The moment I took my first bite of Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers, I felt like I had struck gold in the kitchen. These delightful appetizers showcase the perfect harmony of sweet and savory, with velvety sweet potatoes wrapped in crisp, smoky bacon, all smothered in a luscious, spiced glaze. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up but they also make for a stunning centerpiece at holiday gatherings or summer barbecues—sure to steal the show! Whether you’re entertaining guests or seeking a comforting snack, these skewers deliver an irresistible experience that will have everyone coming back for more. Curious how you can bring this crowd-pleaser to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers a Hit?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes and bacon creates a glorious contrast between sweet and savory, keeping tastebuds dancing.
Visual Appeal: Each skewer showcases beautiful color and texture, making them a show-stopping appetizer for any gathering, from holiday parties to summer BBQs.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have these delicious skewers ready to impress in no time.
Versatile Pairings: Serve them with an array of dipping sauces like marshmallow fluff or spicy aioli to cater to your guests’ unique tastes—there’s something for everyone!
Crowd Favorite: These skewers are consistently a hit at any gathering, ensuring everyone keeps coming back for more. If you’re looking for more tasty appetizer ideas, check out our Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup or try some delectable Chocolate Oat Cookies for dessert!
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Ingredients
For the Skewers
- Sweet Potatoes – Provides natural sweetness and a creamy texture when cooked; ensure even-sized cubes for uniform cooking.
- Bacon – Adds a salty, smoky crunch, enhancing the flavor profile; substitutes include turkey bacon for a lighter option or candied bacon for extra indulgence.
For the Glaze
- Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and aids in caramelization.
- Maple Syrup or Honey – Enhances the glaze’s sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Olive Oil or Melted Butter – Adds richness and helps the glaze adhere.
- Cinnamon – Provides warm, sweet depth to the glaze.
- Cayenne or Chili Powder – Imparts a gentle heat that balances the sweetness; perfect for Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers.
- Garlic Powder (optional) – Adds an aromatic savory note.
For Garnish and Serving
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (optional) – Offers an herbal freshness for garnish.
- Sea Salt – Enhances overall flavor and is used for finishing.
- Dipping Sauces (optional) – Suggestions include marshmallow fluff, spicy aioli, or maple mustard for added flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Surface
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heating your grill to medium. While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy clean-up. This will set the stage for your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers to cook evenly and come out perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Parboil Sweet Potatoes
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and carefully add equal-sized cubes of sweet potatoes. Parboil them for about 5–7 minutes until they are just fork-tender but not completely soft. Drain the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly. This tenderizing step will ensure your skewers are cooked just right while maintaining a slight bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, maple syrup or honey, olive oil, cinnamon, cayenne, and, if desired, garlic powder. This sticky glaze will transform your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers into a delightful blend of sweet and spicy. Once your ingredients are well combined, you’ll have a rich, glossy mixture ready for coating.
Step 4: Coat the Sweet Potatoes
Gently toss the parboiled sweet potato cubes in the glaze until they are evenly coated on all sides. The sweet potatoes should glisten with that sumptuous sticky glaze, ready to pair beautifully with the savory bacon. This step enhances the flavor profile of your skewers, making them irresistible.
Step 5: Assemble the Skewers
Grab your skewers and start assembling by wrapping strips of bacon around each sweet potato cube. You can create alternating patterns for added visual appeal if desired. Ensure each piece is snugly wrapped but not too tight—this allows for even cooking. Your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are now shaping up to be a feast for the eyes, as well as the palate!
Step 6: Roast or Grill the Skewers
Place the assembled skewers on your prepared baking sheet or directly on the grill grate. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve an even crispness. You’re looking for the bacon to be golden brown and the sweet potatoes to caramelize beautifully, forming that coveted sticky glaze.
Step 7: Finish with Extra Glaze
For an extra layer of flavor and shine, brush the skewers with additional glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This step makes your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers even more appealing and delicious, enticing everyone with their irresistible aroma and glossy appearance.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven or off the grill, serve your skewers warm. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme where desired, and offer dipping sauces such as marshmallow fluff or spicy aioli alongside. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory, and watch your guests fall in love with these fantastic Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers!
What to Serve with Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these mouthwatering skewers with complementary sides and treats that enhance their delightful flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery texture provides a comforting contrast to the crispy bacon and sweet potatoes. This classic pairing never disappoints.
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Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed with garlic and a hint of lemon, these crisp green beans add a refreshing flavor balance, cutting through the richness of the skewers.
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Tangy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw offers a cool side that works brilliantly alongside the sweet and savory notes of the skewers, adding a pop of color.
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Cornbread Muffins: Sweet, moist cornbread complements the flavors of the skewers while adding a delightful, crumbly texture that guests will love.
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Spicy Aioli: This creamy, zesty dip enhances the skewers’ smoky flavor while inviting your guests to explore a little extra heat in their bites.
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Crisp Apple Salad: A fresh salad with thinly sliced apples, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette brings a crunchy, sweet-and-sour contrast that refreshes the palate.
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Chilled Sangria: A glass of fruity sangria makes for a festive drink pairing, its fruity taste balancing the savory richness of the skewers beautifully.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For dessert, serve luscious chocolate-covered strawberries, offering a sweet end to the meal that echoes the delightful sweetness of the main dish.
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture of the bacon.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the skewers in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. Just make sure to roast them fresh just before serving to keep them warm and flavorful!
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these skewers your own with exciting twists and substitutions!
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Different Sweet Potatoes: Try using purple or Japanese sweet potatoes for unique flavors and color variations that brighten your dish!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap bacon for tempeh bacon or roasted mushrooms for a meat-free alternative, keeping those savory notes intact.
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Spice It Up: Add smoked paprika or a pinch of nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, earthy flavor that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
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Sweetness Levels: If you prefer a sweeter skewer, drizzle extra maple syrup over your assembled skewers before baking for an indulgent touch!
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or sage into the glaze to enhance the savory profile, turning these skewers into a herby delight.
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Nutty Twist: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts over the skewers before roasting for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft sweet potatoes.
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Zesty Glaze: Incorporate orange or lime zest into your glaze for a refreshing citrusy kick that will brighten up your skewers!
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Layered Flavors: For even more flavor, consider adding caramelized onions or roasted garlic as an ingredient to deeply enrich this sweet-savory experience.
With so many variations to explore, you can keep the fun going in the kitchen while impressing your guests time and time again!
Make Ahead Options
These Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights or during holiday gatherings! You can parboil the sweet potatoes and prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the sweet potatoes in the refrigerator to maintain their firmness and mix the glaze, keeping it in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, toss the sweet potatoes in the glaze, assemble the skewers with the bacon, and roast or grill them directly. Your guests will enjoy the same delicious sweet and savory flavors, and you can hit the ground running with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
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Even Cuts: Always cut sweet potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure they cook consistently and maintain the perfect texture for your skewers.
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Avoid Overboiling: Just parboil the sweet potatoes until fork-tender; overboiling can make them too soft to hold their shape on the skewer.
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Crispier Bacon: Use a wire rack on your baking sheet to help render the fat and create the crispiest bacon for your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers.
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Soak Wooden Skewers: To prevent burning, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before threading on the ingredients.
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Taste Test the Glaze: Feel free to adjust spice levels in your glaze — add more cayenne for heat, or extra maple syrup for sweetness to suit your palate.
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Storage Tip: Leftover skewers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for the best texture.
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best sweet potatoes for this recipe?
When choosing sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm and free of any dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating moisture content. Aim for medium-sized sweet potatoes for even cooking and remember to cut them into uniform cubes for the best results.
What’s the best way to store leftover sweet potato and bacon skewers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps to maintain their unique flavors and textures. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method keeps the bacon crispy, which is always a plus!
Can I freeze sweet potato and bacon skewers?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a delightful snack!
What should I do if my sweet potatoes are mushy after parboiling?
If your sweet potatoes turn mushy, it might be due to overboiling. Always keep an eye on them and test for fork tenderness after 5 minutes. If they do get too soft, you can still use them; just ensure they aren’t overly squishy while assembling the skewers. Additionally, brush with extra glaze during roasting for added flavor.
Are sweet potato and bacon skewers suitable for special diets?
For a lighter option, you can substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon or even use plant-based bacon alternatives. If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, be cautious of allergies related to ingredients like maple syrup or honey. They can easily be omitted or replaced with agave syrup. Just ensure to inform your guests about the ingredients used!
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers: A Flavorful Party Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat your grill to medium. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Parboil sweet potato cubes for 5–7 minutes until fork-tender, then drain and cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, maple syrup or honey, olive oil, cinnamon, cayenne, and garlic powder.
- Toss the parboiled sweet potato cubes in the glaze until evenly coated.
- Wrap bacon around each sweet potato cube, ensuring the pieces are snugly wrapped.
- Place skewers on the prepared baking sheet or grill, roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Brush with additional glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking for more flavor.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs, and offer dipping sauces on the side.