If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s both comforting and delightfully unique, this Sweet Potato Cheesecake Recipe is going to be your new obsession. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and boasts a velvety texture that comes from the perfect blend of cooked sweet potatoes and rich cottage cheese. What’s even better is how simple it is to whip up, with just a handful of wholesome ingredients that come together to create a show-stopping dessert packed with warmth and a subtle hint of cinnamon. Whether you’re making this for a festive occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe is a shining star in any dessert lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sweet Potato Cheesecake Recipe lies in its straightforward, pure ingredients that let the natural flavors shine. Each component plays a specific role in crafting the perfect creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and that gorgeous orange hue that makes this cheesecake so inviting.
- ⅔ cup cooked sweet potato: Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a smooth texture essential to the cheesecake’s foundation.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder that holds everything together while adding richness.
- 1 cup cottage cheese (full fat recommended): Provides a creamy texture and protein boost, making this cheesecake wonderfully velvety.
- 2 to 4 tbsp maple syrup or honey: Adjust to your preferred sweetness; maple syrup adds depth while honey lends floral notes.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
- Ground cinnamon (optional): A pinch will elevate the sweet potato’s natural earthiness and add cozy spice.
How to Make Sweet Potato Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 340°F (170°C). Greasing a 5 inch (13 cm) springform pan or lining it with parchment paper will make sure your cheesecake releases easily after baking. This prep sets the stage for an evenly cooked and easy-to-serve dessert.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
Into your blender or food processor, add the cooked sweet potato, cottage cheese, egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend everything on high speed until smooth and completely lump-free. Be careful not to over-blend — you want that luscious texture, but too much blending can alter it.
Step 3: Transfer and Bake
Pour the creamy sweet potato mixture into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Place it on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, just until the cheesecake has set and isn’t jiggly in the center. That means the flavors have melded perfectly and your dessert is ready.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
Once baked, allow your cheesecake to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before serving. This chill time is crucial for the cheesecake to firm up, making every bite silky and delicious.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of ground cinnamon or a drizzle of extra maple syrup on top adds a lovely finishing touch and a hint of warmth to complement the cheesecake’s rich sweetness. Toasted pecans or chopped walnuts also pair wonderfully, adding a satisfying crunch.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast. If you want something fresh, sliced oranges or a simple berry compote can provide a bright, tangy counterpoint that lifts the whole dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For festive occasions, consider serving individual cheesecake portions in mini jars or ramekins topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and pecans. A rustic wooden board adorned with fall leaves and a warm cup of spiced tea makes the perfect setting for enjoying this cozy dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Sweet Potato Cheesecake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 4 days while retaining its creamy texture and vibrant flavor, making it an easy grab-and-go treat for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this cheesecake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a sealed container before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and it’ll taste just as delicious as fresh.
Reheating
This cheesecake is best served chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Just be sure to drain any excess liquid from canned sweet potatoes to prevent the batter from becoming too runny. Homemade cooked sweet potatoes will yield the best texture, but canned works well in a pinch.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
This recipe relies on cottage cheese and egg, which are not vegan, but you could experiment by substituting vegan-friendly alternatives like silken tofu and flaxseed or chia eggs. Keep in mind that texture and taste may differ from the original.
How sweet should I make the cheesecake?
The maple syrup amount is adjustable! Start with 2 tablespoons and taste the batter if you like. Add up to 4 tablespoons depending on how sweet you want it. Remember, chilling tends to tone down sweetness a bit.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Sweet Potato Cheesecake Recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t require any flour or crust—just be sure to use gluten-free maple syrup if you’re particularly sensitive.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftovers taste amazing cold from the fridge, but pairing a slice with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream revitalizes the experience. You can also gently warm a slice for a comforting treat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Sweet Potato Cheesecake Recipe that makes it a standout dessert for any occasion. It’s creamy, wholesome, and delightfully simple to make, turning just a handful of ingredients into a memorable dish everyone will adore. Give it a try—you might just discover your new holiday favorite!
Print
Sweet Potato Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This high protein Sweet Potato Cheesecake is a healthy, creamy dessert perfect for the holidays. Made with just a few simple ingredients like cooked sweet potato, cottage cheese, and maple syrup, this cheesecake is sweet, velvety, and surprisingly nutritious. It’s a delightful twist on traditional cheesecake with a natural sweetness and a smooth texture that will impress your family and guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ⅔ cup (180 g) cooked sweet potato
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup (240 g) cottage cheese, full fat recommended
- 2 to 4 tbsp maple syrup or honey, as needed for sweetness
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon, optional to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 340°F (170°C). Line a 5 inch (13 cm) round springform pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked sweet potato, cottage cheese, egg, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract.
- Mix Until Smooth: Blend on high speed just until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Be careful not to over-blend to maintain a creamy texture.
- Transfer to Baking Mold: Pour and spread the blended sweet potato mixture evenly into your prepared springform pan.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Place the pan on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cheesecake has set and is cooked through.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to let it fully set and enhance the flavors.
Notes
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey according to your taste.
- Optional ground cinnamon can be sprinkled on top or mixed in for extra warmth and flavor.
- Make sure the sweet potato is cooked and soft for easy blending.
- Refrigerate well before serving for optimal texture and taste.
