If you are on the hunt for a dessert that brings together comforting sweetness with a creamy texture and a hint of spice, you have to try this Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie Recipe. It is the perfect blend of rich cream cheese and naturally sweet mashed sweet potatoes, wrapped in a buttery graham cracker crust. Every bite offers that warm, cozy feeling reminiscent of holiday gatherings, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply craving a slice of homemade joy, this recipe is destined to become a favorite you’ll come back to time and time again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie Recipe shine so brightly? It’s all about the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the depth of flavor, texture, and mouthwatering color. Here’s everything you’ll want on hand to bring this delight to life.
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: This forms a crunchy, buttery base that beautifully contrasts the creamy filling.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the crust, balancing the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumbs together and gives the crust that irresistible richness.
- 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potatoes: The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness, moisture, and vibrant color.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the lush, smooth texture that makes this pie feel like a cheesecake.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling without overpowering the subtle spice notes.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds warmth and depth with its molasses undertones.
- 3 large eggs: Essential for binding all the ingredients and giving the pie its structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a gentle aromatic lift.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Offers classic warmth and spice that pairs perfectly with sweet potatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Provides a subtle nutty hint to elevate the pie’s complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger: Adds a slight zing that cuts through the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and rounds out all the flavors.
- Whipped cream: For a luscious finishing touch that melts into every forkful.
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish: Completes the presentation with a sprinkle of cozy spice.
How to Make Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9-inch pie pan and give it a thorough greasing. This simple prep ensures your pie crust won’t stick and makes clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Craft the Perfect Crust
Combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until every crumb is nicely coated. Press this delightful mixture firmly into your pie pan, creating an even layer across the bottom and sides. Bake it in the oven for 8-10 minutes until it’s golden and crisp. Set it aside to cool before adding the filling—this extra step helps your crust stay wonderfully crunchy.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Filling
Take your softened cream cheese and beat it until completely smooth and creamy. Add the mashed sweet potatoes along with both sugars—granulated and brown—and blend until well combined. Now, one by one, add the eggs, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. The spices will give your filling that unforgettable warm aroma and flavor.
Step 4: Fill and Smooth
Pour the luscious filling over your cooled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top out evenly. This is where your pie starts to look like the dreamy dessert it will soon become!
Step 5: Bake with Patience
Place your pie in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for the filling to be mostly set but still a little jiggly in the center. To avoid cracks, turn off the oven and let the pie cool inside with the door slightly open for about an hour. This gentle cooling helps it set perfectly.
Step 6: Chill Thoroughly
After the pie has cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or, if possible, overnight. This step is essential for the flavors to meld beautifully and for that creamy texture to fully develop.
Step 7: Add the Final Touches
Just before serving, adorn your Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie Recipe with fluffy whipped cream and a dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. This finishing touch makes the pie look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream is an absolute must for this pie. The airy cream balances the richness and enhances the spices. A simple sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top finishes the look with elegance and deepens the flavor experience in each bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your slice with a hot cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee to complement the pie’s sweet and spicy profile. For a more indulgent pairing, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce—each adds a delightful contrast that makes the dessert even more memorable.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or make a weeknight treat feel special? Serve individual mini pies in ramekins using the same filling and crust. Garnish creatively with candied pecans or a swirl of pumpkin butter for a seasonal twist. You could also layer the filling in parfait glasses alternating with crushed graham crackers and whipped cream for a deconstructed take.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pie keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. The flavors and texture only get better after a night of resting!
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. Wrap the whole pie securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving—just re-apply your whipped cream and spice garnish fresh.
Reheating
While this pie is best served chilled, you can let slices sit at room temperature for 15 minutes if you prefer. Avoid microwaving as it can affect the texture. Instead, enjoy it chilled or slightly softened for that perfect bite.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned sweet potatoes can work well, just make sure they are drained thoroughly and mashed smoothly to keep your filling creamy and not watery.
What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?
If you can’t find graham cracker crumbs, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers make great alternatives with a similar texture and sweetness.
Is it possible to make this pie vegan?
This recipe relies on cream cheese, butter, and eggs, so a full vegan version would require substitutions like vegan cream cheese, a plant-based butter, and egg replacers. It’s doable but will alter the texture slightly.
Why does the recipe suggest cooling the pie in the oven with the door ajar?
Cooling slowly in the oven helps prevent cracks on the surface by reducing temperature shock. It ensures a smooth, flawless top and even texture.
Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes, doubling the ingredients will work well. Just divide the filling between two pie pans and bake accordingly, keeping an eye on doneness as baking times may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie Recipe is truly a heartwarming dessert that brings comfort, elegance, and a touch of nostalgia to your table. Its delightful blend of creamy, sweet, and spiced elements makes it perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and let it become a staple in your own dessert rotation. Go on, treat yourself and your loved ones—you deserve every delicious bite!
Print
Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie is a delightful blend of creamy, spiced sweet potato filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly baked to a smooth, rich texture and topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of warm spices, this pie offers a comforting dessert that’s perfect for holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potatoes
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping
- Whipped cream
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch pie pan to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pie pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly set, then remove and let cool completely.
- Prepare the Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Mix in the mashed sweet potatoes along with 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt to flavor the mixture evenly.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the sweet potato cheesecake filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an even finish.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly. After baking, cool the pie in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up fully and develop flavors.
- Serve: Before serving, garnish the pie with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra festive touch.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- For best results, cook and mash the sweet potatoes beforehand, allowing them to cool before use.
- The slight jiggle in the center after baking indicates the pie will set perfectly once chilled—do not overbake.
- Refrigeration overnight enhances the flavors and texture.
- Garnishing with whipped cream and spices adds a festive and tasty finishing touch.
