Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe

Introduction

These easy 3-ingredient bacon wrapped dates are the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion. With just bacon, dates, and a simple seasoning, they deliver a magical sweet and savory combination that’s always a crowd-pleaser. This simple recipe pairs wonderfully with other holiday favorites like Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe and Jalapeño Cornbread Recipe for a complete festive spread.

Ingredients

These Bacon Wrapped Dates deliver an incredible combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch from the almonds and a spicy-sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully.

• 12 Medjool dates
• 12 roasted almonds
• 6 slices Applewood-smoked bacon
• 1/4 cup local wild honey
• 1/2 tablespoon pimentón (or smoked paprika)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon hot water

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Bacon Wrapped Dates recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes thanks to its streamlined preparation steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Dates

Carefully slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit. If your dates are already pitted, simply make a small incision to create an opening for stuffing.

For an extra flavor boost, you can stuff the dates with a small piece of almond, a bit of goat cheese, or a thin slice of manchego cheese before wrapping.

Step 2 — Prepare the Bacon

Use regular-cut bacon rather than thick-cut, as it will crisp up better during baking. Cut each bacon strip in half crosswise to create shorter pieces that are easier to wrap around the dates.

For easier handling, you can partially cook the bacon in a skillet for 2-3 minutes before wrapping to render some fat and make it more pliable.

Step 3 — Wrap the Dates

Take one bacon half-slice and wrap it tightly around each date. The bacon should overlap itself slightly to ensure it stays in place during cooking.

Secure the bacon with a toothpick inserted through the center, making sure it pierces both the bacon and date to hold everything together.

Step 4 — Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the bacon wrapped dates seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. This allows heat to circulate evenly and helps the bacon crisp up.

Leave about 1 inch of space between each date to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.

Step 5 — Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the bacon wrapped dates for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.

For extra crispiness, you can flip the dates halfway through cooking. The dates will become soft and caramelized while the bacon crisps up.

Step 6 — Check for Doneness

The bacon wrapped dates are done when the bacon is fully cooked and crispy, with no translucent or fatty spots remaining. The dates should be soft and slightly caramelized.

If the bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like, you can broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 7 — Serve and Enjoy

Let the bacon wrapped dates cool for 2-3 minutes before serving—they will be very hot inside. Remove toothpicks carefully or warn guests they’re present.

Serve warm as an appetizer. These sweet and savory bites pair wonderfully with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Nutritional Information

Calories	105
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	10g
Fat	6g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	190mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey Bacon — Leaner protein option that still delivers smoky flavor with less fat.
• Chicken Sausage — Provides a flavorful protein alternative with lower sodium than traditional bacon.
• Prosciutto — A lower-fat cured meat option that adds savory, salty notes to your bacon wrapped dates.
• Plant-Based Bacon — Excellent dairy-free and gluten-free alternative with similar smoky characteristics.
• Almond-Stuffed Dates — Skip the wrapping entirely for a lower-carb version with nutty crunch.
• Goat Cheese Filling — Creamy alternative to blue cheese for those preferring milder dairy options.
• Coconut-Wrapped Dates — Unsweetened coconut flakes create a gluten-free, sweet and savory crust.
• Low-Sodium Bacon — Simple swap that maintains the classic bacon wrapped dates experience with less salt.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these bacon wrapped dates alongside a cheese board featuring blue cheese, manchego, and marcona almonds for a perfect sweet and savory combination.
• Pair with sparkling wine or a crisp rosé to cut through the richness of the bacon wrapped dates.
• Offer as appetizers at holiday parties or game day gatherings where finger foods are preferred.
• Create an elegant presentation by skewering individual bacon wrapped dates with cocktail picks and arranging them on a slate board.
• Serve alongside bitter greens like arugula salad to balance the sweetness of the dates and saltiness of the bacon.
• Include in a tapas spread with other small bites like stuffed mushrooms and Spanish olives.
• Drizzle with a balsamic reduction just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

These bacon wrapped dates work beautifully as both casual party starters and sophisticated cocktail hour bites, making them versatile for any occasion where impressive yet simple appetizers are needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using thin-cut bacon that renders too quickly and tears. Fix: Opt for thick-cut bacon which holds its shape and provides a better bacon-to-date ratio.
• Mistake: Overstuffing dates, causing the filling to leak and burn. Fix: Use a modest amount of filling, such as a small almond or a teaspoon of cheese, to prevent spillage.
• Mistake: Skipping the toothpick, leading to bacon unraveling during cooking. Fix: Always secure the bacon wrap with a soaked toothpick to ensure it stays intact.
• Mistake: Crowding the baking sheet, which steams instead of crisps the bacon. Fix: Arrange bacon wrapped dates in a single layer with space between for optimal air circulation and browning.
• Mistake: Baking at a single high temperature, burning the bacon before the date heats through. Fix: Start at 400°F (200°C) to render fat, then lower to 375°F (190°C) to finish cooking evenly.
• Mistake: Not patting the dates dry, resulting in a soggy exterior. Fix: Gently blot dates with a paper towel before wrapping to help the bacon adhere and crisp up.
• Mistake: Using dates that are too hard or dry, creating a tough texture. Fix: Select plump, moist Medjool dates for a tender, caramelized result.
• Mistake: Serving immediately from the oven when they are molten hot. Fix: Let bacon wrapped dates rest for 5 minutes so the filling sets and they are safe to eat.
• Mistake: Neglecting to balance the sweetness with a savory or acidic element. Fix: Add a pinch of sea salt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking to enhance the flavor profile.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store bacon wrapped dates in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Refrigerate promptly after cooling to room temperature.
• Freezer: Arrange bacon wrapped dates in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat bacon wrapped dates in an oven preheated to 375°F until hot and crisp, about 10-15 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Proper storage keeps your bacon wrapped dates delicious and safe to enjoy later. Always check for any off odors or signs of spoilage before consuming.

Conclusion

These Bacon Wrapped Dates are the perfect sweet and savory appetizer for any gathering. If you love this recipe, try our Stuffed Mushrooms with Spinach and Ricotta Recipe or Ritz Cracker Party Sandwiches Recipe next. Share your results in the comments and subscribe for more easy party food ideas!

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FAQs

Can I make Bacon Wrapped Dates ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble Bacon Wrapped Dates up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This makes them a convenient appetizer for parties.

What type of bacon works best for Bacon Wrapped Dates?

Thin-cut bacon works best for Bacon Wrapped Dates because it crisps up quickly and wraps easily around the dates. Avoid thick-cut bacon, as it may not cook through before the dates become too soft.

How do I keep the bacon from unraveling on my Bacon Wrapped Dates?

Secure the bacon with a toothpick through the center of each date. Place the Bacon Wrapped Dates seam-side down on the baking sheet. This helps the bacon stay in place as it cooks and contracts.