Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese is like a party in your mouth—crispy, salty bacon hugs sweet, caramelized dates that are bursting with creamy blue cheese goodness. The first bite sends your taste buds on a joyride, where savory meets sweet and every chew is an exploration of flavor. These little gems are ideal for impressing guests at gatherings or simply treating yourself after a long day; they have that magical ability to turn any mundane evening into a Michelin-star experience.
Picture this: you’re hosting a gathering, and the aroma of sizzling bacon fills the air while everyone’s eyes widen as they catch a glimpse of these beauties on the table. Suddenly, you’re not just the host; you’re the culinary magician who conjured up this deliciousness. Whether it’s game day, holiday parties, or just because it’s Tuesday (who needs a reason?), these Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese will steal the show and make your friends wonder if you’ve been secretly taking cooking classes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Bacon-Wrapped Dates are incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
- The sweet and savory flavor combination creates an irresistible taste explosion.
- Visually stunning, they make an eye-catching appetizer on any platter.
- Versatile enough to be served warm or at room temperature, they’re perfect for snacking or as part of a charcuterie board.
Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Medjool Dates: Choose plump, fresh Medjool dates for their sweetness and chewy texture; they are the stars of this recipe.
- Blue Cheese: Opt for creamy blue cheese to stuff inside each date; it adds richness and a tangy punch that pairs perfectly with bacon.
- Bacon: Use thinly sliced bacon so it crisps up nicely when baked; regular or turkey bacon works well.
- Black Pepper: A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper enhances flavors and balances the sweetness of the dates.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so that cleanup is effortless later on.
Step 2: Prepare Your Dates
Make a slit in each Medjool date lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Carefully remove the pit if there is one so that you have a cozy spot for your blue cheese.
Step 3: Stuff with Blue Cheese
Using a small spoon or your fingers (whatever works best), stuff each date generously with blue cheese. Don’t be shy; let that cheese overflow!
Step 4: Wrap Them Up
Cut each slice of bacon in half and wrap it around each stuffed date securely. Secure them with toothpicks if needed; this isn’t just art—it’s science!
Step 5: Season
Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper over each wrapped date for an extra kick. This isn’t just about aesthetics—your taste buds will thank you later.
Step 6: Bake
Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, making sure to flip them halfway through so all sides get that glorious crunch.
Transfer to plates and serve warm as an appetizer—watch as they disappear before your very eyes!
Now that you know how to whip up these delightful Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese, get ready to bask in compliments from your friends and family. They won’t believe how easy it was to create such an impressive dish! Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- These bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with blue cheese are the ultimate party pleaser.
- They combine sweet, savory, and creamy flavors that will leave your guests begging for more.
- Plus, they are easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the festivities.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, prepare the dates and stuff them with blue cheese. Wrap each date in bacon and secure with a toothpick. Arrange them on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out blue cheese for goat cheese or cream cheese if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds inside the dates for an extra crunch. Spice things up with a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they warm through and regain their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy bacon, ensure it’s cooked partially before wrapping it around the dates.
- Choosing fresh dates will enhance sweetness and texture.
- Lastly, using toothpicks will keep everything neatly together during cooking.
Sometimes I whip these up for game nights; my friends rave about them every time! Their delighted faces when they bite into one make all the effort worth it.
FAQs :
What are Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese?
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese are a delightful appetizer made by wrapping sweet, chewy dates in savory bacon and filling them with creamy blue cheese. This combination creates a delicious contrast of flavors, where the sweetness of the dates balances perfectly with the rich, tangy taste of the cheese. They are often baked or grilled until the bacon becomes crispy, making them a popular choice for parties and gatherings.
How do you prepare Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese?
To prepare Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese, first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, pit the dates and fill each one with a small amount of blue cheese. Cut bacon strips in half and wrap each date tightly, securing them with a toothpick if necessary. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Can I use other types of cheese instead of blue cheese?
Yes, you can substitute blue cheese with other cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese if you prefer a milder flavor. Goat cheese offers a similar creamy texture and tanginess, while cream cheese provides a smoother taste. Be creative with your fillings; various cheeses can make Bacon-Wrapped Dates incredibly versatile and enjoyable for everyone.
How should I serve Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese?
Serve Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese warm as an appetizer at your next gathering. You can arrange them on a platter for easy sharing. To enhance their flavor, consider drizzling balsamic glaze over the top or pairing them with a selection of dipping sauces. These tasty bites pair well with cocktails or wine, making them a crowd-pleasing snack.
Conclusion for Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese :
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese are an irresistible treat that combines sweet, salty, and savory flavors into one delightful bite. The preparation is straightforward, making it an accessible recipe for any home cook. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a delicious snack, these appetizers will impress your guests. Enjoy experimenting with different cheeses to customize this classic dish to your liking!
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 (12 dates total) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a delightful blend of sweet Medjool dates and creamy blue cheese wrapped in crispy bacon—an irresistible appetizer perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates
- 6 oz creamy blue cheese
- 6 slices thinly sliced bacon
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make a slit in each Medjool date lengthwise and remove the pit.
- Generously stuff each date with blue cheese, allowing it to overflow slightly.
- Cut each bacon slice in half and wrap it securely around each stuffed date. Use toothpicks if needed to hold them together.
- Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper over the wrapped dates.
- Place the wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 dates (50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts inside the dates before stuffing them with cheese. If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute blue cheese with goat cheese or cream cheese.
Leave a Comment