Introduction to Candied Sweet Potato & Bacon Skewers
Candied Sweet Potato & Bacon Skewers are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for party appetizers, holiday gatherings, or a creative side dish. Combining roasted sweet potatoes, crispy bacon, caramelized brown sugar, and a drizzle of warm marshmallow fluff, this dish provides a unique twist on traditional sweet potato recipes. The sweetness of the brown sugar and marshmallow complements the savory, smoky bacon, making each skewer a delectable bite. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just craving a comforting dish, these skewers will elevate any meal with their rich flavors and playful presentation.
Basic Recipe for Candied Sweet Potato & Bacon Skewers
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 12-16 strips of bacon (depending on skewer count)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Roast the Sweet Potatoes:
- Toss the sweet potato chunks with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to lightly coat them.
- Spread the sweet potatoes on the prepared baking sheet in an even layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender but not falling apart. Allow them to cool slightly after roasting so they’re easier to handle when assembling the skewers.
3. Prepare the Bacon:
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, cook the bacon strips in a frying pan for about 5-6 minutes. You want the bacon to be partially cooked but still pliable. Drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease. The bacon will crisp up further when baked with the sweet potatoes.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
- Once the sweet potatoes have cooled slightly, thread a piece of sweet potato onto a soaked wooden skewer. Wrap a strip of bacon around the sweet potato, then thread the skewer with another piece of sweet potato, repeating the process until the skewer is full. Continue until all the skewers are assembled.
5. Coat with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon:
- In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Generously sprinkle the mixture over the skewers, ensuring that both the bacon and sweet potatoes are well-coated with the sweet, spiced sugar.
6. Bake the Skewers:
- Place the assembled skewers on the lined baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the brown sugar has caramelized. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as the sugar will caramelize quickly toward the end of the baking time.
7. Marshmallow Fluff Drizzle:
- While the skewers are baking, heat the marshmallow fluff in a microwave-safe bowl for 10-15 seconds, just until it’s warm and easy to drizzle.
- Once the skewers are done, drizzle the warm marshmallow fluff over them using a spoon or a piping bag for a more controlled drizzle.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the skewers immediately while warm. Enjoy the sweet and savory combination of the crispy bacon, caramelized sweet potatoes, and gooey marshmallow fluff!
Advanced Techniques for Candied Sweet Potato & Bacon Skewers
1. Perfecting the Bacon Texture:
- Partially cooking the bacon before assembling the skewers ensures that it crisps up properly in the oven without becoming too hard or overcooked. Be sure to cook the bacon just until it’s slightly browned but still flexible enough to wrap around the sweet potatoes. This will result in a nice contrast between the crispy bacon and the soft sweet potatoes.
2. Achieving Even Roasting:
- To ensure even roasting of the sweet potatoes, cut the chunks into uniform 1-inch pieces. Tossing them in olive oil also helps them cook evenly and prevents them from sticking to the baking sheet. Make sure to space the sweet potatoes out in a single layer on the sheet to avoid overcrowding, which can cause them to steam rather than roast.
3. Caramelizing the Brown Sugar:
- The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon adds a caramelized sweetness to the bacon and sweet potatoes. For the best results, make sure the sugar mixture is evenly distributed over the skewers. You can even lightly press the sugar mixture into the bacon and sweet potatoes to help it stick and create a nice glaze during baking.
4. Controlling the Marshmallow Fluff Drizzle:
- Using a piping bag or a small spoon will allow for a more controlled drizzle of the marshmallow fluff. If you want an even fancier presentation, you can use a squeeze bottle for precision. Warming the marshmallow fluff just before drizzling ensures it’s the right consistency for drizzling without hardening too quickly.
5. Using Different Flavors:
- You can experiment with different flavor profiles by adjusting the spices or ingredients. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the brown sugar mixture for a slightly spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the potatoes and marshmallow fluff.
Maintenance Tips for Storing and Reheating
1. Storing Leftovers:
- If you have any leftover skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sweet potatoes and bacon will hold up well, but the marshmallow drizzle may become sticky during storage.
2. Reheating the Skewers:
- To reheat the skewers, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain the crispy texture of the bacon and caramelized sugar while reheating the sweet potatoes. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the bacon to lose its crispness.
3. Preventing Sogginess:
- When storing leftovers, it’s best to avoid adding the marshmallow fluff drizzle until just before serving again. Reheat the skewers first, then re-drizzle with freshly warmed marshmallow fluff to maintain the gooey texture.
4. Freezing the Skewers:
- If you want to freeze the skewers, assemble them up to the point before baking. Freeze the assembled, uncooked skewers on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen solid. When you’re ready to serve, bake them directly from frozen at 400°F for an additional 5-10 minutes longer than the original recipe calls for.
Dietary Adaptations for Candied Sweet Potato & Bacon Skewers
1. Gluten-Free Adaptation:
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses simple ingredients like sweet potatoes, bacon, brown sugar, and marshmallow fluff. Just be sure to check that all your packaged ingredients, such as the bacon and marshmallow fluff, are certified gluten-free.
2. Dairy-Free Version:
- To make this recipe dairy-free, ensure that the marshmallow fluff you’re using is dairy-free (many brands are, but check the label). The rest of the recipe contains no dairy, so no further substitutions are needed.
3. Vegan Adaptation:
- To make a vegan version, swap the bacon for a plant-based bacon alternative. There are many plant-based bacon options available that mimic the flavor and texture of traditional bacon. Also, use a vegan marshmallow fluff substitute, as many marshmallow products contain gelatin, which is not vegan.
4. Lower-Sugar Option:
- If you want to reduce the sugar content, you can use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit in place of the brown sugar. Be sure to check the marshmallow fluff for added sugars and opt for a low-sugar or sugar-free alternative if desired.
5. Paleo-Friendly Adaptation:
- To make this dish paleo-friendly, use a sugar-free or natural bacon without added nitrates or preservatives. You can also substitute the brown sugar with coconut sugar and ensure that the marshmallow fluff is free from artificial ingredients and added sugars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the skewers ahead of time up to the point where they are ready to bake. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a great option for prepping appetizers for parties or holiday meals.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of bacon?
- Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with prosciutto or pancetta for a similar salty, savory flavor. For a different twist, you can also use turkey bacon, though it won’t be as crispy as regular pork bacon.
Q: Can I grill the skewers instead of baking them?
- Yes, these skewers can also be cooked on the grill for a smoky flavor. Place the skewers over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the sweet potatoes are caramelized.
Q: What can I serve with these skewers?
- Candied Sweet Potato & Bacon Skewers pair well with a variety of dishes. They make a great appetizer, but you can also serve them as a side dish alongside grilled meats, salads, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Q: How can I make the marshmallow fluff drizzle less sticky?
- If you prefer a marshmallow topping that’s less sticky, you can whip up a homemade marshmallow cream using egg whites and sugar, which will create a lighter, fluffier texture. Alternatively, a simple drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also add sweetness without the stickiness of marshmallow fluff.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the skewers?
- Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers to add more flavor and texture. Be sure to cut the vegetables into similar-sized chunks so they cook evenly with the sweet potatoes and bacon.
Conclusion
Candied Sweet Potato & Bacon Skewers offer a delicious fusion of sweet and savory flavors, making them a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as a unique appetizer, a creative side dish, or even a fun snack, these skewers are sure to impress. With crispy bacon, caramelized sweet potatoes, and a drizzle of marshmallow fluff, this dish offers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Adaptable to various dietary preferences and easy to prepare ahead of time, these skewers are a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to your recipe collection!