Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Almonds and Goat Cheese
Cook Time: 8 minutes | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 28 minutes
Servings: 24 | Calories per Serving: 63.4
This irresistible appetizer is a beautiful marriage of sweet and savory flavors, inspired by a recipe seen on Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. The creamy goat cheese, nutty almonds, and rich, salty bacon come together to create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, especially when you’re hosting a large group and want something quick and impressive.
With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a platter of gourmet bacon-wrapped dates that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or an elegant dinner party, these little bites are always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them alongside your favorite cocktails or as a savory snack with a charcuterie board.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dates (pitted) | 24 | Choose Medjool dates for a sweet flavor |
| Bacon strips | 12 | Cut in half to wrap the dates |
| Almonds | 24 | Whole almonds, to stuff the dates |
| Goat cheese (softened) | 4 oz | Use full-fat goat cheese for creaminess |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 63.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 6.5 mg |
| Sodium | 57.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 5.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7 g |
| Sugars | 4.7 g |
| Protein | 1.9 g |
Instructions
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C), and move the oven rack to the upper third of the oven. |
| 2 | Begin by pitting the dates, then stuff each date with one whole almond. |
| 3 | Use a pastry bag (or a simple plastic bag with the tip cut off) to fill the remaining space in each date with softened goat cheese. |
| 4 | Cut the bacon strips in half, and wrap each bacon piece tightly around the stuffed dates. Secure with a toothpick or small skewer. |
| 5 | Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. |
| 6 | Bake in the preheated oven for about 6 to 8 minutes, or until the bacon is golden brown and crispy. |
| 7 | Allow the dates to cool slightly before serving. For an elegant presentation, insert toothpicks into each date and serve them on a platter, perhaps with a sliced pineapple for a tropical touch. |
Tips & Variations:
- Goat Cheese Substitute: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can easily swap it for cream cheese or mascarpone for a milder flavor.
- For Extra Flavor: Try adding a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze over the dates after they come out of the oven for a tangy-sweet finish.
- Spicy Option: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for a spicy kick.
- Presentation: Serve your bacon-wrapped dates on a large platter with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added fragrance and visual appeal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with almonds and goat cheese offer the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy, making them a unique and flavorful choice for any gathering. The savory bacon and rich goat cheese complement the natural sweetness of the dates, while the crunchy almond adds a delightful texture. Plus, they’re easy to make in just under 30 minutes, making them a great choice for busy hosts. Whether you’re preparing for a dinner party, a holiday feast, or a casual snack, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
