Save Sweet, smoky, and creamy bites featuring dates filled with tangy cream cheese and crunchy walnuts, all wrapped in crisp bacon—a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
I first made these for a family get-together, and everyone kept reaching for more. They quickly became my go-to finger food when I need something quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients: 16 Medjool dates, pitted; 8 slices bacon, halved crosswise
- Filling: 60 g (about 4 tbsp) cream cheese, softened; 32 walnut halves (about 40 g)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Dates:
- Make a small slit in each date and remove the pit if not already pitted.
- Stuff Dates:
- Fill each date with about ½ teaspoon of cream cheese and insert a walnut half into the center.
- Wrap With Bacon:
- Gently press the dates closed. Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Bake:
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through, until bacon is crisp and golden.
- Cool:
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Save My kids always help with stuffing the dates and wrapping the bacon before oven time. It's a small family tradition before every holiday dinner.
Required Tools
You'll need a sharp knife, small spoon, baking sheet, parchment paper, and toothpicks.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese) and tree nuts (walnuts). Contains pork (bacon). Gluten-free, but always check labels to ensure ingredients are gluten-free.
Nutritional Information (per serving: 2 pieces)
Calories: 130, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 14 g, Protein: 4 g.
Save These irresistible bites disappear fast—save a couple for yourself before serving!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and assemble the dates in advance, then bake just before serving to ensure bacon stays crisp.
- → What can I substitute for walnuts?
Pecans or almonds work well for a similar crunch and flavor profile if walnuts are unavailable.
- → How do I ensure the bacon cooks evenly?
Wrapping dates securely and placing them seam side down helps maintain shape and promotes crispy bacon during baking.
- → Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, using naturally gluten-free ingredients like dates, bacon, cheese, and nuts makes this a gluten-free option.
- → Can I add extra flavor to the dates?
Sprinkling smoked paprika or drizzling honey before baking enhances the smoky-sweet taste beautifully.