Save Juicy dates stuffed with creamy cheese and crunchy almonds, wrapped in smoky bacon, then glazed with a sweet and spicy sauce. Perfect as an appetizer for any gathering.
This dish thrills everyone at parties and offers a delightful combination of sweet spicy and smoky flavors.
Ingredients
- 24 large Medjool dates: pitted
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon: halved
- 24 whole roasted almonds:
- 60 g (2 oz) soft goat cheese or cream cheese:
- 2 tbsp honey:
- 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce:
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar:
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika:
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
- Stuff Dates:
- Gently open each pitted date. Stuff each with 1 roasted almond and about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese or cream cheese.
- Wrap Dates:
- Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Arrange for Baking:
- Arrange bacon-wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Prepare Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Glaze Dates:
- Brush each bacon-wrapped date generously with the sweet and spicy glaze.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and caramelized.
- Cool and Serve:
- Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks if desired.
Save My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy these dates which always disappear quickly at every party.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper or wire rack, small bowl, pastry brush, toothpicks
Allergen Information
Contains Tree nuts (almonds), dairy (cheese), and pork (bacon). Double-check labels for hidden gluten if needed.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 20 g, Protein: 6 g (per serving; 3 pieces)
Save These bacon-wrapped dates are a guaranteed hit whether for holidays or casual get togethers.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute goat cheese with another cheese?
Yes, cream cheese works well as a milder alternative, offering the same creamy texture without overpowering the other flavors.
- → What are good nut alternatives for almonds?
Pecans or walnuts provide a similar crunch and complement the sweet and smoky elements nicely.
- → How do I ensure the bacon stays crispy after baking?
Baking on a wire rack allows air circulation for crispiness and flipping halfway helps even cooking and caramelization.
- → Is it possible to prepare these in advance?
Yes, assemble the dates ahead of time and refrigerate; bake them just before serving for best results.
- → What beverage pairs well with these bacon dates?
A dry sparkling wine or chilled rosé enhances the sweet and smoky flavors beautifully.