If you love the combination of sweet, salty, and savory flavors, this Bacon Wrapped Dates Recipe is a must-try. Made with soft, naturally sweet dates wrapped in crispy bacon, this delicious appetizer is simple to prepare and perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy evening snack.
The best part is that you only need a handful of ingredients to make these irresistible bites. You can enjoy them as they are or add a creamy cheese filling for an extra layer of flavor. Once baked, the dates become wonderfully tender while the bacon turns golden and crispy.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: You only need a few simple ingredients and basic cooking skills.
- Sweet and savory: Naturally sweet dates pair beautifully with smoky, salty bacon.
- Perfect for parties: These bite-sized appetizers are easy to serve and share.
- Customizable: Add goat cheese, cream cheese, or almonds for extra flavor and texture.
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 to 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 to 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 people
- Yield: 12 bacon wrapped dates
- Course: Appetizer, Snack
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
- Cooking Method: Oven-baked
Ingredients
Here is everything you need to make this easy bacon wrapped dates recipe.
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 6 slices of thin-cut bacon, cut in half
- 2 ounces goat cheese or cream cheese, optional
- 12 whole almonds, optional
- 1 teaspoon olive oil, for greasing the baking tray if needed
- Freshly ground black pepper, optional
Ingredient Notes
Dates: Medjool dates are an excellent choice because they are large, soft, and naturally sweet. Make sure the pits are removed before stuffing them.
Bacon: Thin-cut bacon works best because it cooks faster and becomes crispier around the dates. Thick-cut bacon may require additional cooking time.
Cheese: Goat cheese adds a slightly tangy flavor, while cream cheese gives the filling a mild and creamy texture.
Almonds: A whole almond tucked inside each date adds a pleasant crunch and balances the soft texture of the fruit.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Dates
Follow these simple steps to prepare perfectly cooked bacon wrapped dates at home.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow excess bacon fat to drain away.
If you are using a wire rack, make sure it is oven-safe.
Step 2: Prepare the Dates
If your dates still contain pits, carefully cut a small slit along one side and remove the pits.
If you are using cheese, gently open each date and fill it with a small amount of goat cheese or cream cheese. Avoid adding too much filling, as it may spill out during baking.
For extra crunch, place a whole almond inside each date before closing it.
Step 3: Wrap the Dates with Bacon
Cut each bacon slice in half. Wrap one piece of bacon around each date, covering it as neatly as possible.
Place the wrapped date seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. If the bacon does not stay in place, secure it with a toothpick.
Repeat until all 12 dates are wrapped.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, turning the dates halfway through cooking.
Keep an eye on the bacon during the final few minutes. It should become golden brown and crispy, while the dates remain soft and tender.
Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and your oven. Make sure the bacon reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) or higher, with a suitable resting time, following food safety guidance for pork.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the bacon wrapped dates from the oven and let them rest for about 3 to 5 minutes before serving.
If you used toothpicks, remind guests to remove them before eating. Serve the dates warm for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Dates
- Choose the right bacon: Thin-cut bacon helps the dates cook evenly without becoming too soft.
- Do not overfill: A small amount of cheese is enough to add creaminess without making the filling spill out.
- Use a wire rack: This helps the bacon fat drain away and encourages even crisping.
- Turn halfway through: Turning the dates helps the bacon brown on multiple sides.
- Make them ahead: You can assemble the dates a few hours in advance, cover them, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Avoid overcrowding: Leave some space between the dates so the hot air can circulate.
Delicious Variations to Try
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize.
Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Fill each pitted date with a little goat cheese before wrapping it in bacon. The creamy, tangy filling complements the sweetness of the dates and the saltiness of the bacon.
Bacon Wrapped Dates with Almonds
Place a whole roasted or raw almond inside each date for a crunchy center. This variation is especially good if you prefer a little texture in every bite.
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Spicy Bacon Wrapped Dates
Sprinkle a small pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper over the dates before baking. The gentle heat creates a delicious contrast with the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Maple Glazed Bacon Wrapped Dates
For a sweeter finish, lightly brush the bacon with a little maple syrup during the final 5 minutes of baking. Watch closely because the sugar can burn quickly.
What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Dates
Bacon wrapped dates taste wonderful on their own, but you can also serve them with other appetizers to create a complete party spread.
- Cheese boards with crackers, nuts, and fresh fruit
- Fresh salads with a light vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables
- Creamy dips or a mild yogurt-based sauce
- Other bite-sized appetizers for holiday gatherings
They are particularly suitable for festive occasions, dinner parties, game nights, and potluck meals.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Refrigeration: Allow the cooked dates to cool, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the bacon becomes crisp again. The exact time will depend on the size of the dates and whether they are chilled.
Freezing: For the best texture, freezing is not recommended after cooking because the dates can become softer and the bacon may lose its crispness.
Food safety: Do not leave cooked bacon wrapped dates at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour when the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C).
Nutrition Information
The following nutrition table provides approximate values for one bacon wrapped date without cheese or almonds. Actual values will vary depending on the size of the dates, the type of bacon, and the amount of fat rendered during cooking.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (3 Dates) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Total Sugars | 35 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
These values are estimates for informational purposes and should not be considered laboratory-tested nutrition data. Adding cheese or almonds will change the nutritional content.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make bacon wrapped dates ahead of time?
Yes. You can pit, stuff, and wrap the dates several hours before serving. Store the uncooked, assembled dates in a covered container in the refrigerator, then bake them shortly before your guests arrive.
2. Do I need to remove the pits from the dates?
Yes. If the dates are not already pitted, remove the pits before stuffing and wrapping them. Pitted dates are easier to prepare and more comfortable to eat.
3. Can I make bacon wrapped dates without cheese?
Absolutely. The dates are delicious with just bacon. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the salty, smoky flavor of the bacon, so the cheese filling is entirely optional.
4. Why is my bacon not getting crispy?
The bacon may be too thick, the oven temperature may be too low, or the baking tray may be overcrowded. Use thin-cut bacon, leave space between the dates, and bake until the bacon is golden and fully cooked.
5. Can I cook bacon wrapped dates in an air fryer?
Yes. Arrange the dates in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at approximately 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, turning halfway through. Check them frequently because air fryer models and bacon thickness can affect cooking time. Ensure the bacon reaches a safe temperature.
6. Can I use regular dates instead of Medjool dates?
Yes. Smaller dates work well, too, but you may need less bacon for each piece. Keep an eye on the cooking time because smaller dates can cook more quickly.
7. How do I keep the bacon wrapped around the dates?
Place each date seam-side down on the baking tray. If necessary, secure the bacon with a toothpick. This helps the bacon stay in place while it cooks.
8. Are bacon wrapped dates served hot or cold?
They are best served warm, shortly after baking, when the bacon is crisp and the dates are soft. However, they can also be enjoyed at room temperature for a short period while serving appetizers.
9. Can I make bacon wrapped dates without an oven?
Yes. An air fryer is a convenient alternative. You can also cook them in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, turning frequently until the bacon is cooked through. The skillet method requires more attention to prevent burning.
10. How many bacon wrapped dates should I serve per person?
For a light appetizer, plan on 2 to 3 dates per person. If they are the main appetizer at a party, consider serving 3 to 4 dates per person, along with other snacks.
Final Thoughts
This bacon wrapped dates recipe is proof that a few simple ingredients can create something truly special. The combination of sweet, tender dates and crispy, savory bacon makes every bite delicious, while optional cheese or almonds let you customize the flavor to your liking.
With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, these bite-sized appetizers are perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a special snack at home. Give this easy recipe a try, and you may find it becoming a regular favorite at your next gathering.