Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as impressive as it is delicious, this Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle is about to steal the show. Layers of creamy cheesecake filling, buttery pecan pie pieces, and fluffy whipped cream come together in a stunning trifle that’s guaranteed to wow everyone at the table. Each bite is a heavenly mix of flavors and textures trust me, this one’s a total game-changer.
Why You’ll Love Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, a dinner party, or simply because you deserve something sweet, this dessert is perfect for any occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Works beautifully as a show-stopping centerpiece or a make-ahead dessert.
Budget-Friendly: Uses accessible, simple ingredients with big flavor payoff.
Quick and Easy: Much easier to assemble than it looks no need to fuss with perfection.
Customizable: Adjust the layers or add mix-ins to suit your tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle
This trifle is made with familiar ingredients that come together to make something truly special. Let’s break it down:
Pecan Pie: The rich, gooey base layer that brings nutty, caramel flavor.
Cream Cheese: Whipped into a silky cheesecake filling.
Whipped Cream: Adds lightness and creaminess to balance the richness.
Graham Crackers or Cookies: Adds texture and structure to the layers.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzled between layers for extra decadence.
Chopped Pecans: For garnish and extra crunch on top.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: No preheating required; just grab a large trifle dish or clear bowl.
Combine Ingredients: Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then fold in whipped cream to create the cheesecake layer.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Chop the pecan pie into bite-sized pieces for easy layering.
Assemble the Dish: Start with a layer of graham crackers or cookies at the bottom, followed by pecan pie pieces, cheesecake filling, and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Repeat layers until you reach the top.
Cook to Perfection: There’s no cooking here – just careful layering for the best presentation.
Finishing Touches: Top with a final layer of whipped cream, chopped pecans, and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Serve and Enjoy: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving so the flavors meld beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 420
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle
Serve this trifle chilled, scooping down deep to capture all the beautiful layers in each serving. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea and makes an elegant finish to any meal.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use store-bought pecan pie to save time, or homemade for an extra-special touch.
- Make it in individual jars or cups for easy, portable servings.
- Drizzle extra caramel sauce just before serving for the best presentation.
- Prepare the trifle a day ahead; it tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight.
- Swap graham crackers for vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a different twist.
FAQ’s
1. Can I make this trifle ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or overnight.
2. Can I use a no-bake cheesecake filling?
Absolutely it’s an easy shortcut that works perfectly here.
3. What if I don’t have a trifle dish?
Use a large clear glass bowl or individual cups for the same layered effect.
4. Can I use other pies instead of pecan pie?
Yes, pumpkin pie or apple pie would also work beautifully.
5. Can I make it lighter?
Use light cream cheese and reduced-fat whipped topping to cut calories.
6. Can I add chocolate?
Definitely chocolate shavings or a drizzle of chocolate sauce is a delicious addition.
7. How long will leftovers keep?
Covered and refrigerated, the trifle will last up to 3 days.
8. Can I freeze this dessert?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, as freezing will change the texture.
9. Can I add alcohol for an adult twist?
A splash of bourbon or rum in the cheesecake layer is amazing.
10. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers for the layers.
Conclusion
The Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle is the kind of dessert that stops people in their tracks. It’s rich, creamy, crunchy, and just the right amount of indulgent. Best of all, it’s so easy to put together but looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. Whether for a holiday, party, or just because, this trifle is guaranteed to be the highlight of the table!
Print
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and indulgent Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle layered with creamy cheesecake filling, buttery pecan pie filling, and crumbled cake or cookies for the perfect holiday dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 2 tbsp butter
- Pinch of salt
- 2 cups crumbled pound cake or vanilla cookies
- Whipped cream, for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light cheesecake filling.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Stir until the mixture begins to bubble, then add pecans. Cook for 2-3 minutes until pecans are coated and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In trifle glasses or a large trifle dish, layer crumbled pound cake or cookies, cheesecake filling, and pecan pie filling. Repeat layers until the dish is full.
- Top with whipped cream and extra pecans for garnish. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Use store-bought pound cake or bake your own for the base layer.
- For added flavor, drizzle caramel sauce between the layers.
- This dessert can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: pecan pie cheesecake trifle, layered dessert, holiday trifle, no bake dessert, cheesecake trifle recipe