Bacon Wrapped Dates are like little bites of heaven wrapped in savory bliss. Imagine the crispy, smoky goodness of bacon embracing the sweet, chewy decadence of dates. It’s a party for your taste buds that you never knew you needed! The aroma wafts through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around and wonder what culinary magic is happening.
I can still recall the first time I served these at a family gathering. My cousin Dave, who usually insists on sticking to his bland salad, was caught sneaking back for seconds… and thirds. These delightful morsels have a way of bringing people together, making any occasion feel like a celebration. Whether it’s game night or a cozy holiday dinner, Bacon Wrapped Dates elevate the experience and create unforgettable memories.
Why You'll Love This Bacon Wrapped Dates
- This incredible Bacon Wrapped Dates transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I once made these for a potluck, and they disappeared faster than my hopes of winning the trivia contest that evening.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Medjool Dates: Look for plump and soft dates; they’re naturally sweet and perfect for wrapping.
Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for extra crispiness; it holds up better during cooking.
Fresh Rosemary (optional): A sprinkle adds an aromatic touch that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Honey (optional): Drizzling honey before baking enhances sweetness and creates a lovely glaze.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Dates
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any drips from the bacon.
Prepare the Dates: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each date lengthwise to create an opening. Remove the pit gently so you can stuff them later if desired.
Wrap in Bacon: Take a slice of bacon and cut it in half. Wrap each date snugly with half a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
Add Optional Flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle some honey over the wrapped dates and sprinkle fresh rosemary on top before baking them.
Bake Until Crispy: Place your bacon-wrapped creations on the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until crispy. Keep an eye on them because nobody wants burnt bacon!
Serve Warm: Once they’re golden brown and fragrant, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving; they’re best enjoyed warm for maximum gooeyness!
With these simple steps, you’ll create a dish that will have everyone clamoring for more. Each bite delivers that satisfying crunch followed by an explosion of sweet flavor that dances across your palate!
You Must Know About Bacon Wrapped Dates
- This showstopping Bacon Wrapped Dates delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, wrap each date with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the dates are warm and gooey inside. This sequence not only ensures even cooking but allows you to multitask while those delightful bites transform into culinary magic.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Bacon Wrapped Dates by adding cheese, like goat or blue cheese, inside each date before wrapping them in bacon. You can also drizzle balsamic glaze over them after baking for an extra flavor kick. Experimenting with different spices, such as smoked paprika or chili powder, can elevate the dish’s profile while making it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover Bacon Wrapped Dates, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, pop them back into a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving them as it can make the bacon chewy rather than crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Bacon Wrapped Dates
- This professional-quality Bacon Wrapped Dates relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
The first time I served these Bacon Wrapped Dates at a party, my friends devoured them within minutes! Their delighted expressions made me realize just how much joy a simple recipe can bring to gatherings.
FAQ
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for Bacon Wrapped Dates?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since turkey bacon may cook faster than regular pork bacon.
What types of dates work best for this recipe?
Medjool dates are ideal due to their size and sweetness, providing a perfect contrast with salty bacon. However, you can also use Deglet Noor dates if Medjool are unavailable.
Can I prepare Bacon Wrapped Dates ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dates ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just remember to adjust your cooking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
What dipping sauces pair well with Bacon Wrapped Dates?
These delicious bites pair wonderfully with sweet sauces like honey or maple syrup. A tangy balsamic reduction also adds an exciting twist that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Conclusion for Bacon Wrapped Dates
Bacon Wrapped Dates are not just appetizers; they’re tiny flavor bombs that pack joy into every bite! Whether you’re customizing with fillings or experimenting with sauces, they promise an impressive dish that’s easy to master. Remember to prep ahead and serve warm for maximum impact—your guests won’t stop talking about these treats long after they’ve disappeared!
Bacon Wrapped Dates
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Bacon Wrapped Dates are a heavenly combination of sweet and savory, perfect for any gathering. These little bites feature plump Medjool dates enveloped in crispy bacon, creating an irresistible flavor explosion that will leave your guests craving more. Whether served as an appetizer or a party snack, these delightful morsels are sure to impress with their simplicity and deliciousness.
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates (pitted)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon (cut in half)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary (optional, chopped)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice each date lengthwise, removing the pit if necessary.
- Wrap each date snugly with half a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Optional: Drizzle honey and sprinkle rosemary on wrapped dates for added flavor.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the dates are warm and gooey.
- Serve warm to enjoy maximum flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 82
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 295mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
