Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will make your Thanksgiving celebration unforgettable, look no further! This Thanksgiving piecaken is a delightful mix of creamy pumpkin pie, rich cinnamon cheesecake, and fluffy spice cake all layered together. It’s truly an over-the-top dessert that’s perfect for impressing family and friends at your holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Plus, it’s sure to bring smiles to everyone at the table!

What makes this piecaken even more special is that it combines three beloved desserts into one delicious creation. You can whip it up ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for busy days filled with cooking and entertaining. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: This dessert looks gorgeous on the table, making it a great conversation starter.
• Delicious Layers: Enjoy the unique combination of flavors from pumpkin, cheesecake, and spice cake in every bite!
• Family-Friendly: This dessert appeals to all ages and is bound to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance so you can spend more time with your loved ones on the big day.
• Easy Ingredients: With simple ingredients, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find these simple and wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create your Thanksgiving piecaken.

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/store-bought)

For the Frosting

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

Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to personalize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand! Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts between layers for added crunch.
• Swap the spices: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or pumpkin pie spice to give it a new twist.
• Layer with fruit: Add slices of fresh apples or pears between layers for extra flavor and texture.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free version.

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

First, we need to make that creamy cheesecake layer! Start by beating together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Adding flour helps stabilize the mixture while baking. Next, mix in vanilla extract and cinnamon for flavor. Finally, fold in whipped cream gently; this adds lightness to your cheesecake.

Step 2: Bake the Spice Cake Layer

Now let’s whip up that flavorful spice cake. In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and spices. In another bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Then add in eggs one at a time along with oil and milk. Mix everything together until smooth. Pour this mixture into a prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Assemble Your Piecaken

Once both layers are baked and cooled completely, it’s time to assemble! Place the store-bought pumpkin pie at the bottom of your serving dish. Spread half of the cheesecake layer over it followed by half of the spice cake batter. Repeat these layers until everything is stacked high!

Step 4: Make the Frosting

For that finishing touch, beat softened butter until creamy before gradually adding powdered sugar. Stir in vanilla extract and if you choose, add a dash of cinnamon. Adjust with cold heavy whipping cream until you achieve your desired consistency.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Spread frosting generously over your assembled piecaken! Once frosted, let it chill in the fridge briefly before slicing into this delicious masterpiece—then watch as everyone enjoys every last bite!

Enjoy sharing this incredible Thanksgiving piecaken recipe with friends and family—it’s sure to become a cherished tradition!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Piecaken can feel daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, leading to a creamier cheesecake layer.

• Don’t overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can introduce too much air, which may cause cracking in your cheesecake.

• Chill the cheesecake layer: After making the cheesecake mixture, let it chill for at least an hour before pouring it over the pumpkin pie. This prevents the layers from mixing and helps maintain distinct layers.

• Bake with care: Always keep an eye on your baking time! Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking any of the layers.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing your piecaken to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This helps all the layers set properly and makes for cleaner slices when serving.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Serving your Thanksgiving Piecaken should be as delightful as making it! Consider displaying it on a beautiful cake stand or platter to showcase its impressive layers.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the rich flavors.
• Cinnamon Sprinkles: A sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top offers a warm spice accent that ties beautifully into the dessert’s existing flavors.
• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce not only looks stunning but also adds an extra layer of sweetness that enhances each bite.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings balance to your meal while adding vibrant colors and textures.
• Fall Salad: A light salad featuring mixed greens, cranberries, toasted pecans, and a vinaigrette dressing pairs well with the richness of piecaken.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser and provide a comforting contrast to the dessert’s sweet layers.
• Green Bean Casserole: This classic side dish adds crunch and savory flavor that beautifully rounds out your Thanksgiving table alongside piecaken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving Piecaken will surely be the star of the dessert table! Enjoy creating those delicious memories with family and friends this holiday season!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving piecaken is not only a show-stopper but also makes for excellent meal prep! You can prepare various components in advance, allowing you to enjoy the holiday festivities without the stress of last-minute baking.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover piecaken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to consume it within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
• For longer preservation, consider freezing individual slices.

Freezing

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
• The piecaken can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its delicious flavor.

Reheating

• To reheat, let the piecaken thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful Thanksgiving piecaken.

What is a Thanksgiving Piecaken?

A Thanksgiving piecaken is an extravagant dessert that combines layers of cake and pie into one beautiful creation. In this recipe, you’ll find pumpkin pie at the base, followed by cinnamon cheesecake and spice cake layers!

Can I make the Thanksgiving Piecaken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare each layer separately and assemble them a day before your holiday gathering. This will save you time on the big day while still providing a spectacular dessert.

How do I store leftovers of my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, individual slices can be frozen for up to 2 months!

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Yes! If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using non-dairy cream cheese or whipped topping instead of heavy cream. You can also use gluten-free flour if necessary.

What should I serve with my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

This show-stopping dessert pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You could also offer a spiced apple cider or hot chocolate on the side!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Thanksgiving piecaken as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you! This layered dessert brings together rich flavors and festive cheer, making it perfect for your holiday celebrations. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations with me—I’d love to hear how your piecaken turns out. Happy baking and enjoy every delicious bite!