Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe

Dates: Sweet fruits from the date palm tree, often found in the dried fruit section of the supermarket.

Bacon: Salty, cured pork slices that will be wrapped around the dates. Make sure to choose slices that can be easily halved.

To ensure the bacon cooks evenly and crisps up perfectly, consider partially cooking the bacon slices in a skillet for a few minutes before wrapping them around the dates. This will help render some of the fat and give you a head start on achieving that ideal crispy texture.

• dates - Substitute with dried figs: Dried figs have a similar sweetness and texture, making them a great alternative to dates.

• dates - Substitute with prunes: Prunes offer a similar chewy texture and sweet flavor, which works well in this recipe.

• bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto is a thinner, less fatty option that still provides a savory, salty flavor.

• bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative that still gives a similar smoky taste.

• bacon - Substitute with tempeh bacon: For a vegetarian option, tempeh bacon offers a smoky flavor and crispy texture.

• Allow the bacon-wrapped dates to cool completely before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the bacon soggy.
• Place the cooled dates in an airtight container. If stacking them, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Arrange the dates in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the dates to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 1 month.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dates on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy again.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, though this may not retain the crispiness as well as the oven method.
• If you prefer, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for a quick and crispy result.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and the bacon is crispy again.
  4. Let them cool slightly before serving.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
  3. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, checking to ensure they are heated through.
  4. Allow to cool slightly before enjoying.

• Skillet Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the bacon-wrapped dates to the skillet.
  3. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bacon is crispy and the dates are warmed through.
  4. Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly before serving.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the bacon-wrapped dates in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the dates are heated through.
  4. Let them cool slightly before serving.

• Oven: Used to bake the bacon-wrapped dates at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C).

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the bacon-wrapped dates on for baking.

• Toothpicks: Used to secure the bacon around each date, ensuring it stays in place during baking.

• Tongs: Handy for turning the dates while baking and for removing them from the baking sheet.

• Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper can help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

• Cooling rack: Allows the bacon-wrapped dates to cool slightly after baking, ensuring they are not too hot to serve.

• Knife: Used to cut the bacon slices in half.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to cut the bacon slices.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the dates and bacon to save time.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Batch wrapping: Wrap all the dates with bacon at once before securing them with toothpicks to streamline the process.

Check for crispiness: Set a timer for 15 minutes and check the bacon for desired crispiness to avoid overcooking.

Cool on a rack: Let the bacon-wrapped dates cool on a wire rack to maintain crispiness and speed up cooling.