Thanksgiving is my holiday, when the table creaks under the weight of the richness of golden turkey, fluffy mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie, a family member in every sense but name. And yet, despite how much I love these customs, I’m forever searching to shake them up and create something new and interesting. This year, I learned about the PieCaken a dessert so outstanding, it took center stage. At 6 pounds and $99, it’s a splurge, but its layers of pie and cake promise to amaze. I was dying to get my teeth into this culinary marvel and share it with my guests.
What’s innovative about the PieCaken is that it defies the pie vs cake rivalry, merging pecan pie, pumpkin pie, spice cake, and apple pie filling into one towering dessert. Tied together with cinnamon buttercream, it’s a feast for the eyes as much as the palate. Its creation, born from a playful kitchen rivalry, piqued my interest from the beginning. Social media buzz and celebrity endorsements only made me more curious. I tried one, wondering if it was worth all the hype, and I’m looking forward to sharing the ride with you.
This dessert isn’t just a sweet ending it’s a conversation starter, a new tradition in the making. From Chef Zac Young’s creative spark to my own taste test, the PieCaken transformed my Thanksgiving into a celebration of innovation. Each layer tells a story, blending tradition with audacity. Whether you’re a pie purist or a cake enthusiast, this dessert promises to delight. Let’s explore its origins, flavors, and why it’s worth every penny for your holiday table.
1. The Origins of a Culinary Icon: How the PieCaken Came to Be
In 2015, holiday cheer filled New York City’s culinary scene, and pastry staff from Chef Zac Young were huddled in a midtown hotel restaurant’s dining area brainstorming. The executive chef’s interest in Turducken a meaty blend of turkey, duck, and chicken triggered a playful challenge. The pastry staff decided to come up with a dessert counterpart, blending pie and cake into a treat that would never be forgotten. And so the PieCaken was born, a playful reaction that sparked a frenzy.
- Zac’s Instagram snapshot of a work in progress PieCaken created a buzz as fans begged to buy whole cakes.
- Initially a slice of the dessert offer, the popularity of the treat exceeded all expectations, swamping the team with orders.
- A quick Eblast from Craveable Hospitality Group announced NYC pick up, and a simple plan turned into mayhem.
- Zac anticipated selling 40 cakes but wasn’t ready for the sugar storm that followed, making dessert history.
- The idea, born in rivalry, proved desserts could be as powerful and complex as the savory masterpieces.
The strategy was simple but bold: combine multiple desserts into one unified piece of art. What was initially a lighthearted jab at the savory kitchen turned into a pop culture phenomenon, driven by virality. The pastry team scrambled to keep pace with orders, realizing they had given birth to something much bigger than a holiday season special.
That moment of inspiration in 2015 transformed Thanksgiving for me and countless others. The PieCaken’s origin is the pinnacle of a blend of humor, creativity, and cuisine. It is proof that wonderful traditions are created out of bold ideas. This dessert’s progression from the kitchen joke it was to national phenomenon is the way forward for its delicious legacy.
2. Chef Zac Young: The Mastermind Behind the Magic
PieCaken’s creator, Chef Zac Young, is a culinary rockstar and 2015 American Top Ten Pastry Chef. As the Pastry Director for Craveable Hospitality Group, he shows his skills at reimagining desserts in fantastical and precise forms. From New York’s chaotic kitchens to global stages, his path is one of ingenuity. His creativity turned an outlandish idea into a symbol of the holiday season.
- Zac’s early years at Bouchon Bakery laid the groundwork in artistry and detail.
- Four years as Pastry Chef at Butter Restaurant with Alex Guarnaschelli honed his big flavors.
- Learning in France from pastry legends like Philipe Givre added global finesse to his work.
- His donut revolution at Flex Mussels was listed on The New York Times’ Best Donuts.
- TV spots on Top Chef: Just Desserts and Unique Sweets showcased his charm and talent.
Zac’s professional history is a rich woven fabric of creativity, from inspiring a donut craze to creating the PieCaken. His ability to balance classic American desserts with elements of surprise makes him the perfect master builder for this multi level marvel. Every bite testifies to his love of innovation in paying homage to tradition.
His influence does not extend just to the kitchen, inspiring home cooks like me to take on bold desserts. PieCaken is not a recipe but a testament to Zac’s journey, from fine dining to television fame. His story illustrates that innovation occurs where passion and skill overlap, and he is a true dessert pioneer.
3. The Original PieCaken: A Thanksgiving Marvel
PieCaken is a 6 pound showstopper, layering spice cake, pumpkin pie, and pecan pie, capped with apple pie filling. Cinnamon buttercream keeps it all together, with an oat crumble adding contrast of texture. It’s not a dessert it’s a holiday indecision eliminator, serving up multiple classics in one bite. Its purposeful design ensures that each layer of the cake shines, making it a crowd pleaser.
- Pecan pie provides a good foundation, dense and nutty, balanced to avoid too sweet domineers.
- Pumpkin pie delivers dense, autumnal warmth with accurately balanced spices.
- Spice cake adds a dense, scented depth, contrasting with the richer pies.
- Apple pie filling adds on top of that tangy, fruity zing, a kick to every bite.
- Cinnamon buttercream binds it all together, its silky sweetness lifting the whole.
This isn’t Instagram gimmickry it’s a beautifully built experience. Every component, from the buttery pie crusts to the dense frosting, is in harmony without blending into mush. The PieCaken’s appearance is as lovely as it’s delicious, and it’s a feast for the eyes as much as the taste buds.
I was stunned by how it was constructed, every layer distinct but in balance together, such as a holiday symphony. It’s perfect for firms who can’t choose between pie and cake, offering them both in excess. This treat is revolutionizing Thanksgiving, demonstrating that you can still be respectful of tradition but fun and experimental at the same time.
4. A Plunge into the Traditional Layers
I ate each PieCaken layer separately to appreciate its craftsmanship. The pecan pie, in the past too sweet for my taste, was transformed by its balanced, nutty flavor. The pumpkin pie, the better of the two, was silken and spiced just right, evoking cozy autumn evenings. The spice cake and buttercream completed it all just so.
- Pecan pie: Sweetly delicate with a dense crust, just right for skeptics like me.
- Pumpkin pie: Rich and dense, fulfilling the essence of Thanksgiving without overpowering spicing.
- Spice cake: Dryness is mildly detectable, yet warm, fulfilling a texture shift that’s complementary.
- Cinnamon buttercream: Smooth and sweet, the glue that constructs every bite otherworldly.
- Oat crumble: A crunchy topping, giving a satisfying contrast to softer elements.
The spice cake warmth neutralized richer pies. The buttercream, used freely, was so good, I would have been happy to have it as a dessert on its own. Amazingly, crusts to the pie did not get soggy, offering bite to every layer. This thoughtful build up keeps any flavor from overpowering another.
With each forkful came a new favorite, ranging from the pumpkin’s coziness to the buttercream’s richness. The PieCaken’s layers don’t merely exist side by side each one enhances the others, becoming a sophisticated but unified flavor. It’s a dessert that begs to be explored, so each bite is a find of holiday cheer.
5. The Luscious Apple Pie Filling Crown
The PieCaken’s apple pie filling topping is pure genius, bringing a zesty, crunchy zing to rich layers below. Though liberal in no way, its chopped apples, cooked through to retain a bit of crunch, bring texture and lightness. This topping is not just for presentation purposes it is essential to balance the flavor. It is a finishing touch that seals the dessert’s brilliance.
- Tart apples cut the sweetness of pecan and pumpkin pies.
- Delicate crunch in the filling adds a textural twist.
- Bright, fruit floral notes evoke traditional apple pie reimagined.
- With cinnamon buttercream, it complements the spiced depth.
The topping keeps the PieCaken from ending on a stale note, counterbalancing the richness with a burst of zest. Including it shows Chef Young’s commitment to detail, so every bite is satisfying. Apples offer an old school nod to holiday memories without being stodgy. I loved how the apple filling tied everything together, much like a present bow. It’s a reminder of how small things can elevate a dish to unforgettable heights. This crown takes the PieCaken to absolute holiday perfection for any holiday table.
6. The Kelly Ripa Phenomenon: A National Sensation
When Kelly Ripa fawned over the PieCaken on her show, biting into a photocopied picture in delight, it spurred a dessert frenzy. Zac Young seized on the moment, sending cakes to her studio, where they burst open the next episode. Her ecstatic statement “the best thing since the birth of my children” blew up demand. Orders totaled 400 in two days, only ceasing when NYC’s pumpkin puree ran out.
- Ripa’s fame turned a neighborhood favorite into a national phenomenon.
- Zac’s quick response with cakes for the show sustained the fever.
- The moment it went viral flooded the pastry team with orders.
- Pumpkin puree shortages briefly closed down production, revealing the magnitude of the craze.
This celebrity endorsement made the PieCaken a favorite of the season. Ripa’s genuine love was contagious, proving the strength of one endorsement to ignite a movement. The popularity of the dessert snowballed naturally, fueled by its undeniable appeal.
I experienced that rush in opening my own PieCaken, knowing that it had won over the hearts of stars and home cooks alike. The Kelly Ripa moment speaks to its appeal to all, and it’s something that every Thanksgiving host will be eager to have. It’s proof that good taste will always trump any advertising campaign.
7. The Grand Unveiling: Unboxing and Thawing
My PieCaken was delivered from Goldbelly in two days, frozen and intact with dry ice. The instructions were straightforward: refrigerate overnight to thaw. With a seven day refrigerated shelf life or three months stored frozen, it offered convenience for busy hosts. Cutting into it resulted in clean layers, each of which remained intact, ready for a memorable tasting.
- Goldbelly’s fast shipping ensured the dessert arrived intact.
- Simple thawing instructions made preparation easy for any host.
- Long shelf life allowed me to savor the anticipation until Sunday.
- Layers held firm, dispelling fears of a soggy, chaotic mess.
- Pristine presentation matched the stunning photos I’d seen online.
Unboxing felt like opening a holiday gift, building excitement for the first slice. The PieCaken’s structural integrity impressed me, a testament to its careful craftsmanship. It arrived ready to shine, no fuss required, perfect for a hectic Thanksgiving week. I waited until Sunday to cut it, savoring the buildup as it thawed. The initial slice was a feast for the eyes, each layer towering above. The simplicity of preparation and theatrical presentation made it a hostess’s dream, promising an epic dessert adventure.
8. The Symphony of Flavors
Taking a large bite of the PieCaken was like experiencing a holiday orchestra each element played its part perfectly. Pecan’s nutty depth, pumpkin’s creamy richness, and spice cake’s complexity harmonized magnificently, with the buttercream as conductor. The apple top provided a puckering crescendo, tempering the richness. It’s a taste experience that is cozy and thrillingly new.
- The understated sweetness of pecan pie keeps the dessert from flying off into sweetness.
- Pumpkin pie’s rich texture conjures warm Thanksgiving feelings.
- Spice cake’s warmth uplifts the dense layers, providing balance.
- Buttercream’s smooth sweetness ties together all the flavors with ease.
- Apple filling’s tanginess provides a crisp, balanced finish.
No flavor takes precedence; rather, they harmonize together. The buttercream’s understated spice adds depth to each bite, and the apple topping maintains vibrancy. It’s a dessert that tastes as though it’s made for celebration, making each forkful a joyful moment. I was amazed at how together yet distinct every layer was. It is not just a layer of desserts it’s an art piece of balance and creativity. The PieCaken invites you to love every bite and is a delight at any holiday gathering.
9. There’s Plenty for Everyone
The PieCaken is a 7 inch, 5 inch tall behemoth, weighing nearly 6 pounds and serving 10–12 bountifully. My cutting yielded 12 generous slices, but its fat content meant smaller slices filled. Light eaters could make it go to 15, and at $99, it’s worth it. It’s a centerpiece that ensures no guest to go hungry.
- Serves 10–12, perfect for large Thanksgiving celebrations.
- Richness offers up smaller slices, elongating servings.
- Nearly 6 pounds of dessert make it an actual holiday showstopper.
- $99 price point appears to be worth it for its magnitude and effect.
- Generous portions ensure everyone gets a turn on the ride.
The size of this dessert makes it ideal share worthy, encouraging holiday good fellowship. Its richness guarantees a little will be able to go a long way and satisfy even the sweetest tooth. The PieCaken’s abundance speaks to the nature of Thanksgiving itself. I adored seeing guests’ eyes widening as I cut into it, each bite sized piece a mini masterpiece. It’s not only dessert it’s a moment of shared indulgence. The PieCaken’s hospitality means it’s a present that keeps on giving, ideal for any celebratory gathering.
10. The Ultimate Holiday Centerpiece
The PieCaken transcends novelty, winning its spot as a culinary success. Its layers pecan, pumpkin, spice cake stay distinct but merge in each bite, avoiding the mush of inferior sweet treats. Visually stunning, it provokes conversation and joy. It’s a Thanksgiving superstar that redefines holiday dinners.
- Individual layers stand on their own, without muddying flavors.
- Eye appeal makes it a table showstopper, perfect for photo shoots.
- Multilayered but blended flavor delivers a memory.
- Sparks holiday guest energy, elevating festive spirits.
Hesitators can wonder about its purpose, but one bite puts aside any gimmick doubts. Its thoughtful construction displays each element to perfection, presenting a dessert as delightful as it is delicious. The PieCaken turns a meal into an experience, perfect for creating memories.
I stood and watched as my company oohed and ahhed at its layers, each bite producing grins and chatter. It’s not a dessert, per se it’s a celebration of community and creativity. The PieCaken’s delight powers guarantee it’s a holiday staple for any host looking to make an impression.
11. From Thanksgiving to Every Season
The PieCaken owns Thanksgiving, but Chef Young’s imagination has no holiday. The PieCaken Bakeshop now features seasonal flavors that each relate to holiday seasons. From Christmas through Passover, these yummy treats spread joy all year round. They’re limited editions that maintain the enchantment.
- St. PatCaken: Whiskey pecan pie, Bailey’s cheesecake, Guinness cake.
- PassCaken: Matzo crusted coconut pie, flourless chocolate cake.
- Christmas PieCaken: Chocolate pecan pie, eggnog cheesecake, red velvet.
- Red, White & Blueberry: Red velvet, vanilla cheesecake, blueberry pie.
- All three capture the essence of the holiday in unique flavors.
These new releases show off the PieCaken’s versatility, reinventing itself to fit any occasion with flair. Fans anticipate each new version, and so they are well received traditions. The Bakeshop’s innovation means there is a PieCaken for every season’s celebration., I’m already eyeing the Christmas version for my next gathering, inspired by its festive flair. These variations prove the PieCaken isn’t just for Thanksgiving it’s a year round delight. Chef Young’s vision keeps the holiday spirit alive, no matter the occasion.
12. Delving Deeper into Seasonal Delights
Each seasonal PieCaken is a holiday love note, pairing bold flavors with holiday cheer. The St. PatCaken’s Guinness and whiskey flavors are Irish cheer incarnate, while the PassCaken’s matzo crust pays homage to tradition. The Red, White & Blueberry bursts with patriotic pizzazz. The Christmas PieCaken’s cherry and eggnog flavors exclaim winter revelry.
- St. PatCaken: Salted caramel buttercream holds the bold flavors together.
- PassCaken: Raspberry mousse adds a bright, tart punch.
- Red, White & Blueberry: A zesty lemon frosting gives it a boost.
- Christmas PieCaken: Amaretto buttercream makes it extra festive.
They showcase Chef Young’s ability to capture the spirit of a holiday in every bite. Each is created to the same level of quality as the original, for the sake of happiness. They’re perfect for hosts who want to delight their guests with something unique.
I just can’t wait to test the PassCaken for its genius paean to dietary requirements. The different versions give each holiday a special touch, demonstrating the PieCaken’s limitless possibilities. They’re a paean to imagination, creating any occasion unforgettable through their layered genius.
13. Keeping the Magic Fresh
The PieCaken, a hybrid dessert, is shipped frozen through Goldbelly with straightforward thawing instructions: refrigerate overnight. It stays fresh for seven days in the fridge or three months in the freezer, offering hosting flexibility. For leftovers, freeze unwrapped to set the frosting, then wrap tightly to maintain quality. This process keeps each bite as tasty as the initial serving.
- Goldbelly’s dry ice shipping keeps the dessert fresh.
- Seven day refrigerator life offers prep well in advance.
- Three month freezer option is perfect for spontaneous cravings.
- Freezer tip prevents frosting from getting stuck to wraps.
Ease of storage makes PieCaken perfect for busy holiday schedules. Its long shelf life means you can consume it as you wish, under no pressure. This ease makes its appeal as a stress free centerpiece stronger. I loved the convenience, defrosting mine over a weekend for maximum freshness. The PieCaken’s thoughtful packaging and storage instructions simplified entertaining. It’s a dessert that delivers flavor and convenience, perfect for any gathering.
14. Rave Reviews from Enthusiasts
The PieCaken’s appeal is widely celebrated, with verified buyers describing it as a transformative dessert that surpasses expectations. Its well-balanced, indulgent layers convert even skeptics into fans. The enthusiastic reviews highlight its ability to consistently delight crowds. This widespread acclaim solidifies its reputation as a standout treat.
- Cindy F.: “The BEST dessert I’ve ever tasted. A huge hit!”
- Patricia J.: “Perfect delivery, storage, and taste. Superb!”
- James E.: “Sounded odd, but truly outstanding.”
- It has been praised by fans for crossing the pie and cake gap.
- Reviews have praised it as a holiday party icebreaker conversation item.
These reviews confirm my experience, and it is proof of the fact that the PieCaken has universal appeal. It is a party surprise hit because it can amaze and exhilarate. Other people’s admiration only adds to my adoration of this dessert. I took mine to friends, and their reactions were based on these reviews pure joy. PieCaken’s ability to convert haters into believers is its true magic. It’s a dessert that brings people together, creating memories in every bite.
Final Thought: A Tradition Worth Starting
The PieCaken is not just a dessert it’s a celebration of innovation, taste, and togetherness. Its $99.95 cost is a small one for all the happiness it creates, from its sheer brilliance layers to its ability to kindle smiles. Shipped via Goldbelly, it’s an easy way to make any holiday, and especially Thanksgiving, unique. This work of art is a mashup of tradition and innovation, proving that one can honor the past while introducing something different. Make the PieCaken your new tradition your friends and family will be bragging about it for years to come.
