Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will steal the spotlight this Thanksgiving, look no further than this Thanksgiving Piecaken! Imagine the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin pie layered with creamy cinnamon cheesecake and moist spice cake. This delightful treat not only tastes amazing but also brings a festive flair to your holiday table. It’s perfect for family gatherings or even cozy dinners at home where you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

What I love most about this Thanksgiving Piecaken is that it’s surprisingly easy to put together. You can whip it up ahead of time, giving you more moments to cherish with loved ones. Plus, it makes for a fantastic centerpiece that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor Combination: The mix of pumpkin, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake is pure bliss.
• Impressive Presentation: This over-the-top dessert looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for special occasions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare your piecaken in advance so you can relax on Thanksgiving Day.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will be delighted by each delicious layer.
• Simple Ingredients: You’ll find these wholesome ingredients in your pantry or local grocery store.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for this scrumptious Thanksgiving Piecaken! Most of these are common items you probably already have on hand, making this recipe both accessible and enjoyable.

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, 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 Thanksgiving Piecaken is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own.

• Change up the flavors: Swap out pumpkin pie for pecan or apple pie for a twist on tradition.
• Add nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the spice cake layer for extra crunch.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour to accommodate dietary needs.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t be afraid to mix in different spices like cardamom or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile.

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Cheesecake Layer

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and heavy whipping cream. Beat until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as it creates the luscious cheesecake texture that contrasts beautifully with the other layers.

Step 2: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

In a greased springform pan, pour in your cheesecake mixture. Bake it in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until set in the middle. Be sure not to overbake; slight jiggliness is okay! Letting it cool properly before layering ensures a perfect blend of flavors when we stack everything together.

Step 3: Make the Spice Cake Batter

While your cheesecake cools, grab another bowl and whisk together flour, baking powder, spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, allspice), softened butter, brown sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, and milk. Mixing these ingredients well allows them to incorporate fully and ensures an even bake.

Step 4: Bake the Spice Cake Layer

Pour half of your spice cake batter into a greased baking pan and spread evenly. Place your cooled cheesecake layer right on top before pouring the remaining batter over it. Bake this layered creation at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the cake layers.

Step 5: Assemble Your Piecaken

Once everything has cooled down completely—this is key!—carefully remove your spice cake from its pan. Place it on top of your store-bought pumpkin pie. The combination of three desserts in one will create an eye-catching masterpiece that everyone will rave about!

Step 6: Make Your Frosting

In a mixer bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, beat softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Stir in vanilla extract and optional cinnamon for flavor depth. If needed, add cold heavy whipping cream to achieve desired consistency—smooth and spreadable is what we’re going for!

Step 7: Frost Your Creation

Spread your frosting generously over the top of your assembled piecaken. This final touch not only adds sweetness but also helps bring together all those incredible flavors you’ve created!

And there you have it! Your stunning Thanksgiving Piecaken is ready to wow guests at any gathering with its magical layers of flavor and texture! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Making a Thanksgiving piecaken can seem daunting, but with a few handy tips, you’ll be set up for success!

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Gathering and measuring out your ingredients before you start cooking helps streamline the process and ensures that everything is at room temperature, which is ideal for mixing.

• Use room temperature cream cheese: Softened cream cheese blends more smoothly into your cheesecake layer, preventing lumps and ensuring a creamy texture that’s hard to resist.

• Don’t overmix the batter: When making the cake batter and cheesecake mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake rather than a light and fluffy one.

• Cool each layer completely: Allow each layer to cool fully before assembling the piecaken. This step helps prevent melting or sliding when you stack them together.

• Chill before serving: Letting your assembled piecaken chill in the fridge for at least an hour allows the layers to set properly and makes it easier to slice.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

When it comes to serving this stunning Thanksgiving piecaken, presentation is key! Here are some delightful ideas to make your dessert shine at the table.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top not only adds a beautiful touch but also complements the richness of the piecaken.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon adds an aromatic touch and visually enhances your dessert with a festive flair.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over individual slices elevates both flavor and appearance, making each bite even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs brings a savory balance to the sweetness of the piecaken.
• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds provide a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft layers of cake and cheesecake.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cranberries, pecans, and citrus dressing offers a light counterpart that pairs wonderfully with richer dishes.
• Stuffing: A flavorful stuffing made from whole grain bread, herbs, and vegetables complements your meal perfectly while adding a cozy touch synonymous with Thanksgiving feasts.

With these tips on making and serving your Thanksgiving piecaken, you’re ready to create a dessert that will be the highlight of your holiday gathering! Enjoy every delicious moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving piecaken is not only a showstopper but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you precious moments on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the piecaken to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For best texture, slice individual pieces as needed.

Freezing

• Wrap slices or the whole piecaken tightly in plastic wrap.
• Follow this by wrapping it in aluminum foil for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to 1-2 months.
• Label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

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

Can I make Thanksgiving Piecaken without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping to maintain a similar texture without using heavy cream.

How do I ensure my Thanksgiving Piecaken layers cook evenly?

To ensure even cooking, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Additionally, bake each layer separately according to their specified times before assembling.

Can I use other flavored cakes in my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Absolutely! While this recipe features spice cake, feel free to experiment with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla. Just remember to adjust baking times accordingly!

What’s the best way to serve Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Slice your piecaken while it’s slightly chilled for cleaner cuts. Serve with whipped topping or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence!

Final Thoughts

This Thanksgiving piecaken is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings together friends and family around the table. I hope you enjoy making this delightful treat as much as I do! Remember, it’s all about creating memories and sharing love through food. Happy baking, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with joy and sweetness!