There I was, surrounded by family, the kitchen buzzing with laughter and anticipation, when the idea of a Thanksgiving Piecaken came to mind—an epic dessert that beautifully marries the creamy indulgence of cheesecake with the nostalgia of pumpkin pie and the comforting warmth of spice cake. This show-stopping centerpiece not only elevates your holiday feast but also offers a unique twist to traditional desserts, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile. Plus, it brings the best of both worlds: a slice of comforting cake and the rich flavors of pie, all in one glorious bite! If you’ve been searching for that perfect crowd-pleaser recipe to impress your loved ones, you’re in the right place. Curious about how to create this delightful dessert that can become your new holiday tradition? Let’s dive into making this unforgettable Thanksgiving Piecaken!
Why is Thanksgiving Piecaken So Special?
Unique Fusion: This recipe is a delightful blend of cheesecake, pumpkin pie, and spice cake. Impressive Presentation: Stack the layers high for a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any gathering. Flavor Explosion: Expect rich, creamy, and spiced flavors dancing on your palate. Easy Assembly: With premade pumpkin pie as a base, you save time while creating something extraordinary. Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a festive gathering, this dessert guarantees happy faces and clean plates. Don’t miss out on more fun holiday treats—check out our favorite Thanksgiving recipes for more inspiration!
Thanksgiving Piecaken Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Layer
- Cream cheese – 3 (8 ounce) packages, softened for a rich and creamy texture.
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup to sweeten the cheesecake and balance the spices.
- All-purpose flour – 3 tablespoons to stabilize the cheesecake.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon for a lovely background flavor.
- Ground cinnamon – 2 teaspoons to infuse warmth into the filling.
- Heavy whipping cream – ½ cup, adds creaminess and richness.
- Large eggs – 2, for structure and moisture.
For the Spice Cake Layer
- All-purpose flour – ⅔ cup forms the backbone of your cake.
- Baking powder – ½ teaspoon helps it rise beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon – ¾ teaspoon to enhance the festive flavor.
- Ground ginger – ½ teaspoon for a gentle zing.
- Nutmeg – ½ teaspoon adds depth to the spice mix.
- Ground cloves – ¼ teaspoon for a warm, aromatic kick.
- Allspice – ¼ teaspoon rounds out the spiced profile.
- Butter – ¼ cup, softened for a fluffy batter.
- Brown sugar – ⅓ cup, packed to add moisture and richness.
- Vegetable oil – 1 tablespoon keeps the cake tender.
- Vanilla extract – ½ teaspoon for another layer of flavor.
- Large egg – 1, to bind the ingredients together.
- Milk – ⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon for the perfect cake consistency.
For Assembly & Frosting
- Store-bought pumpkin pie – 1 (9-inch), a time-saver that brings festive flavor—look for your favorite brand.
- Unsalted butter – 12 ounces (3 sticks), softened for a smooth frosting.
- Powdered sugar – 5 cups, to sweeten the frosting and achieve a creamy texture.
- Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons for a delightful taste.
- Cinnamon – ½ teaspoon, optional, to sprinkle in the frosting if you like.
- Heavy whipping cream – 3-4 tablespoons, cold to achieve the right frosting consistency.
Now that you have all the Thanksgiving Piecaken ingredients, you're just a step away from creating this unforgettable dessert! Let’s get into preparing each layer for a show-stopping holiday treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Piecaken
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin your Thanksgiving Piecaken journey by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While it's heating, take a 9-inch springform pan and spray it with non-stick spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later. This preparation ensures that your layers will bake evenly and release beautifully after cooling.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream 3 packages of softened cream cheese for approximately 5–6 minutes until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add ½ cup of granulated sugar and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, ensuring a fragrant and flavorful cheesecake layer for your Piecaken.
Step 3: Incorporate Cream and Eggs
Next, add ½ cup of heavy whipping cream to the mixture at low speed before increasing to high for about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, and then add the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly between each addition. This step guarantees a rich batter, perfect for the cheesecake layer of your Thanksgiving Piecaken.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan and gently tap it on the counter 5–6 times to release any air bubbles. Place it in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes. After that, lower the temperature to 200 degrees F, keeping the oven door closed, and bake for an additional 30–35 minutes, until the center jiggles slightly. Cool in the oven for 15 minutes before refrigerating overnight.
Step 5: Prepare the Spice Cake Layer
The following day, preheat the oven again to 350 degrees F, and prepare a 9-inch cake pan by greasing it with shortening and dusting it with flour to prevent sticking. This cake layer will complement your Thanksgiving Piecaken with its comforting spice flavors, so get ready to whip it up.
Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ⅔ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and spices: ¾ teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ginger, ½ teaspoon of nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of cloves, and ¼ teaspoon of allspice. This fragrant mix will form the heart of your spice cake, so take your time to ensure even distribution.
Step 7: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, cream together ¼ cup of softened butter and ⅓ cup of packed brown sugar until fluffy. Then add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, 1 large egg, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This will create a luscious base for your spice cake that pairs wonderfully with the cheesecake layer.
Step 8: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes
Gradually add half of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing well. Then, pour in ⅓ cup plus 1 tablespoon of milk, followed by the remaining flour mixture. Mix until there are no dry spots left in the batter, which will ensure a smooth and moist spice cake layer for your Thanksgiving Piecaken.
Step 9: Bake the Spice Cake
Pour the prepared batter into the greased cake pan and bake in the preheated oven for 15–17 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean. Allow the cake to cool to room temperature before refrigerating overnight to help it firm up for the assembly.
Step 10: Make the Frosting
For your frosting, in a stand mixer, cream 12 ounces of softened unsalted butter on high speed until smooth. Gradually add 5 cups of powdered sugar, mixing well after each cup. Incorporate 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and optionally, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, then blend in 3–4 tablespoons of cold heavy whipping cream to achieve a creamy, spreadable consistency.
Step 11: Assemble the Layers
Now it's time to assemble your Thanksgiving Piecaken! Start by trimming both the cheesecake and spice cake layers to the same size. Place the cheesecake layer upside down on a cake stand and spread about ¾ cup of frosting on top. Gently place the spice cake layer on top of the cheesecake, smoothing another ¾ cup of frosting over this layer.
Step 12: Add the Pumpkin Pie
Remove your store-bought pumpkin pie from its dish, carefully trimming the crust to match the size of your layers. Cover the entire assembled cake with half of the remaining frosting, ensuring to fill in any cracks between layers. Chill the masterpiece in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to allow it to set perfectly.
Step 13: Final Frosting Touches
After chilling, smooth the remaining frosting over the entire cake for a polished look. If desired, pipe a decorative border around the top edge and sprinkle with a little cinnamon for that festive touch. Your stunning Thanksgiving Piecaken is now ready to shine at your holiday gathering!
Thanksgiving Piecaken Variations
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make the Thanksgiving Piecaken your own delicious creation!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and replace the heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a delightful twist.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in both the cake and cheesecake layers, ensuring a scrumptious dessert for those avoiding gluten.
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Pumpkin Spice Kick: Enhance the spice cake layer with additional pumpkin pie spice for an even richer, fall-inspired flavor. Just a teaspoon more can work wonders!
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Chocolate Lover's Dream: Incorporate chocolate chips into the spice cake batter for a surprise chocolatey explosion in every bite. Chocolate and pumpkin spices are such a lovely blend!
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Nutty Flavor: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the spice cake for a crunchy texture contrast. It not only adds flavor but also provides a delightful bite that complements the soft layers.
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Fruity Surprise: Layer fresh cranberries or thin apple slices between the cheesecake and cake layers for a fresh and tangy twist that elevates the classic flavors beautifully.
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Spicy Heat: For a warm kick, toss in some finely chopped candied ginger into the frosting. This spiced addition gives a surprising pop that will tickle your taste buds.
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Simplified Version: For a quicker assembly, use a pre-made spice cake mix instead of making the cake from scratch. It still tastes amazing and cuts down on time!
With these variations, your Thanksgiving Piecaken will never be boring! And while you’re at it, you might want to explore more festive desserts in our favorite Thanksgiving recipes. Every holiday occasion deserves a little extra sweetness!
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Piecaken
Fridge: Store any leftover Thanksgiving Piecaken in an airtight container for up to 5 days; this keeps the flavors fresh and the texture delightful!
Freezer: You can freeze slices of Thanksgiving Piecaken wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months; this way, you can enjoy it long after the holidays!
Thawing: To enjoy the frozen slices, transfer them to the fridge overnight, or let them sit at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving.
Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds on low heat, bringing them back to life without losing that creamy cheesecake goodness.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Thanksgiving Piecaken ahead of time is a wonderful way to lighten your holiday cooking load! You can make the cheesecake layer and spice cake layer up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to chill overnight in the refrigerator, which enhances their flavors and ensures optimal texture. Simply prepare each layer as outlined in the recipe, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. The assembled piecaken can also be prepped 1-2 days ahead; just make sure to keep it well-covered in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. You’ll savor every bite just as if it were freshly made!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Piecaken
Preparation is Key: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially cream cheese, for a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
Layer Alignment: Trim the layers carefully for uniform height; this not only improves the aesthetic but also ensures even frosting distribution for your Thanksgiving Piecaken.
Avoid Overmixing: When incorporating eggs into the cheesecake batter, mix just until combined to prevent a dense texture; you want it to remain light and airy.
Cooling Time: Be patient with cooling and chilling the layers overnight; this helps set the flavors and makes assembly easier—no one wants a messy dessert!
Frosting Consistency: Adjust heavy cream in your frosting for the perfect spreadable consistency; too thin and it won’t hold up, too thick and it’s hard to spread!
Decorative Finish: Don’t skip the decorative border around the top; it adds a charming touch and makes your Thanksgiving Piecaken visually stunning for guests.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Piecaken
Indulging in a slice of Thanksgiving Piecaken is a moment worth savoring, but what else can elevate this decadent dessert experience?
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast that perfectly balances the richness of the Piecaken.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top enhances the warm spices and brings a cozy aroma to your dessert table.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, spiced layers of Thanksgiving Piecaken.
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Spiced Chai Latte: A steaming cup of spiced chai latte complements the flavors in the Piecaken and becomes a comforting drink alongside dessert.
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Pecan Pie Bites: Small bites of pecan pie offer another textured treat, bringing a nutty contrast that highlights the holiday theme.
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Fresh Fruit Medley: A mix of seasonal fruits like pears and pomegranates adds a refreshing touch, cleansing the palate between decadent bites.
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Hot Chocolate: Rich hot chocolate with a sprinkle of marshmallows creates a warming companion, ushering in feelings of nostalgia during holiday gatherings.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the flavors of the season with a pumpkin spice latte that echoes the Piecaken's delightful fusion of pumpkin and spice.
Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for the Thanksgiving Piecaken?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Thanksgiving Piecaken, select ripe, high-quality ingredients. Choose cream cheese that is fresh and softened well. For the pumpkin pie layer, look for a pie that has a firm filling without cracks and that smells deliciously spiced. When buying spices like ground ginger or nutmeg, fresh is best! Check expiration dates to ensure robust flavors.
How should I store leftovers of my Thanksgiving Piecaken?
Very simply! Store any leftover Thanksgiving Piecaken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps the dessert fresh, allowing you to savor its delightful flavors. If you're worried about it sticking together or losing texture, applying a light layer of plastic wrap or parchment between layers can help.
Can I freeze slices of Thanksgiving Piecaken for later enjoyment?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can keep these luscious slices in the freezer for up to 2 months. This allows you to savor the joy of your Thanksgiving Piecaken long after the holidays have passed!
What’s the best way to thaw a frozen slice of Thanksgiving Piecaken?
To thaw a frozen slice, simply transfer it to the refrigerator the night before you plan to enjoy it, allowing it to thaw slowly. If you're in a hurry, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 2 hours. Be cautious with rapid thawing in the microwave as it might alter the texture, so I suggest sticking to these methods!
What if my layers aren’t baking properly?
Don't worry if you run into some baking hurdles! If your cheesecake doesn't set, it may need more time in the oven or a slightly higher temp during the first baking phase. Remember to check with a toothpick for doneness. For the spice cake, if it appears too dense, you've likely overmixed the batter or need to ensure you're not packing your flour too tightly. Take your time mixing—gentle and careful works wonders!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
Indeed, if you’re baking for guests with allergies, this Thanksgiving Piecaken contains dairy (cream cheese, butter, and heavy cream) and eggs, so it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. There are plenty of substitutes available, such as dairy-free cream cheese or egg replacers, which can help adapt the recipe for those with dietary restrictions. Always double-check with your guests to keep everyone safe and happy!
Thanksgiving Piecaken: The Ultimate Dessert Mashup Delight
Equipment
- stand mixer
- Springform pan
- cake pan
- Whisk
- parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Layer
- 3 packages cream cheese softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 large eggs
For the Spice Cake Layer
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- ¼ cup butter softened
- ⅓ cup brown sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon milk
For Assembly & Frosting
- 1 9-inch store-bought pumpkin pie
- 12 ounces unsalted butter softened
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon optional
- 3-4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream cold
Instructions
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick spray and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, cream 3 packages of softened cream cheese for approximately 5-6 minutes until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add ½ cup granulated sugar and 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon.
- Add ½ cup heavy whipping cream to the mixture at low speed, then increase to high for about 1 minute. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly in between.
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan and gently tap it on the counter to release air bubbles. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes, then lower to 200 degrees F and bake for another 30-35 minutes.
- Cool in the oven for 15 minutes before refrigerating overnight.
- The following day, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F again, and prepare a 9-inch cake pan by greasing it with shortening and dusting with flour.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together ⅔ cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and the spices.
- In a stand mixer, cream together ¼ cup softened butter and ⅓ cup packed brown sugar until fluffy. Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 large egg, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in half of the flour mixture, then pour in ⅓ cup plus 1 tablespoon of milk, followed by the remaining flour mixture. Mix until there are no dry spots left.
- Pour the batter into the greased cake pan and bake for 15-17 minutes, checking for doneness.
- Allow the cake to cool to room temperature before refrigerating overnight.
- In a stand mixer, cream 12 ounces of softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 5 cups of powdered sugar.
- Incorporate 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and optionally, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix in 3-4 tablespoons of cold heavy whipping cream.
- Trim the cheesecake and spice cake layers to the same size. Place the cheesecake layer upside down on a cake stand and spread ¾ cup frosting on top.
- Gently place the spice cake layer on top and spread another ¾ cup frosting.
- Remove the pumpkin pie from its dish, trim the crust, and place it on top. Cover with half of the remaining frosting and chill for 20-30 minutes.
- Smooth the remaining frosting over the cake and pipe a decorative border if desired. Your Thanksgiving Piecaken is ready to serve!
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