I remember the first time I tasted pecan pie. It was Thanksgiving, and my aunt Susan had brought one she’d made from scratch. The aroma alone was intoxicating, a blend of warm spices and caramelized nuts that promised pure comfort.
From that moment on, pecan pie became synonymous with family, holidays, and all things good. But what if you could take that beloved pie and elevate it to something even more decadent? That’s where this pecan pie cheesecake trifle comes in!
This pecan pie cheesecake trifle is my way of paying homage to that classic dessert while adding my own twist. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying. If you are craving another cheesecake recipe, you should try this banana bread cheesecake recipe!
Why you’ll love this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle
* It’s quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes!
* The creamy cheesecake filling perfectly complements the crunchy pecan pie topping.
* It’s a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for parties and holidays.
* This pecan pie cheesecake trifle is easily customizable to your liking.
* The trifle format makes it a fun and visually appealing dessert.
* It’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of pecan pie and cheesecake without all the fuss.
Ingredients
* 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup heavy whipping cream
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 1 (12 ounce) prepared graham cracker pie crust
* 1 cup pecan pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans, for garnish
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
Directions
Step 1
Pecan pie cheesecake trifle makes every moment feel lush. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 2
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the whipped cream.
Step 3
Crumble the prepared graham cracker pie crust into bite-sized pieces. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter until moistened.
Make sure the butter is evenly distributed so the crumbs stick together nicely.
Step 4
To assemble the trifle, layer half of the graham cracker crumbs in the bottom of a trifle dish or individual serving glasses. Top with half of the cheesecake filling, then half of the pecan pie filling.
For a more even distribution of flavors, you can alternate smaller layers of each ingredient.
Step 5
Repeat the layers with the remaining graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, and pecan pie filling. Garnish with chopped pecans.
Step 6
Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Chilling the trifle for longer will allow the flavors to deepen and the layers to set properly.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
Want to switch things up? Try using different flavors of graham crackers, like chocolate or cinnamon. You could also add a layer of homemade caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. For a truly indulgent treat, consider incorporating some chopped-up toffee bits into the graham cracker layer.
If you’re not a fan of pecan pie filling, you can substitute it with another flavor of your choice. Apple pie filling, blueberry compote, or even a chocolate ganache would all be delicious alternatives. Get creative and experiment with your favorite flavors to create a pecan pie cheesecake trifle that’s perfect for you.
For a boozy twist, consider adding a tablespoon of apple cider to the pecan pie filling. This will add a subtle depth of flavor that complements the pecans and spices beautifully. Just be sure to add it sparingly so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
Pairings
This pecan pie cheesecake trifle is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of other desserts and beverages. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream would be a perfect complement to the creamy cheesecake filling and crunchy pecan topping. Serve it with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy and comforting treat.
For a more elegant pairing, consider serving the trifle with a glass of dessert grape juice, such as a late-harvest riesling or a sauternes. The sweetness of the grape juice will complement the richness of the trifle and create a truly memorable dining experience. A sparkling cider is also a great choice for a festive occasion.
If you’re serving the trifle as part of a larger dessert spread, consider adding some other complementary dishes, such as fruit tarts, chocolate brownies, or shortbread cookies. Find inspiration with this black forest trifle recipe from Cook Reel; check out the recipe here.
Serving ideas
For an elegant presentation, serve the pecan pie cheesecake trifle in individual glass cups or bowls. This will allow your guests to appreciate the beautiful layers and colors of the dessert. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped pecans and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
If you’re serving the trifle at a party or holiday gathering, consider making a large trifle in a clear glass bowl. This will create a stunning centerpiece that’s sure to impress your guests. You can also add some festive decorations, such as edible flowers or candied nuts.
For a more casual serving style, simply scoop the trifle into bowls or plates and let your guests help themselves. This is a great option for potlucks or family dinners. Be sure to have plenty of spoons on hand!
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Leftover pecan pie cheesecake trifle can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cover the trifle tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The graham cracker crumbs may soften slightly over time, but the trifle will still be delicious.
Freezing the trifle is not recommended, as the cheesecake filling may become icy and the graham cracker crumbs may become soggy. However, if you do need to freeze it, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw the trifle in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
If you have any leftover pecan pie filling, you can store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can be used as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal.
Make-ahead
The pecan pie cheesecake trifle can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This is a great option if you’re short on time or need to prepare a dessert for a party or holiday gathering. The trifle can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance.
If you’re making the trifle ahead of time, wait to garnish it with the chopped pecans until just before serving. This will prevent the pecans from becoming soggy. You can also prepare the graham cracker crumbs and pecan pie filling ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers.
For a quick and easy dessert option, you can use store-bought pecan pie filling and graham cracker crust. This will save you time and effort without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to use a high-quality pecan pie filling for the best results.
Common mistakes when making Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle
* **Not softening the cream cheese:** Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before beating it, or you’ll end up with a lumpy filling.
* **Overmixing the cheesecake filling:** Overmixing can cause the filling to become dense and rubbery. Gently fold in the whipped cream until just combined.
* **Using too much liquid:** Be careful not to add too much apple cider to the pecan pie filling, or it will become too runny.
* **Not chilling the trifle long enough:** Chilling the trifle allows the flavors to meld together and the layers to set properly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible.
* **Adding the garnish too early:** Wait to add the chopped pecans until just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Final notes
I hope you enjoy this pecan pie cheesecake trifle as much as I do! It’s a truly special dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy cheesecake, crunchy pecans, and buttery graham crackers is simply irresistible.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and variations to create a trifle that’s all your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a dessert masterpiece!
I’m confident that this pecan pie cheesecake trifle will become a new family favorite. Share it with loved ones and create lasting memories around the table. Enjoy!
Loved this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle? Try these next
* Banana bread cheesecake
* Easy no bake peppermint bars
* Strawberry pound cake
* Black forest trifle
* Tangy lemon cheesecake cake
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle
Indulge in the ultimate dessert mashup with this irresistible Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle! Layers of creamy cheesecake filling, crunchy pecan pie topping, and buttery graham cracker crumbs come together in a delightful trifle that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you crave a decadent treat!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (12 ounce) prepared graham cracker pie crust
- 1 cup pecan pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and fluffy.
- Crumble the prepared graham cracker pie crust into bite-sized pieces. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter until moistened.
- To assemble the trifle, layer half of the graham cracker crumbs in the bottom of a trifle dish or individual serving glasses. Top with half of the cheesecake filling, then half of the pecan pie filling.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, and pecan pie filling. Garnish with chopped pecans.
- Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
For an even richer flavor, use a high-quality pecan pie filling. You can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving. Store leftover trifle in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a boozy twist, consider adding a tablespoon of apple cider to the pecan pie filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 50g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 100mg