Crispy Beef Bacon Wrapped Dates (Print version)

Air-fried dates stuffed with cheese and wrapped in crispy beef bacon for a savory, sweet appetizer.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dates & Filling

01 - 16 large Medjool dates, pitted
02 - 2 oz cream cheese or goat cheese (optional)

→ Wrapping

03 - 8 slices beef bacon, halved

→ Finishing

04 - 16 toothpicks
05 - Cooking spray

# How To Make It:

01 - Slice the dates lengthwise without cutting completely through the fruit and remove any remaining pits.
02 - Fill the cavity of each date with approximately 1 teaspoon of cream cheese or goat cheese, if desired.
03 - Encase each stuffed date with a half slice of beef bacon and secure it firmly with a toothpick.
04 - Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
05 - Place the wrapped dates in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
06 - Cook at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and browned.
07 - Allow the dates to rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The salty crunch of beef bacon balances the sticky sweetness of the dates perfectly.
  • You get a fancy appetizer result with almost zero effort or cleanup.
02 -
  • Grease drips heavily from beef bacon, so check your air fryer drip pan halfway through cooking.
  • Turning the dates over ensures the bacon crisps up evenly on all sides.
03 -
  • Soak wooden toothpicks in water for a few minutes to prevent them from scorching.
  • Let the dates rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the cheese to set slightly.

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