Pin it These sweet and savory bites combine tender Medjool dates with creamy cheese filling, all wrapped in smoky beef bacon that crisps beautifully in the air fryer. The natural sweetness of the dates balances perfectly with salty beef bacon, while the optional cheese adds a rich, creamy element that ties everything together. Ready in just 27 minutes, these make an impressive appetizer for parties or game day gatherings.
The smell of beef bacon hitting my air fryer still reminds me of that last-minute dinner party where I had nothing impressive to serve. I raided my pantry, found a forgotten container of Medjool dates, and decided to wrap them in bacon on a whim. My friends couldn't stop popping them, and honestly, neither could I. Now they are my go-to emergency appetizer that looks way fancier than it actually is.
I made these for my sister's baby shower last spring, doubling the batch because I was nervous about running out. The pregnant women practically hovered over the air fryer watching them crisp up. My sister ate six before anyone else even got a plate. Now I am officially requested to bring them to every family gathering.
Ingredients
- 16 large Medjool dates, pitted: These are the MVP of sweet appetizers so buy the softest ones you can find
- 60 g (2 oz) cream cheese or goat cheese: Optional but the creamy tang cuts through the sweetness perfectly
- 8 slices beef bacon, cut in half: Beef bacon has a smokier depth than pork but regular bacon works too
- 16 toothpicks: Soak them for 10 minutes if you are worried about scorching
- Cooking spray: Helps the bacon get evenly crispy without sticking
Instructions
- Prep your dates:
- Slit each date open lengthwise and pull out the pit, leaving the fruit intact like a little pocket.
- Stuff them:
- Spoon about a teaspoon of cheese inside each date if you are using it, then press the edges back together.
- Wrap it up:
- Stretch a half slice of bacon around each date and secure it with a toothpick right through the center.
- Heat things up:
- Give your air fryer basket a quick spritz of cooking spray and set the temperature to 200°C (400°F).
- Get them crispy:
- Arrange the dates in a single layer, cook for 5 to 6 minutes, flip carefully, then finish for another 5 to 6 minutes.
- The waiting game:
- Let them rest on a plate for a few minutes so the bacon sets and the filling cools slightly.
Pin it These dates became my signature dish after I brought them to a Super Bowl party and someone asked for the recipe before the game even started. There is something magical about how the air fryer transforms the bacon into candied ribbons while the dates turn into jammy pockets of sweetness.
The Sweet Factor
Not all dates are created equal and I have learned this the hard way. Medjool dates are worth the extra cost because they stay moist and plump instead of drying out in the heat. I once used deglet noor dates and ended up with tough little nuggets that no one wanted to finish.
Make-Ahead Magic
You can stuff and wrap the dates up to a day in advance, then keep them covered in the fridge. This has saved me so many times when hosting. Just pull them out about 20 minutes before cooking so they are not ice cold when they hit the air fryer.
Serving Suggestions
A drizzle of honey right after they come out of the air fryer makes them glossy and even more irresistible. Fresh herbs add color and freshness.
- Chopped parsley or thyme cuts through the richness
- A sprinkle of flaky salt adds a professional touch
- Lemon zest brightens everything up if you want tang instead of sweet
Pin it These are the kind of appetizers that make people think you spent hours in the kitchen, even though we both know the truth. Happy snacking.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
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Yes, you can assemble the wrapped dates up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Air fry just before serving for the crispiest results.
- → What type of cheese works best?
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Cream cheese offers mild creaminess while goat cheese provides tangy flavor. Both work beautifully. You can also skip the cheese entirely for a simpler version.
- → Can I use regular pork bacon instead?
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Absolutely. Pork bacon works well and may crisp up faster. Reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes and watch closely to prevent burning.
- → How do I know when they're done?
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The bacon should be browned and crispy, with some fat rendered out. The dates will become slightly softened and warm. Most take 10-12 minutes at 200°C.
- → Can I cook these in the oven?
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Yes. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15-18 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, turning halfway. The air fryer produces crispier results faster.
- → What can I serve with these?
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These pair well with honey drizzle, balsamic glaze, or fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Serve alongside other finger foods or as part of a charcuterie spread.
