Irresistibly Easy Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Dates: Your Ultimate Sweet & Savory Appetizer

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the perfect fusion of sweet and savory: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Dates. This delightful appetizer brings together the rich, chewy sweetness of Medjool dates, a creamy, spiced filling, and the irresistible crispiness of bacon, all made effortlessly in your air fryer. Every bite is an explosion of flavor and texture, featuring a perfectly salted, crispy exterior that gives way to a warm, soft, and sweet center.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this recipe for bacon wrapped dates is the incredibly short cooking time, typically under 10 minutes in the air fryer! This makes them an absolute lifesaver for last-minute gatherings, holiday parties, game nights, or any occasion where you need a quick, impressive, and utterly delicious appetizer. While the combination of bacon and sweet Medjool dates might initially raise an eyebrow for some, a single taste is usually enough to convert even the most skeptical guests. They’ll quickly discover the magical harmony of flavors that makes this dish an instant favorite.

If you’re constantly on the hunt for innovative and delicious air fryer appetizers that truly stand out, these air fryer bacon wrapped dates are an unparalleled choice. The bold, savory notes of the crispy bacon perfectly complement the deep sweetness of the dates, creating a flavor profile that effectively primes the palate for the main course. It’s truly a gourmet experience made simple, proving that elegant appetizers don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.

Having such a straightforward yet sophisticated recipe in your culinary arsenal is always a major advantage. These bacon-wrapped dates are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a topic of conversation at any event, ensuring your reputation as a superb host or hostess. Their addictive nature means they disappear fast, so be sure to make a generous batch!

Beyond this fantastic recipe, if you’re a bacon enthusiast looking for healthier alternatives, consider trying out this delicious air fryer turkey bacon. For more incredible bacon-wrapped snacks that leverage the power of your air fryer, you’ll also love these air fryer bacon wrapped asparagus. Both are excellent options to diversify your appetizer game.

Simple Ingredients for an Extraordinary Appetizer

Creating these delightful air fryer bacon wrapped dates requires just a handful of readily available ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the quality of each component to shine through. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Bacon: Choose your favorite type of bacon. Regular sliced bacon works perfectly, but you can experiment with thin-cut for extra crispiness or even thick-cut for a meatier bite. We’ll discuss variations below.
• Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth, creamy filling. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing and stuffing.
• Cinnamon: A touch of cinnamon adds a subtle warmth and aromatic spice that beautifully enhances the sweetness of the dates and complements the savory bacon.
• Medjool pitted dates: Medjool dates are highly recommended for this recipe due to their large size, soft, chewy texture, and rich, caramel-like sweetness. Pitted dates save time, but if you have whole dates, removing the pit is simple.

These ingredients, when combined and air-fried, transform into a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that is truly irresistible. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance that makes this appetizer so special.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Dates in the Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these gourmet-level appetizers in your air fryer is surprisingly simple and quick. Follow these easy steps for perfectly crispy, sweet, and savory bites every time:

A Quick Note on Air Fryer Models: I typically prepare this recipe in my Cosori 5.8 qt. air fryer or a 6.8 quart air fryer. Air fryer models vary significantly in size, wattage, and heating efficiency. Therefore, your cooking time might need to be adjusted by 1-2 minutes to achieve the desired crispiness of the bacon and softness of the dates.

Tips for Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Dates Perfection

• Don’t Overcrowd: This is the golden rule for air frying. Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, leading to unevenly cooked and less crispy bacon. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Parchment Paper Liner: For easier cleanup and to prevent sticking, you can place a perforated parchment paper liner in your air fryer basket. Just make sure it doesn’t block too much airflow.
• Toothpicks are Your Friend: While some bacon might stay wrapped without assistance, using toothpicks guarantees the bacon stays put, especially if your dates are very plump or your bacon slices are slick.
• Monitor Closely: Air fryers cook quickly! Keep an eye on your dates, especially towards the end of the cooking time, to prevent the bacon from burning.
• Preheating: While not strictly necessary for all air fryer recipes, preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes at the recommended temperature can help achieve consistent results and a quicker crisp.

Exciting Variations to Customize Your Bacon Wrapped Dates

While the classic cream cheese and cinnamon filling is phenomenal, these air fryer bacon wrapped dates are incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique spin on this beloved appetizer:

• Explore Bacon Flavors: Don’t limit yourself to just plain bacon. Smoky bacon adds an extra layer of depth, while thin-cut bacon crisps up even faster. For a heartier bite, consider thick-cut bacon, though it might require a minute or two longer to cook through and crisp. Any type of bacon you enjoy at home will work wonderfully with this easy appetizer.
• Alternative Creamy Fillings:
  • Creamy Goat Cheese: For a tangier and more sophisticated flavor, substitute cream cheese with creamy goat cheese. Its distinct tartness pairs exceptionally well with the sweetness of the dates and the saltiness of the bacon.
  • Blue Cheese: If you’re a fan of bold flavors, a small crumble of blue cheese inside each date adds an intense savory and pungent kick that beautifully contrasts the sweet date.
  • Nut Butter: For a nuttier profile, a tiny dollop of almond butter or peanut butter (ensure it’s not too runny) can offer a different kind of richness.
• Add a Nutty Crunch: Before wrapping, tuck a whole or half almond, pecan, or walnut inside the date along with the cream cheese. This adds a delightful textural contrast and another layer of flavor.
• Drizzle with Glaze: After air frying, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze, maple syrup, or hot honey can elevate the flavors even further, adding a touch of gourmet elegance.
• Healthier Option with Turkey Bacon: If you’re looking to reduce the fat and sodium content without sacrificing flavor, using turkey bacon is an excellent choice. It still crisps up beautifully in the air fryer and provides that desirable savory wrapper.
• Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of red pepper flakes or a tiny drop of sriracha into the cream cheese for a hint of heat that plays well with the sweet and savory elements.

How to Serve Your Delectable Bacon Wrapped Dates

These air fryer bacon wrapped dates are incredibly versatile and simple to serve, making them a fantastic addition to almost any occasion. Their elegant appearance and irresistible flavor make them a natural fit for:

• Charcuterie Boards: Elevate your next charcuterie board by adding these sweet and savory treats. They provide a delightful contrast to cheeses, cured meats, nuts, and crackers, creating a truly memorable spread. Arrange them artfully among other components for a visually appealing and delicious addition.
• Party Platters: Simply arrange them on a platter for your next party or gathering. Their individual size makes them perfect finger food, easy for guests to grab and enjoy. They’re always a hit and tend to disappear quickly!
• Holiday Gatherings: The combination of rich flavors makes them particularly suitable for holiday season celebrations like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve. They bring a festive flair without adding stress to your cooking schedule.
• Game Day Snacks: Move beyond the usual chips and dips! These provide a more sophisticated yet equally satisfying snack for watching sports with friends.
• Pairing with Beverages: These dates pair beautifully with a variety of drinks. Consider serving them alongside a dry sparkling wine, a crisp craft beer, or even a robust red wine. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling cider or spiced tea can be a lovely accompaniment.

If you’re looking to create an appetizer spread with complementary flavors, air fryer coconut shrimp are never a bad idea. Their delicate sweetness and crispy texture offer a wonderful counterpoint to the rich bacon-wrapped dates.

Storage and Reheating for Optimal Enjoyment

While this delicious appetizer is undoubtedly at its peak when eaten fresh from the air fryer, you can certainly prepare them ahead of time or store leftovers to enjoy later. Proper storage ensures they retain their wonderful flavor and texture.

• Storing Leftovers: Allow any leftover stuffed dates to cool down completely to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. This is crucial to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other flavors in the fridge. Place the container in the refrigerator and consume them within 2 days for the best quality and flavor.
• Reheating for Crispiness: To revive that delightful crispy bacon exterior, reheating them in the air fryer is your best bet. Place the cold bacon-wrapped dates in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 300-325°F (150-160°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy again. Avoid reheating at very high temperatures, as the dates might get too soft and the filling could melt excessively.
• Oven Reheating: You can also reheat them in a conventional oven. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, or until warmed through and the bacon is crisp.
• Microwave (Use with Caution): While convenient, reheating in the microwave is generally not recommended if you want to maintain the crispy texture of the bacon. The microwave tends to make bacon soft and chewy. However, if speed is your priority and crispiness isn’t, microwave for 15-30 seconds until warm.

Common Questions About Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Dates

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about making and serving these delightful appetizers:

Will regular dates offset the saltiness of the bacon?

While you can use regular dates, we highly recommend Medjool dates for this recipe. You will want to be sure that you buy large dates that are comparable in size to the slice of bacon. The bigger the date, the more pronounced its natural sweetness will be, which is essential for balancing the salty taste of the bacon. Smaller, drier dates might be overpowered by the bacon. Medjool dates offer a soft, chewy texture and a rich, caramel-like flavor that perfectly complements the savory bacon and creamy filling, ensuring a balanced sweet and savory profile in every bite.

When should I serve this tasty appetizer?

This tasty appetizer is incredibly versatile and suitable for a wide array of occasions! The holiday season is always a fantastic option for serving them, as they bring a touch of elegance and festive flavor to any gathering. However, the best time to serve them is truly whenever you choose! I find that they are a wonderful alternative to other more difficult or common appetizers because party guests tend to remember this unique combination – and talk about it more! They are perfect for:

• Dinner parties and cocktail hours
• Family gatherings and potlucks
• Game day celebrations
• Casual weekend snacks
• Any time you crave a quick, satisfying sweet and savory treat!

There’s just something about combining those plump, whole dates and soft cheese with crispy bacon that has everyone wanting more bites! Their ease of preparation and universal appeal make them a go-to choice for any event.

Can I prepare these bacon wrapped dates ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely do some prep work in advance! You can stuff and wrap the dates up to 24 hours before you plan to air fry them. Store the prepared dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply place them in the air fryer and cook as directed. This makes them an ideal choice for entertaining, as it reduces last-minute stress.

What kind of bacon works best?

Regular-sliced bacon (not too thin, not too thick) tends to work best, as it crisps up nicely without taking too long to cook or becoming too greasy. If you use thick-cut bacon, you might need an extra minute or two of cooking time and may want to pre-cook the bacon slightly before wrapping to ensure it gets fully crispy without overcooking the dates. Avoid extra thin “par-cooked” bacon, as it can sometimes burn quickly.

Discover More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

The air fryer is a fantastic tool for creating quick, delicious, and often healthier versions of your favorite dishes. If you loved these bacon wrapped dates, you’re sure to enjoy these other simple and mouth-watering air fryer recipes:

• Air Fryer Banana Boats: A fun, sweet treat perfect for dessert or a unique snack.
• Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Brussel Sprouts: Another fantastic sweet and savory combo, turning a humble vegetable into an irresistible side or appetizer.
• Air Fryer Avocado Bacon Egg Rolls: Crispy, creamy, and packed with flavor – a great appetizer or snack idea.
• Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Corn Dogs: A playful twist on a classic, perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Air Fryer Candied Bacon: Sweet, sticky, and utterly addictive bacon that’s perfect on its own or as a garnish.

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