Crispy Beef Bacon Dates (Printable Version)
Sweet dates filled with creamy cheese, wrapped in beef bacon, air fried until irresistibly crispy.
# What You Need:
→ Dates & Filling
01 - 16 large Medjool dates, pitted
02 - 3 oz cream cheese, softened (or goat cheese as an alternative)
03 - 16 whole toasted almonds (optional)
→ Wrapping
04 - 8 slices beef bacon, halved
→ For Air Frying
05 - Olive oil spray
# How-To Steps:
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 insert an almond if desired. Pinch closed securely.
03 - Wrap each filled date with half a slice of beef bacon, securing ends with toothpicks if necessary.
04 - Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil and arrange wrapped dates in a single layer with space between them.
05 - Cook at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until bacon is crispy and golden brown.
06 - Allow dates to cool slightly before serving. Remove toothpicks prior to consumption.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
- They're genuinely effortless to assemble—honestly, kids can help and they'll be excited about the results.
- The contrast between sweet, creamy, and crispy keeps your palate interested with every single bite.
- They cook in minutes and always look impressive, making them perfect for last-minute entertaining.
02 -
- Don't skip turning them halfway—the side facing down first won't crisp properly without flipping.
- If your dates feel dry, soak them in warm water for five minutes before stuffing; they'll plump up beautifully and won't crack when you pinch them closed.
- The filling will be hotter than the outside, so warn guests to bite gently or let them cool just a touch longer.
03 -
- Buy pre-pitted Medjool dates if you can find them—it saves the extra step and frustration of pit removal.
- Pat your dates dry with a paper towel before filling to help the cheese stick and prevent the bacon from sliding around.