Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for a dessert that will steal the show this holiday season, let me introduce you to my beloved Thanksgiving Piecaken! This delightful creation combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie, luscious cinnamon cheesecake, and spiced cake into one spectacular dessert. It’s a treat that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on any table.

The Thanksgiving Piecaken is perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. It’s an over-the-top dessert that friends and family will rave about long after the meal is over. Plus, making this piecaken can become a cherished tradition for your Thanksgiving celebrations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: This layered dessert is sure to wow your guests with its beautiful, multi-layered look.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: Enjoy the best of all worlds with pumpkin, cheesecake, and spice cake coming together in one bite.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare some layers in advance, making your holiday stress-free and enjoyable.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this creative dessert together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for your Thanksgiving Piecaken is a breeze! These simple, wholesome items come together to create a deliciously decadent dessert that everyone will enjoy.

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

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! If you’re feeling adventurous or have specific dietary preferences, consider these fun variations:

• Add Different Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices like cardamom or nutmeg for a unique twist on flavor.
• Use a Different Pie Base: Switch out the pumpkin pie for pecan or sweet potato pie if those are more your style!
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.
• Chocolate Lovers Unite: Add chocolate chips to the spice cake layer for an extra indulgent treat.

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, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Then add in flour, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, heavy whipping cream, and eggs. Mix until everything is well combined; this mixture will create a rich and creamy cheesecake layer that pairs perfectly with spices!

Step 2: Make the Spice Cake Batter

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground spices, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add vegetable oil and pure vanilla extract before mixing in an egg. Gradually stir in your dry ingredients along with milk until just combined. This cake will add warmth and depth to your piecaken!

Step 3: Assemble Your Layers

Grab your store-bought pumpkin pie as your base layer. Place it into your prepared springform pan. Next, gently spread half of the cheesecake mixture over it followed by half of your spice cake batter. Repeat these layers once more until you run out of batter. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until set. Allow it to cool completely—this step ensures every delicious flavor has time to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

While waiting for your piecaken to cool down, whip up some frosting! Beat softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing; pour in vanilla extract and optional cinnamon as desired. If needed, loosen up with cold heavy whipping cream until you reach your preferred consistency.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

Once cooled completely, carefully remove your piecaken from its pan. Generously frost all around using a spatula or knife—don’t hold back! You want it to look as beautiful as it tastes. Chill briefly before slicing so it’s easier to serve.

With these steps complete, savor every bite of this incredible Thanksgiving Piecaken! Your loved ones are going to adore you for making such an unforgettable dessert experience!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Creating a Thanksgiving piecaken may seem daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to impressing your guests with this stunning dessert!

• Prep ingredients ahead: Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go will streamline the process and reduce stress while baking.
• Let cream cheese soften: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps, making the texture heavenly.
• Cool layers completely: Allow each cake layer to cool completely before assembling. This prevents melting and maintains the integrity of your piecaken.
• Use a serrated knife for slicing: When it’s time to serve, use a serrated knife to cut through the different layers cleanly. This helps maintain the beautiful layered look of your piecaken.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerating the completed piecaken for a few hours (or overnight) allows flavors to meld beautifully and makes it easier to slice.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Presenting your Thanksgiving piecaken can be as delightful as preparing it! Here are some ideas for showcasing this impressive dessert that will leave your guests in awe.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds lightness and complements the richness of the piecaken.
• Cinnamon sprinkles: A light dusting of cinnamon gives an aromatic touch and enhances the cozy fall flavors of your dessert.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce not only adds sweetness but also brings a beautiful visual contrast against the layers.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy, savory bites add a wonderful crunch and balance out the sweetness of the piecaken.
• Maple-glazed carrots: Sweet and colorful, these carrots bring a pop of brightness to your holiday table while harmonizing with the flavors in the piecaken.
• Quinoa salad with cranberries: The nutty flavor and chewy texture of quinoa paired with tart cranberries offer a refreshing contrast to the rich dessert.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are always a crowd favorite, providing comfort alongside your extravagant dessert.

This Thanksgiving piecaken is sure to be a hit among friends and family alike. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Piecaken is not only a showstopper but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover piecaken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 5 days.
• If possible, layer parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The piecaken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert:

What is a Thanksgiving Piecaken?

A Thanksgiving Piecaken is a decadent dessert that combines layers of pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake into one stunning creation.

Can I make this Thanksgiving Piecaken ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can store it in the fridge or even freeze slices for later enjoyment.

What other flavors can I add to my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Feel free to experiment with flavors like chocolate, caramel, or different spices to customize your piecaken to your liking!

How should I serve my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra festive touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this incredible Thanksgiving Piecaken! It’s truly a special dessert that brings together so many wonderful flavors and textures. Enjoy making it, sharing it with friends and family, and creating lasting memories around the table this holiday season. Happy baking!