Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for a dessert that will truly wow your family and friends this Thanksgiving, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! This Thanksgiving Piecaken is not just any dessert; it’s a glorious fusion of pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake. Just imagine the smiles on everyone’s faces as they slice into this stunning creation. It’s the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table and works well for any gathering where you want to impress.

What makes this piecaken so special is not just its deliciousness but also its simplicity. Even if you’re busy preparing the rest of your Thanksgiving feast, this recipe allows you to create something extravagant without hours of hassle in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Layers: Delight your guests with three layers of flavor that harmonize beautifully.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pie and cake—this combines the best of both worlds!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare parts of this dessert in advance, making your holiday less stressful.
• Easy To Customize: Feel free to play with flavors or toppings to suit your family’s taste.
• Showstopper Presentation: The beautiful layers make it a stunning addition to your dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful Thanksgiving Piecaken. You might already have some of these 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 Pie 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, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ideas:

• Change Up the Flavors: Swap out pumpkin for sweet potato or pecan pie for a twist!
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the spice cake layer for added texture.
• Top It Off: Consider adding caramel drizzle or chocolate ganache for an extra layer of indulgence.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour in place of regular flour to make it accessible for everyone.

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until creamy. Add in all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and heavy whipping cream. Mix until smooth before adding eggs one at a time. This step is crucial—it creates that luscious cheesecake texture that complements the other layers perfectly!

Step 2: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

Pour the cheesecake mixture into a greased springform pan and bake for about 45 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let it cool completely before removing from the pan. Cooling is vital because it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Spice Cake Layer

In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, baking powder, spices, softened butter, brown sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, and milk until well combined. This batter should be thick yet pourable—perfect for creating that moist cake layer!

Step 4: Assemble Your Layers

Now comes the fun part! Place half of your spice cake batter into a greased round cake pan and spread it evenly. Carefully place your cooled cheesecake layer on top and then pour over remaining spice cake batter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 5: Make Your Frosting

While your piecaken cools down, whip up some frosting! Beat softened unsalted butter with powdered sugar until fluffy. Add vanilla extract and optional cinnamon while gradually mixing in cold heavy whipping cream until you reach a spreadable consistency.

Step 6: Frost and Finish

Once cooled completely, frost your Thanksgiving Piecaken generously on top and around the sides. Feel free to decorate with seasonal sprinkles or more spices for that festive touch!

And there you have it—the ultimate Thanksgiving Piecaken! Enjoy each slice surrounded by loved ones and let those flavors speak for themselves as you gather around the table!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Piecaken is all about attention to detail and a little bit of love. Here are some pro tips to help you achieve that show-stopping dessert!

• Soften your cream cheese properly: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer that blends perfectly with the other flavors.

• Chill the heavy whipping cream: For a fluffier frosting, keep your heavy whipping cream chilled until you’re ready to whip it. Cold cream whips up better and holds its shape longer.

• Use quality spices: Fresh spices really enhance the flavors in your piecaken. Opt for whole spices and grind them yourself if possible; you’ll notice a significant difference in taste.

• Layer carefully: When constructing your piecaken, take your time to layer each component gently. Use an offset spatula for smooth finishes and even layers that look as good as they taste.

• Let it cool completely before serving: Allowing your piecaken to cool fully helps the layers set and makes slicing much easier. Plus, it prevents the cheesecake from melting into the warm cake layers.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

When it comes time to present this magnificent dessert, let your creativity shine! The Piecaken is not only delicious but also visually stunning—perfect for impressing guests at your Thanksgiving gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a lovely touch of elegance and complements the rich layers beautifully.
• Cinnamon Dust: Lightly dusting the top with ground cinnamon provides a warm aroma and enhances the pumpkin flavor.
• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce can add a sweet, gooey contrast that takes this dessert over the top.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts bring a savory crunch that balances out the sweetness of the piecaken. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting until golden brown.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting side that pairs perfectly with any festive meal.
• Green Bean Almondine: Bright green beans sautéed with toasted almonds provide freshness and a satisfying crunch, complementing the richness of the piecaken.
• Herbed Stuffing: A fragrant stuffing made with herbs like sage and thyme rounds out your holiday feast while adding delightful texture.

This Thanksgiving Piecaken is sure to be the star of your dessert table, leaving everyone raving long after dinner is over! Enjoy every bite and cherish those moments gathered around with loved ones. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving piecaken is not only a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table but also an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare components in advance, making your Thanksgiving day less hectic and more enjoyable!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the piecaken to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, cut into slices and place them in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Slice the piecaken before freezing to make thawing easier.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove from the freezer and let thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have any questions while making this delicious recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make the Thanksgiving Piecaken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare each layer of the piecaken days ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble on Thanksgiving day for a stunning presentation.

How long will my Thanksgiving Piecaken last?

When stored properly, your Thanksgiving piecaken can last up to 3 days in the fridge. For optimal flavor and freshness, consume it within that timeframe.

Can I use different flavors for my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Definitely! While this recipe features pumpkin pie and cinnamon cheesecake, feel free to get creative with other flavors like chocolate or berry. Just ensure they complement each other well.

What are good substitutes for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping if you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions.

Is it possible to make a gluten-free version of this Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Yes! Simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure that any other ingredients used are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this delightful Thanksgiving piecaken. It’s such a special dessert that combines rich flavors and textures, sure to leave your guests talking about it long after the holiday is over. Enjoy every moment of baking and sharing this treat with loved ones—your efforts will surely be appreciated! Happy baking!