Thanksgiving Piecaken

If you’re looking for an unforgettable dessert this holiday season, you’ve come to the right place! This Thanksgiving piecaken is a delightful combination of pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake. It’s not just another dessert; it’s a showstopper that will have everyone raving at your Thanksgiving gathering. I love how it brings together classic flavors in such a fun and creative way. Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a cozy dinner with family, this recipe is sure to impress.

What makes this Thanksgiving piecaken so special is its versatility. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something extraordinary without the fuss. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead option for gatherings—just prepare it in advance and let your guests dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Layers: This dessert combines multiple favorites into one stunning creation that looks as good as it tastes.
• Flavorful Harmony: Each layer complements the others beautifully, creating a delicious blend of textures and flavors.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of these ingredients at home, making this recipe easy to whip up.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare it a day or two in advance so you can enjoy more time with loved ones on the big day.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Everyone loves pie and cake—this dessert is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients should feel like a breeze! This Thanksgiving piecaken uses simple and wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly magical. 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)

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into some fun variations!

Variations

This Thanksgiving piecaken is wonderfully flexible! If you want to switch things up a bit, here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the cake flavor: Use chocolate cake instead of spice cake for a rich twist!
• Add fruit layers: Incorporate fresh apples or pears between layers for an added burst of flavor.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends that work well in baking.
• Try different spices: Experiment with chai spices or pumpkin spice blend to enhance those warm flavors.

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth—this step ensures that your cheesecake layer is creamy and free of lumps. Gradually mix in flour, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and heavy cream. Finally, add the eggs one at a time until everything is well blended. Pour this luscious mixture into a greased springform pan and bake for about 60 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Cake Layer

While your cheesecake cools down, it’s time to make the spice cake! In another mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. In a larger bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Then mix in vegetable oil and eggs followed by milk. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into this mixture until just combined. This step is vital because overmixing can lead to dense cake; we want light and fluffy!

Step 3: Assemble Your Piecaken

Once both layers are baked and cooled completely, it’s time for assembly! Start with your pumpkin pie as the base on a serving platter. Place the cheesecake layer on top of the pumpkin pie carefully so as not to disturb it. Finally, spread the spice cake batter over your cheesecake layer gently before baking again for about another hour.

Step 4: Finish with Frosting

After everything has cooled down again—yes patience pays off here—it’s frosting time! Beat softened unsalted butter until creamy then gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to mix until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract and optional cinnamon for extra flavor. Add heavy cream as needed to achieve desired consistency; it should be spreadable but not too runny.

And there you have it—the ultimate Thanksgiving piecaken! Serve slices generously adorned with whipped cream if desired—and watch as smiles abound around your table! Enjoy every bite of this fabulous creation; I know you’ll love making it as much as sharing it!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Piecaken

Making a Thanksgiving Piecaken is a delightful challenge, and with these pro tips, you’ll create a show-stopping dessert that everyone will rave about!

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your cream cheese, eggs, and butter are at room temperature. This helps them blend smoothly, resulting in a creamy cheesecake layer and a moist spice cake.

• Use Quality Pumpkin Pie: Since we’re using a store-bought pumpkin pie, choose one from a reputable bakery or brand. A high-quality pie sets the foundation for your Piecaken and enhances the overall flavor.

• Chill Between Layers: After assembling each layer, refrigerate for about 30 minutes before adding the next. This helps each layer set properly and prevents them from mixing together.

• Decorate with Care: When frosting your Piecaken, use a spatula to create swirls or peaks in the frosting. This not only looks beautiful but also adds texture to each slice you serve.

• Let It Rest: Allow the assembled Piecaken to sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour (or overnight if possible) before serving. This enhances the flavors as they meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Presenting your Thanksgiving Piecaken can be just as exciting as making it! Here are some ideas to make your dessert shine on the table.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream on top adds lightness and balances the richness of the cake layers.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon over the top gives an aromatic touch that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Caramel Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings an extra layer of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy vegetables have a slightly nutty flavor that contrasts with the sweetness of the piecaken, providing a well-rounded meal.
• Maple Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with maple syrup add both sweetness and color to your plate, making them a perfect complement.
• Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds lend a crunchy texture that’s delightful against the creaminess of your dessert.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce offers a refreshing burst of acidity that cuts through the richness of your piecaken, enhancing every bite.

With these thoughtful touches and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving Piecaken will be an unforgettable centerpiece at your holiday gathering! Enjoy creating this unique dessert that blends tradition with innovation.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Piecaken is not only a showstopper for your holiday table but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare components ahead of time, making your Thanksgiving celebration smoother and more enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the piecaken to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the piecaken into individual portions.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the piecaken on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Thanksgiving Piecaken.

Can I make Thanksgiving Piecaken without cream cheese?

Yes! You can substitute cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese alternative for a similar texture and flavor.

How do I serve Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Slice the piecaken into generous portions and serve it with whipped cream or your favorite topping. It makes for an impressive dessert!

How long does Thanksgiving Piecaken last?

When properly stored, leftovers can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, while frozen slices can stay good for up to 2 months.

Can I customize the flavors of my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different pie flavors or cake layers according to your taste preferences. The possibilities are endless!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Thanksgiving Piecaken becomes a cherished tradition at your holiday gatherings! It’s an extraordinary blend of flavors that will delight family and friends alike. Enjoy every step of making this dessert, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors that resonate with you. Happy baking, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with love, laughter, and delicious moments!