If you have ever dreamed of combining all your favorite Thanksgiving desserts into one show-stopping treat, then this Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe is absolutely for you. Imagine layers of classic apple, pumpkin, and pecan pies nestled inside moist, flavorful cake batter, stacked high and frosted with creamy goodness. This recipe masterfully brings together the warmth, spice, and sweetness that define the holiday season, transforming them into a single, memorable centerpiece. Whether you are looking to wow your guests or treat yourself to a decadent delight, this piecaken promises an unforgettable taste experience that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe lies in its simplicity paired with rich, classic flavors. Each ingredient works harmoniously, from the buttery pie crusts to the fluffy cake mixes, creating a delightful medley of textures and tastes that will impress everyone at the table.
- Apple pie (9-inch, fully baked): Choose a spiced apple pie for that perfect balance of tart and sweet filling wrapped in a buttery crust.
- Pecan pie (9-inch, fully baked): Opt for a pie with a firm filling so it holds up well when layered with cake batter.
- Pumpkin pie (9-inch, fully baked): Use a smooth, well-set pumpkin pie to add creaminess and warm spices.
- Spice cake mix (1 box): This adds a lovely depth and complements the autumn flavors in the pies.
- Vanilla or yellow cake mix (1 box): Provides a light, sweet base that pairs beautifully with pumpkin pie.
- Chocolate cake mix (1 box): Adds richness and pairs perfectly with pecan pie’s nutty profile.
- Ingredients listed on cake mix boxes: Typically eggs, oil, and water – essential for making the cake batter perfect.
- Cream cheese frosting (3 cups): Choose either homemade or store-bought; this frosting ties the entire stack together with tangy sweetness.
- Whipped cream (1 cup, optional): Adds a light, airy contrast when serving.
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional garnish): Sprinkling a little spice on top enhances the visual appeal and flavor.
How to Make Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pans and Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease three 10-inch springform pans thoroughly, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal later. While the oven heats, mix each cake batter separately following the instructions on their respective boxes, making sure to use fresh eggs and measured liquids for best results.
Step 2: Assemble Each Pie in Cake Batter
Pour one-third of the spice cake batter into the first pan, then gently nestle the fully baked apple pie on top, pushing it slightly into the batter to embed it. Cover the pie completely with the remaining batter. Repeat this process with the pumpkin pie and vanilla cake batter in the second pan, and finally place the pecan pie within the chocolate cake batter in the third pan.
Step 3: Bake the Layers
Place the pans in the oven and bake each piecaken layer for about 55 to 65 minutes. Use a toothpick test by inserting it into the cake portion to ensure it comes out clean, which means your layers are perfectly baked. Once done, let them cool completely inside the pans on a wire rack to retain moisture and shape.
Step 4: Level and Stack the Layers
After cooling, carefully remove each piecaken layer from the pans. If the tops are uneven, gently level them with a serrated knife for easier stacking. Begin by placing the chocolate-pecan piecaken as the bottom layer on your serving platter. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top, then add the vanilla-pumpkin layer, followed by more frosting. Finally, place the spice-apple layer on top and frost the entire outside of the stacked layers, ensuring smooth and even coverage.
Step 5: Chill and Garnish
To set the frosting and firm up the piecaken for slicing, chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Before serving, add a swirl of whipped cream on each slice and a dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch of holiday magic.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh whipped cream is a classic choice that brings a light, creamy texture to contrast the dense layers. For added flair, sprinkle freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon on top just before serving to awaken the senses with warm aromas. You might also consider some toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent twist.
Side Dishes
The Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe shines best as a dessert finale after a hearty holiday meal. Serve it alongside a pot of rich coffee or warm spiced cider to complement its sweetness. Light vanilla ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon gelato also pairs beautifully, balancing the piecakens’ rich flavors with a cool, refreshing finish.
Creative Ways to Present
When presenting this masterpiece, slice it carefully with a sharp serrated knife for clean, stunning layers. For a festive touch, consider serving the slices on rustic wooden platters or elegant dessert plates accented with small sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary. Another fun idea is to make mini individual piecakens using small pans for personal servings that amaze your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Thanks to the dense cake layers and rich pies, the piecaken stays moist and delicious when stored properly. Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to four days. This keeps the frosting fresh and the flavors melding beautifully.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy your Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe at a later date, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
Since this dessert is best served chilled, reheating is generally unnecessary. However, if you prefer a warm slice, gently microwave a piece for about 15-20 seconds, making sure not to overheat and melt the frosting. Alternatively, serve it with a scoop of warm vanilla ice cream to add that cozy warmth without altering the cake’s structure.
FAQs
Can I make the pies from scratch for the Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pies add a wonderful personal touch and you can tailor the sweetness and spices to your liking. Just ensure they are fully baked and cooled before embedding them in the cake batter to maintain stability during baking.
What if I don’t have springform pans?
You can use regular round cake pans, but lining them with parchment paper and greasing well is crucial. Keep in mind the ease of removing the layered piecakens will be improved with springform pans, especially due to the dense nature of the final product.
Can this piecaken be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free boxed cake mixes and carefully selected gluten-free pies, you can adapt the Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe for gluten sensitivities. Just double-check all ingredient labels to ensure safety.
Is it okay to prepare this piecaken a day in advance?
Definitely! In fact, preparing it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld, and chilling overnight helps the piecaken hold its shape perfectly for slicing and serving the next day.
Can I swap out pies or cake flavors?
Feel free to customize the layers with your favorite pies or cake flavors. The tradition is yours to create! Just be mindful of the baking times and that the pies are fully baked before assembling.
Final Thoughts
This Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe is more than just a dessert; it is a celebration of holiday flavors brought together in a fun, unexpected way. Embracing the best of pies and cakes in a single towering treat is sure to be a highlight of your holiday feast. I hope you get to make this showstopper and share it with loved ones, creating delicious memories that will last for many Thanksgivings to come.
Print
Thanksgiving Piecaken Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Thanksgiving Piecaken is a delightful holiday dessert that layers three fully baked pies—apple, pumpkin, and pecan—each embedded within complementary cake batters and stacked with creamy frosting. This impressive and indulgent treat combines the best flavors of traditional pies with moist cake, perfect for festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Pies
- 1 (9-inch) apple pie (fully baked)
- 1 (9-inch) pumpkin pie (fully baked)
- 1 (9-inch) pecan pie (fully baked)
Cake Mixes and Batter Ingredients
- 1 box spice cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 box vanilla or yellow cake mix (plus box ingredients)
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (plus box ingredients)
Frosting and Garnishes
- 3 cups cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup whipped cream (optional)
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 10-inch springform pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cake Batters: In separate bowls, mix each cake mix according to the package instructions, ensuring all necessary ingredients like eggs, oil, and water are properly incorporated.
- Embed Apple Pie in Spice Cake: Pour about one-third of the spice cake batter into one springform pan. Gently place the fully baked apple pie into the batter, pressing slightly to embed it. Cover the pie with the remaining spice cake batter.
- Embed Pumpkin Pie in Vanilla Cake: Repeat the process with the pumpkin pie and the vanilla or yellow cake batter in the second prepared pan, embedding the pie within the batter.
- Embed Pecan Pie in Chocolate Cake: In the third pan, pour the chocolate cake batter, place the pecan pie into it, and cover with the remainder of the batter just like the others.
- Bake the Layers: Bake each assembled piecaken layer for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the cake portion comes out clean, ensuring the cake is fully cooked while the pie remains intact.
- Cool and Level: Allow all layers to cool completely in the pans. Once cooled, remove the layers and level the tops if necessary for even stacking.
- Assemble the Piecaken: On a serving plate, start stacking the layers with cream cheese frosting in between. Begin with the pecan pie embedded in chocolate cake layer on the bottom, followed by the pumpkin pie layered in vanilla cake, and finish with the apple pie embedded in spice cake on top.
- Frost the Cake: Use the remaining cream cheese frosting to cover the entire outside of the stacked piecakens, smoothing it evenly over the sides and top.
- Chill and Garnish: Chill the assembled piecaken for at least one hour to set the frosting. Before serving, optionally garnish with whipped cream dollops and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for added festive flair.
Notes
- Using store-bought, fully baked pies and boxed cake mixes significantly saves preparation time.
- Ensure pies are completely baked and fully cooled before embedding into cake batter to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.
- Chilling the assembled piecaken before slicing helps maintain clean layers and easy serving.
- You can prepare frosting from scratch or buy pre-made to save time.
