Maple Bacon Wrapped Dates are the ultimate sweet-salty party appetizer, and they disappear faster than you can say “just one more.” Think caramelized bacon hugging tender, honey-sweet dates with a whisper of maple glaze and a finishing crunch of flaky salt.
They’re elegant enough for a cocktail party but easy enough to throw together on a weeknight. And once you put them out, consider them gone.
I first made these for a New Year’s Eve party, and they’ve been on repeat ever since. I love how they bridge the gap between fancy and approachable, plus you can prep them ahead and bake right before guests arrive.
Why This Works
- Sweet meets salty in perfect harmony. The natural caramel notes of Medjool dates get amplified by maple syrup, while crispy bacon and flaky salt keep things grounded and addictive.
- Texture is everything. Chewy dates, crunchy bacon, creamy cheese (if you’re using it), and a toasted almond for good measure. It’s a full sensory experience in one bite.
- Ridiculously make-ahead friendly. Assemble them the day before, then pop them in the oven when your guests arrive. You’ll look like a culinary genius with minimal effort.
Preheat and Prep:
Get your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This is your non-stick insurance policy.
Stuff Those Dates:
Make a small slit in each date and tuck in a little goat cheese, cream cheese, or a roasted almond (or both, because why not?). The stuffing is optional, but it adds a luxurious creaminess that plays beautifully against the bacon.
Wrap and Arrange:
Take one piece of bacon and wrap it snugly around each date, placing them seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Pro tip: Thin-cut bacon is key here. Thick-cut won’t crisp up properly in the time it takes to cook the dates.
First Maple Brush:
Brush half the maple syrup generously over the tops. Don’t be shy. This is where the magic starts.
Bake, Flip, Repeat:
Bake for 10 minutes, then flip each date and brush with the remaining maple syrup. Continue baking for another 8 to 10 minutes until the bacon is crispy, caramelized, and calling your name.
Rest and Finish:
Let them rest for 5 minutes (this is harder than it sounds). Finish with a generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve warm or at room temperature, and watch them vanish.
Maple Bacon Wrapped Dates
Elegant, Addictive, Party-perfect
Ingredients
- 24 Medjool dates, pitted
- 8 slices thin-cut bacon (not thick-cut), cut crosswise into thirds
- 60 ml (¼ cup) pure maple syrup
- Flaky sea salt, for finishing
- Freshly cracked black pepper
- 85 g (3 oz) goat cheese or cream cheese, softened (optional)
- 24 whole roasted almonds or marcona almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F); line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make small slit in each date; stuff with small amount of cheese and/or one almond if using.
- Wrap each date with one bacon piece, securing seam-side down on prepared baking sheet.
- Brush dates generously with half the maple syrup.
- Bake 10 minutes, flip dates, brush with remaining maple syrup.
- Continue baking 8–10 minutes until bacon is crispy and caramelized.
- Rest 5 minutes; finish with flaky salt and cracked pepper.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Assemble the dates up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and that irresistible warm-from-the-oven appeal.
What if my bacon isn’t crisping?
Increase the oven temperature to 200°C (400°F) for the final 3 to 5 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning, and rotate the pan if needed for even crisping.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, though it won’t render fat the same way as pork bacon. Expect less crispy results and a milder flavor, but it’ll still be tasty.
Do I need to stuff the dates?
No, unstuffed dates are absolutely delicious on their own. The cheese or nuts add textural contrast and richness, but the sweet-salty combo stands strong without them.
Notes & Variations
- Blue Cheese + Walnut: Swap in tangy blue cheese and toasted walnuts for a bold, savory contrast. The funk of the cheese cuts through the sweetness in the best way.
- Honey-Sriracha Glaze: Brush the dates with a honey-sriracha mixture instead of maple syrup for a spicy-sweet kick that’ll keep people coming back.
- Prosciutto Swap: Use thin slices of prosciutto instead of bacon for a more delicate, less smoky flavor. It won’t get as crispy, but it’s elegant and salty in its own right.
Serve It With
- Champagne, prosecco, or bourbon cocktails: The bubbles or the burn both play beautifully with the sweet-salty vibe.
- Cheese board with aged cheddar and brie: Let these dates be the showstopper on your holiday spread.
- Arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette: The peppery greens and tangy dressing balance the richness perfectly.
More Recipes To Try
- Prosciutto-Wrapped Figs with Honey and Thyme: Another sweet-salty combo that’s just as elegant and addictive.
- Bacon-Wrapped Water Chestnuts with Soy Glaze: A retro classic with a crunchy center and savory-sweet coating.
- Stuffed Dates with Chorizo and Manchego: For when you want a Spanish twist on the date-wrapping tradition.
Let’s Hear It
Did you stuff yours with cheese or keep them simple? Are you team maple or team honey-sriracha? Drop a comment below and let me know how they turned out. And if they disappear as fast as mine do, snap a pic and tag me on social!