Creamy Bacon Date Bites

Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting the most delectable party appetizer: **Bacon Wrapped Dates with Cream Cheese**. These irresistible bites offer a perfect symphony of flavors – a harmonious blend of spicy, sweet, savory, and creamy textures, all encased in perfectly crispy bacon and finished with a tantalizing drizzle of hot honey. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party, a casual get-together, or simply looking for an impressive snack, these Medjool date delights are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and leave your guests asking for the recipe. Prepare yourself for a truly complex and unforgettable taste experience that’s surprisingly easy to achieve.

In search of an elevated appetizer that’s quick to prepare but delivers maximum impact? Look no further than these gourmet bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with creamy cheese. They are not only ready in less than an hour, including crucial prep and chill time, but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily scale the recipe to suit any size gathering, from intimate family dinners to large festive celebrations. This makes them a go-to option for holidays, game days, and every party in between.

If you find yourself with extra cream cheese after whipping up a batch of these amazing dates, don’t let it go to waste! Consider incorporating it into other fantastic recipes like our Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms, the comforting Easy Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken Chili, or the ever-popular Everything Pigs in a Blanket with Cream Cheese for another savory treat.

Why You’ll Love These Bacon Wrapped Dates with Cream Cheese

These isn’t just another appetizer; it’s a culinary experience designed for ease, flavor, and pure enjoyment. Here’s why these bacon wrapped dates with cream cheese will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire:

• Effortlessly Easy – You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to master this recipe. These bacon wrapped dates with cream cheese require minimal kitchen tools and straightforward steps, making them accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The simple assembly means less time stressing and more time enjoying.
• Amazingly Quick – In today’s fast-paced world, quick recipes are a lifesaver. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, these delicious dates move from your kitchen counter to your oven and onto your serving platter in under an hour, including the essential chilling time. Perfect for last-minute entertaining!
• Irresistible Bacon Bliss – Bacon isn’t just a wrapper here; it’s a star ingredient that elevates the entire dish. Its salty, crispy texture not only adds incredible flavor but also makes these dates more satisfying and substantial, transforming a simple fruit into a hearty appetizer.
• A Delightful Kick of Heat – For those who appreciate a little spice, the combination of hot honey and cayenne pepper delivers a subtle yet invigorating warmth. This gentle heat perfectly complements the sweetness of the dates and the richness of the cream cheese, adding an exciting dimension to every bite.
• Perfectly Balanced Sweetness – The natural sweetness of plump Medjool dates, combined with the golden richness of honey, creates a beautiful contrast to the savory bacon and the mild spice. This exquisite balance ensures each mouthful is complex, intriguing, and utterly delicious without being overwhelmingly sweet.
• Fragrant & Herby – Fresh rosemary is the secret weapon in this recipe. Its aromatic, piney notes infuse the hot honey and the entire dish with a sophisticated, earthy flavor. This herby touch brightens the overall profile and adds a layer of freshness that truly makes these bacon wrapped dates with cream cheese stand out.
• Ideal for Any Gathering – Whether it’s a large holiday feast, a casual party with friends, or a game day celebration, these cream cheese stuffed dates are your ultimate party companion. Their easy-to-scale nature means you can whip up a small batch or a grand spread with minimal effort, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy this incredible appetizer.

Essential Ingredients & Smart Substitutions

Crafting the perfect Bacon Wrapped Dates with Cream Cheese begins with selecting quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some helpful tips and substitutions to make this recipe your own:

• **Medjool Dates:** These large, soft, and naturally sweet dates are the foundation of our appetizer. Their plump texture is ideal for stuffing. To save time during preparation, opt for already pitted dates. If pitted dates aren’t available, simply use a small paring knife or your fingers to carefully remove the pits from the center of each date before proceeding with the recipe.
• **Cream Cheese:** The creamy heart of these dates! We recommend an 8-10 ounce container of a creamy spread. For an added layer of flavor and convenience, try an everything bagel flavored cream cheese or dip. If you can’t find this specific flavor, don’t worry! Simply use plain cream cheese (full-fat for best texture) and mix in a generous amount of everything bagel seasoning to achieve a similar savory profile before stuffing. For those who prefer a tangier, more robust cheese, a blend of half cream cheese and half goat cheese (or entirely goat cheese) makes an excellent, more sophisticated filling.
• **Bacon:** You’ll need 16 slices of regular-cut bacon, cut in half. Avoid thick-cut bacon, as it tends to take longer to crisp up and might not adhere as snugly to the dates. The thinner slices will render beautifully, providing that essential crispy, salty contrast to the sweet dates and creamy filling.
• **Honey (for Hot Rosemary Honey):** This golden elixir provides the base for our flavorful glaze. Choose a good quality honey for the best taste.
• **Cayenne Pepper (for Hot Rosemary Honey):** This is where the “kick” comes from! You’ll need about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount according to your personal heat tolerance. If you’re unsure, start with a smaller quantity in your first batch, then increase it for subsequent batches if you desire more spice. It’s always easier to add more heat than to take it away!
• **Fresh Rosemary (for Hot Rosemary Honey):** Approximately 3-4 sprigs of fresh rosemary are crucial for infusing the honey with its distinct aromatic, earthy notes. Fresh is key here, as dried rosemary won’t provide the same vibrant flavor.

A complete list of ingredients and precise amounts can be found on the recipe card below.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Cream Cheese

Get ready to create a show-stopping appetizer with these easy-to-follow steps. The process is straightforward, ensuring delicious results every time!

Quick Overview: Your Path to Perfect Dates

• **Prepare & Stuff Dates:** Carefully fill each date with the creamy cheese mixture.
• **Preheat Oven & Chill:** Get your oven ready while the stuffed dates firm up in the freezer.
• **Assemble & Bake:** Wrap with bacon, drizzle with honey glaze, and bake until golden and crispy.

Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Chill the Dates. Begin by generously stuffing each Medjool date with your chosen cream cheese mixture. Ensure the filling is ample but doesn’t overflow excessively. Arrange the stuffed dates on a plate lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Once all dates are stuffed, place the plate in the freezer for a minimum of 30 minutes. This crucial chilling step helps the cream cheese firm up, making the dates much easier to handle and preventing the filling from oozing out during wrapping and baking. While the dates are chilling, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).

Step 2: Craft the Hot Rosemary Honey (Optional) and Wrap the Bacon. While your dates are firming up, prepare the optional hot rosemary honey glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat preference), and fresh rosemary sprigs. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the honey to slightly thicken. Remove from heat and set aside. Once the dates are sufficiently chilled and firm, take them out of the freezer. Carefully wrap each date tightly with a half slice of regular-cut bacon. Secure the bacon firmly in place with a single toothpick, piercing through the bacon and the date. This ensures the bacon stays snug during baking.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup. Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s a little space between each date for even cooking and crisping.

Step 4: Drizzle and Bake to Perfection. Before baking, generously drizzle each date with the prepared hot rosemary honey. If your honey glaze has cooled and become too thick to drizzle easily, simply warm it up again slightly in the saucepan until it loosens to a pourable consistency. Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The precise baking time may vary depending on your oven and desired bacon crispiness. Look for the bacon to be golden brown and perfectly cooked to your liking. For extra crispy bacon, you can extend the baking time by a few minutes or finish them under the broiler for a quick minute, watching closely to prevent burning.

Recipe Serving Suggestions

These delightful Bacon Wrapped Dates with Cream Cheese are fantastic on their own, but a few simple garnishes can truly elevate their presentation and flavor. Consider sprinkling them with more fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch, adding thin slices of vibrant jalapeño for an extra visual pop and a fresh burst of heat, or a scattering of chopped walnuts for an appealing textural crunch. For a truly gourmet presentation, serve them on a beautiful platter, perhaps alongside a small bowl of any remaining hot honey for dipping.

These sweet and savory bites are a perfect addition to any appetizer spread. I love serving these cream cheese-stuffed dates alongside other easy-to-eat finger foods for gatherings. Here are a few complementary ideas to round out your party menu:

• Sticky BBQ Chicken Wings: The savory and sweet notes of these wings will perfectly complement the dates.
• Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket with Crescent Rolls: A classic party favorite that’s quick and easy, offering a familiar comfort food option.
• Air Fryer English Muffins Pizzas: Simple, customizable mini pizzas that are always a hit, especially for a younger crowd or casual events.
• Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls: If you love the spicy kick in your dates, these will be another fantastic addition, offering similar flavor profiles in a different format.

Expert Tips for Success

Achieve perfection with your bacon-wrapped dates by following these invaluable expert tips. These insights will help you streamline your preparation and ensure a delicious outcome every time:

• **Easily Scale the Recipe as Needed.** One of the best features of this bacon wrapped dates with cream cheese recipe is its incredible adaptability. It’s perfectly suited for various events, as you can effortlessly adjust the quantities up or down. For an intimate family dinner or a small gathering, consider halving the recipe. If you’re preparing for a larger party or holiday celebration, feel free to double or even triple the ingredients. This flexibility makes them a perfect stress-free appetizer for any occasion.
• **Save Valuable Prep Time with Pitted Dates.** To make your cooking process even quicker and more enjoyable, always aim to buy already pitted dates from your grocery store. This simple choice can shave off about five minutes of prep time, allowing you to move straight to the fun part of stuffing and wrapping without the hassle of destoning each date.
• **Don’t Skip the Chilling Step for Firm Filling.** After you’ve lovingly filled each date with the creamy cheese, it’s highly recommended to chill them in the freezer for approximately 20-30 minutes. This step is a game-changer! The cold temperature helps the cream cheese firm up significantly. A firm filling makes the dates much easier to work with when wrapping them in bacon, preventing the cheese from squishing out and ensuring a cleaner, more appealing final product.
• **Choose the Right Bacon.** As mentioned, avoid thick-cut bacon. Regular or thin-sliced bacon works best because it crisps up more quickly and wraps more securely around the dates.
• **Evenly Space on the Baking Sheet.** When arranging the dates on the parchment-lined baking sheet, ensure they are in a single layer with a little space between each one. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of crisping, resulting in soggy bacon.
• **Customize the Heat.** If you’re serving a diverse group, consider making a small batch with less cayenne pepper or even leaving the hot honey as an optional dipping sauce on the side, allowing guests to control their spice level.

Exciting Additions & Creative Variations

While the classic Bacon Wrapped Dates with Cream Cheese recipe is fantastic on its own, it also serves as a wonderful canvas for culinary creativity. Here are some exciting additions and variations you can try to customize these delectable bites:

• **Sweet Brown Sugar Glaze:** If the hot rosemary honey isn’t quite your style, or if you’re looking for a different kind of sweetness, consider a brown sugar variation. Simply sprinkle a light coating of brown sugar over the bacon-wrapped dates before baking them. As they bake, the brown sugar will melt and caramelize, creating a rich, glossy, and incredibly delicious glaze that adds another layer of delightful sweetness.
• **Spicy Jalapeño Kick:** For those who crave extra heat and a vibrant flavor, incorporating jalapeños is a fantastic option. You can finely chop roasted or pickled jalapeños and mix them directly into the cream cheese filling before stuffing the dates, ensuring a spicy surprise in every bite. Alternatively, for a beautiful garnish and a fresh burst of heat, add thin slices of fresh jalapeño on top of each bacon-wrapped date just before baking or as a post-bake garnish.
• **Tangy Feta Infusion:** Elevate the savory profile of your dates by experimenting with feta cheese. For a more sophisticated and tangy flavor, use a mixture of half feta and half cream cheese for the filling. The salty, crumbly texture and bold flavor of feta will add an exciting Mediterranean twist to these classic appetizers, creating an “elevated” version of bacon-wrapped stuffed dates.
• **Crunchy Walnut Topping:** Introduce a delightful textural contrast by adding chopped walnuts. Sprinkle a generous amount of finely chopped walnuts over the dates before baking. As they roast, the walnuts will become lightly toasted, adding an appealing crunch and a nutty depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the dates and the saltiness of the bacon beautifully.
• **Gourmet Blue Cheese:** For a truly bold flavor, consider stuffing dates with a crumbled blue cheese instead of or mixed with cream cheese. The sharp, pungent notes of blue cheese pair incredibly well with the sweetness of dates and the savory bacon.
• **Maple Glaze:** Substitute hot honey with pure maple syrup for a different kind of sweet and savory glaze. You can even infuse the maple syrup with a touch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

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Bacon Wrapped Dates with Cream Cheese

Brianna May

5 from 41 votes

These Bacon Wrapped Dates with Cream Cheese are the perfect party/get-together appetizer. They’re spicy, sweet, herby, creamy, wrapped in crispy bacon, and drizzled with hot honey! Made with Medjool dates, cream, cheese, bacon, honey, cayenne, and rosemary, you’ll love the complex taste of this appetizer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Chilling time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 32 dates

Equipment

• Toothpicks
• Baking Sheets

Ingredients

• ▢ 32 Medjool dates pitted
• ▢ 8-10 ounces container La Terra Fina Everything Bagel Dip & Spread or cream cheese*
• ▢ 16 slices bacon, not thick-cut, cut in half

Hot Rosemary Honey, optional

• ▢ 1/2 cup honey
• ▢ 1/2 – 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper*
• ▢ 3-4 sprigs rosemary

Instructions 

• Stuff each date generously with the spread or cream cheese and place them on a plate lined with parchment paper. Pop these in the freezer for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
  32 Medjool dates, 8-10 ounces container La Terra Fina Everything Bagel Dip & Spread or cream cheese*
• While the dates chill, add the honey, cayenne, and rosemary to a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes. Turn the heat off.
  1/2 cup honey, 1/2 – 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper*, 3-4 sprigs rosemary
• Once the dates have chilled, wrap each tightly with a half slice of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick. Place on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  16 slices bacon, not thick-cut, cut in half
• Drizzle each date with some of the hot rosemary honey. If the honey is hard to drizzle, warm it up again until it loosens.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is cooked to your liking.

Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment below!

Notes

• Dates: Buy pitted dates for a quicker prep time when making these bacon wrapped dates with cream cheese. If pitted dates aren’t available, use a small pairing knife/your hands to remove the pits from the dates.
• Cream Cheese: If you cannot find an everything bagel flavored cream cheese or dip at the grocery store, simply mix the cream cheese with everything bagel seasoning before stuffing the dates. You can also use goat cheese to create a creamy filling for the dates.
• Cayenne Pepper: Add more or less cayenne powder depending on your heat tolerance. If you’re unsure how much to add, start with a smaller batch and less cayenne pepper. If it’s not spicy enough, you can add more in the next batch.
• Scale the recipe as needed. This bacon wrapped dates with cream cheese recipe is great for events since you can scale it up or down easily. For family dinners, consider making half the recipe. If you’re going to a larger get-together, you can double or triple the recipe.
• Use already pitted dates. Save yourself prep time by buying already pitted dates from the grocery store. This tip will save you about five minutes.
• Chill the dates. Once you fill the dates with cream cheese, I recommend chilling them for about 20-30 minutes. This step will help the cream cheese harden, making the dates easier to work with as the filling won’t be squishing out.

Nutrition

Calories: 153kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 96mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 21g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.