🥓 Classic Bacon-Wrapped Dates (12-Min Bake, Sweet & Savory) – Perfect Thanksgiving Starter!
These golden-baked bacon-wrapped dates with almond-stuffed pitted dates are the ultimate sweet-savory holiday appetizer. Pair them with turkey and stuffing for a complete Thanksgiving table.
These bacon-wrapped dates are a timeless holiday favorite that combines salty, sweet, and savory in one bite. Baked to perfection in just 12 minutes, they’re the perfect quick appetizer for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering. The caramelized bacon clings to the sticky dates while the almond filling adds a nutty crunch, creating a flavor harmony that pairs beautifully with traditional mains.
For cooks needing reliable, crowd-pleasing starters, these dates are a game-changer. They’re easy to assemble, bake quickly, and impress guests with their elegant presentation. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a large holiday feast, this recipe delivers consistent results every time.
The sweet date filling with almonds offers a delightful contrast to the crispy bacon, while the caramelization from the oven enhances the flavors. These bites are especially popular during Thanksgiving when served alongside turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
The recipe’s simplicity makes it ideal for last-minute preparation. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that feels gourmet yet remains approachable. Plus, the 12-minute bake time means you can prepare them right alongside your main course.
This classic appetizer has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s a crowd-pleaser that bridges the gap between sweet and savory, making it the perfect companion to traditional holiday fare. Let’s dive into why this recipe works and how to make it your own.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Lightning-Fast Holiday Recipe
Ready in just 12 minutes, these dates are perfect for last-minute holiday entertaining. No need for lengthy prep - simply assemble, bake, and serve.
💰 Budget-Friendly Luxury
With just 4 affordable ingredients (bacon, dates, almonds, and olive oil), you can create a gourmet appetizer that feels special without breaking the bank.
👥 Crowd-Pleasing Flavor
The sweet date and salty bacon combination appeals to all palates, making these bites a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages.
🌟 Elegant Presentation
The golden-brown bacon and caramelized dates look beautiful on a platter, making these perfect for Instagram-worthy holiday tables.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe
Perfect for Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings
🛒 Ingredients
- - 12 pitted dates (medjool preferred)
- - 12 thin bacon slices (approx. 1/4 lb)
- - 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- - 2 tbsp olive oil
- - Salt to taste
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Dates: Cut a small slit in each date to create a pocket. Stuff with 1 tsp almond mixture. Press to seal.
💡 Use a small spoon or melon baller to fill dates neatly.
Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each date with a bacon slice, securing with a toothpick. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
💡 Choose thin bacon slices for even cooking.
Bake: Drizzle with olive oil and salt. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes or until bacon is crisp and dates are caramelized.
💡 Use a wire rack for even cooking and crispier bacon.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Dates
Medjool dates provide the perfect balance of sweetness and moisture. Look for plump, soft dates for easy stuffing.
Substitutions: Use dried apricots or figs if dates are unavailable.
Bacon
Thick-cut bacon adds more flavor but requires adjusting cook time. Thin slices are ideal for even cooking.
Substitutions: Substitute with pancetta or prosciutto for a different flavor profile.
Almonds
Chopped almonds add a satisfying crunch. You can also use walnuts or pecans for variation.
Substitutions: Use almond slivers or even dried cranberries for a different texture.
Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil enhances the richness of the dates and helps the bacon crisp up nicely.
Substitutions: Canola oil or avocado oil work well as alternatives.
Pro Tips for Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Dates
💡 Prep Ahead
Assemble the dates up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the fridge until ready to bake. The bacon will crisp up beautifully when baked from cold.
🔥 Baking Technique
Place the baking sheet on the middle rack for even heat distribution. For extra caramelization, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
✨ Flavor Boost
Sprinkle with a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor.
🍴 Serving Hack
Serve on a wooden board or ceramic platter with a small bowl of blue cheese crumbles for guests who want to add more richness.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Up Version
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the almond filling for a sweet-spicy kick that pairs well with the smoky bacon.
Cheesy Delight
Stuff with a tiny cube of goat cheese or blue cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Gourmet Twist
Brush the dates with a honey-balsamic glaze before baking for a more sophisticated flavor profile.
Nut-Free Option
Replace almonds with dried cranberries or raisins for a different texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Sliced turkey breast with gravy - the richness of the meat complements the sweet dates
- Herb-stuffed rolls - the soft bread balances the crispy bacon
- Cranberry-orange relish - the tartness cuts through the sweetness
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a buttery chardonnay or a crisp riesling to enhance the sweet-savory balance. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling apple cider with a splash of bitters.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble the dates up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for optimal crispness.
Refrigerator Storage
Store baked dates in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer Storage
Unbaked dates can be frozen for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating Instructions
Place on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid using a microwave as it will make the bacon soggy.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My bacon isn't sticking to the dates
A: Make sure the dates are dry before wrapping. If needed, use a toothpick to secure the bacon. Brushing the date with a bit of olive oil before wrapping can help the bacon adhere better.
Q: How do I prevent the dates from becoming too sticky?
A: Place the dates on parchment paper rather than directly on the baking sheet. If they start to stick, slide a spatula underneath carefully. For easier handling, you can lightly dust the dates with cornstarch before wrapping.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of bacon?
A: Yes! Try prosciutto for a lighter flavor or smoked sausage for more richness. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly - prosciutto will need less time to crisp up.
Q: My dates are undercooked inside
A: If the bacon is done but the dates are still too soft, remove the bacon and place the dates on a paper towel to drain. Return just the dates to the oven for 1-2 minutes to finish cooking.
Final Thoughts
These bacon-wrapped dates are the ultimate holiday appetizer that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you're hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe will become a staple in your holiday menu. The combination of tender dates, crunchy bacon, and nutty filling creates a flavor profile that's both comforting and exciting.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can customize it with different fillings or spices to match your personal preferences or dietary needs. And with just 12 minutes of cooking time, it's the perfect last-minute addition to any holiday table. For best Pinterest visibility, post this appetizer pin as part of a complete meal series over 5-7 days: share the main dish first, followed by complementary sides, finishing with a dessert completion pin.
