Bacon Wrapped Dates

Bacon wrapped dates are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors. Often called “Devils on Horseback,” these bite-sized treats feature chewy, caramel-like Medjool dates encased in a crispy, smoky layer of bacon. They are incredibly simple to prepare yet always manage to impress guests at dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or game-day celebrations.

The beauty of this recipe lies in the contrast of textures and tastes. When baked, the dates soften into a sweet paste while the bacon renders its fat to become perfectly crunchy. Whether you serve them plain or stuffed with cheese and nuts, they are guaranteed to disappear from the serving platter in minutes. Let’s look at how to make this classic appetizer at home with minimal effort.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 24 pieces
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 110 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 160mg

Why Make This Bacon Wrapped Dates

You should make bacon wrapped dates because they offer a sophisticated flavor profile with only a handful of ingredients. They are the perfect solution for busy hosts who want a high-impact snack without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of the natural sugars in the dates and the savory notes of the bacon creates a “umami” bomb that appeals to almost everyone.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily prep them a day in advance and pop them in the oven right before your guests arrive. They also accommodate various dietary preferences easily; you can use turkey bacon for those who don’t eat pork or stuff them with different fillings to keep the recipe fresh and exciting every time you serve it.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Dates

Making this appetizer is a straightforward process of assembly and baking. By following these simple steps, you will achieve a perfect balance of a soft interior and a crispy exterior every single time.

Ingredients

• 24 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 12 slices of thin-cut bacon (cut in half crosswise)
• 24 whole almonds or 4 ounces of goat cheese (optional for stuffing)
• 24 wooden toothpicks
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional for glazing)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack set over a tray. This ensures the bacon gets crispy on all sides and makes cleanup much easier.

Step 2: Pit and Stuff the Dates

If your dates are not already pitted, make a small lengthwise slit in each date and remove the pit. If you are using stuffing, place one whole almond or a small teaspoon of goat cheese into the cavity of each date. Press the date closed to secure the filling.

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon

Take one half-slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around the center of a date. Overlap the ends of the bacon slightly to ensure it stays in place during the cooking process.

Step 4: Secure with Toothpicks

Push a wooden toothpick through the point where the bacon ends overlap, going all the way through the date. This holds the bacon tight as it shrinks during baking. Place the wrapped dates on your prepared baking sheet, spaced about an inch apart.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, use tongs to turn the dates over so the bacon browns evenly. If you want an extra touch of sweetness, brush them with a little maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Drain and Cool

Remove the tray from the oven. Transfer the dates to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess bacon grease. Let them cool for at least 5 minutes before serving, as the sugar in the dates becomes very hot.

How to Serve Bacon Wrapped Dates

Serve these dates warm to ensure the bacon stays crispy and the center remains soft. They look beautiful arranged on a wooden serving board or a white ceramic platter. For an elegant touch, drizzle them with a bit of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. They pair exceptionally well with a glass of dry sparkling wine or a bold red wine, which cuts through the richness of the bacon.

How to Store Bacon Wrapped Dates

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, avoid the microwave as it will make the bacon chewy. Instead, place them back in a 350°F oven or an air fryer for 5 minutes until the bacon crisps up again and the centers are warmed through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Dates

First, always use thin-cut bacon. Thick-cut bacon takes too long to render and may leave the dates overcooked before the bacon is crispy. Second, Medjool dates are the best variety to use because they are larger, sweeter, and more “meaty” than other types. Finally, if you are using wooden toothpicks, soak them in water for 15 minutes before assembly to prevent them from burning in the hot oven.

Delicious Variations

For a spicy kick, tuck a small slice of fresh jalapeño inside the date along with the cheese. If you prefer a salty-sweet-creamy mix, try stuffing the dates with blue cheese and topping them with crushed walnuts after baking. You can also wrap them in prosciutto instead of bacon for a different texture, though prosciutto will cook much faster, so keep a close eye on the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dates, wrap them in bacon, and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you are ready to serve.

Q: Do I have to use Medjool dates?

While Medjool dates are preferred for their size and texture, you can use Deglet Noor dates. However, they are smaller and firmer, so you may need to adjust the bacon size and baking time.

Q: Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Absolutely. Air fry them at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. They come out extremely crispy this way!

Q: My bacon is falling off, what did I do wrong?

Make sure the bacon is wrapped tightly and the toothpick goes through both ends of the bacon strip and the center of the date to lock everything together.

Q: Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your bacon is certified gluten-free, this appetizer is naturally gluten-free. Always check the labels on processed meats to be sure.

Conclusion

Bacon wrapped dates are a timeless appetizer that strikes the perfect chord between simple preparation and complex flavor. Whether you keep them basic or get creative with stuffings like goat cheese or almonds, they are always a hit. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering, and watch how quickly these sweet and salty morsels become the star of the show!

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