Description
This Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle is a decadent layered dessert combining a crunchy graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a warm, spiced pecan topping. This no-bake treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a rich, sweet dessert with a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups finely crushed graham crackers
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pecan Topping
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Additional 1 cup granulated sugar (for pecan topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine finely crushed graham crackers, melted unsalted butter, and 1 cup granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a trifle dish to form an even crust layer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat 2 cups of cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in sugar (from the crust ingredients) and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is fluffy.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and smooth.
- Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup corn syrup, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves. Add 1 cup pecans and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Trifle: Layer the trifle dish starting with the graham cracker crust, followed by the cheesecake filling, and then the warm pecan mixture. Repeat layers until the dish is filled, ending with a pecan topping layer.
- Chill to Set: Cover the trifle dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling.
- You can toast the pecans lightly before adding to enhance their flavor.
- Make sure to refrigerate the trifle long enough for it to set properly; overnight chilling is ideal.
- Feel free to garnish the top with additional chopped pecans or whipped cream before serving.
- This dessert can be assembled a day ahead, making it perfect for entertaining.
