Bacon-Wrapped Apricots Appetizers
These bacon-wrapped apricots appetizers are always a hit at parties. They’re bite-sized, salty, sweet, and delicious! Three simple ingredients are all you need for this make-ahead recipe that’s perfect to serve at room temperature. Serve them for breakfast appetizers, fancy cocktail parties, or tailgating.
Appetizers with bacon are one of the most popular finger foods at parties. It’s perfect for any occasion whether it’s a morning brunch party or an evening buffet with cocktails. And these bacon-wrapped bites are one of the most beloved hors d’oeuvres I’ve been serving for over 20 years!
They’re similar to bacon wrapped dates but the almond in the middle gives you that extra crunch that’s so satisfying. Add the dipping sauce on the side and I can practically guarantee you’ll get rave reviews.
Ingredient Notes
You only need three ingredients for the appetizers and two for the dipping sauce. While the sauce isn’t completely necessary, I highly recommend it!
- Bacon. Use a 12- or 14-ounce package of Center Cut or regular sliced bacon. You can usually get about 14 or more slices inside, which you’ll cut in half for wrapping.
- Dried Apricots. Find a small package in the dried fruit aisle of the grocery store. There should be plenty inside, even if you want to make a double batch.
- Whole Almonds. I typically use unsalted almonds since the bacon is salty, but you can use salted too if you want. You don’t have to toast these before using them in the recipe.
- Dipping sauce. This is so simple to make with apricot preserves and soy sauce.
How to Make Them
You need a sheet pan, a flat baking rack, aluminum foil, and plain wooden toothpicks.
Start by lining a large baking pan with aluminum foil, and placing the baking rack on top.
- Cut the bacon in half and set aside. Set up an assembly line with each of the 3 ingredients.
- Cut each apricot in half and push a whole almond into the center opening.
- Wrap each apricot with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Place it on the prepared baking rack and pan. Bake everything until the bacon is cooked through and crispy.
Leftovers & Storage
If you have any leftovers, wrap them in aluminum foil or in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees for about 5 minutes, or microwave them for about 10 to 15 seconds, until warmed through.
Helpful Tips
Prepare these the day before and keep in the fridge until you’re ready to cook and serve. They can be served at room temperature.
For a larger crowd you can make a double or triple batch.
I like to use center cut bacon for wrapped appetizers. The slices are meatier with less fat rendered, and it’s still thin enough to roll easily and cook through.
You can use regular sliced bacon too, just know that packages and brands can vary greatly when it comes to meat-fat ratio.
I don’t recommend thick cut bacon for these because it’s bulky to roll and takes longer to cook through. Save that for when you need crumbled bacon in a recipe, or for a brunch board.
More Bacon Appetizer Recipes
My bacon-wrapped chicken bites are another crowd pleaser that you can bake in the oven or cook on the grill. And these crunchy bacon wrapped crackers are delicious for a breakfast party or shower.
It’s not a tailgating menu without come bacon wrapped jalapeno poppers! These are filled with blue cheese for a savory pungent kick. Finally, add a football-shaped cheese ball that’s got bacon throughout.
I hope you’ll add these bacon wrapped appetizers to your next gathering. They’re sure to a winner on the food buffet!
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Bacon Wrapped Apricots Appetizers recipe
Bite sized bacon wrapped appetizers with dried apricots and almonds are addictive! Make them in advance and cook them just before guests arrive. They are perfect at room temperature!
Ingredients
- 14 slices Center Cut bacon, cut in half
- 14 dried apricots, cut in half
- 28 whole almonds
Dipping Sauce
- ½ cup apricot preserves
- 2 Tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Prep for backing by lining a broiler pan or sheet pan with aluminum foil. Place flat wire baking rack on top of it.
- Stuff each almond into the center of the cut apricot - there is a natural slit in the center.
- Wrap 1 piece of bacon around each stuffed apricot and secure with a wooden toothpick. Place on a wire rack.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bacon is cooked to your desired color and crispness. Turn once half-way through baking.
- To make the dipping sauce, combine preserves and soy sauce in a small bowl and microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until preserves are melted and smooth. Check it after 30 seconds and give it a stir before continuing to heat, if needed.
