These bacon wrapped dates are insanely addictive! They only require 2 ingredients and take just about 5 minutes to prepare, but they’re one of the best ever appetizers. Crispy, salty bacon wrapped around soft, sweet dates? It doesn’t get any better.
Why these bacon wrapped dates are so good!
- They’re super simple! You only need 2 ingredients and a handful of toothpicks!
- They are packed full of flavor! The crispy, salty bacon pairs so perfectly with soft, sweet dates.
- They are perfect finger food! They’re oh so easy to pop into your mouth and make the perfect appetizer.
- You can use sugar-free bacon to make this appetizer Whole30 or paleo.
How to make bacon wrapped dates – step by step
Heat oven to 425 degrees Place a wire rack over a baking sheet. Arrange the bacon slices, cut into thirds, evenly over the wire rack.
Bake 10 minutes, or until the bacon has rendered some of its fat but is still floppy. Remove from oven and let cool slightly or until easily handled.
Wrap each date in a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick skewering all the way through both ends, through the bacon. Place them on the wire rack.
Bake 10 minutes or until bacon is a rich, orangey-red and firm. Remove from oven and let cool a few minutes before serving.
What are the best dates to use?
You can use any type of date. I prefer Deglet Noor for a better bacon-to-date ratio, and they’re often already pitted. But Medjool are delicious and rich, too, with a softer, more substantial flesh. Both will be delicious!
Can you make bacon wrapped dates ahead of time?
This appetizer is best served warm out of the oven, so if you don’t plan on serving them straight away, you can prep them ahead of time. Wrap the dates in the bacon and secure with the cocktail sticks. Place them, covered, in the fridge and then cook them when you are ready. The dates can be kept it the fridge prepped for up to one day. Cooking time may increase by 5 minutes as they will be chilled.
Are bacon wrapped dates a healthy appetizer?
Because the dates don’t need to be wrapped in much bacon, they are surprisingly not an unhealthy choice of appetizer. Each one comes in at around 50 calories and is low in fat, sodium and carbs. Choose all-natural bacon for a healthier appetizer!
Better yet, they’re made with real food and just two ingredients: dates and bacon.
You probably don’t want to eat all eighteen by yourself, but a few definitely won’t hurt!
Top tips for making bacon wrapped dates
- For paleo or Whole30, use sugar-free bacon. Make sure your bacon is Whole30-compliant if you’re on a round.
- You only need a third of a strip of bacon, don’t over do it or it won’t cook through.
- Cook them in a pre heated oven for the best results.
For more easy appetizers, check out these recipes!
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Bacon Wrapped Dates
These bacon wrapped dates are insanely addictive! They only require 2 ingredients and take just about 5 minutes to prepare, but they're one of the best ever appetizers.
Ingredients
- 18 dates, pitted See Note
- 6 slices bacon, cut into equal thirds See Note
Instructions
- Heat oven to 425 degrees Place a wire rack over a baking sheet. Arrange the bacon slices, cut into thirds, evenly over the wire rack.
- Bake 10 minutes, or until the bacon has rendered some of its fat but is still floppy. Remove from oven and let cool slightly or until easily handled.
- Wrap each date in a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick skewering all the way through both ends, through the bacon. Place all bacon-wrapped dates on the wire rack.
- Bake 10 minutes or until bacon is a rich, orangey-red and firm. Remove from oven and let cool a few minutes before serving.
Recipe Notes
You can use any type of date. I prefer Deglet Noor for a better bacon-to-date ratio, and they’re often already pitted. But Medjool are delicious and rich, too, with a softer, more substantial flesh.
For paleo or Whole30, use sugar-free bacon. Make sure your bacon is Whole30-compliant if you’re on a round.
I basically just cook from your website. I cannot believe the things my kids will eat when I make them from your blog!! Some of my very fave meals are from here! Thanks so much for your work!!
I need these in my life . . mom used to make a similar appetizer, but I’m thinking 3 or 4 or 5 would be so excellent on a salad with blue cheese!
Yesss, that sounds amazing!
Oh yum! Dates and bacon make a perfect combination of sweet and savory in one bite.
We agree, Linda!
I’ve eaten bacon wrapped dates but never made my own. I’m so glad you posted this! I will definitely be trying this.
Yay! Let us know how it goes. 🙂
Bacon wrapped dates works every time! Love your simple to follow recipe!
Thank you!
My absolute fave! Love how easy they are to make. I could easily eat all of them!
Thank you!