Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares

Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares Recipe

Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares are a decadent and irresistible dessert that seamlessly blends the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy, velvety texture of cheesecake. Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of this luscious treat, the smooth filling melting in your mouth, followed by a delightful crunch from the graham cracker crust. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, these squares not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also evoke warm memories of autumn and family traditions. If you’re looking for a fast and kid-friendly dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds, this recipe is worth every minute spent in the kitchen.

Craving a Cozy Dessert?

Have you ever craved the comforting taste of pumpkin pie but found yourself yearning for a delightful twist? What if I told you that you can satisfy that craving with a creamy, sweet creation that’s packed with the nostalgic flavor of sweet potatoes? These Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares are more than just a dessert; they are a cozy hug in a dish that transports you back to cherished moments around the dinner table. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply indulging in a sweet treat after dinner, these squares are sure to make your taste buds sing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares offers numerous benefits that will keep you coming back for more. First and foremost, it features easy preparation—perfect for novice cooks and seasoned bakers alike. The ingredients are minimal yet wholesome, focusing on sweet potatoes that add not just flavor but also a dose of nutrition. These bars are a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both children and adults with their sweet, creamy filling and crunchy base. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more precious moments with your loved ones while the cheesecake chills in the fridge.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes, cooked and cooled
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

For Serving:

• Whipped cream for serving
• Crushed pecans for garnish
• Caramel drizzle for extra sweetness

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a dessert that’s not just visually appealing but also delectable in flavor. The combination of the crisp graham cracker crust and the smooth, spiced sweet potato filling creates an irresistible contrast that will leave your guests begging for the recipe.

Timing

Unlike traditional cheesecakes that can take hours to prepare, these Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares offer a balance between fast indulgence and luxurious flavor. You’ll have these squares ready for the oven in under 30 minutes, then just let them bake while you kick back and relax. With a cooling period of at least three hours, you can easily prepare them the day before a gathering, making them a stress-free dessert option.

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.

2. In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until everything is evenly combined.

3. Press this crumb mixture firmly into your prepared dish to form an even crust layer.

4. Bake the crust in the oven for about 10 minutes until set and lightly golden. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.

5. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and mashed sweet potatoes until completely smooth—ensure there are no lumps!

6. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until you achieve a silky-smooth consistency.

7. Pour the cheesecake filling over your cooled crust, spreading it evenly to the edges.

8. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan.

9. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least three hours or overnight for the best texture. Trust me—the longer it chills, the better it gets!

10. Once chilled, cut into squares and top with whipped cream, crushed pecans, or a drizzle of caramel. Serve chilled and savor the perfect creamy, spiced treat that everyone will adore.

The result? A dessert that’s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious, with every bite delivering layers of flavor.

Nutritional Information

With a focus on indulgence, Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares are a delightful addition to any dessert table. While the exact nutritional values can vary depending on ingredients used, each square is approximately 220-250 calories. Enjoying these squares occasionally allows you to indulge your sweet cravings without guilt—after all, you deserve a little treat once in a while!

Healthier Alternatives

For those who are health-conscious or have dietary restrictions, here are some healthier alternatives:

• Low-Sugar: Substitute granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol to cut down on sugar without sacrificing taste.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut milk in place of regular cream cheese and eggs to create a delightful dairy-free version of these squares.

Now you can enjoy Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares guilt-free, ensuring everyone at the table has something sweet to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

These Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares can shine on their own, but why not elevate your serving experience? Pair them with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a truly luxurious dessert. They are also perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations—any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Common Mistakes

To ensure your Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares turn out perfectly, keep an eye out for these common mistakes:

• Overbaking: Baking the cheesecake squares for too long can result in a dry, crumbly texture. Remember, you’re looking for a slight jiggle in the center when it’s done!

• Texture Issues: Make sure your cream cheese is softened thoroughly before mixing; this prevents lumps from forming in your filling.

• Messy Cuts: Always use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to cut your squares for clean and attractive edges.

Avoiding these pitfalls will help you create a stunning dessert that not only looks beautiful but is also delicious.

Storing Tips

Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares store beautifully for up to a week in the refrigerator. To keep them fresh, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

If you happen to have leftovers, they can also be frozen! Cut them into individual squares and wrap separately in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to indulge again, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Tempting You to Bake It ASAP

Don’t wait another moment! The delightful fusion of sweet potatoes and creamy cheesecake awaits you in these Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares. With their irresistible flavor, ease of preparation, and nostalgic appeal, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and immerse yourself in the joy of creating this divine dessert that’s bound to become a family favorite.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure they are cooked and mashed beforehand.

2. How long do these cheesecake squares need to chill?

For the best texture, chill for at least three hours, but overnight is even better.

3. Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! You can try an Oreo crust or a nut-based crust for a unique spin on this recipe.

4. What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use a commercial egg replacer.

5. How do I know when my cheesecake is done?

The edges should be set, and the center should have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan.

Make these Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares your new go-to dessert and watch as they steal the spotlight at every gathering!

Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares

Decadent and irresistible Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares blend the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with creamy cheesecake, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 12 squares

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 235

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Crust

• 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes, cooked and cooled
• 0.75 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger

For Serving

• Whipped cream for serving
• Crushed pecans for garnish
• Caramel drizzle for extra sweetness

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until everything is evenly combined.
3. Press this crumb mixture firmly into your prepared dish to form an even crust layer.
4. Bake the crust in the oven for about 10 minutes until set and lightly golden. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and mashed sweet potatoes until completely smooth—ensure there are no lumps!
2. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until you achieve a silky-smooth consistency.
3. Pour the cheesecake filling over your cooled crust, spreading it evenly to the edges.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
5. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least three hours or overnight for the best texture.
6. Once chilled, cut into squares and top with whipped cream, crushed pecans, or a drizzle of caramel. Serve chilled.

Notes

These squares can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For healthier alternatives, consider using low-sugar sweeteners or dairy-free options.