Description
Delectable Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
4 tablespoons butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
For the Sweet Potato Layer:
1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 large egg
For the Topping:
Whipped cream
Crumbled graham crackers
Direct
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish to form a crust.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour this cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
In another mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and egg. Mix until smooth and well blended. Carefully spread this sweet potato mixture over the cream cheese layer.
Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the pie to cool completely before serving. Top with whipped cream and crumbled graham crackers before serving.
Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 8 slices
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pie. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth blending. For the crust, firmly press the crumb mixture up the sides of the pie dish to prevent crumbling. When making the cream cheese layer, beat the mixture for at least 3 minutes until completely lump-free. For the sweet potato layer, use freshly cooked and cooled sweet potatoes, not canned, for the best flavor and texture. When adding the sweet potato layer over the cream cheese, spoon it in dollops and gently spread with an offset spatula to avoid mixing the layers. During baking, if the crust browns too quickly, tent the edges with foil.
Serving Suggestions
This pie is versatile and can be served in several delightful ways. For a festive touch, pipe swirls of whipped cream around the edge and sprinkle with toasted pecans. A drizzle of salted caramel or maple syrup complements the warm spices beautifully. Serve each slice with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a brunch option, pair it with a cup of strong coffee or chai tea.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Prepare a graham cracker crust and pre-bake it briefly for 5 minutes to set. Create a smooth cream cheese filling and pour it over the crust. Mix a spiced sweet potato filling and layer it carefully on top. Bake until set, cool completely, then chill for at least 4 hours before adding toppings and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead dessert. Bake and cool the pie, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving.
Can I use canned sweet potato puree? While fresh mashed sweet potatoes are recommended for superior flavor, canned puree can be used in a pinch. Ensure it is plain, not the pre-sweetened pie filling variety.
How do I know when the pie is done baking? The pie is set when the edges are firm and the center has a slight jiggle (not a liquid wobble). A toothpick inserted near the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I freeze this cheesecake pie? You can freeze the baked and cooled pie (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What’s the best way to mash the sweet potatoes? Bake or boil sweet potatoes until very tender, then peel and pass them through a ricer or food mill for the smoothest, lump-free texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. Do not use cold cream cheese, as it will create a lumpy filling. Avoid overmixing the filling after adding the eggs, as this can incorporate too much air and cause cracking. Do not skip the cooling step; serving the pie warm will result in a runny texture. Ensure your spices are fresh for the most vibrant flavor. Finally, do not spread the sweet potato layer too aggressively, as it can swirl into the cream cheese layer and muddy the distinct strata.
Conclusion
This Sweet Potato Cheesecake Pie is the ultimate fusion dessert, combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the warm, comforting flavors of sweet potato pie. Its impressive layered appearance and complex taste belie its straightforward preparation. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can confidently create a stunning dessert perfect for holidays, special gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a memorable treat. The balance of textures and spices is sure to earn it a permanent spot in your recipe collection.