As for ringing in the New Year with good luck foods, these amazingly delectable petite poppers have you at least partially covered. Check list: bacon (the pig routing forward) dates (a symbol of money) lemon (fruit for abundance). Not to mention these sweet, smooth dates stuffed with lemony cream cheese all wrapped up in semi-salty bacon and baked until crispy are seriously delish!!
Very easy to make for a party of many or even one. 🙂 A full tray never seems to make it to the serving table and there are never any left over. So you may want to consider making a double batch. Best served room temperature, so it’s okay to make a few hours in advance. Servings: 32
Ingredients:
1 pound sliced bacon, cut in half
1 pound pitted dates
8 ounces cream cheese softened
1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon peel
Directions:
In a small bowl mix softened cream cheese and lemon peel. Refrigerate until almost firm and cold.
Preheat the oven to 375*
Slice dates in half, and open them up. Add ½ teaspoon of cream cheese into center. Close the halves and wrap a half-slice of bacon around the outside. Secure each one with a toothpick. Arrange in a baking dish or on a baking sheet with sides to catch any grease. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes in preheated oven, or until bacon is crisp. Turn dates over after the first 20 minutes for even cooking. Best served room temperature.
Once Upon a Spice 
Yummy!
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Thanks, Marci! They’re so satisfying with all of the complete flavors included 🙂
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Looks delicious
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Thank you so much! I’m missing your blog in my reader! Is there another way to get there? I miss your recipes!! 🙂
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Lana I have shifted my blog to self hosted one. So I would like to make a request to add my blog manual to your follow list. Blog name is dineinmykitchen.com
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Thanks, hon! I just did as you suggested & now I’ll be able to see you again!!
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Hey Thanks Lana
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Looks so very tasty. Love the addition of the orange zest! 🙂
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Thanks so much, Ronit! The kiss of zest truly is wonderful 🙂
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Wow super yummy!
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Thanks, Lynn! I also roll them on occasion in brown sugar & cinnamon before baking…super caramely!
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Wooo that is yummy
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Very nice!
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Thanks so much, Daniela!! Happy New Year Blessings to you & your family!
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Happy New Year to you too! Have an amazing 2016!
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Thank you! You too, sweet girl ♥
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Oh my…yum yum 🙂
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Thank you, Marisa! They’re the perfect blend of sweet & salty…with a citrus kiss 🙂
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These sound absolutely divine. I adore dates, bacon, cream cheese and lemon, so these can only be a winner ! 🙂
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Thanks, Lynne! I agree! Their tastes flow beautifully together!
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