Weight Watchers-Friendly Sweet Potato Cheesecake Mini Pies
Introduction:

Delight in the creamy, comforting flavors of our Weight Watchers-Friendly Sweet Potato Cheesecake Mini Pies. These mini pies are designed to offer a decadent dessert experience while keeping your SmartPoints in check. Combining the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake with the subtly sweet and earthy taste of sweet potato, this dessert is both satisfying and figure-friendly. Perfect for special occasions, or as a treat to savor after a meal, these mini pies are an excellent choice for anyone following the Weight Watchers program or looking to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients:

For the Crust:

1 cup (100g) graham cracker crumbs (for a traditional pie crust flavor)
2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar (or preferred sweetener, adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted (to bind the crust)
For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened (light or reduced-fat version for lower points)
1/2 cup (120ml) plain Greek yogurt (non-fat, to add creaminess without extra fat)
1/2 cup (120ml) canned sweet potato puree (unsweetened)
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (or another low-calorie sweetener, adjust to taste)
1 large egg (for structure)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for enhanced flavor)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a touch of warmth)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (for added depth)
For the Topping:

1/2 cup (120ml) light whipped topping (such as Cool Whip Lite)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (or other preferred sweetener, for sweetness)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for garnish)
Nutritional Information:

Per Mini Pie (assuming 12 mini pies total):

Calories: 140
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Net Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 3g
Weight Watchers SmartPoints:

Freestyle: 5 points per mini pie
Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature to bake the mini pie crusts evenly.
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs and is well moistened.
Form the Crust:
Press the mixture evenly into the bottoms of a 12-cup muffin tin or mini pie pan. Use the back of a spoon or a small glass to press down firmly and create an even layer. This forms the base of your mini pies.
Bake the Crust:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crusts are lightly golden. This helps to set the crust before adding the filling.


Cool the Crust:
Allow the crusts to cool in the tin while you prepare the cheesecake filling. Cooling the crusts prevents them from becoming soggy when the filling is added.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth. This is crucial for avoiding lumps in the filling.
Gradually add 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup of canned sweet potato puree. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
Add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar (or another low-calorie sweetener) and continue mixing until smooth.
Beat in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Fill the Crusts:
Spoon the cheesecake filling evenly into the pre-baked crusts, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Be sure to fill each crust almost to the top, but avoid overfilling.
Bake the Mini Pies:
Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops are slightly golden. The edges should be firm, while the center may still have a slight jiggle.
Cool the Mini Pies:
Allow the mini pies to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from collapsing and ensures a firm texture.
Prepare the Topping:
In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup of light whipped topping with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar (or other sweetener) and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whip until smooth and slightly fluffy.
Top the Mini Pies:
Once the mini pies are completely cool, spread or pipe the whipped topping over each pie. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired.
Serve:
Serve the mini pies chilled for the best flavor and texture. They make a delightful and satisfying low-point dessert option.
Store Leftovers:
Store any leftover mini pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheat Instructions:
These mini pies are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Useful Tips:

Graham Cracker Crumbs: For a lower-calorie alternative, use reduced-fat or low-sugar graham crackers if available.
Sweet Potato Puree: Ensure the sweet potato puree is unsweetened to keep the SmartPoints low. Homemade puree can also be used if preferred.
Cream Cheese: Opt for light or reduced-fat cream cheese to reduce points while maintaining a creamy texture.
Variations:

Flavor Additions: Add a touch of pumpkin spice or a dash of cocoa powder to the filling for a different flavor profile.
Nut Crust: Incorporate chopped nuts into the crust mixture for added texture and flavor, keeping in mind the additional points.
Health Benefits:

Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provides a familiar crust flavor while being relatively low in calories compared to traditional pie crusts.
Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and protein while being low in fat and calories.
Sweet Potato: Adds natural sweetness and essential nutrients, including vitamin A and fiber.
Serving Suggestions:

Garnish: Top with fresh fruit or a drizzle of sugar-free caramel sauce for extra flair.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or black coffee for a complete dessert experience.
Conclusion:

Our Weight Watchers-Friendly Sweet Potato Cheesecake Mini Pies provide a rich, flavorful dessert that aligns with your weight loss goals without compromising on taste. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy sweet potato cheesecake filling, and light whipped topping, these mini pies are perfect for any occasion or simply as a treat to enjoy. By following these detailed instructions, you can create a delicious dessert that is both satisfying and supportive of your healthy eating journey.

Additional Notes:

Ingredient Quality: Using high-quality ingredients will enhance the flavor and texture of your mini pies. Always check labels for hidden sugars or high-calorie ingredients.
Customization: Feel free to adjust sweetness levels or add additional spices to suit your taste preferences.
With these comprehensive instructions and tips, you’re ready to make a batch of Weight Watchers-Friendly Sweet Potato Cheesecake Mini Pies that will delight your taste buds and fit seamlessly into your weight loss plan. Enjoy every indulgent bite!