Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates
Are you thinking of an easy-to-make snack? Look no further because this popular Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates is a must-try! Enjoy these soft and sweet Medjool dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese. The smoked bacon, cooked in a crispy-soft perfection, balances the softness and sweetness of the dates.
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
Instructions
- Place the top oven rack in the center position and pre-heat oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat™ baking mat and set aside.
- Pit the dates by carefully cutting a slit down one side with a sharp knife. Remove pits and discard. Set aside.
- Add goat cheese, almonds, and two tablespoons honey to a medium bowl and stir to combine. Fill each pitted date with some of the goat cheese mixture and gently squeeze closed. Set aside.
- Place one-half slice of bacon on a clean work surface with a stuffed date on top. Roll until the date is wrapped in the bacon and secure with a toothpick to hold together. Repeat this process with the remaining bacon and stuffed dates.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet and place in the pre-heated oven. Bake until the bacon is evenly cooked, and the dates are heated through, approximately 20-25 minutes. Flip the dates two or three times with tongs while cooking to ensure even results.
- Remove from oven and drizzle with remaining honey and garnish with the fresh parsley, if using, and serve immediately.