Thanksgiving Piecaken

This Thanksgiving Piecaken is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, beautifully blending pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake into one stunning dessert. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion, this over-the-top treat is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished tradition in your home. With its unique layers of flavor and texture, the Thanksgiving Piecaken will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: The multi-layered design makes it a showstopper at any gathering.
• Deliciously Unique: Combining classic desserts offers an exciting twist on traditional flavors.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite its elaborate look, the recipe is straightforward and manageable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or anytime you want to indulge in something special.
• Crowd Favorite: This dessert caters to diverse tastes with its rich blend of flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Thanksgiving Piecaken, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pans: These are crucial for baking even layers that stack beautifully.
• Electric mixer: Speeds up the blending process and ensures a fluffy texture for your cheesecake filling.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of mixing bowls to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

This Thanksgiving piecaken is the perfect combination of pumpkin pie, cinnamon cheesecake, and spice cake. It’s an over-the-top Thanksgiving dessert that is sure to impress!

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)

How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Cheesecake Layer

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
2. Add in flour, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, heavy whipping cream, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour the batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for about 45 minutes or until set.

Step 3: Prepare the Spice Cake Layer

1. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, ground spices, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, cream softened butter with brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in vegetable oil and eggs until combined. Gradually add dry ingredients while alternating with milk.
4. Pour batter into one of the greased pans and bake for about 25 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble Your Piecaken

Once baked layers have cooled:
1. Place one layer of spice cake on a serving platter.
2. Top with the store-bought pumpkin pie.
3. Add a layer of cinnamon cheesecake on top of the pumpkin pie.
4. Finish with another layer of spice cake.

Step 5: Frosting Your Piecaken

1. In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and optional cinnamon.
4. Adjust consistency with heavy whipping cream as needed.

Step 6: Decorate Your Piecaken

Spread frosting over the entire assembled piecaken using an offset spatula or knife. Decorate as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Thanksgiving Piecaken!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken

Thanksgiving piecaken is a delightful dessert that combines layers of flavors and textures. It can be served in various ways to elevate your Thanksgiving feast.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of piecaken alongside a dollop of whipped cream for a traditional touch.

Coffee Pairing

• Complement each slice with a cup of freshly brewed coffee to enhance the rich flavors of the dessert.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Add a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top for an indulgent twist that balances the spices in the piecaken.

Festive Platter

• Arrange slices on a decorative platter, garnished with seasonal fruits like cranberries or pears for a colorful presentation.

Individual Portions

• Cut smaller pieces and serve them on petite plates as part of a dessert sampler, perfect for guests who want to try multiple treats.

How to Perfect Thanksgiving Piecaken

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving piecaken takes some finesse. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out wonderfully.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps achieve a smooth batter and better mixing, leading to an even texture in your piecaken.

• Layer carefully: When assembling, ensure each layer is evenly spread and leveled for an attractive final look.

• Chill before serving: Allow the piecaken to chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours after assembling; this helps set the layers and makes slicing easier.

• Make ahead: Prepare your piecaken a day prior to Thanksgiving. It allows flavors to meld beautifully and saves you time on the big day.

Best Side Dishes for Thanksgiving Piecaken

Pairing side dishes with Thanksgiving piecaken can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes, roasted until caramelized.

2. Stuffing: A savory stuffing made with herbs, vegetables, and crusty bread adds texture and flavor contrast.

3. Green Bean Casserole: A classic dish featuring green beans topped with crispy onions brings both crunch and creaminess.

4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic or herbs provide comfort alongside richer desserts.

5. Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce brightens up the plate with its vibrant color and refreshing taste.

6. Sweet Potato Casserole: Topped with pecans or marshmallows, this dish offers sweetness that pairs well with the spiced layers of piecaken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Thanksgiving piecaken can be a delightful challenge. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.

• Skipping ingredient preparation: Not softening cream cheese or butter can lead to lumps in your cheesecake. Make sure these ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your cake dense. Mix just until combined to maintain a light texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Eye-balling ingredients can throw off the balance. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring baking times: Each layer may have different baking times. Keep an eye on your oven and use a toothpick to check for doneness.
• Neglecting cooling time: Rushing assembly while layers are still warm can cause them to collapse. Allow each layer to cool completely before stacking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Thanksgiving piecaken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Thanksgiving Piecaken

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months, but best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Thanksgiving Piecaken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Thanksgiving piecaken is an extravagant dessert that combines layers of pumpkin pie, cheesecake, and spice cake into one unique treat.

Can I customize my Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or swap out flavors based on your preferences.

How do I store leftover Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Leftover piecaken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I make Thanksgiving Piecaken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare layers in advance and assemble them closer to serving time for freshness.

What can I serve with Thanksgiving Piecaken?

Whipped cream, caramel sauce, or fresh fruit pairs wonderfully with this dessert!

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving piecaken is not only impressive but also versatile. You can easily tailor it with different flavors and toppings. Don’t hesitate to try it out—it’s sure to become a holiday favorite!