Big fan of dates. Dates are natures candy – and candy wrapped bacon (minus the sugar) is what’s up. I made these for some Whole30 guests but my (gluten free) husband and my (eats without restrictions) in-laws enjoyed them just the same. Even Leo got in on the action – they’re like the most delicious baby chew toys in the world.Â
Bacon wrapped dates are nearly as delicious as bacon wrapped shrimp/scallops but minus all of the worry. For instance since scallops can overcook in about three seconds and nobody likes raw bacon, the margin of error is quite high. Not the case with dates, as they don’t require cooking at all. They’re done when the bacon is cooked, and there’s no pre-cooking required. Best of all, how often do you find a gluten/dairy/sugar-free snack that doesn’t make you a little bit sad? Not often.
Now, they’re not much to look at. I mean I guess they sort of look like footballs, and since I made them for Super Bowl lets just assume I did it on purpose. Once you taste them, though, you’ll forgive their less than appealing looks.
Bacon Wrapped Dates
Serves 6
24 pitted dates
12 slices bacon (usually 1 lb)
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
2. Take bacon out of the package and cut each piece in half.
3. Wrap each date in a the half slice of bacon – place seam side down on prepared sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and move an oven rack to the top position in the oven. Place pan on top rack and put oven on broil. Watch carefully with door ajar – 3 to 4 minutes or until crisped and brown.
5. Remove from oven. Place bacon wrapped dates on paper towel lined plate to remove excess grease; serve warm or room temperature.
