Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle

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🍰 Pecan Pie Cheesecake Trifle

✅ Servings: 12–16

⏱️ Prep Time: 30 minutes

🍳 Cook Time: 10 minutes (for pecan filling)

❄️ Chill Time: 2+ hours

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✨ Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (or 1 tub whipped topping like Cool Whip)

For the Pecan Pie Filling:

• 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)

• 1/2 cup light corn syrup

• 1/3 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 cups chopped pecans

• Optional: 1 tbsp bourbon (for extra flavor)

For the Trifle Base:

• 1 prepared pound cake, vanilla loaf cake, or graham cracker crust (about 12 oz)

• Optional: Cinnamon or caramel drizzle for garnish

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🥣 Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pecan Pie Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine:

   • 1 cup brown sugar

   • 1/2 cup corn syrup

   • 1/3 cup heavy cream

   • 1/4 cup butter

2. Stir until butter melts and mixture starts to simmer.

3. Let simmer for about 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened slightly.

4. Remove from heat. Stir in:

   • 2 tsp vanilla extract

   • 1/2 tsp salt

   • Optional: 1 tbsp bourbon

   • 2 cups chopped pecans

5. Let cool completely to thicken further before layering.

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Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add in powdered sugar and vanilla, beat until combined and fluffy.

3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (or use pre-made whipped topping).

4. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture until smooth and creamy.

   • Chill until ready to assemble.

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Step 3: Prepare the Cake Base

• Cut pound cake into 1-inch cubes, or break up graham crackers/cake into chunks.

• Optional: Lightly toast cake cubes in oven (350°F for 5-7 minutes) for a firmer texture.

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Step 4: Assemble the Trifle

Use a large glass trifle dish or individual jars:

1. Layer 1: Pound cake cubes

2. Layer 2: Cheesecake filling

3. Layer 3: Pecan pie filling

4. Repeat layers until dish is full (usually 2–3 layers).

Top Layer Tip: Finish with a swirl of whipped topping, a few pecans, and a caramel drizzle.

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❄️ Chill Time

• Cover and chill trifle in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture.

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📝 Tips & Variations

• Make it boozy: Add bourbon to both cheesecake and pecan layers for a Southern twist.

• Individual servings: Use small mason jars or glasses for easy portioning.

• Make ahead: This trifle holds up well overnight, so it’s perfect for prepping a day in advance.

• Add crunch: Sprinkle toffee bits or graham cracker crumbs between layers.

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Would you like a printable version of this recipe or a variation (like gluten-free or egg-free)?