As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg weaving through the air, I had an epiphany: why choose between pie and cake when you can have both? Enter the Thanksgiving Piecaken, a gorgeous creation that layers rich pumpkin pie, velvety cinnamon cheesecake, and moist spice cake, all embraced by a cloud of buttercream frosting. This dessert is not only a showstopper for your holiday table but also versatile and a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this layered delight offers the warm comfort of traditional flavors in a fun, decadent twist. Curious how to craft this three-in-one masterpiece? Let’s dive into the delicious journey of making your very own Thanksgiving Piecaken! Why choose just pie or cake? Uniqueness: This Thanksgiving Piecaken seamlessly blends your favorite desserts into one delightful creation, pleasing every sweet tooth at the table. Flavor Explosion: Indulge in the harmonious combination of creamy cheesecake, spiced cake, and a luscious pumpkin pie – it’s a taste sensation! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This decadent dessert is sure to impress guests, sparking conversations and all-around enjoyment for your holiday gathering. Versatility: Experiment with different layers or frosting flavors, like chocolate ganache or sweet potato pie, to personalize your piecaken. Time-Saving Convenience: Using store-bought pumpkin pie as a base saves precious prep time, letting you focus on family and fun this holiday season. Step-by-Step Guidance: No need to worry; I’ll guide you through the simple process to create this stunning masterpiece that will wow your loved ones! Thanksgiving Piecaken Ingredients Get ready to create a stunning Thanksgiving Piecaken with these simple ingredients! For the Cheesecake Layer Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess and structure; try Neufchâtel for a lighter option. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake; coconut sugar is a healthier alternative. All-Purpose Flour – Stabilizes the cheesecake; use a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option. Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor depth; almond extract can be a delightful substitute. Ground Cinnamon – Enhances flavor in both the cheesecake and frosting; Saigon cinnamon offers a more intense taste. Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds richness and stability; consider whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Large Eggs – Binds everything together; use flax eggs for a vegan option. For the Spice Cake Layer All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the cake; a gluten-free blend works just as well. Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; baking soda is an acceptable substitute. Ground Ginger, Nutmeg, Cloves, Allspice – This warm spice blend gives the cake its signature flavor; adjust spices to your liking. Butter – Adds moisture and richness; opt for vegan butter to keep it dairy-free. Brown Sugar – Sweetens and adds a hint of molasses flavor; coconut sugar is a great substitute to reduce refined sugar. Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist; unsweetened applesauce is a superb healthier alternative. For Assembly Store-Bought Pumpkin Pie – Serves as the foundation layer and saves time; feel free to make homemade for a personal touch. Unsalted Butter – The base for your buttercream; dairy-free butter can make it non-dairy. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting; monk fruit sweetener can keep it low-carb. Vanilla Extract (Frosting) – Amplifies flavor in the buttercream. Heavy Whipping Cream (Frosting) – Creates a fluffy and airy texture; use non-dairy whipping cream for a dairy-free option. Gather these ingredients, and let’s embark on the sweet adventure of crafting your unforgettable Thanksgiving Piecaken! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Piecaken Step 1: Prepare Cheesecake Layer Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the heavy whipping cream and eggs until just incorporated. Pour this luscious mixture into a prepared springform pan and bake for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 200°F (95°C) and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes. The cheesecake should be set in the center but slightly wobbly. Step 2: Make Spice Cake Layer While the cheesecake cools, preheat your oven again to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy, then mix in the vegetable oil and egg. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and your desired spices. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until a smooth batter forms. Pour into a greased cake pan and bake for 15-17 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely. Step 3: Prepare Buttercream Once your cheesecake and spice cake layers are cooled, let’s whip up the buttercream! In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter on medium speed until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and heavy whipping cream, beating until the frosting reaches your desired consistency—fluffy and spreadable. This delightful buttercream will bring the whole Thanksgiving Piecaken together! Step 4: Assemble Piecaken Now it’s time to layer your Thanksgiving Piecaken! Carefully trim the cheesecake and spice cake layers to ensure they are even. Start with the cheesecake layer as your base, spreading a layer of buttercream on top. Next, add the spice cake, pressing down gently before frosting the top again. Place the store-bought pumpkin pie on top of the spice cake, then add a final layer of buttercream to create a beautiful finish. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to firm everything up before serving. How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Piecaken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and moisture. Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Thanksgiving Piecaken, transfer slices to the fridge the night before serving to thaw gently. Reheating: If you prefer it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Enjoy your piecaken at its best! Thanksgiving Piecaken Variations Feel free to experiment with these delightful variations to create a Thanksgiving Piecaken that’s uniquely yours! Chocolate Cake Layer: Replace the spice cake with a rich chocolate cake for a decadent twist. Chocolate pairs beautifully with pumpkin and cheesecake! Sweet Potato Pie: Swap the pumpkin pie for sweet potato pie for a subtly sweeter flavor that’s just as festive. It’s a comforting alternative many will enjoy. Coconut Whipped Cream Frosting: Instead of buttercream, use whipped coconut cream for a light, dairy-free frosting that adds a delightful tropical touch. Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans between layers for a satisfying crunch that elevates the texture profile of your piecaken. Spice Adjustments: Alter the spice blend in your cake layer, adding a hint of cardamom or more cinnamon to customize the flavor for your palate. Fruit Filling: Incorporate a layer of cranberry or apple filling for a burst of tartness that beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the cake and frosting. If you want another take on fruit, why not check out my Apple Cake? It’s a perfect pairing! Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour and a low-carb sweetener for a keto-friendly twist that still delivers all the delightful flavors without the carbs. Pumpkin Spice Frosting: Add pumpkin puree and a hint of pumpkin pie spice to your buttercream for an extra layer of fall flavor—just think of the aroma! These variations will not only personalize your Thanksgiving Piecaken but will also keep your festive gatherings fresh and exciting! What to Serve with Thanksgiving Piecaken Create a memorable holiday feast that complements the decadent flavors of this unique dessert! Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the Piecaken, adding a refreshing contrast of flavors. Spiced Hot Apple Cider: A warm, spiced drink that envelops you in fall aromas, perfectly pairing with the rich layers of the Piecaken. Vanilla Ice Cream: Smooth and creamy, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the Piecaken, enhancing its indulgence. Pecans or Walnuts: Toasted nuts provide a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft layers, plus their earthy flavor complements the spices. Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: A rich chocolate ganache adds a decadent twist and stunning visual appeal to your Piecaken, turning every slice into a masterpiece. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite echoes the pie’s flavors, providing a warm and cozy beverage to sip while enjoying dessert. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a dreamy touch, emphasizing the creamy layers of cheesecake and frosting. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the Piecaken creates an irresistible sweetness, enhancing the holiday vibe of your dessert table. Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Piecaken • Cool Completely: Ensure both the cheesecake and spice cake layers cool completely before assembly to prevent melting the buttercream during stacking. • Parchment Paper Magic: Line your springform pans with parchment paper for easy release, making it simpler to remove the layers after baking. • Wrap Wisely: If you’re making your layers ahead of time, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to keep them moist and fresh while stored in the refrigerator. • Frosting Consistency: Beat your buttercream until it’s fluffy and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a little more cream for the perfect consistency to top your Thanksgiving Piecaken. • Layer Order: For a stunning look, start with the cheesecake base, but be sure to evenly frost between each layer to create a beautiful presentation. • Spice Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the spices in your spice cake layer according to your preference, ensuring your Thanksgiving Piecaken has a flavor that suits your taste! Make Ahead Options These Thanksgiving Piecaken layers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cheesecake and spice cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow them to cool completely and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. The store-bought pumpkin pie can also be stored in the fridge up to 3 days ahead. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the piecaken by layering the cheesecake, spice cake, and pumpkin pie, then frost it with your prepared buttercream. Refrigerate to firm up for about 20-30 minutes, and you’ll have an exuberant dessert that’s just as delicious as if made fresh that day! Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe FAQs What type of pumpkin pie should I use for the Piecaken? Absolutely! You can use either a store-bought pumpkin pie for convenience or make a homemade one for that personal touch. If using store-bought, ensure it’s a quality brand with a smooth filling to complement the creamy layers of cheesecake and spice cake. How should I store my Thanksgiving Piecaken? To keep your delicious creation fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you have any leftover slices or layers, wrap them tightly to maintain moisture and flavor before popping them into the fridge. Can I freeze leftover Thanksgiving Piecaken? Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. This way, they can remain in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them, so you know what you have! What if I don’t have heavy whipping cream? No worries! If you’re out of heavy whipping cream, you can replace it in the cheesecake and buttercream with whipped coconut cream or non-dairy whipping cream for a lighter texture that’s still delicious. The flavor will slightly change, but it keeps your dessert heavenly and creamy! How can I make this recipe nut-free for allergies? To cater to nut allergies, simply ensure all your ingredients are nut-free, focusing on a nut-free butter and checking spices. If you’re using store-bought pumpkin pie, double-check the ingredients as well. Most components of the Thanksgiving Piecaken are naturally nut-free. Is it necessary to refrigerate the piecaken before serving? Very! Refrigerating the assembled Thanksgiving Piecaken for about 20-30 minutes allows the layers to firm up, making it easier to slice. This also helps the flavors meld together beautifully, so don’t skip this step! Thanksgiving Piecaken: Indulge in a Festive Flavor Fusion Experience the Thanksgiving Piecaken, a delightful fusion of pumpkin pie, cheesecake, and spice cake, perfect for your holiday table. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 45 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes minsCooling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 35 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 470 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Cheesecake Layer16 oz Cream Cheese Try Neufchâtel for a lighter option.1 cup Granulated Sugar Coconut sugar is a healthier alternative.1 tbsp All-Purpose Flour Use a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.1 tsp Vanilla Extract Almond extract can be a delightful substitute.1 tsp Ground Cinnamon Saigon cinnamon offers a more intense taste.1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Consider whipped coconut cream for a dairy-free version.3 large Large Eggs Use flax eggs for a vegan option.Spice Cake Layer2 cup All-Purpose Flour A gluten-free blend works just as well.1 tbsp Baking Powder Baking soda is an acceptable substitute.1 tbsp Ground Ginger Adjust spices to your liking.1 tsp Nutmeg1 tsp Cloves1 tsp Allspice1/2 cup Butter Opt for vegan butter to keep it dairy-free.1 cup Brown Sugar Coconut sugar is a great substitute to reduce refined sugar.1/2 cup Vegetable Oil Unsweetened applesauce is a superb healthier alternative.For Assembly1 whole Store-Bought Pumpkin Pie Homemade for a personal touch is acceptable.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Dairy-free butter can make it non-dairy.4 cups Powdered Sugar Monk fruit sweetener can keep it low-carb.1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Frosting)1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Frosting) Use non-dairy whipping cream for a dairy-free option. Equipment mixing bowlSpringform panCake Pan Method Prepare Cheesecake LayerPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the heavy whipping cream and eggs until just incorporated. Pour this luscious mixture into a prepared springform pan and bake for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 200°F (95°C) and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes. The cheesecake should be set in the center but slightly wobbly.Make Spice Cake LayerWhile the cheesecake cools, preheat your oven again to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy, then mix in the vegetable oil and egg. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and your desired spices. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until a smooth batter forms. Pour into a greased cake pan and bake for 15-17 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.Prepare ButtercreamOnce your cheesecake and spice cake layers are cooled, let's whip up the buttercream! In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter on medium speed until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and heavy whipping cream, beating until the frosting reaches your desired consistency—fluffy and spreadable.Assemble PiecakenNow it’s time to layer your Thanksgiving Piecaken! Carefully trim the cheesecake and spice cake layers to ensure they are even. Start with the cheesecake layer as your base, spreading a layer of buttercream on top. Next, add the spice cake, pressing down gently before frosting the top again. Place the store-bought pumpkin pie on top of the spice cake, then add a final layer of buttercream to create a beautiful finish. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to firm everything up before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 470kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 6gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 32gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure both the cheesecake and spice cake layers cool completely before assembly to prevent melting the buttercream. Use parchment paper for easy release from pans. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
