Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Ingredients
Tap the ingredients you have on hand
- medjool dates≈ $0.80
- bacon≈ $2.60
- goat cheese≈ $2.20
- almonds≈ $1.80
- honey≈ $1.00
Prices are rough US grocery estimates per ingredient and may vary by store and season.
Instructions
- 1
Prep and measure all ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese.
- 2
Combine medjool dates with bacon following classic Spanish technique.
- 3
Cook or assemble with goat cheese, almonds and honey until fragrant and balanced.
- 4
Taste, adjust seasoning, and finish plating Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese.
About this recipe
These delightful bacon-wrapped dates with goat cheese offer a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors, making them an irresistible appetizer. Ideal for entertaining, they cook quickly and always impress guests, whether you are hosting a casual get-together or a more elegant party. They are a beloved tapas classic, perfect for any occasion that calls for a simple yet sophisticated bite.
Crafting this Spanish-inspired treat is surprisingly easy, requiring just a few quality ingredients and minimal prep time. Serve them warm straight from the oven as a festive party snack or a delightful starter for your next dinner party. This recipe is also fantastic for holiday gatherings or a special weekend brunch.
The story behind it
Often called 'Devils on Horseback' in a more general sense, these savory-sweet bites have roots deeply embedded in Spanish tapas culture, where small, flavorful dishes are meant to be shared. Dates, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, pair wonderfully with cured meats and cheeses, creating a harmony of textures and tastes. While exact origins are murky, the combination of rich goat cheese, smoky bacon, and sweet dates has become a modern classic cherished in kitchens worldwide.
Chef's tips
- 1Choose Medjool dates for their soft, plump texture and natural caramel-like sweetness, which holds up well to baking.
- 2Partially cook the bacon slices before wrapping to ensure they crisp up nicely without overcooking the dates.
- 3Make sure to securely wrap each date with bacon, tucking the ends underneath to prevent unraveling during baking.
- 4For even cooking and crisping, arrange the wrapped dates in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- 5Allow the dates to cool for a few minutes after baking; the goat cheese will be very hot and the bacon will crisp up further.
Ways to make it your own
Swap goat cheese for a firm, savory vegan cream cheese and use plant-based bacon strips for a delicious dairy-free option.
Add a tiny sliver of jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes inside each date with the goat cheese for a fiery contrast.
Insert a blanched almond or a pecan half into the date along with the goat cheese before wrapping for added texture.
Mix finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the goat cheese for an aromatic and earthy flavor profile.
Frequently asked
How do you keep bacon from falling off dates?+
Wrap the bacon tightly around the date and secure it with a toothpick or ensure the ends are tucked firmly underneath before baking.
Can I make bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time?+
Yes, you can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them on a baking sheet before baking just prior to serving.
What kind of bacon is best for wrapping dates?+
Thin-cut or regular-cut bacon works best, as thick-cut bacon may not crisp up sufficiently or might require a longer cooking time.
Why are my bacon-wrapped dates not crispy?+
Ensure the bacon is partially cooked before wrapping, don't overcrowd the baking sheet, and cook at a high enough temperature to render the fat and crisp the bacon.
Is it better to use pitted or unpitted dates?+
Always use pitted dates for this recipe, or pit them yourself, to make them easier to stuff and more enjoyable to eat.