Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers bring together the best of sweet and savory in one irresistible bite. These little delights are the perfect marriage of tender, caramel-coated sweet potatoes and crispy, smoky bacon, all drizzled with a touch of maple glaze. As you line them up on the skewers and pop them into the oven, you’ll feel like a culinary magician. Even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll love how simple it is to make something that looks so gourmet. The combination of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg with brown sugar and butter creates a sticky-sweet glaze that clings lovingly to every nooks and cranny of the sweet potato cubes. Meanwhile, the bacon crisps up around the edges, offering that salty counterpoint that keeps your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a cozy holiday gathering, or simply want a fun appetizer for movie night, these skewers have you covered.
Every time I make these skewers for friends, I end up swapping kitchen stories while they eagerly await that first crispy, caramelized piece. There’s something so satisfying about sharing finger food that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen—when in reality, it’s a breeze. You don’t have to be a master chef to pull this off; a few simple steps and quality ingredients are all you need. I love how versatile this recipe is: add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick, or sprinkle with fresh parsley at the end for a burst of color. The built-in dipping potential means you can offer everything from spicy aioli to tangy mustard alongside these skewers, making them an interactive treat. As you bite into the perfect balance of caramelized sweet potato and crisp bacon, you’ll understand why this recipe is a crowd-pleaser every single time.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CANDIED SWEET POTATO AND BACON SKEWERS
Before you get started, let’s talk about the ingredients that make these skewers shine. Each element plays a special role in creating that harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Sweet potatoes: Provide a naturally sweet and creamy base that caramelizes beautifully when coated in sugar and butter. Their mild flavor allows spices to shine.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender sweet potato. Wrapping the cubes ensures each bite is a textural delight.
- Brown sugar: Creates the deep, molasses-like sweetness that glazes the sweet potatoes, offering a rich coating that turns golden in the oven.
- Melted butter: Enriches the glaze, helping the sugar mixture adhere to each cube and lending a luscious mouthfeel.
- Maple syrup: Infuses a distinct, woodsy sweetness that complements the bacon’s smokiness and rounds out the caramel notes.
- Ground cinnamon: Introduces a warm, aromatic spice that heightens the cozy flavors of the glaze.
- Ground nutmeg: Brings a subtle, nutty undertone that harmonizes with the cinnamon and deepens the overall spice profile.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors, ensuring the dish isn’t cloying.
- Wooden skewers: Provide an easy, handheld way to assemble and serve. Soaking them beforehand prevents burning in the oven.
HOW TO MAKE CANDIED SWEET POTATO AND BACON SKEWERS
These step-by-step instructions will guide you through turning simple ingredients into a spectacular appetizer. Each stage is designed to build on the last so you end up with evenly cooked, flavor-packed skewers.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures the bacon crisps up quickly while allowing the sweet potato to caramelize without drying out.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the sweet potato cubes. Cook for 5–7 minutes until they are just tender but still hold their shape. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the mixture becomes a smooth, sticky glaze.
4. Take a sweet potato cube and wrap it with a piece of bacon. Secure the bundle with a soaked wooden skewer, threading through the center to hold everything in place.
5. Repeat the process, assembling each skewer with about 4–5 bacon-wrapped sweet potato cubes. Keep them evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
6. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
7. Brush the brown sugar mixture generously over each skewer, making sure every side of every cube is well-coated for maximum caramelization.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the sweet potatoes are deeply caramelized at the edges.
9. Remove from the oven and let the skewers cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the glaze to set slightly.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CANDIED SWEET POTATO AND BACON SKEWERS
Once your skewers are perfectly cooked, presentation is key to making them even more tempting. Think beyond just laying them on a platter—use garnishes and accompaniments that highlight both flavor and aesthetics. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a festive holiday spread, a few thoughtful touches will elevate these skewers from yummy bites to a memorable culinary experience.
- Serve on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar. The creamy textures and tangy flavors of the cheeses play beautifully against the sweet-and-salty skewers.
- Offer a trio of dipping sauces such as spicy sriracha mayo, tangy mustard aioli, or honey mustard. Let guests customize each bite with a swipe of their favorite sauce.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled over the top. The vivid green adds a pop of color and a bright herbal note.
- Pair with a seasonal salad of mixed greens, roasted pecans, and dried cranberries. The light, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skewers.
HOW TO STORE CANDIED SWEET POTATO AND BACON SKEWERS
Keeping these skewers tasting fresh and delicious requires just a bit of planning. Whether you have leftovers or want to pre-make them for a party, proper storage will maintain their texture and flavor. From refrigeration to reheating, here are some tips for preserving that caramelized goodness.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container: Once completely cooled, transfer skewers to a sealed container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days without losing crispness.
- Freeze for longer storage: Place cooled, uncoated skewers on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven: Spread leftover skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon re-crisps.
- Revive crispness on the stovetop: Warm a nonstick skillet over medium heat, place skewers in the pan, and turn occasionally until both the bacon and sweet potatoes regain their original texture.
CONCLUSION
This Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers recipe has everything you need to impress at your next gathering: a balance of textures, a harmony of sweet and savory, and a presentation that looks straight out of a gourmet kitchen. From the moment you preheat the oven to that satisfying crunch when you bite in, each step is designed to be fun, straightforward, and utterly rewarding. By soaking those skewers, boiling the sweet potatoes just right, and brushing on a sticky, spiced glaze, you’re creating more than just an appetizer—you’re crafting a conversation starter. These skewers pair beautifully with cheeses, dips, and fresh salads, giving you endless ways to mix and match flavors and elevate your party spread.
Feel free to print this article or save it for your recipe collection—having it on hand means you can whip up these skewers whenever the mood strikes. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ to answer any lingering questions about techniques and ingredient swaps. If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turned out! Share your twists, swaps, or any tips you discovered along the way. Your feedback, questions, and stories are always welcome, and I’m here to help if you need any guidance as you bring these sweet-and-salty bites to life. Happy cooking!
Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
Description
These skewers are a delicious blend of caramelized sweet potatoes and crispy bacon, drizzled with a sweet maple glaze, making them a perfect party treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the sweet potato cubes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until they are just tender. Drain and set aside.
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In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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Take a sweet potato cube and wrap it with a piece of bacon. Secure with a wooden skewer.
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Repeat the process, assembling each skewer with about 4-5 bacon-wrapped sweet potato cubes.
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Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
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Brush the brown sugar mixture generously over each skewer, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the sweet potatoes are caramelized.
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Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Note
- Make sure to soak the wooden skewers to prevent them from burning in the oven.
- You can add a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture.
- These skewers make a great appetizer or side for holiday gatherings or barbecues.
