Thanksgiving Piecaken

This Thanksgiving piecaken is a delightful treat that blends the flavors of pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake into one stunning dessert. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or any special occasion, this show-stopping dessert will surely impress your guests. Its unique layers offer a delicious surprise with every bite, making it an unforgettable addition to your festive table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: The layered design of the Thanksgiving piecaken creates a stunning visual appeal that will wow your guests.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: Enjoy the rich flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and spices all in one dessert.
• Perfect for Celebrations: This dessert is ideal for Thanksgiving dinners or holiday gatherings, making it a versatile choice.
• Easy to Prepare: With clear instructions and simple ingredients, anyone can make this delicious piecaken at home.
• Feeds a Crowd: Serving up to 14 people, this dessert is perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Thanksgiving piecaken smoothly, having the right tools at hand is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pans
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when whipping cream cheese or batter to the right texture.

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 Assembling

• 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)

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pans to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together:
1. Cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add granulated sugar and mix until well incorporated.
3. Mix in flour, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, heavy cream, and eggs until smooth.

Pour this mixture into a prepared pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until set.

Step 3: Prepare the Spice Cake Layer

In another bowl:
1. Combine flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice.
2. In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light.
3. Add vegetable oil, vanilla extract, egg, and milk; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until just combined.

Pour into another prepared pan and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 4: Assemble Your Piecaken

Once the cheesecake layer is cooled completely:
– Place the store-bought pumpkin pie on a serving platter.
– Spread an even layer of cheesecake on top of the pumpkin pie.
– Top with spice cake layer.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl:
– Beat softened unsalted butter until creamy.
– Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed.
– Add vanilla extract and optional cinnamon; mix until fluffy.
– Finally, drizzle in cold heavy whipping cream until desired consistency is reached.

Spread frosting over the assembled piecaken as desired.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice your Thanksgiving piecaken into generous pieces. Serve chilled or at room temperature to enjoy its full flavor!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Thanksgiving Piecaken is a show-stopping dessert that combines the flavors of pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Thanksgiving experience.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy texture.
• Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the top for added sweetness and visual appeal.

Coffee Pairing

• Pair with a warm cup of coffee to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.
• Consider flavored coffees like hazelnut or vanilla for a festive twist.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Top with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• Dairy-free ice creams can also be used for those looking for alternatives.

Festive Plating

• Arrange slices on a decorative platter with autumn-themed garnishes like pecans or cranberries.
• Use fresh mint leaves for a pop of color that brightens up the presentation.

How to Perfect Thanksgiving Piecaken

To make sure your Thanksgiving Piecaken is perfect, keep these tips in mind:

• Use softened cream cheese: Allow it to sit at room temperature to create a smooth cheesecake layer.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Precision in measuring will ensure consistent texture and flavor.
• Layer carefully: When stacking the layers, ensure they are even to prevent collapsing during slicing.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate your piecaken for several hours or overnight to set the flavors.
• Taste test before serving: Always sample before presenting; adjust sweetness or spices if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Thanksgiving Piecaken

To complement your Thanksgiving Piecaken, consider serving these delightful side dishes that enhance the festive meal:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized, these add a savory touch to balance the sweetness of dessert.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that everyone loves.
3. Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish adds crunch and flavor, pairing well with rich desserts.
4. Stuffing with Sage: Savory stuffing provides hearty flavors that contrast beautifully with sweet pies.
5. Cranberry Sauce: Tartness from fresh cranberry sauce cuts through richness while adding color to the plate.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole: Topped with marshmallows, it offers a sweet counterpart that pairs nicely with piecaken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Piecaken can be a delightful challenge. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold Preparation: Failing to properly prepare your ingredients can lead to uneven baking. Always measure and prep all ingredients beforehand.
• Bold Overmixing: Overmixing cake batter can result in a dense texture. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy cake.
• Bold Skipping Layers: Neglecting to let each layer cool before assembly can cause melting and mess. Ensure each layer is completely cooled before stacking.
• Bold Ignoring Baking Times: Not monitoring baking times can result in overcooked or undercooked layers. Use a toothpick test to check for doneness.
• Bold Forgetting Decorations: Overlooking the finishing touches can make your piecaken less appealing. Consider adding whipped cream or festive toppings for presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep your Thanksgiving Piecaken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Thanksgiving Piecaken

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The piecaken can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Thanksgiving Piecaken

• Bold Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the piecaken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking every 15 seconds to avoid overheating.
• Bold Stovetop: For stovetop reheating, use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Thanksgiving Piecaken.

Can I customize the flavors of my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Absolutely! You can add different spices or even swap out the pumpkin pie for apple or pecan pie based on your preference.

How do I ensure my Thanksgiving Piecaken layers bake evenly?

Make sure each layer is spread evenly in the pan and check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer if needed.

What is the best way to serve Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Slice it carefully using a sharp knife. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for added indulgence!

Can I make this Thanksgiving Piecaken ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it a day prior, store it in the refrigerator, and add toppings just before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Thanksgiving Piecaken is not only visually stunning but also packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. It’s versatile enough to allow you to mix flavors and create variations based on personal taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to give this show-stopping dessert a try at your next gathering!

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Thanksgiving Piecaken

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 14 people 1x

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Description

Discover the ultimate holiday dessert with our Thanksgiving Piecaken, a delightful fusion of classic flavors that will amaze your guests. This impressive layered treat combines the rich taste of pumpkin pie, creamy cinnamon cheesecake, and spiced cake for a festive indulgence perfect for your celebrations. Each bite reveals a delicious surprise, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for Thanksgiving gatherings or any special occasion. With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, this dessert is easy to make and feeds a crowd, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

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Ingredients

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• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease baking pans.
2. For the cheesecake layer, beat softened cream cheese with sugar, flour, vanilla, cinnamon, heavy cream, and eggs until smooth. Pour into a prepared pan and bake for 60 minutes.
3. For the spice cake layer, mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another. Combine and pour into a prepared pan; bake for 30-35 minutes.
4. Assemble by placing the pumpkin pie on a platter, topping it with cheesecake, then adding the spice cake layer.
5. For frosting, beat softened butter with powdered sugar and vanilla until fluffy; drizzle in cold heavy cream to reach desired consistency.
6. Frost your assembled piecaken and serve chilled or at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg