Get ready to experience a flavor explosion like never before! Chef Maxine “Max” Delarue, the bold culinary rebel from Maxivore.com, is about to take your tastebuds on a wild ride with her Maple Bacon-Wrapped Dates with a Spicy Kick. This epic recipe is a surefire way to turn your kitchen into a flavor paradise and leave your friends and family begging for more. Buckle up, because we’re about to break some delicious rules!
Why You’ll Love This Maple Bacon-Wrapped Dates with a Spicy Kick
This recipe is an absolute INSANE flavor combination that you won’t be able to resist. The sweet and sticky maple glaze perfectly complements the savory bacon, while the spicy kick from the jalapeño adds a thrilling touch of heat. It’s the ultimate party appetizer that’s sure to leave your guests begging for the recipe. These maple bacon-wrapped dates are not only incredibly delicious, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to transform your ordinary snacks into a sensational food adventure!
Ingredients
You’ll need just a few simple ingredients to create this epic flavor explosion: dates, bacon, maple syrup, and jalapeño. The sweet and savory flavors of the dates and bacon are perfectly balanced by the boldness of the maple and the spicy kick of the jalapeño. Get ready to smash some delicious rules with this revolutionary recipe!
- 18–20 pitted dates – sweet and chewy
- 9–10 slices of bacon, cut in half – savory and crispy
- 1/4 cup maple syrup – sticky and sweet
- 1 jalapeño, sliced into thin rounds – spicy and bold
- Toothpicks for assembly
Ingredient Substitutions
- Jalapeño: Substitute with serrano or habanero peppers for a different level of heat (beware the spice!)
- Bacon: Try turkey bacon or prosciutto for a healthier or more sophisticated twist
How to Make Maple Bacon-Wrapped Dates with a Spicy Kick
This recipe is a breeze to make, and the results are out-of-this-world delicious. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to flavor paradise in no time!
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Then, slice the jalapeño into thin rounds, being careful to remove the seeds and membranes if you want to reduce the heat level. Lastly, slice the bacon strips in half, creating short pieces that will wrap around the dates.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Next, it’s time to assemble the maple bacon-wrapped dates. Take a date and stuff it with a slice of jalapeño. Then, wrap a half-strip of bacon around the date, securing it with a toothpick. Repeat this process with the remaining dates and jalapeño slices.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Once all the dates are wrapped, it’s time to bake them to perfection. Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle them with the maple syrup, making sure to coat each one evenly. Bake the dates for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the maple glaze is caramelized, creating a sensational flavor explosion in every bite.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
After the maple bacon-wrapped dates have finished baking, let them cool for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks. Serve these epic appetizers warm, and get ready to witness the incredible flavor jealousy of your guests as they dive into this insane dish.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to suit your heat preferences, or try a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper in the maple glaze.
- Sweeten the deal: Brush the dates with a mixture of Dijon mustard and honey before wrapping them in bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Fruit swap: Substitute the jalapeño with a sweet fruit like apple or pineapple for a unique twist on the classic.
- Smoke and mirror: For a truly explosive taste, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the maple glaze.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: A tangy, creamy dip like Ranch or Blue Cheese, and maybe even a refreshing cocktail or two to really complete the party vibe.
Storage: These maple bacon-wrapped dates can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or air fryer when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the dates in advance by assembling and wrapping them in bacon, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake and serve.
Nutrition Information
These maple bacon-wrapped dates are a true flavor explosion, but they’re also surprisingly nutritious. Each serving provides a good amount of protein from the bacon and healthy fats from the avocado oil used in the cooking process. Plus, the dates are a great source of fiber and natural sweetness, making this snack a truly addictive and guilt-free indulgence.
- Serving Size: 2 bacon-wrapped dates
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbs: 12 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these maple bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time?
Yes, you can absolutely prepare these in advance! Simply assemble the dates, wrap them in bacon, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them the perfect make-ahead appetizer for parties or gatherings.
Can I use a different type of bacon?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of bacon, such as turkey bacon or even prosciutto, to change up the flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of bacon you use.
How spicy are these maple bacon-wrapped dates?
The level of spice in these dates can be easily adjusted by the amount of jalapeño you use. If you prefer a milder heat, use less jalapeño or swap it out for a bell pepper. For a bolder, more thrilling experience, feel free to add extra jalapeño or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of maple syrup?
Definitely! While the maple syrup provides a delicious and complementary sweetness to the bacon and dates, you can experiment with other sweeteners like honey, brown sugar, or even a maple-flavored syrup. Just be sure to adjust the amount to your taste preferences.
How do I know when the dates are fully cooked?
The dates are fully cooked when the bacon is crispy and the maple glaze is caramelized and bubbly. You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon has a deep, golden-brown color and the dates have softened and become slightly puffed. Keep a close eye on them during the baking process to ensure they don’t overcook.
Try These Next
- Loaded Maple Bacon Cheese Fries With Spicy Ranch Drizzle
- Smoky Bbq Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf With Maple Glaze
- Spicy Maple Bacon Cheesecake Bites With Caramel Drizzle
Maple Bacon-Wrapped Dates with a Spicy Kick
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Bacon Empire
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Sweet and savory, these maple bacon-wrapped dates are filled with a spicy kick. Perfect for an appetizer or party snack!
Ingredients
12 large Medjool dates
6 slices of bacon, cut in half
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. Slice the dates lengthwise and remove the pits.
3. 3. In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. 4. Stuff each date with a small amount of the maple mixture.
5. 5. Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
6. 6. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. 7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
8. 8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
These can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.
Feel free to add different spices or cheese for variation!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: bacon, dates, appetizer, spicy, maple