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Maple Pecan & Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle Recipe


  • Author: Ella
  • Total Time: 1 hour plus cooling time for the cake
  • Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Maple Pecan & Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle is a festive, layered dessert combining moist pumpkin spice cake, creamy maple pecan cheesecake filling, and fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, it features layers of spiced cake cubes, luscious cheesecake mixture with crunchy pecans, and candied pecans drizzled with maple syrup for a delightful sweet finish.


Ingredients

Scale

Pumpkin Spice Cake

  • 1 box of pumpkin spice cake mix (or homemade recipe)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs

Maple Pecan Cheesecake Filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (for whipping)

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup candied pecans
  • Extra maple syrup for drizzling
  • Whipped cream (for layering)

Instructions

  1. Bake the Pumpkin Spice Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the pumpkin spice cake according to the box instructions or your homemade recipe. Pour batter into a greased baking pan and bake until a toothpick comes out clean, about 30 minutes. Allow the cake to cool completely, then cut into cubes for the trifle layers.
  2. Make the Maple Pecan Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the chopped pecans to add texture and flavor.
  3. Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the maple pecan cheesecake mixture, combining gently to create a light and fluffy filling.
  4. Assemble the Trifle: Using a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses, begin layering by placing a layer of cubed pumpkin spice cake at the bottom. Add a generous layer of the maple pecan cheesecake filling over the cake, followed by a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, finishing with a final layer of whipped cream on top.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Decorate the top of the trifle with candied pecans and drizzle with extra maple syrup for a festive touch. The dessert can be served immediately or refrigerated for up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Use fresh cream cheese and high-quality maple syrup for best flavor.
  • If desired, refrigerate the cheesecake filling for 30 minutes before folding in the whipped cream to help it set better.
  • Substitute walnuts or skip nuts altogether for variations; sunflower seeds can be used for a nut-free option.
  • For a polished presentation, use a piping bag to layer the whipped cream.
  • You can prepare cake and filling a day in advance and assemble before serving.
  • Freezing the assembled trifle is not recommended, but you can freeze components separately.
  • Gluten-free pumpkin spice cake mix makes this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
  • To add more complexity, insert layers of roasted apples, pears, or chocolate ganache.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: pumpkin spice cake, maple pecan cheesecake, trifle, holiday dessert, layered dessert, pumpkin cheesecake trifle, festive dessert