present in your dessert.

Side Dishes

• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness of the piecaken, providing a refreshing contrast that balances the cake’s richness.
• Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish brings a creamy texture and sweet flavor profile that harmonizes beautifully with the warm spices found in both dishes.
• Green Bean Almondine: A savory side with crisp green beans and toasted almonds offers a crunchy contrast that complements the soft textures of your piecaken.
• Stuffing: Traditional stuffing adds a hearty element to your meal, grounding it amidst all the sweet delights while enhancing those comforting Thanksgiving vibes.

Bringing together these elements will not only make your Thanksgiving dinner memorable but also create an inviting atmosphere where everyone can indulge in this extraordinary dessert! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving piecaken is not only a showstopper but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can prepare various components ahead of time, making it easier to assemble when you’re ready to serve.

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 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• The piecaken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious Thanksgiving piecaken, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Thanksgiving Piecaken without cream cheese?

Yes! You can substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free while still enjoying that creamy texture.

How do I store leftover Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Store leftover Thanksgiving piecaken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for later enjoyment!

What other flavors can I use in my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Feel free to experiment with flavors like chocolate cake or different pie fillings such as pecan or apple. The possibilities are endless!

Can I prepare components of the Thanksgiving Piecaken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cheesecake layer and spice cake ahead of time, allowing for an easy assembly on the day you plan to serve it.

Is there a gluten-free option for Thanksgiving Piecaken?

You can use gluten-free flour blends instead of all-purpose flour and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Thanksgiving piecaken is truly a remarkable dessert that combines rich flavors and textures, making it perfect for your holiday celebration. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this recipe, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with warmth, love, and delicious desserts. Happy baking!