Crispy Beef Bacon Wrapped Dates

The air fryer hums a low, steady song while the scent of caramelizing sugar and smoky meat fills the kitchen. I love how these little bites come together in a flash, turning a simple weeknight into something that feels like a party. There is something deeply satisfying about the snap of crispy beef against a soft, sweet date. It is the kind of snack that disappears moments after hitting the plate.

I made a huge batch of these last minute when friends dropped by unexpectedly on a Friday night. Everyone stood around the counter, grabbing them straight from the cooling rack because they could not wait for a proper plate. It turned into a chaotic, happy mess of sticky fingers and laughter.

Ingredients

• Medjool dates: These are large and soft enough to hold the filling without tearing easily.
• Cream cheese or goat cheese: A cool creamy filling inside the hot date creates a wonderful temperature contrast.
• Beef bacon: It adds a richer, smokier flavor profile than traditional pork bacon.
• Toothpicks: Essential for keeping the bacon tight against the date as it shrinks.

Instructions

Prep the dates:

Slit each date open lengthwise to create a pocket for the cheese and pull out the pits gently so you keep the fruit intact.

Stuff the fruit:

Squeeze about a teaspoon of cheese into the center of each date.

Wrap it up:

Stretch the bacon slice around the date and pierce it through with a toothpick to secure the bundle.

Air fry time:

Cook the dates at 200°C for about ten to twelve minutes until the fat renders and the exterior browns.

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Biting into one while it is still piping hot reveals that perfect blend of textures. The crunch gives way to chewy fruit and then the soft cheese melts on your tongue. It is a tiny moment of pure culinary joy.

Mastering the Filling

If you find the cheese too soft to handle, try chilling it in the fridge for ten minutes before stuffing.

Alternative Wraps

Turkey bacon works if you prefer a lighter option, though it cooks faster than beef.

Serving Suggestions

These little bites are fantastic on their own, but a few extras can elevate the experience.

• Drizzle with hot honey for a spicy kick.
• Chop fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice to cut the richness.

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Keep a batch ready in the fridge for whenever a craving strikes. They are simply too good to eat just once.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use regular pork bacon?

Yes, regular pork bacon works well too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as it may crisp up faster than beef bacon.

→ What cheese is best for stuffing?

Cream cheese and goat cheese are the most popular choices. They offer a creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the dates perfectly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer to regain crispiness.

→ Is this preparation gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always double-check the labels on your bacon and cheese to ensure no gluten-containing additives are present.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can assemble the dates a day in advance and keep them refrigerated. Air fry them just before serving to ensure they are warm and crispy.

→ Do I need to remove the pits?

Yes, you must remove the pits. Slice the date lengthwise and pop the pit out before adding the cheese filling.