Name: Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24
Ingredients: 24 large whole Medjool dates; 6 oz. goat cheese, room temperature; ½ c. blanched almonds, slivered; 3 T. honey, divided; 12 slices bacon, cut in half; Optional: 1 T. fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped, for garnish

Experience the harmonious blend of sweet and savory with our recipe for Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates. This appetizer is a culinary delight, where the natural sweetness of dates is perfectly complemented by crispy, salted bacon. With a hidden surprise of cheese filling, these bite-sized morsels are sure to steal the show at your next dinner party. Read on to discover how you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that is as easy to prepare as it is delicious to devour.

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Why you’ll love this recipe

Versatile: Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, having a relaxed gathering, or just looking for an elevated snack, these Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates can fit any occasion with their delightful combination of flavors.
Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and a simple method of preparation, these sumptuous bites can be whipped up in no time.
Taste Sensation: The fusion of sweet dates, salty bacon, and creamy cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile that is sure to impress your taste buds.
Can be Prepared in Advance: Perfect for stress-free entertaining, these bacon-wrapped dates can be prepared ahead of time and simply popped into the oven when you’re ready to serve.

What are Stuffed Dates?

Stuffed dates are a versatile appetizer or snack, originating from Middle Eastern cuisine. Traditionally, they are made by removing the pit from a date and replacing it with a variety of fillings. The fillings can range from nuts and dried fruits to cheese, or even chocolate.

They are often served as a sweet treat or a savory snack, depending on the stuffing. In this recipe, we elevate the humble stuffed date by wrapping it with bacon, combining the sweetness of the date with the savory crispness of bacon for a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

Large whole Medjool dates: Opt for large and plump Medjool dates, which are naturally sweet and have a soft, chewy texture, making them the perfect base for this recipe.
Goat cheese: The tangy and creamy nature of goat cheese pairs flawlessly with the sweetness of the dates, creating a pleasing contrast in each bite.
Blanched almonds: These almonds bring a crunchy element as well as a subtle nutty flavor to the dish, complementing the creamy cheese and chewy dates.
Honey: A drizzle of honey further enhances the sweetness of the dish, yet its natural richness doesn’t overpower the savory components.
Bacon: Opt for high-quality, thick-cut bacon to wrap around the dates, as it delivers a satisfying crunch and a salty contrast to the sweet and creamy filling.

Refer to the recipe card below to get the complete details on the ingredients and the instructions to prepare the Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates:

Substitutions and Additions

If you’re looking to switch up this recipe or accommodate dietary restrictions, there are several substitutions you can consider:

Large whole Medjool dates: If Medjool dates are not available, you can substitute them with other varieties of dates such as Deglet Noor. They may be smaller but they still offer a similar sweet flavor.
Goat cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can replace it with cream cheese, blue cheese, or even feta for a different flavor profile. For a vegan alternative, use a dairy-free cheese of your choice.
Blanched almonds: You can replace almonds with other types of nuts like pecans or walnuts for a different crunch, or omit them completely if you’re allergic to nuts. For a unique twist, consider stuffing with a piece of dark chocolate.
Honey: Maple syrup can work as a vegan alternative to honey, providing a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor.
Bacon: If you’re vegetarian, try using a vegetarian bacon substitute. For a lighter option, consider using prosciutto, which is thinner and leaner but still provides a savory contrast.

Instructions

Position the top oven rack in the center and preheat the oven to 425°F. Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a baking mat, and set it aside.

Carefully slit one side of the dates with a sharp knife to remove and discard the pits. Set the pitted dates aside.

In a medium bowl, combine goat cheese, almonds, and two tablespoons of honey. Stir until well combined. Take each pitted date and fill it with a portion of the goat cheese mixture. Gently squeeze the date closed. Set aside and let the flavors meld together.

Take a clean work surface and lay down a half slice of bacon. Place a stuffed date on top and carefully roll it up until the bacon completely wraps around the date. To keep it all together, use a toothpick to secure it in place.

Continue this process by repeating it with the remaining bacon and stuffed dates.

Place the bacon-wrapped dates on the baking sheet and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes until the bacon is evenly cooked and the dates are heated through. To ensure even results, flip the dates two or three times with tongs while cooking.

Remove the dish from the oven, then delicately drizzle it with the remaining honey. For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately to fully enjoy its flavors.

Recipe tips

Choosing your dates: Medjool dates are ideal for this recipe due to their size and natural sweetness. However, any large, sweet date variety can work. Just ensure they are fresh and not overly dry.
Bacon selection: Choosing a thick-cut bacon can offer a more satisfying crunch and a stronger flavor contrast to the sweet dates. However, if you prefer a less fatty option, thinly sliced turkey bacon can also work well.
Cheese options: The type of cheese you choose can greatly impact the flavor profile of this appetizer. Experiment with different cheeses to find your preferred taste. Blue cheese, for example, can provide a stronger, more complex flavor contrast with the sweet dates.
Nuts or no nuts: If you have a nut allergy, consider using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds as a substitute. They will still provide a crunch, but without the allergen concerns.
Serving suggestion: These are best served warm right out of the oven. However, if preparing ahead of time, you can reheat them in the oven just before serving.
Pairing options: These can be served on their own or alongside other appetizers. They pair exceptionally well with a glass of red wine, making them a great choice for dinner parties.

Storage & reheating

These Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors meld over time, making them even more delicious a day or two after you’ve made them. If you wish to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them. Simply place the cooled dates on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to eat, there’s no need to thaw the dates first. If they’re refrigerated, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. If they’re coming from the freezer, just add a few more minutes to the reheating time. Always remember to remove any toothpicks before eating!

Recipe FAQ

Can I make the Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates ahead of time?

Yes, these can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen. Simply follow the steps in the storage and reheating section for best results.

What if I don’t have honey?

If honey isn’t available, you can substitute it with any other sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar. However, the flavor may slightly differ.

Can I use dried dates?

Yes, dried dates can be used, but they may be smaller and less sweet than fresh dates. It’s also essential to rehydrate them in hot water for about 10-15 minutes before using.

Is there a low-fat version of this recipe?

If you’re looking for a leaner version, you can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or prosciutto. You can also opt for a low-fat cheese instead of goat cheese.

What if I don’t have a toothpick to secure the bacon?

If toothpicks aren’t available, you can use uncooked spaghetti. Just break it into the appropriate length and skewer the bacon and date together. It will cook along with the bacon in the oven.

Yield: 24 appetizers