Bacon-Wrapped Dates are a delectable appetizer that perfectly combines the sweet, chewy texture of dates with the salty, crispy goodness of bacon.

This elegant and easy-to-make dish is a crowd-pleaser at parties, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.

The contrast between the caramelized dates and the smoky bacon creates a delightful flavor explosion in every bite. Whether served as an appetizer, a party snack, or even as a unique addition to a charcuterie board, Bacon-Wrapped Dates are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 20 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 10 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 20 whole almonds or walnuts (optional, for stuffing)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
• Toothpicks or skewers, for securing

How to Make:

Prepare the Dates: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If the dates are not already pitted, carefully make a small slit in each date and remove the pit. If desired, you can stuff each date with an almond or walnut for added crunch and flavor.

Wrap the Dates: Take a half-slice of bacon and wrap it around each date, securing it with a toothpick or skewer. Make sure the bacon overlaps slightly to ensure it stays in place during cooking. If you like, you can brush the bacon-wrapped dates with a small amount of maple syrup for an added layer of sweetness.

Bake the Dates: Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This setup allows the excess fat to drain away from the dates and helps the bacon become extra crispy. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and caramelized. You may need to flip the dates halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

Cool and Serve: Once the bacon is crispy and the dates are heated through, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dates cool for a few minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own or as part of a larger appetizer spread.

Chef’s Note: For a twist on this classic recipe, consider stuffing the dates with a small piece of cheese such as blue cheese or goat cheese before wrapping them in bacon. This adds a creamy, tangy element that complements the sweetness of the dates. Additionally, you can sprinkle a bit of freshly ground black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika on the dates before baking for an extra layer of flavor. To ensure that the bacon crisps up perfectly, use thick-cut bacon and avoid overlapping too much.

Nutrition Info: (Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on 1 bacon-wrapped date, assuming 20 dates from the recipe.)

• Calories: 80 per date
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 160mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 6g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 3g

Bacon-Wrapped Dates offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a versatile and irresistible addition to any meal or party. Enjoy their sweet and savory goodness with friends and family!

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