These are a great appetizer to serve while you are waiting for everyone to arrive. They can be prepped up to two weeks ahead and frozen. Pop them in the oven 20 minutes before your guests are expected. Early arrivals will hope the other guests get stuck in traffic.
Bacon Wrapped Medjool Dates
Makes three dozen hors d’oeuvres
36 whole blanched almonds
12 strips center cut bacon
Line a four-sided cookie sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly grease with non-stick cooking spray. Place one almond into the center of each date half. Pinch and roll the date around the almond.
Cut the bacon into thirds, lengthwise. Wrap each date in a piece of bacon and place cut side down on the greased foil.
When ready to bake, center a rack in the middle of your oven and preheat to 350 degrees. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the bacon is cooked. Serve warm.