Add a festive twist to your appetizer table with these sweet and savory bites. The natural sweetness of dates pairs beautifully with the smoky spice of chorizo and crispy bacon, making it an irresistible holiday treat.

Ingredients (makes 12 appetizers):

• 12 Medjool dates, pitted
• 3 oz (85 g)Chorizo Iberico Mild by Fermin or Chorizo Extra Mild Palacios, cut into small sticks
• 6 slices of bacon, halved (12 pieces total)
• Optional: Honey or maple syrup for drizzling

Instructions:
1. Prep the dates: Using a sharp knife, make a small slit in each date to open it up (if not pre-pitted). Ensure the pit is removed.

2. Stuff the dates: Insert a small piece of chorizo into the cavity of each date, gently pressing to close the date around the chorizo.

3. Wrap with bacon: Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, ensuring it overlaps slightly. Secure with a toothpick to hold everything in place.

4. Optional glaze: Lightly drizzle honey or maple syrup over the wrapped dates for added caramelization and a touch of sweetness.

5. Cook:

• Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy, turning halfway through.
• Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until bacon is crisp.

6. Serve: Arrange the dates on a festive platter and serve warm.

These chorizo-stuffed, bacon-wrapped dates are a perfect bite-sized appetizer for Christmas parties or family gatherings, delivering a blend of textures and flavors that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!

The classic recipe uses dates, but you can easily substitute them with dried apricots or figs for a delightful twist.