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These Dairy Free Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates are a flavor-packed treat! Picture this: sweet Medjool dates filled with creamy dairy free cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and finished with a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze. They're an irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and creamy.

These stuffed dates are a great way to add a bit of gourmet flair to your next gathering, perfect for serving at holiday parties or they make a delicious appetizer to nearly any meal.

If you are looking for more perfect appetizer recipes, try my: Vegan Dairy Free Spider Web Taco Dip, Dairy Free Green Goddess Cabbage Salad and Honey, Lime and Mint Fruit Salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

It is delicious. This easy recipe combines the sweet dates with the salty bacon and the creamy tang of dairy free cream cheese. There is a perfect balance of flavors in each bite!
It is simple. Despite being easy to make, these stuffed dates look and taste fancy. With simple ingredients and just a few steps to assemble, these snacks are ready quickly and with not much effort!
It is versatile. These dates work wonders as simple appetizers, snacks, or even as an unexpected addition to a cheese platter. This is a versatile option for a variety of occasions and tastes.

Ingredients

Here are notes about the ingredients needed to make this easy bacon wrapped stuffed dates recipe. All of these ingredients can be found at your local grocery store or an online retailer.

Dates: You will need 18 medium sized dates with the pits removed.
Bacon: Use 9 strips of bacon.
Cream cheese: Use your favorite dairy free cream cheese. I like the brand Nuts for Cheese and I used their Cranberry Pink Peppercorn seasonal variety
Toothpicks
Balsamic glaze

Step-By-Step Instructions

Here is how to make this perfect party appetizer.

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Step 2: Lay the strips of bacon on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly until cool enough to handle.

Step 3: While the bacon is par baking, cut a slit in each of the dates and remove the pits.

Step 4: Slightly open each date and spoon 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese inside.

Step 5: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. Cut each strip of bacon in half and wrap one half around each date. Secure with a toothpick and place in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining dates and bacon.

Step 6: Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven, drizzle with the balsamic glaze and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

Par-baking the bacon ensures it's partially cooked and crisps up nicely when baked again with the dates, preventing it from becoming too chewy.
You can prepare ahead by stuffing the dates but don’t plan to wrap with the bacon until right before you are going to bake them.
Arrange the stuffed dates neatly in the baking dish for even cooking and a visually appealing final dish.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and eat within 2-3 days.

Variations

Experiment with different dairy-free cheese flavors or types. Try smoked or herbed varieties to add unique tastes to each bite.
Kick up the heat by adding a touch of heat to the cream cheese filling, like a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce, for a sweet and spicy contrast.
Instead of balsamic glaze, try finishing them off with a drizzle of maple syrup for a different sweet and savory flavor combination.

Serving Suggestions

Present these bacon wrapped stuffed dates on a decorative platter as a fancy appetizer for a gathering, alongside a selection of cheeses and nuts. You could also serve them as an unexpected addition to a brunch spread!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular cream cheese if I don't need it to be dairy free?

Absolutely! Regular cream cheese works perfectly well for this recipe if dairy free isn't a requirement. It will still provide that creamy texture and delicious flavor within the stuffed dates. Feel free to use your favorite brand or type of cream cheese for this recipe.

How far in advance can I prepare these stuffed dates before serving?

You can stuff the dates with the cream cheese up to a day in advance, but save the bacon par baking and wrapping until you are ready so serve them. These are best served fresh and hot from the oven.

Are there alternative ways to cook the bacon if I don't want to use the oven?

Yes. If you prefer not to use the oven, you can cook the bacon on the stovetop.

More Easy Recipes

Easy Creamy Vegan Coleslaw: This Easy Creamy Vegan Coleslaw will quickly become your favorite summer side dish. With the creaminess of vegan mayonnaise, the zing of stone ground mustard, the delightful crunch of cabbage, and a twist of sweetness from plump, juicy raisins, this coleslaw is sure to impress!

Salted Chocolate Banana Pretzel Bites: These Salted Chocolate Banana Pretzel Bites are the most perfect little snack to pop in your mouth whenever you need a little sweet and salty fix! The combination of dark chocolate, sweet bananas, salty nut butter and crunchy gluten free pretzels topped with flaky sea salt is a one that is unmatched!

Carrot and Ginger Anti-Inflammatory Soup: This delicious Carrot and Ginger Anti-Inflammatory Soup is a tasty and delicious way to incorporate more anti-inflammatory foods into your diet.

If you make this recipe, don't forget to come back and leave a 5-star rating and a comment below.

Many Hugs,

Cathleen

Yield: 18

Author: Cathleen Crobons