Certainly! Bacon-wrapped dates are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that combines the sweetness of dates with the savory goodness of bacon. Here’s a simple recipe for you:
Ingredients:
- Medjool dates (pitted)
- Bacon slices (cut in half)
- Almonds (optional, for stuffing)
- Toothpicks
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Dates: If your dates are not pitted, carefully make a small slit in each date and remove the pit. If you’re using almonds, stuff each date with one almond.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take a half-slice of bacon and wrap it around each date, securing it with a toothpick. If you’re using stuffed dates, make sure the bacon covers the opening.
- Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Make sure to leave some space between each date to allow for even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon becomes crispy. You can also broil for a couple of minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
- Serve: Once done, remove the toothpicks and let them cool slightly before serving. The sweet and savory combination is delicious!
Optional Variations:
- Cheese-Stuffed Dates: Insert a small piece of cheese (like goat cheese or blue cheese) along with an almond before wrapping with bacon.
- Maple Glaze: Brush the bacon-wrapped dates with a mixture of maple syrup and a dash of cayenne pepper before baking for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Balsamic Reduction Drizzle: Drizzle the finished bacon-wrapped dates with a balsamic reduction for an extra layer of flavor.
Enjoy your tasty bacon-wrapped dates! They make for a fantastic appetizer for parties or a delightful snack.
