Bacon Wrapped Dates Recipe: Bacon wrapped dates are that perfect intersection of sweet, salty, and savory that your guests never forget. Whether you’re planning a dinner party, looking for a quick snack, or trying to impress with minimal effort, these bite-sized morsels are always a hit. Think about it: chewy, caramel-like dates hugged by crispy, smoky bacon. It’s like your taste buds are going on a flavor rollercoaster—no exaggeration!
They’re incredibly versatile. You can serve them at holiday gatherings, family dinners, or even casual BBQs. What makes them even more awesome is how fast they disappear from the plate. No fancy ingredients, no complicated prep—just pure indulgence wrapped in simplicity. And let’s be real, anything wrapped in bacon has an unfair advantage in the appetizer world!
A Brief History and Popularity
While the exact origin of bacon wrapped dates isn’t set in stone, this dish has roots in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, where dates are a staple fruit. The idea of stuffing dates with nuts or cheese and wrapping them in meat has evolved over centuries. It gained massive popularity in the Western culinary scene in the mid-20th century and eventually became a cocktail party staple in the form of “Devils on Horseback.”
Today, you’ll find countless variations across restaurants and home kitchens—from high-end tapas bars to casual potlucks. What keeps them trending is their unbeatable flavor combo and the growing love for easy, gourmet-style bites. They’re practically a culinary cheat code.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Choosing the Right Dates
Not all dates are created equal. When it comes to making bacon wrapped dates, Medjool dates are your go-to. Why? They’re big, juicy, and have that soft, almost caramel texture that contrasts perfectly with crispy bacon. Avoid using dried or overly small dates; they won’t give you that melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
Look for dates that are plump and sticky but not too mushy. You want them fresh and firm enough to hold a filling. Make sure they’re pitted—or if they’re not, don’t worry; we’ll walk through that in the prep section.
Best Bacon for Wrapping
Thin-cut bacon is the best choice here. Thick-cut bacon might seem tempting, but it won’t crisp up as nicely without overcooking the dates. Go for regular pork bacon unless you want to experiment with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Pro tip: If you’re concerned about overly greasy bites, partially cook the bacon first before wrapping it around the dates. This gives you that golden balance—crispy outside, gooey inside.
Optional Fillings – Cheese, Nuts & More
This is where things get fun. While bacon and dates alone are heavenly, stuffing the dates takes the recipe to gourmet level. Here are some stuffing ideas:
Cheese Options:
- Goat cheese (tangy and creamy)
- Blue cheese (sharp and bold)
- Cream cheese (mild and smooth)
Nutty Add-Ins:
- Almonds (crunchy)
- Pecans (buttery)
- Walnuts (earthy)
Feel free to mix and match. A date stuffed with goat cheese and a toasted almond? Game changer. The filling you choose can tailor this appetizer to suit sweet, savory, or even spicy cravings.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bacon Wrapped Dates
Step 1 – Prepping the Dates
First things first: remove the pits from the dates if they’re not already pitted. Just slice lengthwise on one side, pop out the pit, and you’re good to go. Be gentle—you want to open the date like a little pocket, not rip it apart.
Once they’re pitted, give them a quick rinse and pat them dry with a paper towel. Excess moisture can mess with the texture, especially if you’re stuffing them.
Step 2 – Adding the Filling
Now comes the fun part. Stuff each date with your choice of filling. If you’re using cheese, a small spoon or piping bag works wonders. For nuts, just press them in gently.
Don’t overfill—the date should still be able to close around the filling. It’s okay if it doesn’t seal perfectly; the bacon will keep everything snug.
Step 3 – Wrapping with Bacon
Take a strip of bacon (cut it in half if it’s too long), and wrap it around each date. You want just enough bacon to go around once with a slight overlap. Don’t double-wrap; it’ll be too thick and won’t cook evenly.
Make sure the seam side of the bacon is at the bottom to prevent it from unraveling in the oven.
Step 4 – Securing with Toothpicks
Stick a toothpick through each bacon-wrapped date to secure it. This not only holds everything together but also makes it easier to flip and serve later.
If you’re making a big batch for a party, toothpicks also double as serving skewers—super handy.
Step 5 – Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to catch any drippings. Place your dates seam-side down and give them a little space so the bacon crisps up properly.
Bake for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when the bacon is golden brown and crispy. Let them cool slightly before serving—they’ll firm up a bit and won’t burn your mouth.
Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Dates
Crisping the Bacon Just Right
Let’s be honest—nobody wants soggy bacon. The trick to nailing crispy bacon without overcooking the dates comes down to balance. As mentioned earlier, consider par-cooking your bacon for about 5 minutes before wrapping. This helps render some of the fat so the bacon crisps up faster in the oven without turning your dates into burnt sugar.
Another useful tip? Use a wire rack on top of your baking tray. This allows the heat to circulate all around and helps the bacon get crispy on all sides. No more flipping halfway if you use this method—just set it and forget it.
Keep a close eye during the final minutes of baking. Bacon goes from crispy to burnt in a matter of seconds. As soon as the fat bubbles and the bacon turns that golden brown hue, yank them out and let them rest.
Flavor Enhancements & Variations
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, it’s time to experiment. Want to add some spice? Sprinkle chili flakes or brush the bacon with a little hot honey before baking. Feeling fancy? Drizzle with balsamic glaze or maple syrup for that sweet-and-savory twist.
Here are some flavor combos to try:
- Sweet & Creamy: Stuff with cream cheese, drizzle with honey.
- Spicy & Nutty: Add a jalapeño slice and almond inside.
- Gourmet Vibes: Goat cheese filling with a balsamic reduction glaze.
- BBQ Lovers: Brush with BBQ sauce before baking for smoky, tangy bites.
The possibilities are endless—and once you get the hang of it, you’ll be coming up with your own signature spin in no time.
Serving Suggestions
Best Dips & Sauces
Sure, bacon wrapped dates are mouthwatering on their own—but pair them with a sauce, and they become irresistible. Here are some dipping options that seriously level up the experience:
- Spicy Aioli – A creamy, garlicky dip with a kick.
- Balsamic Glaze – Adds a rich tang that cuts through the sweetness.
- Honey Mustard – Balances out the saltiness of bacon beautifully.
- Herbed Yogurt Dip – Cool and refreshing, perfect for a summer party.
Put the dips in small ramekins, arrange the dates around them, and you’ve got yourself a party platter that people will fight over (politely, we hope).
When & How to Serve
These are party favorites, but don’t limit them to just events. They work great as:
- Starters for a dinner party
- Game day snacks
- Holiday appetizers
- Brunch treats
Serve them warm for best results. If they’ve cooled off, just pop them back in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes. Keep a batch warm in a slow cooker on low if you’re serving buffet-style.
Garnish with a little fresh parsley or chives for that final touch of flair. A pretty plate goes a long way in making food feel special, even if it’s just bacon wrapped dates!
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Keeping Them Crispy
Leftovers? Rare, but possible—especially if you made a big batch. The good news? Bacon wrapped dates store surprisingly well and taste almost as good reheated (sometimes better!).
To Store:
- Let them cool completely.
- Place in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
To Reheat:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place the dates on a baking sheet (use a rack if possible).
- Heat for 8–10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Avoid the microwave if you can—it’ll make the bacon rubbery and chewy. The oven keeps everything tasting fresh and crispy.
FAQs about Bacon Wrapped Dates Recipe
1. Can I make bacon wrapped dates ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep them a day in advance and store them uncooked in the fridge. Bake them just before serving for best results.
2. What are the best fillings for bacon wrapped dates?
Goat cheese, blue cheese, cream cheese, almonds, and pecans are all popular choices. You can even combine cheese and nuts for a gourmet twist.
3. Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Absolutely. Just be aware that turkey bacon is leaner and may cook differently. Keep an eye on the oven to avoid overcooking.
4. Are bacon wrapped dates gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your bacon and filling are gluten-free. Always check product labels if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.
5. How do I prevent the bacon from falling off?
Secure each date with a toothpick and make sure the seam of the bacon is on the bottom. Baking seam-side down helps it stay intact.
Conclusion
Bacon wrapped dates aren’t just appetizers—they’re little bites of joy. Sweet, salty, chewy, and crispy all in one mouthful, they check every box for the perfect party snack. And with a recipe this simple and adaptable, anyone can whip them up and feel like a kitchen rockstar.
Whether you’re cooking for friends, prepping for the holidays, or just treating yourself to a well-deserved snack, this recipe delivers every time. So grab some dates, wrap them in bacon, and get ready to impress—because once you serve these, there’s no going back to boring old appetizers.
