Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe: The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Appetizer You’ll Crave

If you’ve never tasted bacon-wrapped dates, prepare for your taste buds to be blown away. These little bites are the perfect harmony of sweet, savory, smoky, and creamy — all wrapped up in one glorious package. Whether you’re throwing a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving a bold snack with contrasting textures, bacon-wrapped dates are a tried-and-true winner.

This easy appetizer recipe is not only impressively delicious, but it also requires minimal ingredients and can be prepped ahead of time. With the option to stuff your dates with creamy cheese or crunchy nuts, you can customize them to your heart’s desire.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know to make the most irresistible bacon-wrapped dates, from the best types of bacon to use, to creative variations and serving suggestions. Let’s get sizzling!

What Are Bacon-Wrapped Dates?

At their core, bacon-wrapped dates are a simple three-ingredient appetizer consisting of:

• Sweet, chewy Medjool dates
• Crispy, salty bacon
• An optional filling like goat cheese, cream cheese, blue cheese, or nuts

The magic lies in the contrast: smoky bacon meets the natural caramel-like sweetness of the dates. Add a creamy or crunchy surprise inside, and you’ve got a textural explosion that makes them impossible to resist.

Why Are Bacon-Wrapped Dates So Popular?

There’s a reason why bacon-wrapped dates consistently rank as one of the top appetizers on party menus:

• Crowd-pleasing flavor: Sweet, salty, and savory — the trio everyone loves.
• Easy to make: Just a few ingredients and simple steps.
• Customizable: Add cheese, nuts, or seasonings to fit your flavor preferences.
• Elegant yet rustic: They’re fancy enough for a cocktail party, but cozy enough for game night.
• Keto-friendly option: Just skip the cheese or use low-carb cheese.

These reasons — combined with their incredible taste and aesthetic appeal — make bacon-wrapped dates a true star on any appetizer table.

Bacon-Wrapped Dates Ingredients (Detailed Breakdown)

Let’s break down what you need and why each component is essential:

1. Medjool Dates (24 pieces)

These are large, soft, and incredibly sweet dates. Their caramel-like flavor pairs beautifully with savory bacon. You can use other types of dates, but Medjool dates are ideal because they’re big enough to stuff and sturdy enough to wrap.

2. Bacon (12 slices, cut in half)

Choose regular cut bacon, not thick cut. Thin to medium slices crisp up nicely and won’t overwhelm the date. Cutting the bacon in half gives you the perfect length to wrap around each date once.

3. Optional Filling

• Goat Cheese: Tangy and creamy, this is a classic and elegant option.
• Blue Cheese: For a bold, funky punch.
• Cream Cheese: Milder and kid-friendly.
• Whole Almonds or Pecans: Add crunch and a nutty surprise.

4. Toothpicks (soaked in water)

These help secure the bacon during baking and make for easy serving. Soaking prevents burning in the oven.

How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Dates (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Let’s walk through the process of making the most mouthwatering bacon-wrapped dates — from start to finish.

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Pit the Dates

If your dates aren’t already pitted, make a small slice down the side and remove the pit. Be gentle — you want to keep the date mostly intact so it can hold your stuffing.

Step 3: Stuff the Dates (Optional)

Fill each pitted date with about 1 teaspoon of your desired filling. Gently pinch the date closed to hold the stuffing in place.

Pro Tip: Don’t overfill! You want just enough to add flavor without making it ooze out.

Step 4: Wrap in Bacon

Take a half-slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around the date. Secure it with a toothpick, inserting it through the side so it holds the bacon in place.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the wrapped dates on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’re done when the bacon is crispy and browned.

Step 6: Let Them Cool Slightly

Cool for a few minutes before serving. These taste best warm or at room temperature.

Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe Card

Ingredients:

• 24 Medjool dates, pitted
• 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
• Optional filling: goat cheese, blue cheese, cream cheese, almonds, or pecans
• Toothpicks, soaked in water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
2. Pit the dates and slice them open slightly.
3. Fill each date with cheese or nuts (optional).
4. Wrap with bacon and secure with a soaked toothpick.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crispy.
6. Let cool slightly and serve warm.

Tips for Making the Best Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Here’s how to elevate your bacon-wrapped dates from good to unforgettable:

• Use fresh Medjool dates – They’re juicier and more tender.
• Soak your toothpicks – Prevents burning.
• Don’t use thick-cut bacon – It takes longer to crisp and may overpower the date.
• Space them out – Proper spacing on the pan ensures even cooking.
• Turn halfway through – Helps the bacon crisp evenly on all sides.

Flavor Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try mixing it up with these delicious variations:

1. Sweet & Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Add a dab of hot honey or sprinkle chili flakes on top before baking.

2. Maple-Glazed

Brush with maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of baking for a sweet caramelized glaze.

3. Herb Goat Cheese

Mix chopped rosemary or thyme into goat cheese for a herby twist.

4. Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates

Swap bacon for thin prosciutto. It cooks faster and offers a lighter, saltier profile.

5. Balsamic Drizzle

Drizzle balsamic glaze on top before serving for a gourmet touch.

Serving Suggestions

Bacon-wrapped dates can be served in many fun and elegant ways:

• Appetizer platters with cheese, olives, and crackers
• As a cocktail party finger food
• Topped on a salad for a sweet-savory element
• Alongside a holiday charcuterie board
• As part of a tapas-style meal with wine

How to Store & Reheat Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Storage:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Flash freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Keeps for 1–2 months

Reheating:

• Oven: Bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes
• Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F for 5–6 minutes
• Microwave: Not ideal, but okay for 30–40 seconds (they won’t be as crispy)

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips

Need to get a head start? Bacon-wrapped dates are great for prepping ahead:

• Stuff and wrap the dates up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the fridge until ready to bake.
• You can also freeze them unbaked, then thaw in the fridge overnight before baking fresh.

This makes them a host’s dream appetizer for parties or holidays.

Are Bacon-Wrapped Dates Healthy?

Well, they’re not exactly a salad — but bacon-wrapped dates can be part of a balanced lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation.

• Dates are high in fiber and natural sugars
• Bacon adds fat and protein
• Cheese or nuts contribute additional nutrients

If you’re following low-carb or keto diets, just skip the sweet fillings and use nuts or cheese.

FAQs About Bacon-Wrapped Dates

1. Can I make bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep them a day in advance and bake right before serving. You can also freeze them (baked or unbaked).

2. What’s the best cheese for stuffing dates?

Goat cheese is a classic, but blue cheese adds a bold flavor. Use cream cheese for a milder, creamy version.

3. Are bacon-wrapped dates gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your bacon for additives.

4. Can I cook bacon-wrapped dates in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F for about 8–10 minutes. They crisp up beautifully.

5. Why soak the toothpicks?

To prevent them from scorching or catching fire in the oven.

6. Can I serve bacon-wrapped dates cold?

They’re best warm, but can be served at room temperature. Cold bacon can get chewy.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Party Appetizer

Once you make bacon-wrapped dates, you’ll wonder how you ever hosted a party without them. They’re that good. The contrast of flavors and textures — the sweet, chewy dates, the salty, crispy bacon, and the creamy or crunchy center — creates a bite-sized sensation that’s utterly addictive.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to something special, this bacon-wrapped dates recipe is foolproof, fabulous, and flexible. It’s easy to customize, prepare ahead, and pair with countless other dishes.

So what are you waiting for? Grab a pack of bacon, a handful of Medjool dates, and let the party begin. Your guests (and your taste buds) will thank you.

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