When it comes to appetizers, we often find ourselves in a dilemma. We want something that is easy to make, yet elegant enough to impress our guests. Well, look no further because today we are going to explore the wonderful world of bacon - wrapped dates. This finger - food recipe is a true gem, requiring just three ingredients and a mere 15 minutes of cook time.

Let's start by talking about the ingredients. The first and most crucial ingredient is, of course, dates. Dates are not only sweet and delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a great source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. You can choose either Medjool dates, which are large and plump, or smaller varieties depending on your preference. The natural sweetness of dates provides a perfect contrast to the savory flavor of bacon.

The second ingredient is bacon. Bacon is a staple in many kitchens around the world. Its crispy texture and rich, smoky flavor make it a favorite among food lovers. For this recipe, you can use regular bacon strips. Make sure to choose bacon that is not too thick or too thin. A medium - thickness bacon will cook evenly and provide the right amount of crunch.

The third ingredient is cream cheese. Cream cheese adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish. You can use regular cream cheese or flavored ones like chive and onion for an extra kick. The cream cheese acts as a binder between the date and the bacon and also enhances the overall flavor profile.

Now, let's move on to the cooking process. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each date and make a small slit along one side. Carefully remove the pit from the date. Then, take a small amount of cream cheese and stuff it into the date. The cream cheese should fill the cavity left by the pit.

Next, take a strip of bacon and cut it in half crosswise. Wrap each stuffed date with a half - strip of bacon. Secure the bacon around the date with a toothpick. Place the bacon - wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. This will allow the bacon to cook evenly and become crispy.

Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the dates as they cook. You want the bacon to turn golden brown and crispy. After 15 minutes, check the dates. If the bacon is not as crispy as you like, you can broil them for an additional 1 - 2 minutes, but be careful not to burn them.

Once the bacon - wrapped dates are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. You can serve them immediately while they are still warm. These bacon - wrapped dates are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual get - together with friends or a formal dinner party. They are easy to eat with your hands, making them a great finger food.

You can also get creative with this recipe. For example, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts like almonds or pecans on top of the cream cheese before wrapping the dates with bacon. This will add an extra layer of crunch and flavor. You can also drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the cooked dates for a sweeter taste.

In conclusion, bacon - wrapped dates are a simple yet elegant appetizer that is sure to be a hit with everyone. With just three ingredients and 15 minutes of cook time, you can create a delicious and impressive dish that will leave your guests asking for more. So, the next time you are looking for an easy appetizer idea, give bacon - wrapped dates a try!