Description
Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Creamy Goat Cheese is a delightful appetizer featuring Medjool dates stuffed with a creamy goat cheese mixture, chopped nuts, and fresh herbs, wrapped in crispy bacon, and optionally drizzled with balsamic glaze. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for parties or a tasty snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz (113g) creamy goat cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- A pinch of salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare the cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy goat cheese, chopped walnuts or pecans, honey, finely chopped fresh rosemary, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Stuff the dates: Carefully take each pitted date and stuff it with about a teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture. Press gently to ensure the filling stays inside.
- Wrap with bacon: Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon. Tuck the end of the bacon underneath to secure it around the date, and if necessary, use a toothpick to hold it in place.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to allow even cooking and crisping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. For even crispness, turn the dates halfway through the baking time.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the dates from the oven and let them cool slightly. If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze to add a tangy sweetness.
- Serve: Serve the stuffed dates warm as a flavorful appetizer or snack, perfect for entertaining or enjoying any time.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans depending on preference or availability.
- Use toothpicks to secure bacon if it tends to unwrap during baking.
- Adjust baking time based on how crispy you prefer the bacon.
- Optional balsamic glaze adds a beautiful finishing touch and extra flavor contrast.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and broil the stuffed dates for a few minutes until slightly browned.
