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Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates - Hearty Food Ideas

Looking for a showstopper appetizer? 
Look no further! Goat cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates are a crowd-pleaser that stands out on any table. The sweet dates, creamy goat cheese, and crispy bacon create a flavor sensation that’s hard to resist. 
These bites are not just delicious; they’re simple to prepare and make ahead of time.
I still remember the first time I tasted these at a friend's gathering. I was instantly hooked. The contrast of textures—crunchy, soft, and creamy—had me gushing over what I thought was an elaborate dish. 
Fast forward years later, and I’m now the one making them for every get-together. My friends always ask for the recipe, and you will too after you taste these!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 52
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon of freshly minced rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze
  • 6 ounces of smooth goat cheese
  • 12 slices of thin-cut bacon, halved
  • 1/3 cup of raw honey
  • 24 large, soft Medjool dates
  • A pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • Candied pecans or lightly toasted almonds

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for crisping the bacon while warming the dates and cheese.
Step 2: Prepare the Dates
  1. Next, carefully slice the dates lengthwise. Not all the way through—just enough to create a pocket. Remove the pit if you find any. This simple step makes way for the creamy filling!
Step 3: Mix the Filling
  1. In a bowl, combine the goat cheese, minced rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend these together until smooth. You want a texture that you can easily spoon into the dates. It’s like creaminess on the inside waiting to burst out!
Step 4: Stuff the Dates
  1. Now, fill each date with your cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—go for a generous spoonful! Use your hands if you need to; after all, you want these to be packed tight and full of flavor!
Step 5: Wrap with Bacon
  1. Take half a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date, securing it with a toothpick if needed. Each bite will be loaded with savory goodness, so make sure the bacon encases the dates well.
Step 6: Drizzle with Honey
  1. Before placing them in the oven, give each wrapped date a light drizzle of raw honey. This adds a luscious sweetness that caramelizes beautifully as they bake.
Step 7: Bake
  1. Place your dates on a lined baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them as the bacon should turn crispy and golden brown.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
  1. Once they come out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm. Watch everyone dive in with anticipation. These are bound to disappear quickly!

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese elevate the dish.
  • Pre-Prepare for Events: You can prepare and stuff the dates a day in advance, then bake them just before serving.
  • Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, you can skip the honey drizzle or use a lesser amount.
  • Watch the Bacon: Depending on the thickness of your bacon, cooking time may vary. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
  • Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to add spices like cayenne for heat or garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor.