Bacon Wrapped Dried Apricots With Sage Recipe

Bacon Wrapped Anything Sounds Good To Me

My wife showed me how to make these delightful morsels over the weekend. She picked up the recipe online, but when I went to find one to work with, I found several different versions. They all look good and are the same, but each has subtle differences.

Bacon-wrapped dried apricots with sage offer a delectable blend of sweet, salty, and savory flavors, making them an ideal appetizer for any occasion. This dish highlights the natural sweetness of dried apricots, the smoky richness of bacon, and the aromatic freshness of sage, creating a sophisticated yet easy-to-prepare treat.

To start, choose high-quality dried apricots, ensuring they are plump and moist—the concentrated sweetness of the dried fruit pairs wonderfully with the savory elements. Next, select thinly sliced bacon, which will crisp up nicely and wrap smoothly around the apricots. Fresh sage leaves are essential; their earthy and slightly peppery flavor enhances the overall taste.

The result is a tantalizing bite-sized morsel with layers of flavor and texture. The chewy, sweet apricot contrasts beautifully with the crispy, salty bacon, while the sage adds a sophisticated herbal note that ties everything together. These bacon-wrapped dried apricots with sage are perfect for holiday parties, elegant dinners, or as a delightful snack. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile addition to any menu.

Cooking the Bacon First - Some recipes suggest frying the bacon "until brown but not crisp" and letting it drain on paper towels. We did not. I find that brown bacon that sits on anything continues to cook and becomes crisp before your very eyes. It would be very difficult to wrap dried apricots with crisp bacon.

Brush with Maple Syrup

I found recipes that said to brush with maple syrup before cooking, but some said to brush after they come out of the oven. What did my wife do? She bought maple-flavored bacon and skipped this step. If you can't find maple-flavored bacon, I suggest you apply the maple syrup at the end. I wouldn't want it to burn in the hot oven.

Stuff the Apricots

There are many suggestions for butterflying the apricots and stuffing them with tasty ingredients like goat cheese, nuts, or jalapeno to spice it up. We kept it simple, but I like trying some crazy ingredients.

Dried Apricots

Dried apricots are a nutritious and delicious snack, celebrated for their concentrated sweetness and versatility in various culinary applications. These golden-orange gems are made by dehydrating fresh apricots, intensifying their natural sugars and resulting in a chewy and flavorful treat. Dried apricots are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, including improved digestion, eye health, and immune support.

One of the standout nutrients in dried apricots is beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, essential for maintaining healthy vision and skin. They also provide a good source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestive health and promoting a feeling of fullness, which can benefit weight management. Additionally, dried apricots are high in potassium, an important mineral for maintaining proper heart and muscle function.

In the kitchen, dried apricots are incredibly versatile. They can be enjoyed as a quick snack or added to trail mixes, salads, and baked goods for a sweet and tangy burst of flavor. They also pair well with savory dishes, such as in stews or as part of cheese and charcuterie boards. Their natural sweetness and chewy texture make them delightful ingredients that enhance sweet and savory recipes.

📖 Recipe

Print Recipe

Bacon Wrapped Dried Apricots With Sage Recipe

Better with bacon

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time16 minutes mins

Total Time26 minutes mins

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Servings: 24 pieces

Ingredients

• 24 small fresh sage leaves
• 24 large dried apricots
• 8 slices maple bacon cut crosswise into thirds

Instructions

• Heat your oven to 375º F. and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
• Start by putting a single sage leaf on an apricot and wrap a piece of bacon around both. Place the bacon wrapped apricot on to the baking sheet seam-side down.
• Carefully bake on one side for about 8 minutes, flip and cook for another 7-8 minutes until the bacon starts to crisp. Don't let the bacon burn. Just like cooking bacon in a pan for breakfast, it will continue to cook when you remove it from the oven.
• Stick a toothpick into each piece and serve.