Description

This Maple Pecan & Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle is a delightful autumn-inspired dessert combining moist pumpkin spice cake, creamy maple pecan cheesecake filling, and fluffy whipped cream layers. Topped with crunchy candied pecans and a drizzle of pure maple syrup, this no-bake layered trifle is perfect for gatherings or a festive treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pumpkin Spice Cake:

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

For the 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)

For the Toppings:

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

Instructions

Bake the Pumpkin Spice Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the pumpkin spice cake mix according to the package instructions or your homemade recipe by combining the water, vegetable oil, and eggs with the cake mix. Pour into a greased pan and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely before cutting it into cubes for the trifle layers.
Make the Maple Pecan Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Fold in the chopped pecans gently to distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream using a mixer until soft peaks form. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, airy, and fluffy cheesecake filling ready for layering.
Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses, start layering by adding an even layer of cubed pumpkin spice cake. Follow with a generous layer of the maple pecan cheesecake filling and then a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layering process until the dish or glasses are filled, finishing with a final layer of whipped cream on top.
Garnish and Serve: Arrange the candied pecans evenly over the top layer of whipped cream and drizzle with extra maple syrup for added sweetness and presentation. Serve immediately for maximum freshness or refrigerate for up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Notes

Ensure the pumpkin spice cake is completely cooled before cutting to prevent it from crumbling when layering.
You can prepare the cake and cheesecake filling a day in advance to save time on serving day.
For added texture and flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on the whipped cream layers.
Use chilled bowls and beaters when whipping the heavy cream for better volume and stability.
This trifle can be made in individual serving glasses for elegant presentation and portion control.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: pumpkin trifle, cheesecake trifle, pumpkin spice dessert, maple pecan dessert, layered dessert, fall dessert, Thanksgiving dessert