Maple Pecan & Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle is a delicious layered dessert that combines creamy pumpkin cheesecake, crunchy pecans, and sweet maple flavors all in one glass. The rich pumpkin spices and buttery pecans bring a cozy fall feeling, while the soft cheesecake layers make every bite smooth and indulgent.
I love making this trifle when I want something special but don’t want to fuss with complicated desserts. It’s easy to put together and looks beautiful when you serve it in clear glasses—it’s like a little work of art. Plus, the crunchy pecans add a nice texture that keeps things interesting.
My favorite way to enjoy this trifle is chilled with a hot cup of coffee or tea on a cool afternoon. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or family because it’s not too heavy and has just the right amount of sweetness. Whenever I make it, it’s always the first dessert to disappear at the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives the trifle its rich, creamy texture. For a lighter version, you can use mascarpone or even Greek yogurt, but cream cheese is best for that classic cheesecake feel.
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for consistent taste and texture. Avoid pumpkin pie filling since it has added sugar and spices. Fresh roasted pumpkin mashed smooth can also work.
Maple Syrup: This adds a natural sweetness and warm flavor. If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup make good substitutes. Brown sugar can also work but may change consistency.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread or Spice Cake: This adds a soft, sweet base with warm spice notes. If unavailable, gingerbread, pound cake, or homemade cinnamon bread are great alternatives.
Pecans: Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and crunch. If you prefer, walnuts or almonds are tasty substitutes. For a nut-free option, use toasted coconut flakes or skip nuts entirely.
How Do I Get the Perfect Whipped Cream Layers?
Whipping cream to the right consistency is key to smooth layers that hold their shape but stay soft.
- Chill your bowl and beaters in the fridge for 15 minutes before whipping.
- Start whipping cream on medium speed, increasing to high as it thickens.
- Stop whipping as soon as stiff peaks form—when the cream holds its shape but isn’t grainy or turning to butter.
- For garnish, whip a small amount of cream just until medium peaks to keep it light and airy.
Mix the powdered sugar in gradually to avoid lumps and check sweetness. Whipped cream layers soften the pumpkin cheesecake and balance the crunch from pecans perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowls – I use these to beat the cream cheese and whip cream easily.
- Electric hand or stand mixer – makes whipping the cream and mixing the cheesecake smooth and effortless.
- Spatula – helps gently fold whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture without deflating it.
- Trifle or large clear glass bowl – perfect for showing off the beautiful layers of this dessert.
- Measuring cups and spoons – ensure accuracy for the sweet and spice balance.
- Knife and cutting board – to cube the bread or cake for layering.
- Toasting pan or oven – for toasting the pecans to bring out their flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch and flavor profile.
- Swirl in caramel or apple butter into the cream cheese mixture for extra richness and sweetness.
- Add a splash of bourbon or dark rum to the pumpkin layer for a boozy twist.
- Top with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce to make it extra indulgent.
Maple Pecan & Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pumpkin Cheesecake Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
For The Whipped Cream:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
For The Layers:
- 3 cups cinnamon swirl bread or spice cake, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
- Ground cinnamon, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dessert takes about 20 minutes to prepare, including mixing and assembling the layers. However, you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors blend and the bread soften perfectly. So, plan ahead for the best taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pumpkin Cheesecake Mixture:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Beat everything together until well combined and smooth. Set this mixture aside.
2. Whip the Cream:
Chill a mixing bowl, then whip 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, whip the remaining 1/2 cup of heavy cream until medium peaks form for a light garnish later.
3. Assemble the Trifle:
Start by layering half of the cubed cinnamon bread or spice cake in the bottom of a large clear trifle bowl. Sprinkle half of the toasted pecans evenly over the bread. Spread half of the pumpkin cheesecake mixture over the pecans and bread.
Top this with half of the sweetened whipped cream. Repeat the layers once more with the remaining bread, pecans, pumpkin cheesecake, and sweetened whipped cream.
4. Finish and Chill:
Spread the lightly whipped cream you prepared earlier evenly over the very top. Garnish with extra pecan halves and a dusting of ground cinnamon. Cover the trifle and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight so the flavors come together and the bread softens beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, scoop out generous spoonfuls of the creamy, crunchy, and cozy layers. This dessert is perfect chilled and always a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned Pumpkin Puree?
Yes! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it until smooth before adding to the recipe. Make sure it’s well strained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Trifle?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container or cover the trifle bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it refrigerated and enjoy within 3 days for the best flavor and freshness.
Can I Make This Trifle Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it the night before is ideal to let the flavors meld and the bread soften perfectly. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.
What Can I Substitute for Cinnamon Swirl Bread or Spice Cake?
You can use gingerbread, pound cake, or even brioche cubes as alternatives. Just make sure they are flavorful and sturdy enough to hold the layers without becoming too soggy.