Turkey Bacon Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Cream Cheese

Created on January 27th, 2026 at 04:53 pm

A Sweet and Savory Appetizer Designed for Balanced Flavor and Easy Serving

Turkey bacon wrapped dates stuffed with cream cheese are created as a bite-size appetizer that balances natural sweetness, creamy richness, and savory crispness in a single, controlled portion. This recipe focuses on structure and flavor contrast, ensuring the dates stay intact, the filling remains smooth, and the turkey bacon crisps without drying out.

These appetizers are designed for entertaining. They are easy to prepare in advance, bake evenly, and serve cleanly without utensils, making them ideal for parties, gatherings, and special occasions.

Why Turkey Bacon Works Better Than Traditional Alternatives

Turkey bacon provides a lighter, cleaner savory note while still delivering the crisp texture needed to balance the sweetness of the dates. It also cooks more evenly at moderate temperatures, which helps prevent burning before the dates are heated through.

Using turkey bacon ensures this recipe remains suitable for guests who avoid pork while still delivering familiar flavor and texture.

Date Selection and Preparation

Medjool dates are preferred for their size, softness, and natural caramel-like sweetness. Their pliable texture makes them easy to open and fill without tearing.

Pitting the dates carefully preserves their shape, which is important for wrapping and baking evenly.

Cream Cheese Filling Logic

Cream cheese provides a smooth, tangy contrast to the sweet dates and savory turkey bacon. Softening the cream cheese before filling ensures easy spreading and even distribution.

The filling amount is controlled to prevent overflow during baking while still delivering creaminess in every bite.

Wrapping and Securing for Clean Baking

Turkey bacon slices are cut in half to create proportional wraps that cook evenly. Wrapping snugly but not tightly allows the bacon to crisp while the date warms through.

Placing the seam side down on the baking sheet helps secure the wrap without the need for toothpicks in most cases.

Baking Method for Even Crisping

Baking at a moderate temperature allows the turkey bacon to render and crisp without drying out the dates. Turning is not required if the dates are placed seam-side down.

A short rest after baking helps the filling settle and improves handling during serving.

Texture and Finished Bite Expectations

The finished bites should be crisp on the outside, soft inside, and easy to bite through. The turkey bacon should hold its shape, the date should remain intact, and the cream cheese should be warm but not runny.

Each bite should deliver sweet, savory, and creamy elements in balance.

Time Breakdown

Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 18 minutes
Total time: About 38 minutes

Ingredients

• 20 Medjool dates, pitted
• 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• 10 slices turkey bacon, cut in half crosswise
• Cooking spray or parchment paper

Kitchen Tools

• Cutting board
• Knife
• Spoon or piping bag
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit, keeping the date intact.
3. Soften the cream cheese until smooth and easy to spread.
4. Fill each date with a small amount of cream cheese, avoiding overfilling.
5. Cut the turkey bacon slices in half crosswise.
6. Wrap one piece of turkey bacon around each filled date.
7. Place the wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Space the dates evenly to allow air circulation.
9. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes until the turkey bacon is crisp and golden.
10. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 3 minutes.
11. Transfer to a serving platter carefully to keep wraps intact.
12. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

Tips for Consistent Results

Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth filling. Avoid overfilling dates to prevent leakage. Choose evenly sized dates for uniform cooking. If your turkey bacon is thick-cut, add 2 to 3 extra minutes of baking time.

For extra crispness, place the baking sheet on the upper rack during the final few minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these turkey bacon wrapped dates warm as a party appetizer, finger food, or pre-dinner bite. They pair well with cheese boards, vegetable platters, and other small-format appetizers.

Arrange them neatly on a platter and serve immediately to maintain crisp texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Notes

The dates can be assembled up to 12 hours in advance and refrigerated until baking. Bake just before serving for best results. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated briefly in the oven.

Avoid microwaving, as it softens the turkey bacon.

Nutrition Table (Approximate Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	135
Carbohydrates	14 g
Protein	5 g
Fat	7 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	10 g
Sodium	220 mg

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of turkey bacon works best for this recipe?
Regular-cut turkey bacon works best because it wraps easily and crisps evenly. Thick-cut versions may require additional baking time.

Can I substitute another non-pork option?
Yes. Beef bacon can be used if preferred, but cooking times may vary slightly depending on thickness.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Use a modest amount of cream cheese and avoid squeezing the date closed too tightly. Seam-side-down placement also helps.

Can these be served at room temperature?
They are best warm, but they hold well at room temperature for short periods during gatherings.

Are these suitable for larger parties?
Yes. This recipe scales easily, and the bites can be baked in batches without loss of quality.