Here’s a long, detailed recipe for Sweet Potato Cheesecake Mini Pies — a rich, creamy, warmly spiced dessert that blends the best of sweet potato pie and cheesecake into one irresistible bite-sized treat. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy nights in!
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Sweet Potato Cheesecake Mini Pies
Buttery crust, spiced sweet potato filling, and creamy cheesecake swirl—all in a handheld dessert!
🕒 Prep Time: 30–40 minutes
🕒 Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
🧊 Chill Time: 2–4 hours (or overnight for best results)
🍽️ Yield: ~12–18 mini pies (depending on muffin tin size)
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EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
- Standard muffin tin (12-count) or mini cheesecake pan
- Electric hand or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Rubber spatula
- Food processor or fork (for crust)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cupcake liners or non-stick spray
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INGREDIENTS:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs (about 10–12 crackers)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
Alternative crust idea: Use crushed gingersnap cookies or Biscoff for extra flavor.
For the Sweet Potato Cheesecake Filling:
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Sweet Potato Base:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato (roasted or canned, well-drained)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp salt
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Cream Cheese Base:
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Crushed pecans or candied pecans
- Caramel drizzle
- Mini toasted marshmallows
- Dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg
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INSTRUCTIONS:
🔸 Step 1: Make the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Stir in the melted butter until mixture resembles wet sand.
- Spoon about 1½ tablespoons of crust mixture into each muffin cup. Use the bottom of a small glass or spoon to press it down firmly.
- Bake crusts for 5–6 minutes. Remove and let cool while you prepare filling.
🔸 Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Layer
- If using fresh sweet potato: Pierce a medium sweet potato and microwave until soft (about 5–7 mins) or roast until tender. Scoop out flesh and mash until smooth.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup mashed sweet potato with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
🔸 Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth (no lumps).
- Add granulated sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla, and sour cream, and mix just until combined—don’t overmix.
🔸 Step 4: Assemble the Mini Pies
- Spoon 1 heaping tablespoon of cheesecake mixture over each pre-baked crust and gently spread to edges.
- Top with 1 heaping tablespoon of sweet potato mixture. Use a toothpick or knife to swirl slightly for a marbled effect—or leave layered for a two-tone look.
- Tap the muffin pan gently on the counter to release air bubbles and level the tops.
🔸 Step 5: Bake
- Bake mini pies at 325°F (163°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until centers are mostly set (a slight jiggle is okay).
- Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecakes cool inside for 10 minutes to prevent cracking.
- Remove from oven and cool to room temperature on a wire rack.
🔸 Step 6: Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours (overnight is ideal) to fully set.
- Before serving, remove cupcake liners if desired.
🔸 Step 7: Garnish & Serve
- Top each mini pie with a dollop of whipped cream, sprinkle of cinnamon, or caramel drizzle.
- Add chopped pecans or a toasted mini marshmallow for a holiday twist.
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STORAGE & MAKE-AHEAD:
- Fridge: Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap each pie individually and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in fridge.
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Tips & Variations:
- Don’t skip chilling — it helps firm up the texture and enhances flavor.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for the creamiest result.
- For gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour crust.
- Want it all cheesecake-style? Mix the sweet potato and cream cheese layers together before filling.
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