Laura Mariano
Why Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Are the Ultimate Sweet-Savory Appetizer
Welcome, flavor lovers! If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that hits all the right notes—sweet, savory, smoky, and spicy—look no further than candied sweet potato and bacon skewers. These irresistible bites combine caramelized sweet potatoes with crispy bacon, all glazed in a sticky, spiced coating that’s bold and addictive.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, firing up the grill for a summer BBQ, prepping snacks for game day, or curating a brunch spread, these skewers are guaranteed to steal the show. They’re easy to assemble, fun to eat, and visually stunning on a platter. Plus, they offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors that keeps guests coming back for more. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special—and how you can make it your new signature appetizer.
What Are Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers?
Candied sweet potato and bacon skewers are bite-sized chunks of sweet potato wrapped or paired with bacon, glazed in a sweet-spicy mixture, and roasted or grilled to perfection. Each skewer delivers a satisfying contrast: the natural sweetness of the potato, the smoky crunch of bacon, and a sticky glaze that ties it all together.
Inspired by Southern candied yams and classic bacon-wrapped appetizers, this dish brings comfort food vibes with a gourmet twist. It’s loved for its simplicity, stunning presentation, and bold flavor profile. Whether served as finger food or plated with dipping sauces, these skewers are a guaranteed hit at any gathering. They’re proof that a few humble ingredients can create something truly unforgettable.
Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make these sweet-savory skewers:
- Sweet Potatoes: Peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and caramelization.
- Bacon: Regular or thick-cut, halved or cut into thirds to wrap or alternate with potato chunks.
- Glaze:
- Brown sugar
- Maple syrup or honey
- Cinnamon
- Cayenne or chili powder
- Olive oil or melted butter
- Optional Add-ins:
- Fresh rosemary
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Marshmallow fluff (for dipping)
- Skewers:
- Wooden skewers soaked in water (to prevent burning)
- Metal skewers (for grilling)
Tip: Use turkey bacon for a lighter option or candied bacon for extra indulgence.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat: Set oven to 400°F or prep your grill to medium heat.
- Parboil Sweet Potatoes: Boil cubes for 5–7 minutes until just tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Make the Glaze: In a bowl, mix brown sugar, maple syrup or honey, cinnamon, cayenne, and olive oil or butter.
- Toss Potatoes: Coat the parboiled sweet potato cubes in the glaze mixture.
- Assemble Skewers: Wrap bacon around each cube or alternate bacon and sweet potato pieces on skewers.
- Bake or Grill: Place skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet or grill. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is crisp and sweet potatoes are caramelized.
- Optional Glaze Boost: Brush with extra glaze during the last 5 minutes for added stickiness and shine.
- Serve: Plate warm with dipping sauce or sprinkle with fresh herbs.
Tip: Use foil under skewers to catch drips and make cleanup easier.
Taste & Texture Profile
These skewers are a flavor explosion in every bite. The sweet potatoes become soft and caramelized, offering a rich, earthy sweetness. Bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender potato. The glaze—sticky and spiced with cinnamon and cayenne—ties everything together with a warm, bold finish.
Each skewer delivers a satisfying mix of textures: crispy edges, soft centers, and a glossy coating that clings to every bite. The result is a balanced, addictive appetizer that’s sweet, savory, and just a little spicy. It’s comfort food with flair—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Wire rack (optional)
- Skewers (wooden soaked in water, or metal)
- Tongs or spatula
- Basting brush (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 12 slices regular-cut bacon, halved or cut into thirds
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp cayenne or chili powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Sea salt for finishing
- Dipping sauces: marshmallow fluff, spicy aioli, or maple mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat grill to medium. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
- Parboil sweet potato cubes in boiling water for 5–7 minutes until just fork-tender. Drain and cool slightly.
- Make Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, cayenne, and garlic powder.
- Toss Potatoes in glaze until evenly coated.
- Assemble Skewers: Wrap bacon around sweet potato cubes or alternate them on skewers.
- Bake or Grill: Place skewers on prepared sheet (or wire rack). Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until bacon is crisp and potatoes are caramelized.
- Optional: Brush with extra glaze during the last 5 minutes for added shine.
- Serve warm with dipping sauces and garnish with herbs or sea salt.
Notes
- Cut sweet potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overboil—keep cubes firm enough to skewer.
- Use a wire rack for crispier bacon.
- Soak wooden skewers for 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Taste and tweak the glaze—add more spice or sweetness to suit your crowd.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
