Crispy Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, making them a favorite appetizer or snack for any occasion. These delectable bites are wrapped in turkey bacon for a lighter alternative to traditional bacon, but they still deliver that crispy, smoky goodness we all crave. The rich sweetness of the dates contrasts beautifully with the salty turkey bacon, creating a satisfying flavor profile in every bite.

These treats are easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients, and they’re sure to be a hit at your next party, family gathering, or special celebration. Whether you’re preparing a quick snack for yourself or looking for an appetizer that’ll impress your guests, turkey bacon-wrapped dates are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This guide walks you through the recipe, offers tips for success, and suggests fun variations to try.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates

• Perfect Sweet and Savory Balance: The dates offer natural sweetness, while the turkey bacon adds a crispy, savory crunch. This combination of flavors makes every bite irresistible.
• Crispy and Smoky: Wrapped in turkey bacon, these dates crisp up nicely in the oven, creating a satisfying texture with each bite.
• Lightened Up: Turkey bacon provides all the crispy goodness of regular bacon, but with less fat and fewer calories. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with just a few pantry staples—dates, turkey bacon, and optional extras like cheese or nuts—you can whip these up in no time, even if you’re new to cooking.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a festive party, these turkey bacon-wrapped dates are an elegant and versatile snack or appetizer.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 12-15 bacon-wrapped dates (depending on size)
• Calories per Serving: Around 50-70 calories per date, depending on the size of the dates and the turkey bacon used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 50-70 kcal
• Fat: 3-4g
• Carbohydrates: 7-9g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Crispy Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates:

• 12 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 6 slices of turkey bacon (cut in half)
• Optional: ¼ cup goat cheese or cream cheese (for stuffing)
• Optional: ¼ cup almonds or pecans (for stuffing)
• Toothpicks (for securing the bacon)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dates

Start by pitting the dates if they aren’t already pitted. Gently slice the dates lengthwise without cutting them all the way through. This will create a pocket for the filling, if desired. If you’re stuffing the dates, use a small spoon to fill them with goat cheese or cream cheese, and optionally, a few pieces of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans. The cheese adds a creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the dates, while the nuts add a subtle crunch.

If you prefer the dates plain, feel free to skip the stuffing step and move straight to wrapping them in turkey bacon.

2. Prepare the Turkey Bacon

Cut each slice of turkey bacon in half so that you have shorter strips to wrap around the dates. Turkey bacon is thinner than regular bacon, so be careful not to tear it when wrapping. If desired, you can slightly cook the turkey bacon in a skillet for a couple of minutes to give it a little crisp before wrapping, but it’s not necessary. It will crisp up beautifully while baking.

3. Wrap the Dates

Take each prepared date and wrap a half slice of turkey bacon around it. Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick, making sure it holds tightly while baking. The toothpicks will also make it easy to remove the dates after cooking.

If you’re stuffing the dates, be sure to keep the stuffing inside the date while you wrap it tightly with the bacon.

4. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that the turkey bacon crisps up nicely, while the dates warm through, becoming even sweeter.

5. Arrange the Dates on a Baking Sheet

Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help prevent the bacon from sticking and make cleanup easier. Arrange the dates in a single layer, leaving some space between each one so that the heat can circulate evenly and cook the bacon to perfection.

6. Bake the Dates

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the dates for 18-20 minutes, or until the bacon is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to ensure they don’t overcook. The dates should become soft and warm, while the turkey bacon should have a nice crisp around the edges.

If the bacon isn’t as crispy as you’d like, you can turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking to give the bacon an extra crisp, but be careful not to burn the dates.

7. Cool and Serve

Once the dates are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Use tongs or a fork to remove the toothpicks carefully, as they can be hot. Serve the crispy turkey bacon-wrapped dates as a warm appetizer or snack, and watch them disappear in no time!

Tips for Perfect Crispy Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates

• Use Fresh Dates: Fresh Medjool dates are ideal for this recipe as they’re plump, juicy, and tender. Avoid using dried dates, as they can be too tough for this dish.
• Secure the Bacon with Toothpicks: Make sure to secure each bacon-wrapped date with a toothpick to hold everything in place while baking. This helps ensure the bacon stays wrapped tightly around the dates.
• Don’t Overstuff: If you’re adding cheese or nuts to the dates, be careful not to overstuff them. You want just enough filling to complement the dates and bacon without making the wrapping difficult.
• Broil for Extra Crisp: If you love crispy bacon, turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking to achieve an extra-crispy finish.
• Serve Warm: These turkey bacon-wrapped dates are best served warm, straight out of the oven, so they retain their gooey centers and crispy bacon.

Variations of Crispy Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates

• Cheese-Stuffed Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates: As mentioned, you can stuff the dates with goat cheese, cream cheese, or even blue cheese. The cheese will melt during baking, making for a creamy surprise inside each date.
• Nutty Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates: For a bit of crunch and extra flavor, stuff the dates with chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts before wrapping them in bacon. You can also combine nuts and cheese for a delightful flavor contrast.
• Spicy Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Add a little heat by stuffing the dates with a slice of jalapeño or a small pinch of cayenne pepper before wrapping them in turkey bacon. The spicy kick pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the dates.
• Maple-Glazed Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Drizzle a little maple syrup over the bacon-wrapped dates before baking to create a sweet, caramelized glaze on the bacon. The maple syrup will complement the dates’ sweetness while adding a touch of richness.
• Balsamic-Glazed Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates: For a more savory version, drizzle the wrapped dates with balsamic glaze before baking. The tangy glaze pairs perfectly with the smoky turkey bacon and the sweet dates.

Storage and Shelf Life

Crispy Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

If you’d like to freeze them, arrange the bacon-wrapped dates in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen turkey bacon-wrapped dates can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the dates are warm.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Crispy Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates

• Dipping Sauces: Serve these turkey bacon-wrapped dates with a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, balsamic reduction, or a creamy ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheese Platter: Pair these with a selection of cheeses, such as brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar, for a delightful appetizer spread.
• Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the turkey bacon-wrapped dates and add a refreshing contrast.
• Wine Pairings: These dates pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir complements the sweetness of the dates and the savory bacon.

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Conclusion

Crispy Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates offer a perfect blend of savory and sweet, with a satisfying crunch from the turkey bacon and a delicious, tender date center. Whether you’re preparing these for a party, holiday gathering, or just as a delicious snack, they’ll surely be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can enjoy these flavorful bites in no time. Try the variations, get creative with fillings, and most importantly, enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures in every bite!