Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert to impress your friends and family this holiday season, look no further than the Thanksgiving Piecaken! This delightful creation is an extraordinary blend of pumpkin pie, creamy cinnamon cheesecake, and spiced cake layers. It’s the perfect treat for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy family dinners. The best part? It combines three beloved desserts into one glorious slice!

I love bringing this Thanksgiving Piecaken to the table because it never fails to spark joy and conversation among guests. Everyone will be cheering for another slice, and you’ll feel like a culinary superstar without spending the entire day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A crowd-pleaser: Impress your guests with this unique dessert that combines three favorites into one delicious bite.
• Easy to make: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is straightforward and can easily be tackled by bakers of any skill level.
• Make ahead option: Prepare the layers in advance to save time on the big day—just assemble and bake when you’re ready!
• Wholesome ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about serving.
• Perfect for celebrations: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a special family gathering, this piecaken will steal the spotlight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this amazing Thanksgiving Piecaken, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they are easy to find at your local grocery store! Here’s what you’ll need:

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 flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Change up the spices: Experiment with different spice combinations in the cake layer for a unique flavor twist!
• Add fruit: Incorporate fresh or dried fruits for added moisture and flavor—think cranberries or apples!
• Swap the frosting: Use a whipped coconut cream topping instead of traditional frosting for a lighter finish.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, flour, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and heavy whipping cream until smooth. Add in eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition. This step creates a light and airy cheesecake that will contrast beautifully with the other layers.

Step 2: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

Pour your cheesecake mixture into a greased round cake pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 30 minutes or until set. Let it cool completely before moving on to the next layer. Cooling helps improve texture and makes assembly easier!

Step 3: Make the Spice Cake Batter

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and spices. In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in oil, vanilla extract, egg, and milk until combined. Then gradually add dry ingredients until just mixed. This spice cake adds warmth that perfectly complements the cheesecake layer.

Step 4: Assemble Your Piecaken

Now comes the fun part! Place your cooled cheesecake on top of the store-bought pumpkin pie in a sturdy serving dish. Pour your spice cake batter over both layers evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. This layering creates an unforgettable combination of flavors!

Step 5: Whip Up Some Frosting

While your piecaken is cooling down, prepare your frosting by beating softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and optional cinnamon while mixing until fluffy. Adjust consistency with cold heavy cream if needed—it should be spreadable but not too runny!

Step 6: Frost Your Piecaken

Once everything is cooled completely, frost generously around every edge of your piecaken masterpiece! Slice it up and serve with extra whipped cream if desired—your guests will be delighted!

Now you have created an impressive Thanksgiving Piecaken that is sure to be remembered long after dessert is served! Enjoy every bite as you celebrate with loved ones this holiday season!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Creating a stunning Thanksgiving piecaken can seem overwhelming, but with a little preparation and these helpful tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

• Prepare Ingredients Ahead: Gather and measure all your ingredients beforehand. This ensures a smooth baking process and helps you avoid any last-minute surprises.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and results in a creamier cheesecake layer.
• Use Quality Baking Tools: Invest in good-quality pans and mixers. Non-stick pans make removing the layers easier, while a hand mixer or stand mixer can save you time and effort.
• Chill the Cheesecake Layer: After baking, let the cheesecake cool completely in the refrigerator before stacking it with the pumpkin pie and spice cake. This will help it hold its shape better.
• Decorate with Care: Take your time when decorating the piecaken with frosting. A simple swirl or some sprinkles can elevate its appearance without requiring advanced skills.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Serving your Thanksgiving piecaken is just as important as making it! Presentation can really enhance the experience, so consider these ideas to impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and airy finish that complements the richness of the piecaken.
• Cinnamon Dust: Lightly dusting cinnamon over the top not only looks beautiful but also enhances the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce around the base or on top provides an indulgent touch that pairs wonderfully with all the layers.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These sweet, caramelized bites add a delightful contrast to the dessert’s sweetness while still maintaining that comforting fall flavor.
• Green Bean Casserole: The creamy texture and crispy topping of this classic dish bring balance to your meal, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the piecaken, providing a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens up each slice.
• Stuffing: A savory stuffing made with herbs offers a perfect complementary flavor profile, making each bite of piecaken even more enjoyable.

Now that you’re armed with pro tips and serving suggestions, get ready to impress everyone at your Thanksgiving gathering! Enjoy creating this delicious layered masterpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving piecaken is not only a showstopper but also a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful dessert without too much last-minute hassle. Here’s how to store and handle leftovers or prepare it in advance.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the piecaken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If possible, keep the frosting separate until ready to serve to maintain its texture.
• Cover individual slices with plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go treats throughout the week.

Freezing

• Wrap slices of piecaken tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label with the date.
• When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Remove slices from the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
• If you prefer warm dessert, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until just warm to your liking.

FAQs

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

Can I make Thanksgiving Piecaken ahead of time?

Absolutely! The piecaken can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.

What should I serve with Thanksgiving Piecaken?

This decadent dessert pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream.

How do I know when my Thanksgiving Piecaken is done baking?

The cheesecake layer should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out. It will firm up as it cools!

Can I use different flavors for my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cheesecake or cake layers based on your preferences!

Is there a gluten-free option for Thanksgiving Piecaken?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Thanksgiving piecaken brings joy and deliciousness to your holiday table! It’s such a unique way to combine classic flavors into one show-stopping dessert that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with friends and family. Happy baking!