Crispy Beef Bacon Dates (Print version)

Sweet dates stuffed with creamy cheese and wrapped in crispy beef bacon, perfect for a snack.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dates & Filling

01 - 16 large Medjool dates, pitted
02 - 3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
03 - 16 whole toasted almonds (optional)

→ Wrapping

04 - 8 slices beef bacon, halved

→ For Air Frying

05 - Olive oil cooking spray

# How To Make It:

01 - Make a small lengthwise slit in each date and remove pits if not already pitted.
02 - Stuff each date with approximately 1 teaspoon of cream cheese and add an almond if desired. Pinch to close.
03 - Encase each stuffed date with half a slice of beef bacon, securing ends with toothpicks as needed.
04 - Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and arrange wrapped dates in a single layer with space between.
05 - Cook at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crisp and browned.
06 - Allow to cool briefly and remove toothpicks before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They taste like you've mastered something fancy, but they're honestly easier than chopping vegetables.
  • The contrast between crispy bacon and soft dates with creamy cheese is genuinely addictive, and guests will ask for the recipe.
02 -
  • Turning halfway through is non-negotiable—the side facing down crisps faster, so flipping ensures even browning and prevents burnt bottoms.
  • Don't skip the cooling step; it lets the bacon finish crisping and the cheese set just enough to avoid a greasy spill.
03 -
  • Let your cream cheese soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes—cold cheese is impossible to spread and wastes time.
  • If your air fryer runs hot, start checking at 7 minutes to catch that perfect crispy-not-burnt moment.

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