Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Almonds

These bacon&wrapped dates are my favorite way to kick off a dinner party creamy roasted almonds surrounded by sweet fruit, all wrapped in salty crisp bacon with each bite you get everything sweet juicy nutty savory and just a hint of caramelized richness They are so quick to put together and make any gathering feel extra festive trust me your guests will keep reaching for more

I first whipped these up for a game night not expecting much and now every friend who tries one demands the recipe before the night ends

Ingredients

• Medjool dates: Choose large soft dates for their sweet and caramelly flavor Medjool variety is best for easy stuffing and rich taste
• Roasted almonds: Opt for whole roasted unsalted almonds This adds crunch and offsets the sweet and fatty flavors make sure they are fresh not stale
• Bacon: Use thin cut bacon for faster crisping and easier wrapping Look for bacon with a balance of fat and lean for the best texture
• Honey (Optional): Choose good quality honey like wildflower or orange blossom for delicate floral notes
• Freshly ground black pepper (Optional): Just a touch highlights the smoky and sweet balance use a pepper mill for fresher taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Start by setting your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit two hundred degrees Celsius Allow enough time for it to heat evenly meanwhile line your baking sheet with a layer of parchment paper or foil This step makes cleanup a breeze and helps prevent sticking

Prepare the Dates:

With a small sharp knife carefully make a slit down the length of each date Remove the pit if your dates are not pre pitted Gently insert a single roasted almond into the center then press the date back together to seal The almond should be tucked in completely for the best bite

Wrap with Bacon:

Take each strip of bacon cut in half so you have sixteen shorter pieces Lay a stuffed date at the end of each bacon strip and roll it up so the seam is underneath For extra security you can insert a toothpick through the middle This keeps everything in place during baking and makes them easier to serve later

Arrange and Bake:

Place each bacon wrapped date seam side down on the lined baking sheet Space them out so they are not touching which allows heat to circulate After placing all dates transfer the baking sheet to the oven Bake for eighteen to twenty minutes flipping halfway through to evenly crisp the bacon Remove when the bacon is rich golden brown and the edges begin to caramelize

Add Finishing Touches:

Once out of the oven let them rest for about five minutes for the bacon to firm up While still warm drizzle with honey if desired and add a light sprinkle of black pepper Serve the bites warm or at room temperature

Save

My favorite part is watching everyone’s face light up with that first bite I always sneak one off the sheet while they are still hot for the freshest crispy bacon and oozing honey A favorite moment was making these side by side with my dad for New Year’s Eve we could not stop taste testing

Storage tips

Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator covered tightly for up to three days When ready to serve again reheat in a hot oven for five to seven minutes to re crisp the bacon Do not microwave or the bacon will soften

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap out almonds for pecans walnuts or pistachios Prefer cheese Try soft goat cheese or blue cheese in place of nuts Switch up the bacon with turkey bacon or prosciutto for a lighter or more nuanced flavor

Serving suggestions

Pile them high on a platter with picks for easy grabbing They work beautifully alongside a cheese board sparkling wine or a dry sherry Serve warm for melty bacon or let cool slightly for neater bites

Cultural and historical context

Bacon wrapped dates known as devils on horseback have graced tables since Victorian England Their origins are a playful blend of sweet dates and savory pork a classic pairing from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines Modern versions now add cheese or different nuts for creative spins

Save

These sweet and savory bites are always the first to vanish at any party Make a double batch if you want leftovers they taste just as great the next day

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different filling instead of almonds?

Yes, goat cheese or blue cheese create a creamy contrast to the sweet dates and smoky bacon.

→ How can I keep the bacon secure while baking?

Use toothpicks to hold the bacon in place around each date for even cooking and easy serving.

→ What is the best way to serve these bites?

Serve them slightly warm or at room temperature to best enjoy the texture and flavor.

→ Can I make bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate in advance. Bake just before serving for the crispiest bacon.

→ Which beverages pair well with this appetizer?

Sparkling wine or dry sherry complement the sweet and salty flavors beautifully.

→ Are there any allergy concerns?

These contain almonds and bacon. Double-check ingredients for guests with nut or pork allergies.