Bacon Wrapped Dates With Almonds

Don't let anyone tell you otherwise...THESE ARE WONDERFUL. They are always the very first thing to go at a party. When I catered I always told my customers to order 2-3 times more of these than anything else. Most people expect scallops but are pleasantly surprised by the sweet wonderful flavor inside. A combination of sweet, crunchy, salty and smoky is a real winner! You won't be sorry you went out on a limb to try these. You can prep ahead of time, freeze and then pull them out of the freezer and bake right before the party.

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Serves: 25
• Yields: 60 pieces

Ingredients

• 1  lb pitted dates
• 1 (4 ounce) package  whole almonds, blanched
• 1 1⁄2 lbs smoked bacon, thin sliced

Directions

1. Stuff each date with one almond.
2. Cut bacon into half or thirds.
3. Wrap bacon around date and secure with a round toothpick.
4. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
5. Place dates on a foil lined (they are messy and this makes them much easier to clean up) baking pan and cook until bacon is crispy (around 15 minutes).
6. Drain on paper towel and serve warm or room temperature.
7. Watch them disappear!