Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Recipe – Sweet and Savory Appetizer
These Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Tender chunks of sweet potato are wrapped or layered with smoky bacon, then coated in a rich brown sugar glaze and roasted until caramelized and irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, holiday side dish, or game-day snack, these skewers are guaranteed to impress. Easy to make and packed with bold flavor, they’re a crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion.
Equipment
- Saucepan (for parboiling sweet potatoes)
- Baking sheet or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Basting brush
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into thirds
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 3 tbsp brown sugar (or maple syrup)
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ tsp paprika or cayenne (optional, for heat)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden soaked or metal)
Instructions
- Prep Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube into even pieces. Parboil for 5 minutes until just tender. Drain and cool.
- Prepare Bacon: Cut into thirds. Optionally pre-cook slightly for crispness control.
- Thread Skewers: Alternate sweet potato cubes and bacon pieces.
- Make Glaze: Mix melted butter, brown sugar (or maple syrup), and spices.
- Brush & Cook: Coat skewers with glaze. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or grill over medium heat.
- Flip & Baste: Turn halfway through and brush with more glaze.
- Finish: Cook until bacon is crisp and sweet potatoes are caramelized. Serve warm.
Notes
- Sweet Potato Tip: Choose medium, firm sweet potatoes for best texture.
- Bacon Tip: Thick-cut bacon holds up better during cooking.
- Flavor Boost: Add cayenne for spice or maple syrup for depth.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble skewers ahead of time; glaze and cook when ready.
- Cooking Methods: Oven for consistency, grill for smokiness, air fryer for speed.