Indulge in the Thanksgiving Piecaken Delight

When it comes to holiday desserts, nothing quite matches the dazzling appeal of a Piecaken, especially this Thanksgiving Piecaken. Imagine layers of decadent flavors fused into a single, stunning slice. This recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful blend of your favorite fall treats. With a rich pumpkin pie nestled between moist spice cake and creamy cheesecake, this dessert has become a must-have for those looking to impress during the festive season.

The beauty of a Thanksgiving Piecaken lies in its versatility. It’s perfect for large holiday gatherings where you want to surprise your guests with a unique dessert experience. The combination of the pumpkin pie, spice cake, and cheesecake creates a flavor explosion that captures the essence of Thanksgiving. Plus, with a luscious whipped frosting to top it off, you’re guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds!

Not only does it taste amazing, but this recipe also offers a fantastic option for those looking to switch up traditional holiday desserts. It’s ideal for quick breakfast leftovers, making it easy to continue the celebration well beyond the dinner table. Get ready to savor every bite as you create this multi-layered masterpiece that embodies the spirit of the holidays!

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Piecaken

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of pumpkin, spice, and creamy cheesecake creates a mouthwatering delight in every layer.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: This stunning dessert is sure to be a centerpiece on any holiday table.
• Versatile Options: Enjoy it as a festive dessert or as a quick breakfast leftover.
• Easy to Impress: This recipe will wow your guests without requiring professional baking skills.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting ready to bake this Thanksgiving Piecaken requires a bit of organization in your kitchen. First, ensure you have all your ingredients on hand, measuring cups, mixing bowls, and a set of fine mesh sieves for dry ingredients. You’ll also need a 9-inch pie dish for the pumpkin pie, a 9-inch cake pan for the spice cake, and a springform pan for the cheesecake. Additionally, consider preparing your workstation by having a spatula, whisk, and mixer available—these tools will help make the process smoother and more enjoyable. If you have a food processor, it can be useful for creaming the butter and sugars quickly and evenly.

Ingredients

• 1 9-inch prepared pie crust
• 15 oz pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup butter
• 2–3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Chopped pecans or candied nuts
• Pie crust crumbles
• Whipped cream rosettes

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Pie

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your prepared pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, brown sugar, eggs, and spices, ensuring everything is well combined. Pour this luscious filling into the crust and bake for about 50 to 55 minutes until set. Once baked, allow the pie to cool and then refrigerate it as it will be one of the layers of your Piecaken.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Cake

Next, grease another 9-inch cake pan. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices. In a larger bowl, cream together the softened butter and both sugars until fluffy, then add the eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture and buttermilk, alternating until you achieve a smooth batter. Pour this batter into the prepared pan and bake for around 30 to 35 minutes. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Now, let’s shift focus to the cheesecake layer. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Then, blend in the sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sour cream, ensuring a creamy texture. Pour this mixture into the springform pan and bake it in a water bath, which helps maintain moisture, for approximately 45 to 50 minutes. After baking, let it cool, then chill it overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

Prepare your frosting by creating the whipped cream first. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until it reaches stiff peaks. Then, for the buttercream, cream softened butter and gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you have a light and fluffy consistency. This dual frosting will provide wonderful texture and flavor when layering the Cakecaken.

Step 5: Stack Your Layers

It’s finally time to assemble your masterpiece! Start with the cheesecake layer, spreading a generous layer of whipped frosting on top. Next, carefully add the spice cake layer and add more frosting before placing the pumpkin pie on top. If needed, gently trim the layers to ensure everything fits well. Once stacked, frost the entire cake smoothly with your remaining frosting.

Step 6: Chill and Garnish

Once assembled, chill the Piecaken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This will help the flavors meld and make for a perfect slice. Before serving, you can garnish your showstopper with ground cinnamon, chopped pecans, pie crust crumbles, or even make whipped cream rosettes to give it an elegant finish.

Variations

• Protein: Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache or a layer of caramel mixed with pecans for an extra twist.
• Vegetables: Sweet potato can be an excellent substitute for pumpkin for a different taste profile.
• Spices: Adjust the spices based on your preference; try adding cardamom or vanilla bean for unique flavors.

Cooking Notes

• Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before beginning to ensure even mixing.
• Using a serrated knife will help slice through your Piecaken smoothly.
• For the best texture, let the Piecaken chill overnight—this allows the flavors to develop fully.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of each slice.
• Pair with hot coffee or spiced cider to complement the flavors beautifully.

Tips

• Do not rush the chilling process—the longer you chill, the better the flavors meld.
• Feel free to get creative with your toppings, such as chocolate drizzle or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 550 per slice
• Protein: 8g
• Sodium: 250mg

FAQs

Can I make the Thanksgiving Piecaken ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead and letting it chill overnight will enhance its flavor.

What can I use instead of a springform pan?

If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular cake pan, but be cautious when removing the cheesecake layer.

Can I substitute ingredients to make it healthier?

You can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and reduce sugars, or explore gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

How do I store leftovers?

Cover with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

The Thanksgiving Piecaken is truly more than just a dessert—it’s a symbol of the joy and abundance of the holiday season. With meticulously layered components, baked to perfection, and topped with luscious frosting, it’s bound to become a family favorite. This recipe provides an ideal opportunity to experiment with flavors while delivering spectacular results. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, and inspire others to take on the Piecaken challenge! Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving or as a showstopper at any gathering, the delightful taste and presentation will leave everyone amazed and craving more.

Thanksgiving Piecaken

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• Author: Alioui
• Total Time: 3 hours
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

A stunning combination of pumpkin pie, spice cake, and creamy cheesecake layered together for a decadent dessert experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 9-inch prepared pie crust
• 15 oz pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup butter
• 2–3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Chopped pecans or candied nuts
• Pie crust crumbles
• Whipped cream rosettes

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Instructions

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your prepared pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, brown sugar, eggs, and spices, ensuring everything is well combined. Pour this luscious filling into the crust and bake for about 50 to 55 minutes until set. Once baked, allow the pie to cool and then refrigerate it as it will be one of the layers of your Piecaken.
2. Next, grease another 9-inch cake pan. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices. In a larger bowl, cream together the softened butter and both sugars until fluffy, then add the eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture and buttermilk, alternating until you achieve a smooth batter. Pour this batter into the prepared pan and bake for around 30 to 35 minutes. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Now, let’s shift focus to the cheesecake layer. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Then, blend in the sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sour cream, ensuring a creamy texture. Pour this mixture into the springform pan and bake it in a water bath, which helps maintain moisture, for approximately 45 to 50 minutes. After baking, let it cool, then chill it overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.
4. Prepare your frosting by creating the whipped cream first. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until it reaches stiff peaks. Then, for the buttercream, cream softened butter and gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you have a light and fluffy consistency. This dual frosting will provide wonderful texture and flavor when layering the Cakecaken.
5. It’s finally time to assemble your masterpiece! Start with the cheesecake layer, spreading a generous layer of whipped frosting on top. Next, carefully add the spice cake layer and add more frosting before placing the pumpkin pie on top. If needed, gently trim the layers to ensure everything fits well. Once stacked, frost the entire cake smoothly with your remaining frosting.
6. Once assembled, chill the Piecaken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This will help the flavors meld and make for a perfect slice. Before serving, you can garnish your showstopper with ground cinnamon, chopped pecans, pie crust crumbles, or even make whipped cream rosettes to give it an elegant finish.

Notes

Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before beginning to ensure even mixing. Using a serrated knife will help slice through your Piecaken smoothly. For the best texture, let the Piecaken chill overnight—this allows the flavors to develop fully.

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Dessert

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 550 per slice
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Protein: 8 g