Name: Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (cooked and cooled); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/8 tsp ground ginger; Pinch of salt

These Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares are where cozy fall flavors meet creamy dessert dreams. Imagine silky spiced sweet potato filling layered over a crunchy graham cracker crust and topped with a tangy cheesecake swirl. It’s the kind of treat that tastes like autumn in every bite—perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or when you’re simply craving something sweet and satisfying.

Whether you’re a die-hard cheesecake lover or a sweet potato enthusiast, this recipe will win you over with its balanced flavor, delightful texture, and eye-catching presentation. It’s also a great make-ahead dessert that slices beautifully, making it ideal for entertaining without last-minute fuss.

What Kind of Sweet Potatoes Should I Use?

Opt for orange-fleshed sweet potatoes like Beauregard or Garnet. These varieties are naturally sweet, velvety, and vibrant—perfect for baking and pureeing into the creamy filling that makes this dessert so irresistible.

Ingredients for the Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (cooked and cooled)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp ground ginger
Pinch of salt

How To Make the Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares

Step 1: Make the Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9×9 inch baking pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling

In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla, and spices. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Beat the cream cheese and sour cream together until fluffy. You can add a tablespoon of sugar if you prefer a sweeter swirl.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Pour the sweet potato filling over the cooled crust. Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top and use a knife to gently swirl it into the sweet potato layer.

Step 5: Bake and Chill

Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is just set. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing.

Serving and Storing Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares

These bars are best served chilled, straight from the fridge. Their texture firms up beautifully, and the flavors meld even more overnight. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of cinnamon before serving for an extra-special touch.

To store, keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I cook the sweet potatoes?

You can bake, steam, or microwave them until tender, then mash until smooth. Baking gives a richer flavor.

Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Yes, but make sure they’re unsweetened and well-drained. Fresh sweet potatoes have better flavor and texture.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

Gingersnap cookies, digestive biscuits, or vanilla wafers work well as crust alternatives.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s actually better when made a day in advance and chilled overnight.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid. It will firm up as it cools.

Want More Cheesecake-Inspired Desserts?

If you loved these Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares, check out these other creamy favorites:

Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for a rich, fruity indulgence.
Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars with cinnamon sugar flair.
Pistachio Cheesecake Brownies for a nutty twist.
Nutella French Toast Casserole for a breakfast-to-dessert crossover.
Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites with gooey caramel centers.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it anytime: Follow me on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you swirl extra cream cheese? Try a ginger crust? Share your delicious twist—I’d love to see what you baked up!

Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 squares
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares are a fall-inspired dessert with a creamy, spiced sweet potato filling swirled with tangy cheesecake on a buttery graham cracker crust. They’re elegant enough for holidays but easy enough for everyday baking.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a greased or parchment-lined 9×9 inch pan. Bake for 8 minutes and let cool.

2. In a large bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until smooth.

3. Beat softened cream cheese with sour cream until fluffy. Add 1 tablespoon sugar if preferred.

4. Spread sweet potato mixture over crust. Dollop cream cheese mix and swirl gently with a knife.

5. Bake 35–40 minutes until center is just set. Cool to room temperature, then chill for at least 4 hours before slicing.