Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Bacon, but make it fancy: a no-nonsense appetizer that still shows off a little. Salty, sweet, and ready in minutes.
Description
Some appetizers earn their keep without demanding much from you. These bacon-wrapped dates take a simple ingredient and dress it up just enough — crisp bacon, warm, jammy fruit, and a pop of whatever you tuck inside. It’s the kind of holiday bite that feels clever, takes almost no effort, and disappears before you set the tray down.
Ingredients
- 12 slices NCS Thick Cut Applewood Smoked Uncured Bacon, cut in half
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 2–3 oz goat cheese*
- Toothpicks
- Honey, for drizzling
- Sea salt, for finishing
*Optional Swaps:
If goat cheese isn't for your folks, try one of these:
- Blue Cheese: bold, sharp, with a lil' holiday swagger
- Cream Cheese: mild, familiar, probably already in your fridge
- OR, make a batch of each, every wins with an assorted spread
Cooking Instructions
- Prep the Dates: Pre heat the oven to 400°F. By hand, split each date down the center vertically, just enough to tuck in a small spoonful of cheese. Stuff with filling and press to close so it holds.
- Wrap in Bacon: Wrap half slice of bacon around each date, overlap the ends on the bottom. Secure with a toothpick so it stays put in the oven.
- Bake: Arrange the dates on a parchment-lined pan and roast 18–22 minutes, turning once, until the bacon is deep golden and crisp.
- Finish & Serve: Drizzle lightly with honey and add a pinch of sea salt. Serve warm — they’ll go fast.
Why It Works
Sweet, salty, smoky, creamy — it hits every mark without getting fussy about it. A clean, dressed-up classic that makes holiday hosting feel easy.
In this Recipe
Thick Cut Applewood Smoked Uncured Bacon
