Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Category,
DifficultyBeginner

Bacon-wrapped dates are the ultimate sweet-and-savory appetizer. Juicy Medjool dates are wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon and optionally stuffed with creamy goat cheese for added decadence. They are simple to make, but their rich flavor makes them a show-stopping treat at parties or as an indulgent snack.

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Yields20 Servings
Prep Time10 minsCook Time20 minsTotal Time30 mins
Core Ingredients
 20 Medjool dates (pitted)
 10 slices of bacon (cut in half crosswise)
Optional Filling
 ¼ cup goat cheese (softened, for stuffing)
 ¼ cup almonds or pecans (for added crunch)
For Garnish and Dipping
 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)
 Balsamic glaze or honey (optional for drizzling or dipping)
Prepare the Dates
1

 

  1. Pit the Dates:

    • If the dates are not already pitted, carefully slice each date lengthwise, creating a small opening to remove the pit while keeping the date intact.
  2. Optional Stuffing:

    • Use a small spoon to fill each date with about 1/2 teaspoon of goat cheese.
    • For extra texture, press an almond or pecan into the goat cheese before closing the date. Gently pinch the sides together to seal.
Wrap with Bacon
2

 

  1. Cut the Bacon:

    • Cut each slice of bacon in half, creating pieces that are the perfect size to wrap around the dates.
  2. Wrap the Dates:

    • Take one piece of bacon and wrap it tightly around a date, overlapping the ends slightly.
    • Secure the bacon with a toothpick, ensuring it stays in place while cooking.
Bake the Dates
3

 

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:

    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
    • Place the bacon-wrapped dates seam-side down on the sheet, ensuring they are spaced out so the bacon can crisp evenly.
  3. Bake:

    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the dates halfway through for even browning.
    • The bacon should be crispy and golden, and the dates should be tender. Adjust cooking time slightly if using thicker bacon.
Garnish and Serve
4

 

  1. Garnish:

    • Sprinkle the finished dates with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
  2. Drizzle or Dip:

    • Serve with a small bowl of balsamic glaze or honey for dipping, or drizzle directly over the dates for a hint of sweetness.
  3. Serve Immediately:

    • Bacon-wrapped dates are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven.
Pro Tips
5

 

  • Choose the Right Dates: Use Medjool dates for their plump, juicy texture and natural sweetness.
  • Bacon Selection: Thin-cut bacon works best, as it crisps faster and wraps more easily around the dates.
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook the dates in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes for quicker results.
Serving Suggestions
6

 

  • These pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or champagne.
  • Serve as part of a charcuterie board for added variety.

 

Ingredients

Core Ingredients
 20 Medjool dates (pitted)
 10 slices of bacon (cut in half crosswise)
Optional Filling
 ¼ cup goat cheese (softened, for stuffing)
 ¼ cup almonds or pecans (for added crunch)
For Garnish and Dipping
 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)
 Balsamic glaze or honey (optional for drizzling or dipping)

Directions

Prepare the Dates
1

 

  1. Pit the Dates:

    • If the dates are not already pitted, carefully slice each date lengthwise, creating a small opening to remove the pit while keeping the date intact.
  2. Optional Stuffing:

    • Use a small spoon to fill each date with about 1/2 teaspoon of goat cheese.
    • For extra texture, press an almond or pecan into the goat cheese before closing the date. Gently pinch the sides together to seal.
Wrap with Bacon
2

 

  1. Cut the Bacon:

    • Cut each slice of bacon in half, creating pieces that are the perfect size to wrap around the dates.
  2. Wrap the Dates:

    • Take one piece of bacon and wrap it tightly around a date, overlapping the ends slightly.
    • Secure the bacon with a toothpick, ensuring it stays in place while cooking.
Bake the Dates
3

 

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:

    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
    • Place the bacon-wrapped dates seam-side down on the sheet, ensuring they are spaced out so the bacon can crisp evenly.
  3. Bake:

    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the dates halfway through for even browning.
    • The bacon should be crispy and golden, and the dates should be tender. Adjust cooking time slightly if using thicker bacon.
Garnish and Serve
4

 

  1. Garnish:

    • Sprinkle the finished dates with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
  2. Drizzle or Dip:

    • Serve with a small bowl of balsamic glaze or honey for dipping, or drizzle directly over the dates for a hint of sweetness.
  3. Serve Immediately:

    • Bacon-wrapped dates are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven.
Pro Tips
5

 

  • Choose the Right Dates: Use Medjool dates for their plump, juicy texture and natural sweetness.
  • Bacon Selection: Thin-cut bacon works best, as it crisps faster and wraps more easily around the dates.
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook the dates in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes for quicker results.
Serving Suggestions
6

 

  • These pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or champagne.
  • Serve as part of a charcuterie board for added variety.

Notes

Bacon-Wrapped Dates
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