This air fryer bacon-wrapped dates recipe combines sweet and savory flavors for a delightful appetizer. The crispy bacon envelops the tender, sweet dates, creating a perfect bite-sized treat.
The recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for parties or gatherings. You can also customize it by adding cheese or nuts inside the dates for extra flavor.
Delightful Flavor Combination
The marriage of sweet and savory flavors in bacon-wrapped dates creates a unique taste experience. The rich, creamy goat cheese complements the natural sweetness of the dates, while the crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch. This combination makes every bite a delightful treat.
These appetizers are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive celebration. Their bite-sized nature allows guests to enjoy them easily, making them a favorite at parties.
Quick and Simple Preparation
Preparing air fryer bacon-wrapped dates is a breeze. With a total time of just 20 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dish without much hassle. The process begins with pitting the dates and optionally stuffing them with cheese.
Wrapping the dates with bacon is straightforward, and using toothpicks ensures they stay secure during cooking. This simplicity makes it an ideal recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Cooking with an Air Fryer
The air fryer is a game changer for achieving that crispy texture without the need for deep frying. Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking, and placing the wrapped dates in a single layer allows for optimal air circulation.
Cooking them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes results in perfectly crispy bacon and tender dates. Flipping them halfway through ensures even browning, making them visually appealing and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, let the bacon-wrapped dates cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm, allowing the flavors to shine through. Garnishing with fresh herbs adds a pop of color and enhances the overall presentation.
These appetizers can be served on a rustic wooden platter, which complements their inviting appearance. Pairing them with a dipping sauce can also elevate the experience, offering guests a variety of flavors to enjoy.
Nutrition and Serving Size
Each serving of these bacon-wrapped dates contains approximately 150 calories, making them a satisfying yet manageable treat. With 10g of fat and 6g of protein, they provide a balanced snack option that won’t weigh you down.
With four servings in total, this recipe is perfect for sharing. Whether enjoyed at a gathering or as a special treat at home, these dates are sure to please a crowd.
Customization Options
One of the great aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling by adding nuts for an extra crunch or experimenting with different types of cheese. Each variation brings a new twist to the classic flavor profile.
Feel free to get creative with seasonings or even add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an added layer of flavor. This adaptability ensures that every batch can be unique, catering to different tastes and preferences.
Easy Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Dates
These bacon-wrapped dates are cooked in an air fryer for a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. The dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 12 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Optional: 1/4 cup goat cheese or cream cheese for stuffing
- Toothpicks for securing the bacon
Instructions
- Prep the Dates: If desired, stuff each pitted date with goat cheese or cream cheese.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each date, securing it with a toothpick.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Dates: Place the wrapped dates in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy.
- Serve: Remove the dates from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as an appetizer.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g