Thanksgiving Piecaken

Thanksgiving Piecaken

Imagine the aroma of spiced apples mingling with the rich scent of pecans and caramel, all held together by a golden pie crust. The Thanksgiving Piecaken is a show-stopper dessert that combines three iconic treats into one extraordinary dish. This recipe brings together the flavorful essence of a pecan pie, the smooth richness of pumpkin pie, and the comforting warmth of apple pie, all nestled within a delicious layer of cake. It’s the epitome of indulgence and shares the ultimate warmth of Thanksgiving. Join me for this step-by-step adventure into a world of layered flavors and festive joy in creating the perfect Thanksgiving Piecaken.

History / Fun Fact

The Piecaken is a relatively modern dessert that emerged from the culinary creativity of the internet age, capturing the imagination of food enthusiasts and bloggers alike. It’s a playful twist on the traditional "cake" that demonstrates the fusion of flavors and textures, showing how desserts can evolve by blending beloved recipes. Originating as a fun concoction for Thanksgiving, the Piecaken allows for the celebration of multiple flavors in one slice, making it a perfect centerpiece for festive gatherings. This dessert has since achieved viral status, showcasing how families across America are embracing this innovative way to serve classic Thanksgiving flavors on one plate.

Ingredients

1. For the Pie Crusts:

   • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, combining softness and structure for a delicate base.
   • 1/2 teaspoon salt, enhancing flavors.
   • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes, lending a creamy richness.
   • 1/4 cup cold vegetable shortening, cut into cubes, providing flaky lightness.
   • 4-6 tablespoons ice water, chilling the mixture for tenderness.

2. For the Pecan Pie Filling:

   • 1 cup packed light brown sugar, sweet and caramel-like.
   • 1/2 cup corn syrup, adding depth and moisture.
   • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, for a luscious base.
   • 3 large eggs, binding ingredients together.
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, infusing warmth.
   • 1/4 teaspoon salt, balancing sweetness.
   • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves, crunchy and nutty.

3. For the Pumpkin Pie Filling:

   • 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree, creamy and vibrant orange.
   • 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk, providing a luscious mouthfeel.
   • 3/4 cup granulated sugar, adding sweetness.
   • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, aromatic embrace.
   • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, giving a warm kick.
   • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves and ground nutmeg, for warmth and complexity.
   • 1/2 teaspoon salt, enhancing all the flavor.
   • 2 large eggs, helping create a silky filling.

4. For the Apple Pie Filling:

   • 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced, offering tart and sweet notes.
   • 1/2 cup granulated sugar, sweetening the fruit.
   • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, thickening the mixture.
   • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, perfuming the apples.
   • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, warming the flavor.
   • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for richness.
   • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, brightening the apple flavors.

5. For the Cake Batter:

   • 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix, light and fluffy base.
   • 1 cup water, hydrating the mix to perfection.
   • 1/3 cup vegetable oil, keeping the cake moist.
   • 3 large eggs, for structure.

6. Optional Frosting:

   • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, creamy and rich.
   • 4 cups powdered sugar, sweet and fluffy.
   • 1/4 cup milk, making the frosting spreadable.
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, adding depth to the frosting.

This beautifully blended dish offers a mouthwatering experience that respects traditions while bringing something new to the table.

Cooking Time & Tips for Thanksgiving Piecaken

The Piecaken is a labor of love, and while it may seem like a lengthy process, the end result is well worth the effort. Both quick and slow preparation techniques can be employed here. Quick preparation involves using pre-made pie crusts and cake mixes, allowing you to focus on assembling and baking your delicious creation. However, if you have the time and enjoy the process, making everything from scratch is a rewarding experience that enhances the flavors.

For success, make sure your ingredients are cold when you begin with the pie crust to ensure a flaky texture. Keep an eye on the baking time; oven temperatures can vary, and using a skewer to check for doneness in the center of the cake is an excellent indicator. Don’t rush the cooling process; letting your Piecaken set for a while helps in maintaining its structure when sliced.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Pie Crusts: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide into three portions, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, roll out the dough and pre-bake each crust in a pie dish at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.

2. Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well incorporated. Fold in the pecan halves, and pour the mixture into one of the pre-baked pie crusts.

3. Prepare the Pumpkin Pie Filling: In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, spices, salt, and eggs until smooth. Pour this mixture into a separate pre-baked pie crust.

4. Prepare the Apple Pie Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, and spices. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss to coat. Pour this mixture into the third pre-baked pie crust.

5. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Beat until well mixed and smooth, creating a light and fluffy batter.

6. Assemble the Piecaken: Grease a springform pan. Pour a layer of cake batter into the bottom, followed by the pecan pie, topped with more cake batter. Next, pour in the pumpkin pie filling, followed by another layer of cake batter. Finally, add the apple pie filling on top.

7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, rotating halfway through, until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool: Allow the Piecaken to cool in the pan for at least an hour before attempting to remove the springform. This cooling period will help the layers set beautifully.

9. Optional Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, mixing until creamy. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract. Once your Piecaken has cooled, spread the frosting on the top if desired.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

The Thanksgiving Piecaken is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. It serves as the perfect ending to a Thanksgiving feast, where family and friends gather around the table, sharing laughter and joy. Pair this dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated experience. The blend of textures and flavors makes it a versatile dish, suitable for celebratory occasions like Christmas, birthdays, or any family gathering.

Common Mistakes for Thanksgiving Piecaken

1. Skipping the Chilling Process: Not chilling the pie crust can result in a tough texture. Be patient and let it cool.

2. Overfilling the Layers: Ensure each pie layer is just filled enough to avoid overflow while baking.

3. Inaccurate Baking Times: Every oven is different. Use a skewer to check doneness instead of relying solely on time.

4. Lack of Cooling Time: Cooling is essential. Don’t rush to cut into it; allowing it to set helps in maintaining clean slices.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

For a healthier twist on the Thanksgiving Piecaken, consider substituting some ingredients. Use whole wheat flour in the pie crust for added fiber and nutrition. Make the cake batter with a low-sugar or sugar-free cake mix to cut down on sweetness. You can replace the butter in the frosting with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Additionally, you can explore variations, such as swapping the apple filling for pears or introducing caramel sauce within the layers for extra indulgence.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the pie fillings and cake batter a day in advance and assemble it when ready.

2. How do I store leftovers?
   Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.

3. Can I freeze the Piecaken?
   Yes, it can be frozen, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

4. What can I use instead of nuts?
   If you have nut allergies, simply omit the pecan layer and replace it with an additional fruit filling or another type of pie.

5. Can I use store-bought crusts?
   Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought crusts can save you effort while still yielding a delightful dessert.

6. Is this recipe customizable?
   Yes! Feel free to swap out your favorite pie fillings or cake flavors to suit your tastes.

Conclusion

Every bite of the Thanksgiving Piecaken is a sumptuous experience that brings together the flavors of cherished traditions. With its layers of lusciousness and the joy of newly blended tastes, it’s a dish you’ll want to indulge in year after year. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create a masterpiece that will surely delight your family and friends. Try this stunning recipe today, and let the festivities begin!

Thanksgiving Piecaken

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• Author: noah-reed
• Total Time: 210 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A show-stopper dessert that combines pecan pie, pumpkin pie, and apple pie, all nestled within a delicious layer of cake, perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup cold vegetable shortening, cut into cubes
• 4–6 tablespoons ice water
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (optional frosting)
• 4 cups powdered sugar (optional frosting)
• 1/4 cup milk (optional frosting)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional frosting)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crusts: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide into three portions, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, roll out the dough and pre-bake each crust in a pie dish at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
2. Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well incorporated. Fold in the pecan halves, and pour the mixture into one of the pre-baked pie crusts.
3. Prepare the Pumpkin Pie Filling: In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, spices, salt, and eggs until smooth. Pour this mixture into a separate pre-baked pie crust.
4. Prepare the Apple Pie Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, and spices. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss to coat. Pour this mixture into the third pre-baked pie crust.
5. Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Beat until well mixed and smooth, creating a light and fluffy batter.
6. Assemble the Piecaken: Grease a springform pan. Pour a layer of cake batter into the bottom, followed by the pecan pie, topped with more cake batter. Next, pour in the pumpkin pie filling, followed by another layer of cake batter. Finally, add the apple pie filling on top.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 325°F. Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, rotating halfway through, until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the Piecaken to cool in the pan for at least an hour before attempting to remove the springform.
9. Optional Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, mixing until creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract. Once your Piecaken has cooled, spread the frosting on the top if desired.

Notes

Allowing the Piecaken to cool for a while helps maintain its structure when sliced. This dish can be served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

• Prep Time: 60 minutes
• Cook Time: 150 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 38g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg