Bacon wrapped dates are the kind of appetizer that makes people pause mid-conversation and say, “What is this? It’s amazing.” They’re bite-sized, easy to make, and deliver a perfect mix of sweet, smoky, and salty. You don’t need fancy ingredients or a lot of prep time.
Just good dates, crisp bacon, and a few simple add-ins if you want to take them up a notch. Serve them at a holiday party, game night, or as a quick treat for yourself, and watch them disappear.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe leans on contrast: soft, caramel-like dates wrapped in salty, crispy bacon. The natural sugars in the dates caramelize in the oven, while the bacon renders and crisps, creating a texture that’s rich and satisfying.
A small amount of stuffing—like goat cheese or almonds—adds creaminess or crunch without complicating the process. The steps are simple, and the results are consistent, even for beginners. Best of all, you can prep ahead and bake right before guests arrive.
What You’ll Need
- Medjool dates (16–20) – Large, soft, and chewy; easier to stuff and wrap.
- Bacon (8–10 slices) – Use regular-cut, not thick-cut, for better crisping and easier wrapping.
- Optional fillings:
- Goat cheese or cream cheese (about 4 oz)
- Whole almonds or pecans (16–20 nuts)
- Blue cheese (2–3 oz) for a bold, tangy option
- Optional glaze:
- Maple syrup or honey (1–2 tablespoons)
- Smoked paprika or chili flakes (a pinch) for subtle heat
- Toothpicks – Helpful for securing the bacon.
- Baking sheet – Lined with parchment or a wire rack for even crisping.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top for better airflow and crisping.
- Prep the dates: If the dates aren’t pitted, make a small slit lengthwise and remove the pit. Keep the slit small so the dates hold their shape when stuffed.
- Choose your filling (optional): For creamy fillings like goat cheese, use about 1 teaspoon per date. For nuts, tuck one whole almond or pecan inside.
Don’t overfill; you want the date to close without bursting.
- Slice the bacon: Cut each slice of bacon in half crosswise. This size wraps neatly around most dates without overlapping too much.
- Wrap the dates: Wrap each date with a half-slice of bacon, seam-side down. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add a light glaze (optional): Brush with a small amount of maple syrup or honey. Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes if you like gentle heat.
- Bake: Bake for 16–22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and deep golden brown. Thicker bacon may take a couple of extra minutes.
- Rest briefly: Let the dates sit for 3–5 minutes after baking.
This helps the bacon set and keeps the filling from oozing out.
- Serve warm: Arrange on a platter and serve with napkins. These are best warm, but still delicious at room temperature.
How to Store
- Refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to crisp the bacon. Avoid microwaving if you can—it softens the bacon.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked, wrapped dates on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
- Make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, then bake right before serving.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor: You get a big payoff without a long shopping list.
- Easy to scale: Double or triple the recipe for parties. It’s just as easy to make 40 as it is 20.
- Flexible fillings: Choose creamy or crunchy based on your crowd. Both versions keep well.
- Gluten-free by default: Naturally friendly for guests avoiding gluten (just check bacon labels).
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble ahead and bake when you need them—stress-free entertaining.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using thick-cut bacon: It takes longer to cook and can leave the dates overdone before the bacon crisps.
- Overfilling the dates: Too much cheese leads to leaks and mess on the baking sheet.
- Skipping the rack: If you have a wire rack, use it.
It prevents soggy bottoms by letting fat drain away.
- Not turning them: Rotate halfway through so the bacon crisps evenly on all sides.
- Serving too hot: Let them rest a few minutes. The flavors settle, and you won’t burn your mouth.
Alternatives
- Cheese swaps: Try blue cheese for a sharp bite, or mascarpone for extra creaminess.
- Nutty crunch: Almonds and pecans are classics, but hazelnuts add a toasty note that pairs well with bacon.
- Heat lovers: Add a slice of fresh jalapeño inside the date or dust with chili powder.
- Herb accents: Mix chopped rosemary or thyme into goat cheese for a savory twist.
- Glaze ideas: Brush with a little balsamic reduction or hot honey during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Turkey bacon option: Use turkey bacon and reduce the baking time slightly; crispness will be lighter but still tasty.
- No-bake variation: For a quick snack, skip the bacon and stuff dates with almond butter and a pinch of sea salt.
FAQ
What kind of dates work best?
Medjool dates are best. They’re larger, softer, and easier to pit and stuff.
Deglet Noor dates are smaller and can work in a pinch but won’t be as tender.
Do I have to use toothpicks?
Not always. If you place the bacon seam-side down, it often stays put. Toothpicks help with stuffed dates or if your bacon is slippery from glaze.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes.
Assemble up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving so the bacon is freshly crisp.
How do I keep the bacon crispy?
Use regular-cut bacon, bake on a wire rack if possible, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Reheat in the oven, not the microwave.
What’s the best cheese to use inside?
Goat cheese is the most popular because it’s tangy and creamy.
Blue cheese gives a stronger punch, while cream cheese is mild and smooth.
Can I make them less sweet?
Use smaller dates, skip any sweet glaze, and choose a salty filling like blue cheese or a roasted almond. A pinch of smoked paprika also balances the sweetness.
How many should I plan per person?
Plan on 3–4 per person for appetizers, more if it’s the main snack. They go fast, especially warm from the oven.
What can I serve with them?
They pair well with bubbly drinks, crisp white wine, or a citrusy mocktail.
On a platter, add olives, marinated peppers, and a simple arugula salad.
Do I need to soak the toothpicks?
It’s optional. Baking at 400°F typically won’t burn them, but soaking for 10 minutes can help if you’re worried.
Can I air fry them?
Yes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–14 minutes, turning once.
Check early, as air fryers vary and cook quickly.
Final Thoughts
Bacon wrapped dates deliver a lot with very little effort. They’re elegant enough for holidays and easy enough for weeknights. With a few simple tweaks—cheese, nuts, heat, or a light glaze—you can tailor them to any crowd.
Keep a pack of bacon and a box of dates on hand, and you’ll always have a go-to appetizer ready to impress.
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