Sweet Potato Cheesecake Squares (Printer-Friendly)

Creamy spiced sweet potato squares on a buttery graham crust, perfect for cozy fall gatherings.

# The Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Graham Cracker Crust

01 - 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar

→ Cheesecake Filling

04 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes, cooked and cooled
06 - ¾ cup granulated sugar
07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
10 - ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
11 - ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

→ Optional Toppings

12 - Whipped cream for serving
13 - Crushed pecans for garnish
14 - Caramel drizzle for extra sweetness

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar in a bowl until evenly mixed. Press firmly into prepared dish to form an even crust layer.
02 - Bake crust for 10 minutes until set and lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool while preparing the filling.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and mashed sweet potatoes until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
04 - Pour filling evenly over cooled crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly when shaken gently.
05 - Allow the cheesecake to cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for optimal texture. Cut into squares and garnish with whipped cream, crushed pecans, or caramel drizzle. Serve chilled.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Use room temperature cream cheese to achieve a smooth filling without lumps.
02 - For a spicier crust, substitute graham crackers with gingersnap cookies.
03 - Pumpkin can replace sweet potatoes for a variation in flavor.
04 - Flavors deepen and improve after chilling overnight.
05 - Ideal for holiday gatherings and fall celebrations.