Description
Savory-sweet goat cheese bacon dates invite palates on a delightful culinary journey through rich, tangy flavors. Crispy bacon wraps succulent dates, creating an irresistible appetizer that will elevate any gathering with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 24 Medjool dates, pitted
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half for wrapping
- 6 ounces (170 grams) creamy goat cheese, softened for easy stuffing
Flavoring and Seasoning:
- 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) honey, for the glaze
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped for aroma
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional for heat
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Candied or toasted walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Carefully split each date lengthwise, delicately removing the pit while keeping the date intact, then generously fill the cavity with creamy goat cheese, gently pressing to seal.
- Meticulously wrap each cheese-stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, positioning the seam side downward on the prepared baking sheet to maintain a neat appearance.
- Create a flavorful glaze by combining honey, finely chopped rosemary, a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small mixing bowl.
- Evenly distribute half of the aromatic honey mixture over the bacon-wrapped dates, ensuring a thorough and uniform coating.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, watching carefully until the bacon turns crispy and develops a rich, caramelized exterior.
- For a final flourish, optionally drizzle the remaining honey glaze and garnish with candied or toasted walnuts before presenting the appetizer.
Notes
- Select soft, plump Medjool dates for the best texture and sweetness in this appetizer.
- Choose high-quality goat cheese with a creamy consistency that will melt slightly during baking.
- Partially cook bacon beforehand to reduce overall baking time and ensure extra crispiness.
- Try different cheese variations like blue cheese or feta for unique flavor profiles.
- Use kitchen scissors to cut bacon slices evenly and wrap dates more efficiently.
- Balance cayenne pepper in the glaze based on personal spice tolerance for a customized heat level.
- Prepare dates ahead of time and refrigerate before baking for a make-ahead party appetizer.
- Consider low-sodium bacon for a healthier version without compromising on taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1.2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg