Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Quick, Easy, Delicious!

Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Dates are a delicious and easy-to-make appetiser. The natural sweetness of the dates is complemented by the saltiness of the bacon, resulting in a tasty treat that can be served hot, cold, or at room temperature. This recipe requires only a few simple ingredients and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for parties or gatherings.

Choosing the right dates

For this recipe, it is best to use Medjool dates, which are large, soft, and squishy. Smaller baking dates will not work as well. Medjool dates are fresh and have a rich, soft texture that pairs perfectly with the bacon. When slicing the dates to remove the pits, be careful only to cut through the top half of the date so that the filling doesn't run out the bottom.

You can also get creative with your dates and try different varieties. Deglet Noor dates, for example, have a better bacon-to-date ratio and are often already pitted. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different types of dates to find your favourite.

Preparing the dates

Firstly, select the right dates. Medjool dates are often recommended for their size, sweetness, and chewy texture. Make sure the dates are fresh, soft, and plump, with a little softness. You will need to pit the dates, so purchasing them already pitted or pitting them yourself is essential. If you need to pit the dates yourself, use a sharp paring knife to make a small slit lengthwise on one side of the date, and the pit will come out easily.

Once the dates are pitted, it's time to stuff them. You can fill the cavity with a small amount of your chosen cheese, such as goat cheese, blue cheese, or cream cheese. If you prefer, you can also add a whole roasted almond or other types of nuts inside for a crunchy texture. Use about a teaspoon of filling per date, being careful not to overfill, as the cheese may melt and leak out during cooking.

Now it's time to wrap the dates with bacon. Cut the bacon slices in half or into thirds, depending on the size of the dates. Place the filled date at one end of the bacon slice and roll it up, securing it with a toothpick. Make sure to wrap the bacon tightly around the date. Overlap the bacon slightly and insert the toothpick into the meaty part to prevent it from coming off during cooking.

Finally, arrange the bacon-wrapped dates in the air fryer basket. Place them seam-side down and spaced evenly, ensuring they don't touch each other. This ensures even cooking and crispiness. Depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of the bacon, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Wrapping the dates

Once the dates are pitted, you can start wrapping them with bacon. Cut the bacon slices in half widthwise; you will need half a slice for each date. If you are using a thinner variety of bacon, you may need to cut it into thirds. Place the date at one end of the bacon slice and roll it up, making sure the date is completely wrapped. Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick, inserting it into the meaty part of the bacon, not the fat. This will prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking.

If you want to add a creamy texture and tangy flavour to your dates, you can stuff them with cheese before wrapping them in bacon. Goat cheese, blue cheese, cream cheese, or Manchego cheese are all excellent options. Simply fill the cavity of the date with a small amount of cheese (about a teaspoon) and gently pinch the date closed before wrapping it in bacon. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to find your favourite combination.

Another variation is to stuff the dates with almonds, adding a nice crunch and flavour. You can also try other types of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a different texture and taste.

When wrapping the dates, make sure the bacon is wrapped tightly and securely. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the bacon from unraveling. It is also important to note that thinly sliced bacon works best, as it cooks faster and crisps up nicely.

Air fryer temperature and duration

The temperature and duration for which you cook your bacon-wrapped dates in the air fryer will depend on the type of bacon you use, the number of dates you are cooking, and whether or not you are stuffing your dates.

If you are using thin bacon, you will want to cook your dates for a shorter amount of time, as thin bacon cooks faster. If you are using thick-cut bacon, you will need to cook your dates for longer to ensure the bacon is fully cooked.

If you are cooking a large number of dates, you may need to cook them in batches to ensure they are all cooked evenly. This will also affect the overall cooking time.

Most recipes recommend cooking the dates at a temperature between 350-390°F (180-190°C) for 6-12 minutes. However, it is important to keep an eye on your dates while they are cooking, as the exact cooking time will depend on your air fryer and the doneness of your bacon.

If you are stuffing your dates, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the filling is heated through. Again, this will depend on the number of dates you are cooking, the type of bacon you are using, and your air fryer.

Serving suggestions

Bacon-wrapped dates are a versatile appetizer that can be served at any occasion, from a fancy dinner party to a casual get-together or a cozy night in. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your bacon-wrapped dates:

Platter or Charcuterie Board

Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a platter or charcuterie board, pairing them with other small bites, dips, and snacks. This way, your guests can enjoy a variety of flavours and textures.

Grazing Board or Antipasto Platter

Add bacon-wrapped dates to a grazing board or an antipasto platter as part of a meal made entirely of finger foods. This allows your guests to sample different flavours and creates a casual and interactive dining experience.

Tapas Night

Freeze the bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Then, follow the air frying instructions for a quick and easy tapas night at home. Serve them with other tapas dishes like prawn and chorizo skewers or shishito peppers with lemon aioli.

Appetizer or Snack

Bacon-wrapped dates make an excellent appetizer or snack, especially when you're looking for something quick and easy. They can be served as-is or enhanced with additional fillings.

Cheese Pairing

Serve the bacon-wrapped dates with pungent cheeses like blue cheese, goat cheese, gorgonzola, or Roquefort. The creamy and tangy cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet and salty flavours of the dates and bacon.

Dipping Sauces

For added flavour, pair the bacon-wrapped dates with dipping sauces like honey mustard, balsamic glaze, or a creamy garlic sauce. These sauces will enhance the sweet and salty flavours of the dish.

Frequently asked questions