There’s just something magical about combining sweet and savory flavors. And nothing proves that better than bacon-wrapped dates. They’re crispy, chewy, salty, and sweet—all in one perfect bite. Whether you’re throwing a dinner party, planning a holiday gathering, or just want an indulgent snack, this appetizer is the definition of crowd-pleasing.
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Why You’ll Love These Bacon-Wrapped Dates
It’s hard to beat a combination that hits all your taste buds at once. The crispy bacon balances beautifully with the rich sweetness of the dates, and if you add cheese or nuts? Game over.
These little bites are:
- Super easy to make
- Totally customizable
- Great warm or at room temp
- Gluten-free and naturally low-carb (depending on your fillings)
Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Ingredients
- 12 slices of bacon (cut in half to make 24 pieces)
- 24 Medjool dates, pitted
Optional Fillings
- Goat cheese (tangy and creamy)
- Blue cheese (bold and salty)
- Toasted almonds or pecans (for crunch)
If you’re keeping it simple, bacon and dates alone are fantastic. But filling the dates adds a surprise element your guests will love.
Choosing the Best Bacon and Dates
What Kind of Bacon?
Go with regular-cut bacon. Thick-cut doesn’t crisp up as well, and you want that satisfying crunch.
Which Dates Are Best?
Medjool dates are the way to go. They’re soft, sweet, and big enough to stuff. If you’re using Deglet Noor dates, keep in mind they’re smaller and slightly drier.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. You’ll thank yourself later during cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Dates
If they aren’t already pitted, slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit. If you’re adding fillings like cheese or nuts, now’s the time to stuff them in.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each date with half a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if needed—especially if the bacon’s not staying put.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Arrange the wrapped dates on the baking sheet seam-side down. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bacon is crispy and golden.
Flavor Variations to Try
Want to jazz things up a bit? Here are a few tasty ideas:
- Spicy Sriracha Glaze: Brush on some sriracha mixed with honey before baking.
- Maple Drizzle: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the dates right after baking.
- Balsamic Reduction: A few drops of aged balsamic vinegar add a tangy twist.
Serving Suggestions
Bacon-wrapped dates are best served slightly warm but still delicious at room temperature. Try pairing them with:
- A creamy dipping sauce (ranch or garlic aioli)
- A charcuterie board
- A glass of red wine or bubbly
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
You can prep these ahead to make your party prep a breeze.
- Make-Ahead: Stuff and wrap the dates, then store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Bacon not crisping? Try baking on a wire rack so the fat drips off.
- Dates burning? Check around the 18-minute mark and rotate them if needed.
- Stuffing leaks out? Don’t overfill, and make sure bacon is tightly wrapped.
Nutritional Information (per piece, with no filling)
- Calories: ~70
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 4.5g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 0.6g
Note: Add about 20–40 more calories per piece if you include cheese or nuts.
Conclusion
Whether you’re throwing a fancy soirée or having a chill night in, these bacon and date appetizers are the snack everyone will rave about. They’re quick to prep, big on flavor, and totally customizable. Once you serve them, don’t expect leftovers!
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork?
Yes! Just note that turkey bacon doesn’t crisp up quite the same, so you may need to broil it for the last couple minutes.
2. How far in advance can I make them?
You can prep them 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake fresh before serving.
3. What fillings work best inside the dates?
Goat cheese, blue cheese, almonds, pecans, or even cream cheese are all great choices.
4. Can I freeze bacon-wrapped dates?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze them before baking. Then bake from frozen at 400°F for about 25–30 minutes.
5. What can I serve these with?
They pair well with bubbly, a charcuterie board, or a light salad for balance.