Description

This Maple Pecan & Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle is a delightful layered dessert combining the warm flavors of pumpkin spice cake, creamy maple-infused cheesecake, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for fall gatherings, this no-bake trifle offers a satisfying blend of textures and sweet autumn tastes, topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of pure maple syrup.

Ingredients

Scale

Pumpkin Spice Cake

1 box 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

Additional Ingredients

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)

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Instructions

Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven according to the pumpkin spice cake mix instructions. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix well until smooth. Pour the batter into a greased or lined baking pan and bake as directed, usually around 30-35 minutes. Allow the cake to cool completely.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined and creamy.
Whip the Cream: Using a mixer, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture to create a light and airy filling.
Assemble the Trifle: Cut the cooled pumpkin cake into cubes. In a large trifle bowl or individual serving glasses, layer the cake cubes, cheesecake filling, chopped pecans, and whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the containers are filled, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle candied pecans on top of the final whipped cream layer. Drizzle extra pure maple syrup over the top for added sweetness and an attractive finish. Chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

You can substitute the pumpkin spice cake mix with a homemade pumpkin cake if preferred.
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and heavy cream alternatives.
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling.
Chilling the trifle overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
The candied pecans add a delightful crunch but can be omitted for a nut-free version.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American