Bacon Wrapped Dates are one of those bites that stop people mid-conversation. You get a chewy, caramel-sweet Medjool date wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon, and somehow the whole thing just works. It’s the kind of appetizer that disappears off the platter before you’ve even set it down.
What makes these so worth making is that sweet-salty contrast. The richness of the bacon cuts right through the sticky sweetness of the date, and if you stuff them with a bit of cream cheese or an almond, you get another layer of texture that makes every bite interesting. They’re elegant enough for a holiday party but easy enough to throw together for game day. Three ingredients, one pan, and you’ve got something people will ask about all night.
Helpful Tips
- Use Medjool dates: They’re larger, softer, and much more flavorful than regular dates. Don’t substitute if you can help it.
- Partially cook the bacon first: A quick 5 minutes in the oven or on the stovetop before wrapping keeps the bacon from being underdone by the time the dates are warmed through.
- Stuff them for extra depth: A small piece of cream cheese or a whole almond pushed into the center before wrapping takes these from great to unforgettable.
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Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Ingredients
- 20 Medjool dates pitted
- 10 slices bacon cut in half
Instructions
- If they aren’t already pitted, slice one side and remove the pit. Keep the opening small so they hold their shape.
- Wrap each date with a half slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each piece.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–25 minutes, turning once, until the bacon is crisp and caramelized.
- Let cool slightly before serving. The sugar in the dates gets very hot.
Equipment Needed
- 20 toothpicks
Nutrition
Laura is a home cook, with 25 years experience behind the stove, who spends an extraordinary amount of time in the kitchen cooking. She loves making new recipes and finding wonderful new things to eat, both at home or abroad. She spends a lot of time researching, crafting, and perfecting her recipes.