What To Know
- Bake for 15-20 minutes in the oven or air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked through and crispy.
- Cook the bacon-wrapped dates in a sous vide bath at 140°F (60°C) for 2 hours, or until the bacon is tender and juicy.
- Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for a new recipe, bacon-wrapped dates are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Bacon-wrapped dates are a delectable appetizer that combines the irresistible flavors of bacon and sweet dates. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a romantic dinner, or simply craving a satisfying snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to bacon wrapped dates, ensuring that you create perfectly cooked, mouthwatering appetizers every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 large Medjool dates
- 12 slices of thin-cut bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dates: Remove the pits from the Medjool dates by carefully slicing them open along one side and using a small spoon to scoop out the pit.
2. Season the Dates: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stuff the dates with the spice mixture, pressing it in firmly.
3. Wrap the Dates with Bacon: Wrap each stuffed date with a slice of bacon, tucking in the ends to secure.
4. Brush with Olive Oil: Drizzle the bacon-wrapped dates lightly with olive oil. This will help the bacon crisp up and prevent it from burning.
5. Bake or Air Fry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet or air fryer basket.
6. Cook: Bake for 15-20 minutes in the oven or air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked through and crispy.
7. Serve: Remove the bacon-wrapped dates from the oven or air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Tips for Success
- Choose ripe Medjool dates: Ripe dates are softer and more flavorful, making them ideal for wrapping with bacon.
- Use thin-cut bacon: Thin-cut bacon will cook more evenly and faster than thick-cut bacon.
- Season the dates sparingly: Too much spice can overwhelm the natural sweetness of the dates.
- Don’t overcook the bacon: Overcooked bacon will become tough and chewy.
- Let the dates cool slightly before serving: This will prevent the bacon from falling off the dates.
Variations
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Honey Glazed: Brush the bacon-wrapped dates with honey before baking for a sticky, caramelized glaze.
- Stuffed with Goat Cheese: Stuff the dates with a small dollop of goat cheese before wrapping them with bacon.
- Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Grill the bacon-wrapped dates over medium heat for a smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- As an appetizer: Serve bacon-wrapped dates as a savory appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- With a cheese platter: Pair bacon-wrapped dates with a variety of cheeses for a decadent snack.
- As a dessert: Serve bacon-wrapped dates with ice cream or whipped cream for a sweet and salty dessert.
Alternative Cooking Methods
- Microwave: Microwave the bacon-wrapped dates on high for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the bacon is cooked through.
- Sous Vide: Cook the bacon-wrapped dates in a sous vide bath at 140°F (60°C) for 2 hours, or until the bacon is tender and juicy.
Wrapping It Up
Creating perfectly cooked bacon-wrapped dates is an easy and rewarding culinary experience. By following the step-by-step instructions and experimenting with different variations, you can impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings with this delicious and versatile appetizer. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for a new recipe, bacon-wrapped dates are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of dates?
A: Yes, you can use other types of dates, such as Deglet Noor or Halawy dates, but Medjool dates are the most commonly used due to their large size and soft texture.
Q: How do I prevent the bacon from burning?
A: Drizzle the bacon-wrapped dates lightly with olive oil before baking or air frying. This will help the bacon crisp up and prevent it from burning.
Q: Can I make bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in the oven or air fryer until warmed through.
Q: What are some other ways to serve bacon-wrapped dates?
A: In addition to serving bacon-wrapped dates as an appetizer, you can also wrap them in puff pastry or phyllo dough for a more elaborate presentation.
Q: Can I use a different type of bacon?
A: Yes, you can use any type of bacon you like, such as thick-cut bacon or turkey bacon. However, thin-cut bacon is recommended for this recipe as it will cook more evenly and faster.
