I’ve got something delicious to share with you: Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates. They’re seriously amazing! Picture sweet dates filled with creamy goat cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, and baked to perfection. Trust me, these little bites are a total game-changer. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress. Ready to step up your snacking game? Let’s dive in and make some together!
Bonanza Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates Recipe
A tantalizing appetizer featuring sweet dates filled with creamy goat cheese, wrapped in savory bacon, and baked to crispy perfection. This irresistible combination of flavors and textures creates a mouthwatering treat that's perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this deliciously addictive appetizer!
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Aluminum foil
- 1 Mixing bowl
- 1 Spoon
- 1 Knife
- 1 Toothpicks
- 1 Oven
Ingredients
- 16 Medjool dates
- 4 ounces soft goat cheese
- 8 slices bacon
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Using a small knife, carefully make a lengthwise slit in each date and remove the pit. Be careful not to cut all the way through the date.
- In a small bowl, mix the soft goat cheese until smooth. If desired, you can add a pinch of salt or herbs for extra flavor.
- Spoon or pipe the goat cheese mixture into each date, filling the cavity where the pit was removed.
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed. Place the wrapped dates seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the stuffed dates from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Optional: Drizzle the stuffed dates with balsamic glaze before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
- Enjoy your “Bacon Fusion: Stuffed Dates” as a delicious appetizer or party snack!
Notes
- Choosing Dates: Opt for Medjool dates for their natural sweetness and soft texture, which pairs perfectly with the savory bacon and creamy goat cheese.
- Bacon Selection: Use thick-cut bacon for the best results. It will hold its shape well while baking and provide a satisfying crunch.
- Preventing Overcooking: Keep an eye on the stuffed dates while they bake to prevent the bacon from burning. You want the bacon to be crispy, but not overly charred.
can i make the bacon wrapped stuffed dates ahead of time?
You can easily make Bacon Fusion: Stuffed Dates ahead of time to save time on the day of serving. Here’s how:
- Prepare the stuffed dates as instructed, but stop before baking them in the oven.
- Once the dates are stuffed and wrapped with bacon, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator.
- When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake the stuffed dates as directed in the recipe.
- You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dates will be cold from the refrigerator.
- Once baked, remove the stuffed dates from the oven and serve them warm.
what sort of customization can i make to it?
Here are some ideas to personalize your dish:
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese for the filling. Try blue cheese, feta, cream cheese, or even a mixture of cheeses for unique flavor combinations.
- Additional Fillings: Enhance the filling with chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts for added texture and crunch. You can also add finely chopped herbs such as rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: For a sweet and savory twist, stuff the dates with a combination of cheese and a small piece of dried fruit like apricots, figs, or cranberries before wrapping them in bacon.
- Spice it Up: Add a touch of heat by mixing some finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the cheese filling for a spicy kick.
