Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Sweet, salty, and smoky bacon-wrapped dates that caramelize perfectly and make an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings (3 dates per serving)
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Medjool dates, pitted (choose plump, soft ones for best results)
- Soft goat cheese or cream cheese (optional, for stuffing)
- Bacon slices (preferably thin-cut)
- Toothpicks (for securing the bacon)
- Freshly ground black pepper (a pinch)
- Smoked paprika or chili powder (optional)
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional garnish)
- Maple syrup or honey (optional drizzle)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top.
- If dates aren’t pitted, slice each date lengthwise on one side and remove the pit. Pat dry with a paper towel if sticky.
- Optional: Stuff each date with about 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of goat cheese or cream cheese.
- Cut bacon slices in half crosswise to strips about 3–4 inches (7–10 cm) long.
- Wrap each date with a half slice of bacon, covering the cheese if used. Secure with a toothpick.
- Arrange wrapped dates on the baking sheet or wire rack, spacing about 1 inch apart.
- Lightly season with black pepper and sprinkle smoked paprika or chili powder if desired.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, checking around 15 minutes to prevent burning; rotate pan if needed. Bacon should be crisp and golden, dates soft and caramelized.
- Optional: Drizzle a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey over hot dates for extra sweetness and gloss.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary before serving.
Notes
Use thin-cut bacon for easier wrapping and crispier results. If using thick-cut bacon, lower oven temperature to 375°F and extend baking time. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even crisping. Dates can be stuffed with cheese, nuts, or nut butter for variation. Reheat leftovers in oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery bacon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 bacon-wrapped date
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 11
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Fiber: 1.5
- Protein: 7
Keywords: bacon-wrapped dates, appetizer, party food, easy appetizers, sweet and savory, bacon recipes, Medjool dates