Batch‑Made Maple‑Glazed Bacon‑Wrapped Dates – The Ultimate Sweet‑Savory Thanksgiving Appetizer
The combination of sweet, sticky maple syrup, crunchy almonds, and savory bacon all wrapped around a tender date is an unbeatable flavor combination that's sure to impress your Thanksgiving guests. This recipe for batch-made maple-glazed bacon-wrapped dates is not only incredibly delicious but also a time-saver, allowing you to prepare it ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and simply reheat it when you're ready to serve.
Why Make This Recipe for Your Thanksgiving Gathering?
- The perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors: The maple syrup adds a rich, sweet flavor, while the bacon provides a savory, smoky taste that complements the natural sweetness of the dates.
- Easy to make in large quantities: This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for large gatherings like Thanksgiving. Simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of guests you're hosting.
- Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and reheat them just before serving. This reduces last-minute stress and allows you to enjoy the company of your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 package of dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup of sliced almonds
- 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Dates Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your dates by stuffing each one with a few slices of almond.
- Step 2: Wrap the Dates in Bacon Cut the bacon slices in half and wrap each stuffed date with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
- Step 3: Brush with Maple Syrup Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with maple syrup, making sure each date is coated.
- Step 4: Bake Until Caramelized Bake the bacon-wrapped dates in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
- Step 5: Store and Reheat Once the dates are done, let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Tips and Variations
🍴 Tip: Use High-Quality Ingredients
For the best flavor, use high-quality ingredients, including pure maple syrup and thick-cut bacon.
👨🍳 Variation: Add Some Spice
Experiment with different spices, like cumin or smoked paprika, to give your bacon-wrapped dates a unique flavor.
Serving Suggestions
🍽️ Pairing Ideas
- Cheese and Charcuterie Board: Serve the maple-glazed bacon-wrapped dates alongside a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and crackers for a well-rounded snack or light meal.
- Salad Course: Add the dates to a green salad for a sweet and savory twist on traditional salad toppings.
- As an Appetizer: Offer the bacon-wrapped dates as a standalone appetizer. Their sweet and savory flavor makes them a perfect choice to start off any meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Refrigerate
Once the bacon-wrapped dates have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Reheat
To reheat, place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet and warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, until the bacon is crispy again.
Troubleshooting
Q: The bacon is not crisping up in the oven.
A: Try increasing the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 5 minutes of cooking, or use a broiler for a few seconds to crisp the bacon.
Final Thoughts
The combination of maple-glazed bacon-wrapped dates, with their perfect balance of sweet and savory, is sure to become a new favorite at your Thanksgiving gatherings. The make-ahead convenience of this recipe means you can spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday events.
Whether you're hosting a large gathering or a small, intimate dinner, these maple-glazed bacon-wrapped dates are a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. So, go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the simplicity and flavor it brings to your table.
