Save 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.
I first made these bacon wrapped dates for our holiday party and they disappeared within minutes. Guests always rave about the mix of flavors: they're a must-have for every get-together.
Ingredients
- Medjool dates: 16, pitted
- Bacon: 8 slices, halved crosswise
- Cream cheese: 60 g (about 4 tbsp), softened
- Walnut halves: 32 (about 40 g)
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Dates:
- Make a small slit in each date: remove pit if not already pitted.
- Stuff Dates:
- Fill each date with about 1/2 teaspoon cream cheese and insert a walnut half into the center.
- Close Dates:
- Gently press dates closed so filling is snug.
- Wrap in Bacon:
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon and secure with toothpick.
- Arrange for Baking:
- Place bacon-wrapped dates seam side down on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through, until bacon is crisp and golden.
- Serve:
- Remove from oven: let cool slightly before serving.
Save A big batch of these always brings my family together: we love preparing them before movie night and sharing stories around the table.
Required Tools
You'll need a sharp knife, small spoon for filling, baking sheet, parchment paper, and toothpicks to hold everything together.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese) and tree nuts (walnuts). Also contains pork (bacon). Gluten-free: but double-check all labels to be certain.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (2 pieces): Calories: 130, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 14 g, Protein: 4 g.
Save Serve these warm right from the oven or at room temperature: either way, they're sure to delight every guest at your table.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of dates is best for this dish?
Medjool dates are preferred for their large size, soft texture, and natural sweetness, making them ideal for stuffing.
- → Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes, pecans or almonds can be substituted for walnuts to add a different crunch and flavor.
- → How do I ensure the bacon crisps properly?
Bake the wrapped dates on a parchment-lined sheet at 200°C (400°F) and turn halfway through cooking for even crisping.
- → Is it necessary to pit the dates before filling?
Yes, removing the pits creates space for the cream cheese and walnuts inside each date.
- → Can these bites be prepared ahead of time?
You can assemble them in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake, but baking fresh ensures crisp bacon texture.