Dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon make an irresistible appetizer. This combination of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors is sure to impress your guests at any gathering. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide on how to prepare these mouthwatering bites, tips for variations, and answers to commonly asked questions.
Why are Dates with Goat Cheese Wrapped in Bacon the Perfect Appetizers?
Bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese have become a popular choice at parties for several reasons. Their balance of flavors—sweet dates, creamy and tangy goat cheese, and savory bacon—creates an appetizing treat that caters to various tastes. They’re also easy to prepare in advance and cook quickly, making them an ideal option for busy hosts. Additionally, these bite-sized treats are naturally gluten-free, and customizable, allowing you to experiment with different fillings and bacon types.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Step by Step
Preparing bacon-wrapped goat cheese-stuffed dates is straightforward, with only a few ingredients required. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these appetizers perfect every time.
Ingredients
- Medjool dates (12–15, pitted)
- Deliart Goat cheese roll (4 oz, softened)
- Bacon (6–8 slices, cut in half)
- 2 teaspoon smoked paprika—try La Dalia Smoked Paprika
- Toothpicks (for securing the bacon)
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dates: If your dates aren’t pitted, carefully make a small slit along the side of each date to remove the pit.
- Stuff with Goat Cheese: Using a small spoon or piping bag, stuff each date with about 1–2 teaspoons of goat cheese. Be careful not to overfill, as it can cause the dates to split open during cooking.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to ensure it stays wrapped during baking.
- Sprinkle with Sweet Paprika: After wrapping each date in bacon, lightly sprinkle sweet paprika over the top of the bacon-wrapped dates. This adds a hint of spice and color to the appetizer, enhancing both its flavor and appearance.
- Bake: Arrange the dates on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy. Flip halfway through baking for even cooking.
- Serve Warm: Let the dates cool slightly, remove toothpicks if desired, and serve while still warm.
Variations on Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates with Bacon
There are endless ways to modify this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:
- Add Nuts: Insert a small almond or pecan inside the date along with the goat cheese for an extra crunch.
- Experiment with Cheese: If goat cheese isn’t to your liking, try blue cheese for a sharper flavor or cream cheese for a milder option.
- Sweeten with a Drizzle: After baking, drizzle honey or balsamic glaze over the dates to enhance the sweetness and add a touch of elegance.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the goat cheese for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Certainly! While goat cheese is a popular choice for its creamy and tangy flavor, you can substitute it with other types of cheese such as Mahon, Murcia al Vino, or Manchego. Each of these cheeses brings a unique flavor profile. These cheeses make excellent alternatives, adding depth and character to the stuffed dates.
What Kind of Bacon Should I Use?
For this recipe, thin-cut or standard bacon is ideal. Thick-cut bacon may take longer to cook and could overpower the delicate flavors of the cheese and date. You can also experiment with flavored bacon, such as applewood smoked or maple bacon, for a unique twist.
What Can I Serve These With?
Bacon-wrapped goat cheese-stuffed dates are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with a fresh, crisp salad or a charcuterie board. For a more substantial spread, serve them alongside crackers, olives, or mixed nuts.
Can I Make a Vegetarian Version?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, you can replace the bacon with a plant-based alternative, such as eggplant or mushroom strips seasoned with smoked paprika. Wrap the dates as you would with bacon, and bake until crisp.
How Long Do Stuffed Dates Last After Cooking?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, stuffed dates will last for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.
Conclusion
These goat cheese bacon-wrapped dates are an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that works for any occasion. With a few ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste and make it your own. Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors in every bite!
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