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Irresistible Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle

pecan pie cheesecake trifle - featured image

A layered dessert combining the best parts of pecan pie and cheesecake with whipped cream and buttery crust bits, perfect for Thanksgiving and easy to assemble ahead.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits, finely crushed)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1 ½ cups chopped pecans, toasted
  • ½ cup dark corn syrup or maple syrup
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
  • Whole pecans or caramel drizzle (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until evenly moistened. Press firmly into the bottom of your trifle bowl or individual glasses. Set aside.
  2. Toast the pecans: Place chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and cool completely.
  3. Make the cheesecake filling: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating well after each addition.
  4. Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip cold heavy cream to stiff peaks.
  5. Fold the whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture to maintain airy texture.
  6. Prepare the pecan pie filling: Mix toasted pecans with dark corn syrup or maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt until sticky and coated.
  7. Assemble the trifle: Layer one-third of cheesecake filling over crust, spoon half of pecan pie mixture over it. Repeat layers and finish with cheesecake layer.
  8. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  9. Serve: Top with whipped cream and garnish with whole pecans or caramel drizzle if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps. Toast pecans gently to avoid burning. Chill trifle overnight for best flavor melding and texture. Fold whipped cream gently to keep filling airy. Press crust firmly to prevent sogginess. Gluten-free and dairy-free substitutions available.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan pie, cheesecake, trifle, Thanksgiving dessert, easy dessert, holiday dessert, layered dessert