Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite appetizer—the easy air fryer bacon wrapped dates! Seriously, if you haven’t tried these yet, you’re in for a treat. The salty crunch of the bacon paired with the sweet, chewy dates is just pure magic. They’re not just delicious; they’re ridiculously easy to make, too! I whip these up for everything from casual get-togethers to holiday parties, and they always disappear in a flash. Plus, the air fryer makes them perfectly crispy without the mess of deep frying. Trust me, once you serve these, everyone will be asking for the recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these scrumptious easy air fryer bacon wrapped dates. Trust me, you’ll love how simple it is!
- 12 pitted dates
- 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
Make sure you grab pitted dates for convenience—no one wants to be dealing with pesky pits while you’re trying to enjoy these little bites of joy! And feel free to adjust the amount of bacon or seasoning based on your personal taste. Enjoy the process, and let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s dive into making these delightful easy air fryer bacon wrapped dates! I promise, you’re going to love how straightforward it is!
Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that the bacon gets nice and crispy while the dates warm up perfectly. Just a few minutes of preheating, and you’re ready to go!
Prepare the Dates
Now, grab those pitted dates. If you have whole dates, just slice each one open carefully with a knife and remove the pit. You want to create a little pocket for that delicious bacon to wrap around. It’s super easy, and the dates will just melt in your mouth once they’re cooked!
Wrap the Dates
Next up, take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each date. Make sure the bacon overlaps a bit so it sticks together well. If you’re worried about the bacon unwrapping, you can secure it with a toothpick—totally up to you! Just be careful when you’re ready to serve; you don’t want anyone biting into a toothpick!
Season the Wrapped Dates
Once your dates are wrapped, brush them lightly with olive oil. This helps the bacon crisp up beautifully. Then, sprinkle some black pepper over the top for a little kick! Trust me, that pepper adds just the right touch of flavor.
Air Fry the Dates
Now, it’s time to place your wrapped dates in the air fryer basket in a single layer—don’t overcrowd them! Air needs to circulate for that crispy goodness. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, but keep an eye on them. You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon is golden and crispy. Ooh, the smell will be irresistible!
Once they’re done, let them cool for just a few minutes before serving. You want to enjoy them warm, but not so hot that you burn your tongue! And there you have it—simple, quick, and oh-so-delicious bacon wrapped dates that everyone will love!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition for these delightful easy air fryer bacon wrapped dates. While they’re definitely a treat, knowing what’s inside can help you enjoy them even more! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for one piece:
- Calories: 70
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy these little bites of joy while being mindful of what you’re eating!
Tips for Success
Alright, here are my top tips to ensure your easy air fryer bacon wrapped dates come out perfectly every single time! Trust me, a little attention to detail goes a long way.
First off, let’s chat about bacon. I highly recommend using thick-cut bacon for this recipe. It not only adds more flavor but also crisps up beautifully in the air fryer. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey bacon works too, but it might not get as crispy. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors! Maple-glazed bacon adds a sweet twist that pairs wonderfully with the dates.
Now, if you’re feeling adventurous (and I know you are!), try adding a bit of cheese inside the dates before wrapping them in bacon. Cream cheese or goat cheese really takes these bites to the next level. Just a teaspoon in each date is all you need for that creamy goodness!
Another tip is to adjust your cooking time based on your air fryer model. Some air fryers cook faster than others, so keep an eye on those dates as they cook. If you notice they’re not browned enough, feel free to add an extra minute or two—just don’t let them burn!
Lastly, remember to let them cool for a minute or two before diving in. I know it’s tempting, but trust me, you don’t want to burn your mouth on those hot, gooey bites. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and get ready for everyone to rave about these little gems!
Variations
Now, let’s get creative with these easy air fryer bacon wrapped dates! There are so many fun ways to mix things up, and I can’t wait to share some of my favorite variations with you!
First off, let’s talk bacon. While I love classic pork bacon, you can totally switch it up! Try using maple bacon for a sweet twist that pairs perfectly with the dates. It gives them a delightful caramelized flavor that’s just to die for! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon works great too, though it won’t be quite as crispy.
Feeling adventurous? Why not stuff those dates with some creamy goodness before wrapping them in bacon? Cream cheese, goat cheese, or even a bit of blue cheese can make these little bites extra special. Just a teaspoon of cheese inside each date gives a rich and savory flavor that you’ll absolutely love!
For a crunchy element, consider adding nuts! Almonds or pecans make a fantastic addition. Just pop one inside each date before wrapping them up. The combination of the crunchy nut and the sweet date is simply heavenly.
Want to spice things up? Try adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder right before cooking. It’ll give your dates a nice kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the dates and the savory bacon. Wow, what a flavor explosion!
Lastly, don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings. A dash of garlic powder or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving can elevate these bites to a whole new level. The possibilities are endless, and that’s the beauty of cooking—make it your own and have fun with it!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your easy air fryer bacon wrapped dates all ready to go, let’s talk about how to make your serving experience even more delightful! Trust me, these little bites are amazing on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate the whole meal.
First off, consider serving these delectable dates with a fresh, zesty dipping sauce. A simple balsamic reduction or a tangy honey mustard sauce complements the sweetness of the dates and the salty bacon perfectly. Just a small bowl of sauce on the side will have everyone dipping and savoring each bite!
For a more substantial spread, serve them alongside a charcuterie board. Imagine a beautiful platter filled with an assortment of cheeses, cured meats, olives, and crackers. The richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors of the bacon-wrapped dates, creating a delightful range of tastes and textures.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider making a light salad to serve with your dates. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dates. The peppery arugula and the bright dressing will balance out the savory bites wonderfully.
Another fun idea is to serve these dates as part of a tapas-style meal. You can create a spread of small plates, including items like stuffed mushrooms, bruschetta, and marinated artichokes. It’s all about variety, and these bacon-wrapped dates will shine as a star dish in the mix!
Lastly, don’t forget about drinks! A nice glass of red wine or a refreshing cocktail pairs beautifully with these bites. Think about a fruity sangria or a classic gin and tonic to wash it all down. Cheers to good food and great company!
FAQ Section
Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, but hey, it can happen!), just place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for about 2-3 days. Just remember, they’re best enjoyed fresh, so I recommend reheating them in the air fryer for a few minutes to get that crispy goodness back!
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No worries at all! You can make these in the oven instead. Just preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. You simply can’t go wrong!
Can I use other types of bacon?
Definitely! While I love classic pork bacon, you can experiment with turkey bacon or even beef bacon if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary a little, so keep an eye on them to ensure they crisp up nicely.
What can I use instead of dates?
If you’re not a fan of dates or can’t find them, you can try using prunes or dried apricots as a substitute. They’ll give you a different flavor, but the sweet and savory combo will still be delicious!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep them ahead! Just assemble the bacon-wrapped dates and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. They can be stored raw for up to a day before cooking—just pop them in the air fryer when you’re ready to enjoy!
easy air fryer bacon wrapped dates recipe that wows every time
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This recipe shows you how to make easy air fryer bacon wrapped dates.
Ingredients
- 12 dates
- 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the dates open and remove the pit.
- Wrap each date with a half slice of bacon.
- Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed.
- Brush the wrapped dates with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper.
- Place the dates in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use pitted dates for convenience.
- Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model.
- Try adding cheese inside the dates for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: easy air fryer bacon wrapped dates recipe
