Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will wow your family and friends this holiday season, look no further than this Thanksgiving Piecaken! Imagine the delightful combination of creamy pumpkin pie, luscious cinnamon cheesecake, and moist spice cake all layered into one glorious creation. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warm flavors that are perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or any festive occasion.

This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare! You can make it ahead of time, which means less stress on the day of your celebration. Trust me; once you serve this Thanksgiving Piecaken, it will become a cherished tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Showstopper Delight: This piecaken is visually stunning with its layers, making it the star of any dessert table.
• Flavorful Layers: Each bite offers a wonderful mix of pumpkin, cream cheese, and spices that perfectly capture the essence of fall.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance to free up time for all your other holiday preparations.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this multi-layered treat.
• Easy Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully to create our delicious Thanksgiving Piecaken.

For the Cinnamon 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, about 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 flexible and allows you to get creative! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Thanksgiving Piecaken:

• Add Different Spices: Experiment with spices like cardamom or nutmeg for a unique flavor twist.
• Use Alternative Fillings: Swap out the store-bought pumpkin pie for any other favorite pie, like pecan or sweet potato!
• Try a Different Frosting: Use a whipped cream topping instead of buttercream for a lighter finish.
• Layer with Fruits: Add layers of fresh fruit like cranberries or apples between each cake layer for extra flavor.

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Cheesecake

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with sugar and flour until smooth. Adding eggs one at a time while mixing will keep the texture creamy. Don’t forget to add vanilla extract and ground cinnamon for that lovely flavor! Once mixed well, fold in heavy whipping cream until fully incorporated. This step creates a rich and velvety cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

Pour the cheesecake mixture into a prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about an hour or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Letting it cool completely is crucial; this helps firm up the cheesecake before adding your next layers.

Step 3: Make the Spice Cake Batter

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and spices—this infuses your cake with delightful aromas. In another bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Then add vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, and milk. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. It’s important not to overmix so that your cake remains light and fluffy!

Step 4: Assemble Your Piecaken

Now comes the fun part! Place your cooled cheesecake layer on top of your store-bought pumpkin pie. Pour half of your spice cake batter over this stack carefully to avoid disrupting layers. Bake as per instructions until a toothpick comes out clean from the center of the cake layer.

Step 5: Frosting Time!

Once everything is baked and cooled down completely, whip up some frosting using softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Beat until creamy then add vanilla extract and optional cinnamon for taste. Frost generously over your assembled piecaken—this is where it gets extra decadent!

Now sit back and watch as everyone digs into this incredible Thanksgiving Piecaken! Enjoy every delicious bite and make memories that last long after dessert is done!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Making a piecaken can seem daunting, but with a few pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating this stunning dessert masterpiece!

• Prepare ingredients ahead of time: Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go will streamline the process and help avoid any last-minute scrambling.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Softened cream cheese and eggs blend more smoothly, giving your cheesecake a creamy texture without lumps.

• Allow layers to cool completely: To prevent melting or mixing of the layers, let each layer cool completely before assembling. This helps maintain the distinct flavors and textures.

• Chill before serving: Refrigerating your piecaken for a few hours (or overnight) enhances the flavors and makes it easier to slice.

• Don’t rush the frosting: When making your buttercream, take your time to whip in air until it’s light and fluffy. This will give you a beautiful finish that complements the richness of the piecaken.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Presenting your Thanksgiving piecaken beautifully will make it even more special for your guests. Here are some creative ideas for serving this impressive dessert!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds an airy lightness that balances out the richness of the piecaken.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: Dusting a little cinnamon over your piecaken adds a warm touch that enhances its autumn flavors.
• Caramel drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the look and flavor, adding an extra touch of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Apple Crisp: The warm spiced apples with a crunchy topping offer a delightful contrast to the creamy piecaken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies such as Brussels sprouts or carrots add a savory element that pairs well with dessert.
• Maple Mashed Potatoes: These sweet potatoes provide a creamy side that harmonizes beautifully with fall flavors.
• Green Bean Casserole: A classic side dish that’s creamy and crunchy, balancing out the richness of piecaken perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’re all set to impress at this year’s Thanksgiving gathering. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving piecaken is not only a showstopper but also a fantastic dessert to make ahead of time! Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even more delightful treat when it’s time to serve.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the piecaken to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Slice the piecaken into individual portions for easy serving.
• Wrap each slice securely in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• You can freeze the piecaken for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Remove the desired portion from the freezer and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Thanksgiving piecaken!

Can I use a different flavor of pie instead of pumpkin for the Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Absolutely! While pumpkin is traditional, you can substitute with other flavors like pecan or apple. Just remember that your choice should complement the cheesecake and cake layers.

How do I ensure my Thanksgiving Piecaken layers bake evenly?

To ensure even baking, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Also, check that your oven is preheated properly and rotate the pan halfway through baking if necessary.

Can I make this Thanksgiving Piecaken without cream cheese?

While cream cheese adds richness and flavor, you can substitute with vegan cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a non-dairy option.

How long does it take to make the Thanksgiving Piecaken?

The total time is approximately two hours, including prep and cooking. However, allowing time for cooling is essential before serving.

What are some great toppings for Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chopped nuts make excellent toppings! Feel free to get creative with seasonal spices like nutmeg or cinnamon as well.

Final Thoughts

This Thanksgiving piecaken truly embodies the spirit of celebration with its delightful layers of flavor. Whether you’re hosting family or surprising friends, this dessert will surely impress everyone at your table! I hope you enjoy making this delicious recipe as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations; I’d love to hear how your piecaken turns out! Happy baking!