Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe | Sweet & Savory Appetizer
1. Introduction
Few appetizers combine sweet, salty, and savory in a single bite quite like Bacon-Wrapped Dates. This timeless finger food delivers the perfect balance of flavors: the natural sweetness of dates, the rich, salty crunch of bacon, and the optional creamy or nutty filling that makes them unforgettable.
These little bites are quick to assemble, simple to bake, and always a crowd-pleaser. They’re elegant enough for holiday gatherings, cocktail parties, or fancy dinner starters, yet easy enough for a weeknight snack.
Bacon-wrapped dates can also be customized — stuffed with creamy cheese, crunchy almonds, or even spicy chorizo for a bold twist. With a few ingredients and under 30 minutes, you can create an appetizer that looks gourmet and tastes decadent.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
1. Medjool Dates (20–24 pieces)
Soft, sweet, and naturally chewy. Choose pitted dates to save prep time.
2. Bacon (10–12 slices)
Regular or thick-cut bacon works. Slice each piece in half to wrap individual dates.
3. Filling Options (Optional):
- Cream Cheese or Goat Cheese for a creamy center.
- Whole Almonds or Walnuts for a crunchy surprise.
- Blue Cheese for a tangy, bold flavor.
4. Toothpicks
Secure the bacon around the dates during baking.
5. Optional Glaze:
- Honey or maple syrup drizzle
- Balsamic reduction for a sweet-tart finish
Dietary Substitutions:
- Turkey bacon for a leaner version.
- Vegan dates + plant-based bacon for a dairy-free, meat-free option.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Step 2: Prepare Dates
If dates are not pitted, slice open lengthwise and remove the pit.
Fill each date with your choice of cheese or nut.
Tip: Use a small spoon or piping bag for cream cheese to avoid overfilling.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Cut bacon slices in half. Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
Tip: Wrap bacon seam-side down for a neat appearance and even cooking.
Step 4: Bake
Arrange dates on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through for even crisping. Bacon should be golden and crispy, cheese melted inside.
Step 5: Optional Glaze and Serve
Drizzle with honey, maple syrup, or balsamic reduction.
Serve warm on a platter — perfect as an appetizer or cocktail snack.
4. Tips and Variations
Pro Tips:
- Use toothpicks to keep bacon secure.
- Partially cook bacon first if using thick-cut, so dates don’t overcook while waiting for bacon to crisp.
- Choose soft dates for easier stuffing and baking.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Flavor Variations:
- Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Add a small slice of jalapeño inside.
- Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates: Swap bacon for prosciutto for a milder, salty alternative.
- Cheese Variations: Try blue cheese, feta, or smoked gouda for unique flavor.
- Nutty Twist: Use almonds, pecans, or pistachios as the filling for crunch.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle with a bit of dark chocolate or honey before serving.
5. Serving Suggestions
Serve With:
- Sparkling wine, champagne, or a dry white wine.
- Cocktail parties or appetizer platters alongside olives, cheeses, and crackers.
Garnish Ideas:
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs for visual appeal.
- Drizzle of balsamic reduction for elegance.
- Sprinkle of crushed pistachios for texture and color.
Themed Nights:
- Perfect for holiday appetizers or New Year’s Eve parties.
- Great addition to charcuterie boards or tapas spreads.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage:
- Refrigerate leftover dates in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze if stuffed with cheese; nuts-only versions freeze better.
Reheating:
- Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes until warmed.
- Microwave: 20–30 seconds — cheese will be very hot, so watch carefully.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can be prepped ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Use room temperature cheese for easier stuffing.
- Toothpicks double as handles for serving, making them ideal for parties.
- For extra sweetness, lightly drizzle honey before serving.
8. Nutrition Information (Per 2 Dates)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Sugar | 16 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
| Calcium | 40 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Appetizer / Snack
Cuisine: American / Mediterranean
Servings: 12 (24 dates)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 20–24 Medjool dates, pitted
- 10–12 slices bacon, halved
- Optional fillings: cream cheese, goat cheese, blue cheese, or almonds
- Toothpicks for securing
- Optional glaze: honey, maple syrup, or balsamic reduction
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet.
- Slice dates open and remove pits; stuff with cheese or nuts.
- Wrap each date with bacon half-slice and secure with a toothpick.
- Bake 15–20 minutes until bacon is golden and crispy.
- Drizzle with glaze if desired and serve warm.
🏷️ Diet Tags
- Sweet & Savory
- Party Appetizer
- Gluten-Free Option
- Keto-Friendly Option
🌿 Health Benefits
- Dates provide natural sweetness and fiber.
- Almonds or nuts add protein, healthy fats, and minerals.
- Bacon adds flavor in moderation; choose lean or turkey bacon for a lighter option.
10. FAQs
1. Can I make bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time?
Yes — assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake before serving.
2. Can I freeze them?
Nut-filled dates freeze well; cheese-filled dates are best fresh.
3. What’s the best bacon to use?
Regular or thick-cut bacon works; partially cooking thick slices helps ensure crispness.
4. Can I make them vegetarian?
Yes — use plant-based bacon alternatives and cheese or nut filling.
5. How do I prevent bacon from curling?
Wrap tightly around dates and secure with toothpicks; partially cooking thick bacon helps too.
11. Final Thoughts
Bacon-Wrapped Dates are the ultimate sweet-and-salty appetizer — elegant, easy, and irresistible. With minimal ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a bite-sized delight that looks gourmet and tastes decadent.
Perfect for parties, holidays, or a special snack, these little morsels are sure to disappear quickly. Try different fillings, drizzles, and presentation styles — and let me know your favorite combination in the comments below!