I’ve always loved the magic that happens when sweet and savory come together, and these air fryer bacon wrapped dates are pure proof of that. Every bite hits you with a perfect combination of caramelized sweetness and smoky, crispy bacon that’s hard to resist. I first tried these at a dinner party, and they were gone in minutes—so naturally, I had to recreate them at home.
Making these at home is surprisingly simple, especially with the air fryer. It gives the bacon that perfect crunch without turning on the oven or heating up the whole kitchen. Plus, they’re perfect as a quick appetizer, a party snack, or even a fancy little treat when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Medjool Dates: These plump, naturally sweet dates are perfect for stuffing and wrapping. They have a soft, chewy texture and a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with savory bacon. Make sure to remove the pits before wrapping them to make every bite smooth and enjoyable.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best here because it crisps nicely in the air fryer while still staying tender enough to hug the date. Its smoky, salty flavor balances the sweetness of the dates perfectly. You can also try turkey bacon for a lighter version.
Optional Fillings (Cheese or Nuts): Some people like to stuff their dates with cream cheese, goat cheese, or even a single almond or pecan. These fillings add an extra layer of flavor and texture, giving each bite a delightful surprise inside.
Toothpicks: Toothpicks are essential to keep the bacon securely wrapped around the dates while they cook. They make serving and eating easy, too!
Ingredients List
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Optional: 12 almonds or 2 tablespoons of cream cheese
- Toothpicks for securing
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Dates
Prepare the Dates
Start by pitting your Medjool dates if they aren’t already pitted. If you’re using a filling, gently make a small slit in each date and stuff with either an almond or a small spoonful of cream cheese.
Wrap the Dates
Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each date, securing it with a toothpick. Make sure the bacon fully covers the date for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the bacon cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully.
Cook the Dates
Place the bacon-wrapped dates in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden.
Serve
Remove the toothpicks carefully and serve warm. These are best enjoyed immediately while the bacon is still crispy and the dates are warm and gooey inside.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Choose the right dates: Medjool dates are large and soft, which makes them easier to stuff and wrap.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Make sure your air fryer basket isn’t packed so each date cooks evenly.
- Adjust bacon thickness: Thinner bacon cooks faster but may crisp too quickly; thicker bacon may need a few extra minutes.
- Experiment with fillings: Cream cheese, blue cheese, or nuts can all give your dates a fun twist.
- Serve immediately: These are best hot and fresh; reheating may make the bacon lose its crispiness.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the dates and wrap them in bacon in advance. Store them in the fridge and air fry just before serving.
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Are there vegetarian options?
You can use vegetarian bacon or even prosciutto-style plant-based wraps to mimic the smoky flavor.
What can I serve these with?
These dates are perfect with a cheese platter, a light salad, or as part of your appetizer spread for parties.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, wrap the uncooked dates and freeze them in an airtight container. Cook straight from frozen in the air fryer, just add a few extra minutes.