Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat twelve 2 1/2-inch muffin cups with cooking spray. Cut four of the bacon slices crosswise into thirds; chop remaining bacon.

Step 2

In a 12-inch skillet cook large bacon pieces over medium until crisp. Drain bacon on paper towels; discard drippings. Add chopped bacon, apples, and onion to skillet. Cook over medium 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add sweet potato; cook 10 minutes or just until potato is tender, stirring frequently. Stir in thyme and pepper.

Step 3

Divide potato mixture among prepared muffin cups. In a medium bowl combine egg and milk; pour over potato mixture (cups will be full). Top with cheese.

Step 4

Bake 25 minutes or until puffed and a knife comes out clean. Cool in cups 5 minutes. Remove from cups. Top with large bacon pieces. Serve warm.