Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates: A Sweet and Savory Holiday Treat

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Goat cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates are the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering or simply looking for an easy-to-make yet impressive treat, these dates are sure to be a hit. The combination of creamy goat cheese, crispy bacon, and the sweet-spicy rosemary honey drizzle will make your taste buds dance. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare this delicious dish that will leave your guests asking for more.

Why You’ll Love Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

These goat cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates are not only incredibly tasty, but they also tick all the boxes for an ideal holiday appetizer. Quick, easy, and customizable to suit your dietary preferences, this recipe combines the richness of creamy goat cheese with the savory crunch of bacon. With the added touch of rosemary honey, these little bites become a flavorful explosion in your mouth. Perfect for family gatherings or cocktail parties, they’re sure to impress with their irresistible blend of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.

Ingredients for Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

• Goat Cheese: Soft and creamy, goat cheese adds a rich texture and tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the dates.
• Medjool Dates: Naturally sweet, plump, and soft, Medjool dates make the perfect vessel for stuffing with creamy goat cheese.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon wraps the dates, adding a savory crunch that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the dates and creaminess of the cheese.
• Honey: Sweetens the rosemary sauce, giving the bacon and dates a deliciously sticky glaze as it caramelizes in the oven.
• Rosemary: Fresh rosemary infuses the honey with a fragrant, herby note, perfect for the holiday season.
• Cayenne Pepper: A touch of heat balances out the sweetness and adds a slight kick to each bite.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste, enhancing the flavors of the honey, bacon, and cheese.
• Candied Walnuts (optional): For a crunchy topping that enhances the texture and adds a delightful nutty flavor.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you have dietary restrictions or need to make swaps, here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Option: Skip the bacon and instead roast the goat cheese stuffed dates drizzled with rosemary honey for a vegetarian-friendly alternative. You can add flaky sea salt to mimic the salty bite of bacon.
• Turkey Bacon: If you prefer to avoid pork, turkey bacon can be used as a healthier alternative.
• Nut-Free: If you’re avoiding nuts, simply skip the candied walnuts. The dates are delicious on their own without them.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Prepare the dates: Slice each Medjool date lengthwise but don’t cut all the way through. Remove the pit and discard it.
Stuff the dates: Fill each date with a generous amount of goat cheese, gently pressing to seal the opening.
Wrap in bacon: Cut the bacon slices in half and wrap each stuffed date with one piece of bacon, ensuring the seam is facing down on the baking sheet.
Prepare rosemary honey: In a small bowl, mix honey, chopped rosemary, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Drizzle honey mixture: Evenly drizzle half of the rosemary honey over the dates, making sure to coat the bacon well so it caramelizes as it cooks.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the bacon becomes crisp and golden.
Serve: Serve the dates warm, drizzled with any remaining rosemary honey and topped with optional candied walnuts.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

• Don’t Overstuff: When filling the dates with goat cheese, be sure not to overstuff them. The cheese should just fill the cavity of the date, not overflow.
• Crispy Bacon: Ensure the bacon is cooked to your desired level of crispiness. For an extra crispy texture, you can broil the dates for 1–2 minutes after baking.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dates ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just drizzle with rosemary honey just before cooking.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the bacon again.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

These goat cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates are delicious on their own, but you can easily customize them to fit your menu. Pair them with a fresh arugula salad or serve them alongside a cheese board for an appetizer spread. You can also serve them with a variety of sauces such as balsamic reduction, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha dip for an extra kick.

For a festive touch, try adding a drizzle of cranberry sauce or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts. These dates also make for a great snack during movie nights or as part of a casual cocktail party spread.

Seasonal Appeal and Health Benefits of Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

These dates are perfect for the holiday season due to their sweet, savory, and spicy flavor profile. The richness of goat cheese, combined with the sweetness of dates and the savory bacon, makes them a crowd-pleasing treat for holiday parties or family gatherings. Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them a great option for guests with dietary restrictions.

In addition, the rosemary in this recipe is not only a flavorful herb but also adds potential health benefits. Rosemary is known for its antioxidant properties and can aid in digestion, making these appetizers a flavorful and functional addition to your holiday table.

With this easy-to-make, irresistible recipe, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to become a holiday favorite. Whether you’re celebrating with family or hosting a festive gathering, these goat cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Conclusion:

Goat cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy, making them an ideal appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, hosting a party, or simply craving a delicious snack, these dates will be the star of the show. The combination of creamy goat cheese, crispy bacon, and the sweet-spicy rosemary honey creates an irresistible flavor profile that will keep your guests coming back for more. Plus, with easy preparation, make-ahead options, and customizable variations, this recipe offers convenience without compromising on taste. Give these bites a try, and you’ll see why they’re destined to become a holiday favorite!

FAQ:

1. Can I make goat cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dates by stuffing them with goat cheese and wrapping them in bacon, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Drizzle with the rosemary honey right before baking, then cook as directed. This makes them a great option for stress-free entertaining.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese for stuffing the dates?

While goat cheese is the star of this recipe, you can swap it for other cheeses like cream cheese, blue cheese, or even ricotta, depending on your preferences. Just keep in mind that goat cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the dates and bacon.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! To make the recipe vegetarian, simply skip the bacon. Instead, drizzle the stuffed dates with the rosemary honey and roast them in the oven. You can also top them with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for added flavor, mimicking the salty effect that bacon would provide.

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