This Thanksgiving piecaken is a show-stopping dessert that combines the best of pumpkin pie, creamy cinnamon cheesecake, and moist spice cake. Perfect for your Thanksgiving table or any festive occasion, this dessert is not only visually impressive but also delightful in flavor. Each slice offers layers of deliciousness that will leave your guests raving about it long after the meal is over.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Impressive Presentation: The layered structure of the piecaken makes it a stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering.
- Delicious Flavor Fusion: Combining pumpkin, cheesecake, and spice cake creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion where you want to impress.
- Easy to Make: Despite its intricate appearance, this recipe is straightforward and manageable for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Dessert: It can be served warm or chilled, making it a flexible choice for any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making this Thanksgiving piecaken, gather your tools and ingredients. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixer (stand or hand)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Cake stand (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixer: Essential for achieving creamy textures in both the cheesecake filling and frosting.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for keeping different components separate while you prepare each layer.
- Spatula: Great for folding ingredients together without deflating the batter or frosting.
Ingredients
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 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)
How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken
Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add flour, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon; mix well.
- Gradually beat in heavy whipping cream until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until incorporated.
- Pour this mixture into a greased 9-inch round cake pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Spice Cake Layer
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, cream softened butter with brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vegetable oil and pure vanilla extract; mix well.
- Beat in one egg followed by milk until well combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir gently until just combined.
Step 3: Bake Both Layers
- Pour the spice cake batter on top of the cheesecake layer evenly in the same pan.
- Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before removing from pan.
Step 4: Assemble Your Piecaken
- Place the cooled spice cake layer on top of the store-bought pumpkin pie on a serving platter.
- Prepare frosting by beating softened unsalted butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar until smooth.
- Mix in vanilla extract and optional cinnamon; adjust consistency with cold heavy whipping cream if needed.
Step 5: Frost Your Piecaken
- Spread frosting evenly over the entire assembled piecaken using an offset spatula.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Enjoy your spectacular Thanksgiving piecaken with family and friends!
How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken
Thanksgiving Piecaken is a show-stopping dessert that deserves an equally impressive presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
Individual Slices
- Serve individual slices on dessert plates for a classic presentation.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess.
Warm with Ice Cream
- Heat each slice slightly in the microwave and serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- The warm piecaken combined with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast.
Festive Garnish
- Decorate each plate with a sprinkle of cinnamon or shaved chocolate.
- Fresh mint leaves can also add a pop of color and freshness.
Drizzled Caramel Sauce
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top before serving.
- This adds sweetness and enhances the flavors of the pumpkin pie and spice cake layers.
Coffee Pairing
- Serve with freshly brewed coffee or espresso for a perfect after-dinner treat.
- The rich flavors of coffee complement the spices in the piecaken beautifully.
How to Perfect Thanksgiving Piecaken
Creating the ultimate Thanksgiving Piecaken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.
Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that all dairy products, like cream cheese and eggs, are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
Whip cream properly: When making whipped cream, whip until stiff peaks form. This will help maintain its structure when layered on the piecaken.
Cool layers completely: Allow each layer to cool completely before assembling. This prevents melting and maintains distinct layers.
Chill before serving: Let the assembled piecaken chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This helps set the layers and makes slicing easier.
Best Side Dishes for Thanksgiving Piecaken
Pairing side dishes with your Thanksgiving Piecaken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this decadent dessert:
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy veggies add a savory crunch that balances the sweetness of the piecaken.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and richness, making them an excellent accompaniment.
Green Bean Casserole: A classic side with crunchy onions on top, it provides texture against the smoothness of piecaken.
Sweet Potato Casserole: Sweet potatoes bring warmth and flavor that pair well with pumpkin in the piecaken.
Cranberry Sauce: Tart cranberry sauce cuts through sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast to each bite of piecaken.
Stuffing: Savory stuffing made with herbs complements the spiced flavors in your Thanksgiving dessert.
Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins add another layer of warmth to your Thanksgiving spread.
Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots offer bright color and flavor, enhancing your holiday table’s aesthetics and taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Thanksgiving piecaken can be a great experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
Skipping the cream cheese softening: Not allowing your cream cheese to soften can lead to a lumpy cheesecake layer. Always let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
Incorrect measurements: Mismeasuring ingredients can ruin your piecaken’s texture and taste. Use precise measuring tools and double-check your quantities.
Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can create a dense texture rather than a light and fluffy one. Mix just until combined for the best results.
Not chilling layers properly: Skipping the chilling time between layers can cause them to meld together. Allow each layer to set in the fridge before adding the next one.
Using cold eggs: Cold eggs can affect how well your batter incorporates and rises. Always use room temperature eggs for a better outcome.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Thanksgiving piecaken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Thanksgiving Piecaken
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- The piecaken can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.
Reheating Thanksgiving Piecaken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for about 30-45 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Thanksgiving Piecaken?
A Thanksgiving piecaken is a layered dessert combining pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake into one delicious treat.
How do I customize my Thanksgiving Piecaken?
You can customize it by adding different spices or using various types of pie as layers. Consider using pecan or apple pie for a twist!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the layers ahead of time and assemble the Thanksgiving piecaken a day before serving. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.
Is this dessert suitable for large gatherings?
Absolutely! This Thanksgiving piecaken serves up to 14 people, making it perfect for sharing at family gatherings or parties.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
You can modify ingredients like using dairy-free cream cheese or gluten-free flour to accommodate various dietary needs while still enjoying this delightful dessert.
Final Thoughts
The Thanksgiving piecaken is a show-stopping dessert that combines beloved flavors into one incredible dish. Its versatility allows you to customize layers based on personal preferences or seasonal ingredients. Give this recipe a try, and impress your guests with this deliciously decadent creation!
Thanksgiving Piecaken
Thanksgiving Piecaken is a delightful dessert that takes holiday treats to the next level. Imagine layers of creamy cinnamon cheesecake, spiced cake, and classic pumpkin pie all beautifully stacked together. This stunning dessert not only captures the essence of Thanksgiving but also serves as an impressive centerpiece for your festive table, leaving your guests in awe. The combination of flavors creates a unique experience with every slice, making it perfect for Thanksgiving or any joyous celebration. Whether served warm or chilled, this piecaken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 14 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
- 1 (9-inch) store-bought pumpkin pie (premade/storebought)
- 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)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare the cheesecake layer by mixing softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add flour, vanilla, cinnamon, heavy cream, and eggs one at a time.
- In another bowl, create the spice cake layer by whisking flour and baking powder, then creaming butter and brown sugar. Mix in oil, vanilla, egg, and milk followed by dry ingredients.
- Pour spice cake batter over cheesecake layer in the same pan and bake for about 60 minutes until set.
- Let cool completely before assembling on top of the pumpkin pie.
- Prepare frosting with butter and powdered sugar; spread over the assembled piecaken.
- Chill before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
