The Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Sweet, Savory, and Spicy Delights

Bacon-wrapped dates are a quintessential appetizer that blends sweet, savory, and salty flavors into one irresistible bite. This recipe elevates the classic by adding a touch of heat and a caramelized twist that will make your taste buds dance. With the addition of scorching honey, brown sugar, and jalapeños, these dates are perfect for your next BBQ or gathering.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

While bacon-wrapped dates are a popular appetizer, this recipe takes them to a whole new level. The combination of sweet brown sugar, spicy jalapeños, and a touch of scorching honey or BBQ sauce transforms these simple bites into gourmet treats. Cooking them on a pellet grill or smoker adds an extra layer of smoky flavor that complements the candied bacon perfectly.

Ingredients

• Bacon: Use regular Oscar Mayer bacon strips for this recipe. Avoid thick-cut bacon as it takes longer to cook and can become too crispy.
• Dates: Opt for whole pitted dates, preferably Medjool, which are plump and juicy.
• Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust.
• BBQ Rub: A sweet BBQ rub enhances the flavor. I recommend using a pork rub for the best results.
• BBQ Sauce or Hot Honey: HNY FYR BBQ Sauce provides a fantastic blend of spicy and sweet, but you can use any BBQ sauce, honey, or hot honey.
• Jalapeño: Thinly sliced jalapeño adds a touch of heat and a pop of color.
• Cheese (Optional): For a richer flavor, stuff the dates with cream cheese, goat cheese, or blue cheese.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your pellet grill or smoker to 400°F (200°C) with an indirect heat zone. If using a charcoal grill, set up the coals for indirect cooking. For a gas grill, use a burner that’s turned off for indirect heat.

2. Prepare the Bacon: Cut each bacon strip in half horizontally.

3. Mix the Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, BBQ rub, and BBQ sauce or hot honey. Add the bacon strips and toss until well-coated. Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the sugars to dissolve and the bacon to absorb the flavors.

4. Wrap the Dates: Take a bacon strip and wrap it around each date. Secure it with a toothpick if necessary, or just ensure the seam is on the bottom to prevent the bacon from unraveling. For cheese-stuffed dates, cut a slit in each date and stuff with cheese before wrapping.

5. Add Toppings: Place the wrapped dates on a small sheet pan. Top each with a thin jalapeño slice and a sprinkle of extra rub.

6. Grill the Dates: Place the pan on the grill and cook over indirect heat for 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is caramelized.

Pro Tip: Using a pan instead of placing the dates directly on the grill prevents flare-ups and keeps your grill cleaner. It also makes it easier to handle the dates.

Serving Suggestions

Remove the dates from the pan as soon as they’re done cooking to prevent sticking. Transfer them to a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, like parsley, for a touch of color. Serve with toothpicks for easy eating.

Storage

Store leftover bacon-wrapped dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They don’t freeze well but can be reheated in the microwave or air fryer for best results.

Pro Pitmaster Tips

• Use thin bacon for even cooking and better caramelization.
• Allow the bacon to marinate in the spice mixture for at least 15 minutes.
• Smoke the dates over indirect heat to avoid burning the bacon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cheese pairs well with dates?
Goat cheese, blue cheese, or cream cheese are excellent choices for stuffing dates. Each adds a unique flavor that complements the sweetness of the dates and the saltiness of the bacon.

What should I serve with bacon-wrapped dates?
These dates are fantastic on a charcuterie board with other cured meats, cheeses, nuts, and fruits. Try serving them with smoked cream cheese and homemade red pepper jelly for an extra touch of elegance.

What are devils on horseback?
Devils on horseback are a classic appetizer similar to bacon-wrapped dates, where dates or prunes are stuffed with an almond or cheese and wrapped in bacon.

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Conclusion

This enhanced bacon-wrapped dates recipe combines sweet, savory, and spicy elements to create an appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With the added smoky flavor from the grill and the caramelized sweetness, these dates are a gourmet treat that’s easy to make. Enjoy and happy grilling!