Irresistible Bacon Wrapped Dates The Perfect Sweet and Savory Snack
Learn how to make delicious Bacon Wrapped Dates. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted (if your dates have pits, make sure to remove them carefully)
- 10 slices of high-quality bacon, sliced in half (for smaller, more manageable bites)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (for a creamy, tangy filling) — or goat cheese for a sharper flavor
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped almonds or walnuts (for added crunch and texture)
- Optional: 1-2 teaspoons honey or balsamic glaze (for drizzling and extra sweetness)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (for garnish, optional but lovely)
When I first started experimenting with this recipe, I found that the quality of the bacon makes all the difference. I prefer to use thick-cut bacon for that perfect crispy bite. As for the cheese, I love the creaminess it adds, but I’ve also tried goat cheese when I want a bit more tang. If you’re feeling adventurous, a little chopped almond inside each date gives a delightful crunch that balances the soft fruit and crispy bacon. I’ve also learned over the years that these are best served warm, so I always keep that in mind when preparing ahead of time. The beauty of this dish is its flexibility—you can customize the filling and toppings to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. My grandma always emphasized the importance of a well-prepared surface—so I make sure to do the same!
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with chopped nuts if using. I love adding a little honey or balsamic glaze here for a hint of sweetness—just a teaspoon or two. Set aside.
- Make a small slit in each date if they’re not already pitted, and carefully remove the pits. Then, stuff each date with about a teaspoon of the cheese mixture. Don’t overstuff; you want the cheese to stay inside and not spill out during baking.
- Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed. I’ve found that the bacon should overlap slightly to stay in place—this is where my grandma’s patience in the kitchen really shines, making sure each bite is perfectly wrapped.
- Place the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet, arranging them so they aren’t touching. For extra crispiness, I like to brush or spray the bacon lightly with a little olive oil or a drizzle of honey.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bacon is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them; I’ve learned from experience that they can go from perfect to burnt pretty quickly!
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. If desired, drizzle with a little honey or balsamic glaze for added flavor. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for a beautiful presentation.
- Serve warm, and enjoy the compliments! I always make sure to have a few extra on hand because they tend to disappear fast.
Find it online: https://artofeasycooking.com/bacon-wrapped-dates/
