Andy Montoya
Bacon-wrapped, cheese-stuffed dates are a mouthwatering appetizer that combines sweet, savory, and smoky flavors into one irresistible bite. This recipe features tender Medjool dates, split and stuffed with creamy cheese, then wrapped in crispy bacon and baked to perfection. The natural sweetness of the dates pairs beautifully with the salty, melted cheese and the crunchy, smoky bacon, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Perfect for parties, game nights, or as a decadent snack, these bite-sized treats are surprisingly easy to make and always disappear quickly. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and savory combinations or just looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, bacon-wrapped, cheese-stuffed dates are sure to impress.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dish Name | Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Dates |
| Main Ingredients | Dates, Bacon, Cheese (e.g., goat cheese, blue cheese, or cream cheese) |
| Preparation Time | ~20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | ~10-15 minutes |
| Total Time | ~30-35 minutes |
| Servings | 12-15 pieces (appetizer portion) |
| Cooking Method | Baking or Air Frying |
| Temperature | 400°F (200°C) |
| Key Steps | 1. Pit dates and stuff with cheese. 2. Wrap each date with bacon. 3. Bake until bacon is crispy. |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet (dates), Savory (cheese), Salty & Smoky (bacon) |
| Popular Variations | Adding a sprinkle of brown sugar, using different cheeses, or adding nuts |
| Serving Suggestions | Appetizer, party snack, or as part of a charcuterie board |
| Dietary Considerations | Not vegetarian or vegan; can be gluten-free if using gluten-free bacon |
| Storage | Best served fresh; can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days |
| Reheating Instructions | Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Ingredients Needed
The foundation of any bacon-wrapped, cheese-stuffed dates recipe lies in its simplicity: three core ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of sweet, salty, and savory flavors. Dates, the star of the dish, provide a natural, caramel-like sweetness that balances the richness of the other components. Opt for Medjool dates for their larger size and tender texture, making them ideal for stuffing. Bacon, the crispy exterior, adds a smoky, salty contrast that elevates the dish from mere appetizer to addictive bite. Choose thin-cut bacon for even cooking and a snug wrap around the dates. Finally, cheese—typically a soft, melty variety like goat cheese or blue cheese—introduces a creamy, tangy element that ties the flavors together. These three ingredients form the backbone of the recipe, but their quality and proportions are key to achieving perfection.
While the core trio is essential, the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Optional ingredients can enhance the flavor profile or cater to dietary preferences. For a touch of heat, consider stuffing the dates with a small piece of jalapeño before adding the cheese. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chopped pistachios can amplify the sweetness and add texture. If you’re entertaining vegetarians, substitute the bacon with a strip of roasted red pepper or a thin slice of prosciutto for a similar savory wrap. For a more decadent version, use cream cheese mixed with herbs or a sprinkle of brown sugar on the bacon before baking. These additions allow for creativity while keeping the recipe accessible and versatile.
Proportions are critical to ensuring each bite is balanced. For every Medjool date, plan on using about 1 teaspoon of cheese and half a slice of bacon. This ratio ensures the bacon cooks evenly without overpowering the delicate flavors inside. If using smaller dates, adjust the cheese and bacon quantities accordingly. A common mistake is overstuffing, which can cause the filling to leak or the bacon to undercook. To avoid this, pit the dates carefully and make a small incision to create a pocket for the cheese, ensuring it stays securely inside during cooking.
Practical tips can make the preparation process smoother. To keep the bacon from unraveling, secure it with a toothpick after wrapping the date. If you’re making these for a party, assemble the dates ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. This not only saves time but also helps the bacon adhere better. For a crispier exterior, bake the dates on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to allow excess grease to drip away. Finally, monitor the cooking time closely—typically 12–15 minutes at 400°F—as bacon can quickly go from perfectly crisp to burnt.
In essence, the ingredients needed for bacon-wrapped, cheese-stuffed dates are straightforward yet transformative. By focusing on quality, proportions, and optional enhancements, you can create a dish that’s both elegant and crowd-pleasing. Whether you stick to the classics or experiment with variations, this recipe’s simplicity ensures it remains a timeless favorite.
Jalapeno Cheese Bread Storage: Refrigerate or Room Temp?
You may want to see also
Preparation Steps
Bacon-wrapped, cheese-stuffed dates are a decadent appetizer that combines sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in one bite. The preparation steps are straightforward but require attention to detail to ensure the ingredients meld perfectly. Begin by selecting high-quality Medjool dates, known for their large size and soft texture, which makes them ideal for stuffing. Pair them with a semi-firm cheese like Manchego or blue cheese for a bold contrast, and use thin-cut bacon to ensure even cooking.
The first step is to prepare the dates. Carefully slice each date lengthwise, removing the pit while keeping the fruit intact. This precision ensures the date can be stuffed and wrapped without falling apart. Next, stuff each date with a small piece of cheese, roughly the size of a pea, ensuring it’s fully enclosed within the date. Overstuffing can cause the date to split during cooking, so moderation is key.
Once stuffed, wrap each date with a half-slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. For a neater presentation, stretch the bacon slightly before wrapping to prevent shrinkage during cooking. Arrange the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack to allow excess fat to drain. This step is crucial for achieving crispy bacon without a greasy texture.
Cooking the dates requires careful temperature control. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese begins to melt. Alternatively, grill the dates over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Whichever method you choose, monitor closely to avoid burning the bacon or drying out the dates.
Finally, let the dates rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cheese from oozing out upon the first bite. Serve warm as an appetizer or party snack, pairing them with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for added sophistication. With these preparation steps, you’ll create a dish that’s both elegant and irresistible.
Understanding the Slang: What Does 'Cheesing' Really Mean?
You may want to see also
Cooking Time & Temperature
Bacon-wrapped, cheese-stuffed dates are a decadent appetizer that hinges on precise cooking time and temperature to achieve the perfect balance of textures. The goal is to crisp the bacon, melt the cheese, and warm the date without overcooking any component. A preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for this task, striking a balance between speed and control. At this temperature, the bacon renders its fat and becomes crispy in about 10–12 minutes, while the cheese inside the date melts to a gooey consistency. Avoid higher temperatures, as they can burn the bacon before the cheese fully melts, or lower temperatures, which may leave the bacon undercooked and flabby.
The cooking time is influenced by the size of the dates and the thickness of the bacon. For standard-sized Medjool dates and thin-cut bacon, 10 minutes is often sufficient, but larger dates or thicker bacon may require an additional 2–3 minutes. To ensure even cooking, arrange the dates on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows the bacon fat to drip away, preventing sogginess and promoting even crisping. If using a conventional oven, rotate the tray halfway through cooking to account for uneven heat distribution.
For those seeking a smokier flavor or a quicker cook time, an air fryer is an excellent alternative. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the dates for 6–8 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The air fryer’s circulating hot air crisps the bacon more efficiently, reducing overall cooking time. However, monitor closely to avoid overcooking, as air fryers can vary in intensity.
A critical caution is to let the dates rest for 1–2 minutes after cooking. This allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing it from oozing out when bitten into. Additionally, if preparing in advance, refrigerate the uncooked stuffed dates for up to 24 hours before baking. This firms the cheese and bacon, ensuring they hold their shape during cooking. Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness without drying out the dates.
Mastering the cooking time and temperature transforms this simple recipe into an irresistible appetizer. Whether using an oven or air fryer, precision ensures each bite delivers a harmonious contrast of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tender date. With these guidelines, even novice cooks can achieve professional results, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Carb Count: Steak and Cheese Panini's Carbohydrate Content Revealed
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Serving Suggestions
Bacon-wrapped, cheese-stuffed dates are a versatile appetizer that can elevate any gathering, but their presentation and pairing can make or break the experience. Consider the occasion: for formal events, arrange them on a sleek slate platter with a drizzle of balsamic reduction and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. For casual gatherings, skewer them with toothpicks and serve in a rustic wooden tray alongside a tangy dipping sauce like honey mustard or sriracha aioli. The key is to balance the richness of the dish with visual and contextual harmony.
Temperature plays a critical role in serving these bite-sized delights. Always serve them warm to ensure the bacon is crisp and the cheese is gooey. If preparing in advance, reheat in a 350°F oven for 3–5 minutes just before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy. For outdoor events, keep them warm in a chafing dish or wrap the platter in foil to retain heat. Pairing them with a chilled glass of sparkling wine or a cold craft beer can cut through the richness and refresh the palate.
To enhance the flavor profile, experiment with complementary garnishes and sides. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a pinch of crushed pistachios adds texture and depth. For a Mediterranean twist, serve with a side of olive tapenade or hummus. If catering to dietary preferences, offer a vegetarian version by substituting the bacon with a strip of roasted red pepper or a thin slice of prosciutto. These small touches demonstrate thoughtfulness and cater to a wider audience.
Finally, consider portioning and pacing. These dates are rich, so limit servings to 2–3 per person as part of a larger appetizer spread. If they’re the star of the show, pair them with lighter options like a fresh arugula salad or grilled vegetable skewers. For a dessert-inspired twist, stuff the dates with goat cheese and drizzle with honey, then serve as a sweet finale. Thoughtful planning ensures the dish shines without overwhelming guests.
Delicious Dippers: Perfect Pairings for Your Cheese Fondue Feast
You may want to see also
Tips for Perfect Results
Choosing the right dates is the cornerstone of a successful bacon-wrapped, cheese-stuffed date. Medjool dates are the gold standard due to their large size, soft texture, and natural sweetness, which balances the salty bacon and cheese. Smaller or drier varieties can be used, but they may require soaking in warm water for 10 minutes to plump them up. Ensure the dates are pitted but still intact to create a sturdy pocket for the cheese filling. A date that’s too small or split will cause the cheese to leak out during cooking, resulting in a messy dish and uneven flavor distribution.
The cheese selection and preparation are equally critical. Opt for a cheese that melts well but retains some structure, such as goat cheese, blue cheese, or cream cheese mixed with herbs. For a sharper flavor, aged cheddar or gouda works well. Cut the cheese into small, uniform cubes or use a piping bag to insert a precise amount into each date. Overstuffing can cause the bacon to unwrap or the cheese to ooze out, while too little cheese will leave the dates unbalanced. Aim for a 1:1 ratio of cheese to date size for optimal flavor and texture.
Bacon thickness and wrapping technique can make or break the final product. Thin-cut bacon is ideal because it crisps evenly without overpowering the dates. For thicker bacon, partially cook it in the oven for 5 minutes before wrapping to ensure it fully cooks without burning. Secure the bacon with a toothpick or a small skewer, but avoid wrapping it too tightly, as this can restrict the bacon from crisping properly. For a cleaner presentation, consider soaking the toothpicks in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during cooking.
Cooking time and temperature require precision. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the dates for 12–15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted. For a smokier flavor, finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, but monitor closely to avoid burning. Alternatively, air-frying at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes yields a quicker, equally crispy result. Let the dates rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly, ensuring a clean bite without oozing.
Finally, presentation and pairing elevate this appetizer from simple to sophisticated. Arrange the dates on a platter garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve with a drizzle of honey or balsamic reduction to enhance the sweet-savory contrast. Pair with a bold red wine like Zinfandel or a crisp beer for a balanced flavor profile. For a party, prepare the dates ahead of time and refrigerate uncooked, then bake just before serving to maintain their texture and temperature. These small touches transform a basic recipe into an unforgettable dish.
McDonald's Steak Egg and Cheese Bagel: Fact or Fiction?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
You’ll need pitted dates, soft cheese (like goat cheese or cream cheese), bacon strips, and optionally, a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Carefully slice each date lengthwise, remove the pit, and fill the cavity with a small amount of cheese. Press the date closed gently to seal the filling.
Cut bacon strips into halves or thirds, wrap each stuffed date with a piece of bacon, and secure it with a toothpick if needed. Ensure the bacon covers the date evenly.
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Alternatively, cook them on a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the bacon is cooked through.
