Bacon wrapped dates make a delicious appetizer or snack, but you may wonder if you can prepare them in advance and freeze them for later use. The good news is that you can absolutely freeze uncooked bacon wrapped dates! Freezing them allows you to have this tasty treat ready to bake and serve whenever you need an easy appetizer. Here are some tips for successfully freezing and reheating bacon wrapped dates.
Can You Freeze Uncooked Bacon Wrapped Dates?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked bacon wrapped dates. The bacon and dates hold up well in the freezer and can be thawed and cooked later with excellent results. To freeze bacon wrapped dates:
- Wrap each date tightly in a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the wrapped dates in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet or plate. Freeze until solid, about 2-3 hours.
- Transfer the frozen dates to an airtight freezer bag or container. Squeeze out excess air and seal.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
The dates may become a bit soggy after freezing but will firm up again when baked. The bacon maintains its texture and flavor well during freezing.
Can You Refreeze Bacon Wrapped Dates?
You can refreeze bacon wrapped dates if they have been thawed but not cooked. However, quality will decline with each freeze-thaw cycle. For best results, thaw the number of dates you need and cook them without refreezing. Cooked bacon wrapped dates should not be refrozen.
How Long Do Bacon Wrapped Dates Last in the Freezer?
Properly frozen, uncooked bacon wrapped dates will maintain quality for about 3 months in the freezer. After that point, the bacon can become soggy and the dates dry. Use frozen bacon wrapped dates within 3 months for the best flavor and texture.
Be sure to check your freezer temperature. It should maintain a consistent 0°F or below. Fluctuating temperatures can shorten the shelf life of frozen foods.
What is the Best Way to Thaw Bacon Wrapped Dates?
There are a few methods for safely thawing frozen bacon wrapped dates:
- Refrigerator Thawing: For slow thawing, place frozen bacon wrapped dates in a single layer on a plate or baking sheet. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours until completely thawed.
- Cold Water Thawing: For faster thawing, seal the dates in a plastic freezer bag. Submerge the bag in a bowl of cold tap water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Thaw for about 1 hour.
- Microwave Thawing: Microwave the dates on a microwave-safe plate in 5-10 second bursts, flipping once. Let stand 2 minutes before handling. Take care not to cook the bacon.
Once thawed, use the dates right away. Do not refreeze thawed dates.
How Do You Cook Thawed Bacon Wrapped Dates?
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the thawed, uncooked bacon wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 14-18 minutes until the bacon is crispy. Rotate the pan halfway through for even cooking.
Let cool slightly before serving warm. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Alternatively, you can bake the dates directly from frozen. Just add 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time. The bacon will sizzle and crisp as they bake without defrosting first.
Bacon Wrapped Dates Freezing and Storage Tips
- Choose fresh, moist dates that are sticky and plump. Medjool dates work best.
- Use regular sliced bacon or thinly sliced bacon to wrap dates. Turkey bacon can also be used.
- Wrap dates tightly so filling won’t leak out during freezing.
- Freeze uncooked dates in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
- Squeeze out excess air from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Thaw frozen dates completely before baking for best results.
- Bake directly from frozen for convenience. Add 2-3 extra minutes to baking time.
- Refrigerate leftovers and enjoy within 3-5 days.
Recipes Using Frozen Bacon Wrapped Dates
You can incorporate frozen bacon wrapped dates into a variety of delicious appetizers, side dishes, and entrees:
- Pigs in a Blanket: Thaw dates and wrap in crescent roll dough with baked cheese cubes. Bake as directed.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Mix cream cheese with thawed, chopped dates. Stuff into mushroom caps and bake.
- Sweet Potato Boats: Top baked sweet potato halves with spiced pecan crumble and cooked bacon wrapped dates.
- Salads: Crumble cooked bacon wrapped dates over spinach, kale, or mixed green salads.
- Charcuterie Board: Arrange baked bacon wrapped dates alongside cured meats, cheeses, fruit, nuts, and crackers.
- Pork Tenderloin: Stud pork tenderloin with thawed dates before roasting for sweet, salty flavor.
Common Questions
What kind of bacon works best?
Regular sliced bacon or thin sliced bacon works well. Thicker sliced bacon may overpower the dates. Turkey bacon can also be used.
How long does it take to freeze bacon wrapped dates?
Uncooked bacon wrapped dates need about 2-3 hours in the freezer to harden completely before transferring to a freezer bag.
Can you freeze cooked bacon wrapped dates?
It’s not recommended to freeze cooked bacon wrapped dates. The cooked bacon can turn soggy and the dates mushy. For best results, freeze them uncooked and bake just before serving.
Do you bake bacon wrapped dates from frozen?
Yes, you can bake frozen uncooked bacon wrapped dates without thawing first. Just increase the baking time by 2-3 extra minutes until the bacon is crisp.
How long do bacon wrapped dates last in the fridge?
Properly stored in the fridge, cooked bacon wrapped dates will last 3-5 days. Keep them in an airtight container and refrigerate as soon as they have cooled.
Conclusion
Freezing uncooked bacon wrapped dates is a great way to have these tasty bites on hand anytime. Simply wrap each date in bacon and pop them in the freezer until solid. Thaw before baking or bake directly from frozen. Bacon wrapped dates can be frozen for up to 3 months and used in many sweet and savory dishes. With proper freezing and storage, you can enjoy this classic appetizer without any hassle.