Description
This Maple Pecan & Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle is a luscious layered dessert combining moist pumpkin spice cake, creamy maple-infused cheesecake, whipped cream, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for autumn gatherings, this trifle balances warm spices and rich textures into an easy-to-assemble showstopper.
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
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings and Assembly
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (for whipping)
- 1/2 cup candied pecans
- Extra maple syrup for drizzling
- Whipped cream (for layering)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pumpkin Spice Cake: Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Whip the Cream: Using a stand or hand mixer, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Reserve some whipped cream for layering later.
- Assemble the Trifle: Cut the cooled pumpkin cake into cubes. In a large trifle dish or individual glasses, layer cake cubes, cheesecake filling, a dollop of whipped cream, chopped pecans, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Repeat the layers until the dish is full, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
- Add Final Garnishes: Sprinkle candied pecans and an extra drizzle of maple syrup over the top layer of whipped cream for a decorative and flavorful finish.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
Notes
- The pumpkin spice cake mix can be substituted with your favorite homemade pumpkin cake recipe for a more personalized touch.
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream to achieve a rich, creamy texture.
- Chilling the trifle enhances the flavors and makes it easier to serve clean portions.
- Candied pecans add a wonderful crunch and sweetness—consider making them at home by caramelizing pecans with sugar and butter.
- Extra maple syrup drizzled on top adds a lovely sweetness but can be adjusted according to taste.
