Creamy Sweet Potato, Apple and Bacon Soup

In 5-quart Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Cook bacon in butter 8 to 10 minutes or until just crisp. With slotted spoon, transfer to paper towel-lined plate; set aside.

In same Dutch oven, cook onion, apple and salt 7 to 9 minutes, stirring frequently, until very soft and beginning to brown. Add sweet potatoes and broth. Heat to boiling; reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sweet potatoes are very tender.

Remove from heat; let stand 10 minutes or until cool enough to transfer to blender. Fill blender one-third to half full. Remove or loosen center cap from lid of blender. Cover lid with folded dish cloth, and hold it down when blending. Puree until very smooth. Return mixture to Dutch oven. Continue to blend in small batches until all is pureed. Heat to simmering over medium heat. Add whipping cream; return to simmering. Remove from heat; stir in vinegar. Top soup with bacon and thyme leaves.