Bacon Wrapped, Cream Cheese Stuffed Dates

These are a perennial new year's eve favorite for me.  They're sweet and salty and savory, crunchy and creamy.  It's the perfect little appetizer!  And the best part is how easy they are to make.

You will need:

Pitted dates
Cream cheese
Bacon
Toothpicks

Preheat your oven to 375.  Then, make a small slit down the side of each date to make filling them easier.

Then, add as much cream cheese as the date can hold.

Next, cut the bacon strips into thirds. Wrap one-third of a strip around the date, using a toothpick to secure the bacon. 

Finally, using a rimmed pan lined with aluminum foil, pop them into the oven for about 30-40 minutes or until the bacon looks done.

So good and so simple!  These also freeze well pre-baking; just thaw, bake, and serve :)