Bacon Wrapped Apricots

These apricots are the perfect appetizer. Hitting all the key points of salty, sweet, and meaty, they are a time-tested crowd pleaser. To make this even better, you can be prep them days ahead and then baked just before serving. This recipe is inspired by one my sister-in-law saw in Real Simple Magazine years ago. She made them for us and they have been a family favorite for years.

Bacon Wrapped Apricots

1 Pound Bacon (regular cut, not thick bacon)

30 Dried apricots (about 8 oz)

30 Fresh Sage Leaves

1/4 cup Pure Maple Syrup

30 Toothpicks

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Assemble your ingredients on a large cutting board. Cut the bacon in half. Take one half piece of bacon and wrap it around one apricot and sage leaf. Insert a toothpick to hold the pieces together and place on a rimmed baking sheet. Repeat until all the bacon and apricots are wrapped. (Or place wrapped apricots in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Then remove from container and place on rimmed baking sheet.) Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is cooked through and the bottom is crispy. Remove from baking sheet to a platter with a small bowl of maple syrup for dipping. Serve immediately.