Save to Pinterest Sweet, smoky, and creamy bites featuring dates filled with tangy cream cheese and crunchy walnuts, all wrapped in crisp bacon: a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
These bacon wrapped dates have quickly become a go-to appetizer whenever I am hosting. The first time I made them, guests couldn't believe how simple they were: but everyone went back for seconds.
Ingredients
- Medjool dates: 16, pitted
- Bacon slices: 8, halved crosswise
- Cream cheese: 60 g (about 4 tbsp), softened
- Walnut halves: 32 (about 40 g)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Dates:
- Make a small slit in each date and remove the pit if not already pitted.
- Fill Dates:
- Fill each date with about 1/2 teaspoon cream cheese and insert a walnut half into the center.
- Close Dates:
- Gently press the dates closed.
- Wrap With Bacon:
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Arrange Dates:
- Place the bacon-wrapped dates seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through, until bacon is crisp and golden.
- Serve:
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Save to Pinterest My family asks for these every holiday and it's now our tradition to make them together: everyone helps with stuffing and wrapping the dates.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, small spoon, baking sheet, parchment paper, toothpicks
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese), tree nuts (walnuts), and pork (bacon). Always check package labels for gluten-free certification if needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (2 pieces): 130 calories, 7 g total fat, 14 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein
Save to Pinterest Serve these bites warm or at room temperature for a crowd-pleasing treat: they're always a hit at parties.
Questions & Answers
- → What type of dates work best for this dish?
Medjool dates are ideal due to their large size and natural sweetness, making them perfect for stuffing and holding their shape during cooking.
- → Can I substitute walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, pecans make a good alternative, offering a similar crunch and complementing the creamy filling and smoky bacon.
- → How do I ensure the bacon crisps evenly?
Wrapping dates with halved bacon slices and baking on parchment paper at 200°C (400°F), turning halfway through, helps achieve even crispiness.
- → Is it better to serve these warm or at room temperature?
They can be enjoyed warm to appreciate the crisp bacon and melty cheese or at room temperature for a more mellow flavor experience.
- → Are there seasoning tips to enhance flavor?
Sprinkling smoked paprika or adding a drizzle of honey before baking adds a subtle smoky sweetness that elevates the overall taste.