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There is something absolutely magical about combining creamy cheesecake and the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes into one bite-sized treat. This Sweet Potato Cheesecake Cookies Recipe is a stunning twist on classic cookies that brings together moist, warmly spiced dough with a luscious, tangy cream cheese center. These cookies are as charming to look at as they are delicious to eat, offering a perfect balance of soft texture and rich flavor that will have your friends and family asking for the recipe time and time again.

Sweet Potato Cheesecake Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whipping up these delightful Sweet Potato Cheesecake Cookies is surprisingly simple, thanks to a handful of essential ingredients that each play a key role in crafting their perfect taste, texture, and inviting color.

1/2 cup mashed sweet potatoes: Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a lovely orange hue that makes these cookies special.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to hold the dough together without weighing it down.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender crumb.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warm, cozy spice notes to enhance the sweetness of the sweet potato.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle earthiness that complements the overall flavor.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and heightens all the other flavors.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a rich, tender dough with a buttery depth.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps produce a delightful texture.
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Infuses moisture and a hint of molasses flavor.
1 large egg: Binds the dough ingredients for consistency and softness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the aroma and layers of flavor in the cookie dough.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake filling for creamy tanginess.
1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the cream cheese filling.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake layer.
1/4 cup heavy cream: Creates a luxuriously smooth and fluffy filling.

How to Make Sweet Potato Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

The very beginning sets the stage for these cookies’ wonderfully soft texture and natural sweetness. Peel and dice a medium sweet potato, then cook it by boiling or roasting until it’s perfectly tender. Mash the sweet potato until smooth and allow it to cool completely — this step ensures it mixes smoothly with the other ingredients without adding unwanted moisture.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This blend of spices and leavening agents builds layers of flavor and texture. Using a mixer, cream the softened butter along with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy, which creates the perfect base for softness. Next, incorporate your egg, mashed sweet potatoes, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, blending them thoroughly. Gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined to keep the dough tender. Finally, chill this dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes — it makes handling the dough easier and helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Now it’s time for the luscious cheesecake center. Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Slowly mix in the heavy cream to achieve a light, fluffy filling that contrasts delightfully with the warm cookie exterior.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookie Sandwiches

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of your chilled dough and roll them into balls. Press each ball down gently into a disc shape. Spoon a dollop of cheesecake filling in the center of one disc then carefully top with another disc, pressing edges together to seal in all that creamy goodness. This sandwich style makes these cookies irresistibly indulgent.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your assembled cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This careful cooling process helps the cookies set perfectly without losing their tender texture.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate these Sweet Potato Cheesecake Cookies Recipe treats even more, sprinkle a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top just before serving. You can also lightly drizzle some caramel or melted white chocolate for a pretty finishing touch that adds flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or a rich, creamy latte. For a cozy fall-inspired pairing, serve alongside spiced apple cider or a simple glass of cold milk to balance out their sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, stack the cookies on a pretty tiered dessert stand or arrange them on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves for a cozy vibe. You can even package a few as charming gifts in decorative boxes tied with twine or ribbon to share the warmth and joy of this recipe with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any cookies left over, keep them fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to three days, making them perfect to enjoy over a few days or share with friends.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies either before baking or after. For unbaked dough sandwiches, freeze on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag; bake straight from frozen adding a few extra minutes. For baked cookies, freeze in a single layer and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feel, warm your cookies gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or pop them in a low-temperature oven (300°F) for 5 minutes. This softens the cream cheese filling and gives a delightful warmth that makes every bite feel indulgent.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potato instead of fresh?

While fresh sweet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor, canned sweet potatoes can work in a pinch. Be sure to drain and mash them thoroughly to avoid extra moisture that could affect the dough consistency.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based margarine and use dairy-free cream cheese along with coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the filling. The texture might vary slightly but you’ll still enjoy delicious cookies.

How long do these cookies keep once baked?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies remain fresh and moist for about three days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.

Can I add nuts to the dough?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would complement the spices beautifully and add a lovely crunch. Just fold them in gently during Step 2 after mixing the wet and dry ingredients.

Why do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle when shaping the cookies. It also prevents excessive spreading during baking, resulting in perfectly thick, tender cookies.

Final Thoughts

I honestly can’t recommend this Sweet Potato Cheesecake Cookies Recipe enough. It’s such a heartwarming, seasonal treat that transforms humble ingredients into little bites of happiness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to brighten up your day, these cookies deliver comfort and joy in every mouthful. Give them a try and watch them become your new favorite!

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