Imagine a bite-sized delicacy that combines the sweet richness of Medjool dates, the creamy decadence of seasoned cream cheese, and the crispy, savory allure of perfectly cooked bacon. These Bacon Wrapped Dates are not just an appetizer - they're a flavor explosion that will transform any gathering from ordinary to extraordinary! Whether you're hosting a fancy cocktail party or just craving a mouthwatering snack, this recipe is guaranteed to become your new secret weapon in the culinary world.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 12 large Medjool dates
- 6 slices of bacon
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the bacon will cook evenly and become crispy while the dates warm up.
- Prepare the ingredients by pitting the Medjool dates if they are not already pitted. To do this, make a small slit along one side of each date and remove the pit carefully.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cream cheese.
- Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill each pitted date with the cream cheese mixture. Be generous but ensure that the filling does not overflow.
- Cut each slice of bacon in half, creating two shorter strips. This will allow you to wrap each date more easily.
- Take one filled date and wrap it with a half slice of bacon, securing it by tucking the end of the bacon underneath the date. Repeat this process for all the dates.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. You may want to flip the dates halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
- Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bacon-wrapped dates cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or party snack, and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet dates, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon!
Tips
- Choose high-quality Medjool dates for the best texture and sweetness.
- Use thick-cut bacon for optimal crispiness and better wrapping.
- Make sure to thoroughly remove date pits to prevent any unexpected crunch.
- Don't overfill the dates with cream cheese to prevent leaking during baking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped herbs like thyme or chives to the cream cheese mixture.
- Use parchment paper to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.
- Watch the bacon carefully during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning.
- Let the dates rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to set.
- These can be prepared in advance and quickly baked just before serving.
- Experiment with different spices in the cream cheese for unique flavor variations.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
