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As I pulled the first batch of Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers from the oven, the sweet, smoky aroma swept through my kitchen like a warm hug. It’s hard to believe that something so delicious can be this easy to whip up! These sweet-savory appetizers not only boast a beautiful presentation perfect for entertaining, but they also bring comfort food vibes to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a fun game day snack, these skewers are a crowd-pleaser you won’t want to miss. Plus, you can easily customize them—swap in turkey bacon for a lighter option or indulge in rich candied bacon for a twist that will have everyone asking for seconds! Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe together!
Why make Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers?
Unforgettable flavor explosion: The sweet, caramelized sweet potatoes combined with savory, crispy bacon create a dish that’s simply irresistible.
Quick and easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can craft these skewers in no time.
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Versatile options: Experiment with turkey bacon for a lighter twist or opt for candied bacon for extra indulgence.
Perfect for gatherings: These skewers are an instant hit at parties, whether for game day or holiday feasts, ensuring they’re the star of the show.
Beautiful presentation: The eye-catching colors and artistry of skewered bites make them a stunning addition to any platter.
Dipping delights: Serve them with a variety of sauces, like spicy aioli or marshmallow fluff, to elevate the experience even further.
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Ingredients
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For the Skewers
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Sweet Potatoes – The base offering natural sweetness and texture. Ensure they are evenly cut for consistent cooking.
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Bacon – Adds smokiness and a crunchy finish. Use turkey bacon for a lighter version or regular bacon for richness.
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For the Glaze
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Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and deep caramelization flavor. Maple sugar can be used as an alternative.
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Maple Syrup/Honey – Enhances glaze sweetness; adds moisture. Agave syrup can serve as a substitute for those avoiding sugar.
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Olive Oil/Melted Butter – Aids in glaze consistency and imparts richness. Butter provides a deeper flavor.
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Cinnamon & Cayenne – Spices that add warmth and subtle heat to the dish. Adjust cayenne for desired spiciness.
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Garlic Powder (optional) – Provides extra savory depth. Skip if desired or use fresh garlic.
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For Garnish
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Fresh Herbs (optional) – Rosemary or thyme for garnish; adds freshness. Use any preferred herb.
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Sea Salt – Enhances overall flavor. Finishing salt like flaky sea salt can add texture.
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For Dipping Sauces (optional)
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Marshmallow Fluff – Perfect for a sweet contrast to the savory skewers.
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Spicy Aioli – Adds a kick and complements the flavors beautifully.
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Maple Mustard – Combines sweetness and tang for a unique dipping experience.
These Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are sure to bring joy to your gatherings and leave everyone wanting more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven or Grill
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or getting your grill ready to a medium heat. For oven preparation, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This initial step is crucial for achieving the crispy texture of your sweet potato and bacon skewers.
Step 2: Prep Sweet Potatoes
Cut your sweet potatoes into uniform cubes, ensuring they’re even for consistent cooking. In a pot of boiling water, parboil the cubes for 5-7 minutes until they are fork-tender but still firm. Drain them well and allow to cool slightly so they are easier to handle as you prepare to coat them in delicious glaze.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, cayenne, and optional garlic powder until you achieve a smooth mixture. This sweet and spicy glaze is the heart of your sweet potato and bacon skewers, enhancing the flavors and providing that irresistible caramelization.
Step 4: Coat Sweet Potatoes
Add the parboiled sweet potato cubes to the bowl with the glaze. Toss them gently until each piece is evenly coated with the sticky glaze. This ensures every bite of your sweet potato and bacon skewers will be bursting with flavor, creating that delightful sweet-savory contrast everyone loves.
Step 5: Assemble Your Skewers
Take your bacon strips and wrap them around the glazed sweet potato cubes, or alternate the sweet potatoes and bacon on skewers for a colorful presentation. If using wooden skewers, ensure they’ve been soaked for about 20 minutes to prevent burning. This step beautifully combines flavors and makes the skewers easy to handle when serving.
Step 6: Bake or Grill Skewers
Place your assembled sweet potato and bacon skewers on the prepared baking sheet and cook in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure the bacon crisps evenly and the sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully, turning golden-brown. Keep an eye out for that perfect crispy bacon finish!
Step 7: Optional Glaze Brush
In the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the skewers with any leftover glaze for an extra layer of sweetness and shine. This glossy finish not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the presentation of your sweet potato and bacon skewers, making them even more appetizing.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Once cooked to perfection, remove the skewers from the oven or grill and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces such as marshmallow fluff or spicy aioli, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy the delightful combo of flavors!
Make Ahead Options
These Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are perfect for make-ahead meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy days! You can prep the sweet potatoes by parboiling and coating them in the glaze up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the glazed cubes until you’re ready to assemble. The skewers can also be fully assembled and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, pop them in the oven or on the grill for about 30 minutes until warm and crispy. Just remember to brush with additional glaze during the last few minutes for maximum flavor. You’ll still enjoy the same delicious results and impress your guests with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
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Fridge: Store your leftover sweet potato and bacon skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help keep them fresh and flavorful.
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Freezer: For longer storage, these skewers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To restore their crispy texture when reheating, bake the frozen skewers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until thoroughly heated.
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Serving Suggestions: Consider pairing with freshly prepared dipping sauces upon serving to enhance flavor and presentation when enjoying your sweet potato and bacon skewers.
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful skewers to suit your taste buds!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon to lighten up this dish while keeping that savory flair.
- Candied Bacon: For a richer, sweeter experience, opt for candied bacon, adding a wonderful caramelized layer of flavor that enhances the dish immensely.
- Root Vegetables: Replace sweet potatoes with butternut squash or carrots for a unique twist on taste and texture, adding delightful variety to your skewers.
- Herb Infusion: Spice up the glaze with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the sweet and smoky elements.
- Heat Level Adjustment: Increase cayenne for an extra kick or use fresh jalapeños on the skewers! Simply add them in between the sweet potatoes for a spicy surprise in every bite.
- Savory Sweetness: Incorporate a hint of smoked paprika into your glaze for an added depth, creating a lovely balance against the sweetness of the potatoes.
- Glaze Additions: Mix in some soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a savory depth that brings out a whole new dimension of flavor in your sweet potato and bacon skewers.
- Dipping Sauce Twist: Instead of traditional sauces, try pairing with a creamy chipotle sauce for a smoky, spicy complement that elevates the sweet-salty flavor profile.
If you’re on the lookout for more irresistible recipes, consider checking out these fantastic options: Sweet Candy Cookie for something sweet or the delightful Bacon Egg Hashbrown to start your day right. These variations will surely keep your gatherings lively and satisfying!
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
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Uniform Cuts: Ensure sweet potato cubes are evenly cut for consistent cooking. This will help avoid unevenly cooked portions that may spoil the experience.
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Don’t Overboil: Avoid overboiling the sweet potatoes; they should remain firm for easy skewering. Overcooked potatoes can break apart and create messy skewers.
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Crispier Bacon: For an extra crispy bacon texture, consider using a wire rack on your baking sheet. This allows fat to drip off and helps the bacon crisp evenly.
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Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes before cooking. This prevents burning and enhances safety when grilling.
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Customize Glaze: Feel free to adjust the glaze ingredients according to your taste. Add more spices or sweetness to cater to your preference, ensuring your sweet potato and bacon skewers shine with personal flavor.
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Store Properly: To keep leftovers fresh, store skewers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for optimal texture restoration before enjoying again.
What to Serve with Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
These flavorful skewers command attention as a perfect appetizer, but pairing them with delightful sides will truly elevate your meal experience.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side dish balances the sweetness of the skewers while adding refreshing texture. A must-have at gatherings!
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Cornbread Muffins: Fluffy, slightly sweet cornbread complements the savory bacon beautifully and adds a comforting Southern flair to your spread. Everyone will love this perfect pairing!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels brings a unique depth that beautifully contrasts with the rich flavors of the skewers. Drizzle with balsamic for added zest!
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Spicy Pickles: The sharp tang and heat from spicy pickles will cut through the sweetness, providing a zingy counterpoint that keeps your palate excited.
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Macaroni and Cheese: A classic crowd-pleaser, the creamy, cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with the sweet-savory skewers, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
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Zesty Citrus Salad: A fresh salad with segments of orange and grapefruit will add bright acidity and a burst of freshness, balancing out the richness of the skewers.
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Iced Sweet Tea: Pair this dish with a glass of refreshing iced sweet tea to bring a true Southern touch. The sweetness complements the skewers, making every bite even better.
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Chocolate Fountain: For dessert, consider a fun chocolate fountain for dipping fruits and marshmallows. It’s a playful way to end a gathering, complementing the flavors of your skewers.
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! When choosing sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and smooth with no dark spots or blemishes. A sweet potato should feel heavy for its size, and avoid any that have soft spots or signs of sprouting, as these indicate they’re past their prime.
What’s the best way to store leftover Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers?
To keep your skewers fresh, place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay good for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture.
Can I freeze the Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the cooled skewers tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake them from frozen at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through and crispy again.
What if my bacon isn’t crispy after baking?
Very! If your bacon isn’t achieving its desired crispness, try using a wire rack set over your baking sheet for more even cooking. This allows the fat to drip off, promoting crispiness. Additionally, ensure you flip the skewers halfway through to encourage even browning.
Are these skewers suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can customize the recipe to suit various dietary needs. For those avoiding pork, turkey bacon is a fantastic alternative. If anyone has a sugar sensitivity, maple syrup can be replaced with agave syrup or omitted altogether. Just keep an eye on the glaze ingredients to cater to individual preferences.
Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
The more the merrier! Sweet potatoes can be swapped with other root vegetables like butternut squash or carrots for a delightful twist. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as different vegetables may require more or less time to cook. Enjoy experimenting!
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers: A Flavorful Party Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare the grill for medium heat.
- Cut sweet potatoes into uniform cubes and parboil them for 5-7 minutes until fork-tender.
- Whisk together brown sugar, maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, cayenne, and optional garlic powder to make the glaze.
- Coat the parboiled sweet potatoes in the glaze until evenly covered.
- Assemble skewers by wrapping bacon around sweet potato cubes or alternating them on the skewers.
- Bake skewers for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
- Brush with leftover glaze in the last 5 minutes for added sweetness.
- Serve warm with dipping sauces and garnish with fresh herbs or sea salt.
