Bacon Wrapped Dates
Sweet pitted dates filled with crunchy sliced almonds and wrapped in crispy bacon create a savory-sweet treat perfect for parties or appetizers. The combination of smoky bacon, nutty almonds, and sweet dates appeals to a wide range of palates and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Insert 2 slices of sliced almonds into each pitted date.
- Wrap each stuffed date with 1/3 slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the bacon is cooked and crispy, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor twist, consider using different nut varieties like walnuts or pecans instead of almonds. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used as a shortcut. Just ensure it crisps up nicely in the oven. To enhance sweetness, you might also try drizzling a bit of honey over the dates before baking. These bacon-wrapped dates are a great addition to any party, similar to Bacon Rollups.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful bites as an appetizer at your next gathering or alongside a Spinach And Mushroom Salad for a balanced meal. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, such as a spicy aioli or balsamic glaze. You can also add them to a charcuterie board for a savory touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bacon-wrapped dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bacon soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Wrapped Dates contains roughly 1358 calories, with 28g protein, 241g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (119% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and potassium (55% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 33g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time by assembling them and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake them fresh right before serving to ensure the bacon remains crispy and delicious.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a bacon alternative, turkey bacon or prosciutto can be used, but be mindful that cooking times may vary. For a vegetarian option, consider wrapping dates in smoked tofu or using a plant-based bacon substitute that crisps well in the oven.
Are there any variations I can try with the filling?
Absolutely! You can fill the dates with cheese like goat cheese or blue cheese for a creamy texture, or even add herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory kick. Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits to customize the flavor to your liking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).