Set the oven to bake at 425°F/ 220°C (not convection) and adjust the rack to the top. While the oven preheats, line a baking sheet with tin foil and place a roasting rack over it.

Cut a slit in the middle of each date lengthwise, making sure not to cut all the way through. If your dates are pitted, be sure to remove the pit.

Stuff each date with 1 toasted almond. Gently press the sides of the dates together to seal. You may use blue cheese, walnuts or even your favorite filling instead.

Cut the bacon into three 3" strips.

Wrap a strip of bacon around each date and seal shut with a toothpick.

Make sure to keep the dates slightly apart from ech other.

Place the dates in the preheated oven and cook for 12 minutes or until the bacon begins to render and slightly colored.

Flip the dates on their other side with the help of kitchen tongs if they are too hot. Continue cooking for 7 minutes

Turn the oven off, and transfer to a heat proof surface. Allow the dates to cool slightly.

You can remove the toothpicks (or leave them in for easy cocktail snacking) and transfer the dates to a serving plate. Enjoy warm.