Delight Your Guests with Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers

Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that will delight your taste buds. This irresistible recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the crispy, salty goodness of bacon, all coated in a delectable spiced sugar mixture. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a unique side dish, these Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are sure to impress your guests and become a new family favorite.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 12-16 strips bacon (depending on skewer count)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup marshmallow fluff (optional)
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 20 minutes)

The combination of sweet potatoes, bacon, and spices creates a truly irresistible flavor profile. The optional addition of marshmallow fluff adds an extra touch of sweetness and creaminess to the skewers, making them even more indulgent. Be sure to soak the wooden skewers in water before using to prevent them from burning during the cooking process.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will make for easy cleanup and help the skewers cook evenly.

Start by tossing the sweet potato chunks with the olive oil and spreading them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast the sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender but still hold their shape. Once they’re cool enough to handle, it’s time to assemble the skewers.

While the sweet potatoes are roasting, cook the bacon strips in a frying pan until they’re partially cooked but still pliable, about 5-6 minutes. This will ensure the bacon crisps up perfectly when baked. Drain the bacon on paper towels and set it aside.

Now, it’s time to thread the skewers. Take a piece of sweet potato and wrap a strip of partially cooked bacon around it, then thread the combination onto a wooden skewer. Continue this process, alternating between the sweet potato and bacon, until the skewer is full.

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cayenne pepper (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Generously sprinkle this spiced sugar mixture over the skewers, making sure to coat both the bacon and the sweet potato.

Place the skewers on the prepared baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar has caramelized. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

If you’re using the marshmallow fluff, heat it in a microwave-safe bowl for 10-15 seconds until it’s warm and easy to drizzle. Drizzle the marshmallow fluff over the hot skewers for an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess.

Serve your Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers immediately while they’re hot and crispy. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite!

Tips for Perfecting Your Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers

To achieve the optimal flavor balance, make sure to adjust the spice levels to your personal preferences. If you prefer a little extra heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. For a milder version, you can reduce or omit these spicy elements.

While baking is the recommended cooking method, you can also grill the Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers for a charred, smoky flavor. Just be sure to monitor them closely to prevent the sugar from burning.

For a beautiful presentation, consider arranging the skewers on a platter or serving them alongside your favorite dipping sauces, such as a tangy barbecue sauce or a creamy ranch dressing.

Nutritional Information for Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers

Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are a delightful indulgence, but it’s important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Each skewer contains a blend of carbohydrates, protein, and fat from the sweet potatoes, bacon, and sugars. The exact nutritional values will depend on the specific ingredients and portion sizes, but you can expect a satisfying serving that’s high in flavor and moderately high in calories.

To make these skewers a bit healthier, consider using turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative to reduce the overall fat content. You can also decrease the amount of added sugars or substitute them with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Variations and Substitutions for Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers

While the classic combination of sweet potatoes and bacon is hard to beat, you can get creative with various substitutions and additions to these skewers:

• Alternative Sweeteners: Instead of brown and granulated sugar, try using maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Variations: Experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or even Brussels sprouts, for a more diverse skewer.
• Vegetarian Options: Use plant-based bacon or tempeh to create a meatless version of these skewers.
• Flavor Additions: Sprinkle on extra spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder to add more depth of flavor.

The great thing about Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers is that they’re highly customizable, allowing you to cater to different dietary preferences and flavor preferences.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Bacon Ranch Chicken Skewers
• BBQ Chicken Pizza Bombs
• Bacon-Wrapped Cheesy Ranch Chicken Tenders

FAQs about Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers

Can I use different types of sweet potatoes for the skewers?

Yes, you can use different types of sweet potatoes, such as purple or white sweet potatoes, for your skewers. Each variety has its own unique flavor and texture, which can add an interesting twist to your dish. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of sweet potato you choose, so monitor them closely while roasting to ensure they become tender without overcooking.

What is the best way to soak wooden skewers, and why is it necessary?

The best way to soak wooden skewers is to place them in a bowl or container filled with water for at least 20 minutes before using them. This soaking process helps prevent the skewers from burning during cooking, especially if you are grilling or baking them at high temperatures. Additionally, soaked skewers are more flexible, making them easier to handle when threading ingredients.

Can I add other vegetables or fruits to the skewers?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding other vegetables or fruits to your skewers. Bell peppers, onions, or even pineapple can complement the sweet and savory flavors of the candied sweet potatoes and bacon. Just ensure that any additional ingredients have a similar cooking time to the sweet potatoes to ensure even cooking throughout.

How can I make these skewers healthier without sacrificing flavor?

To make your Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers healthier, consider using turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon alternative to reduce fat content. You can also decrease the amount of brown and granulated sugar in the recipe or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. Additionally, roasting the skewers instead of frying them can significantly lower the calorie count while still preserving the delicious flavors.

Conclusion

Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are a delightful and versatile dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. With their irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, these skewers are sure to become a new family favorite. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to indulge in this sweet and smoky delight!

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