If you’re searching for a show-stopping appetizer that will leave your guests raving, look no further than Gorgonzola Stuffed Dates Wrapped in Bacon! This delightful combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors is sure to tantalize your taste buds and elevate any gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible bites that are perfect for parties, game days, or even a cozy night in. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates
- 4 oz Gorgonzola cheese
- 12 slices bacon
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise on one side, removing the pit while keeping the date mostly intact. Be gentle to maintain the date's shape.
- Using a small spoon or knife, stuff each date with approximately 1 teaspoon of Gorgonzola cheese, pressing the cheese gently into the cavity.
- Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise to create shorter strips that will wrap around the dates more easily.
- Wrap each cheese-stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon is snug but not too tight. Position the bacon seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place the bacon-wrapped dates on the baking sheet, leaving a small space between each to allow even cooking and crisp bacon.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, turning the dates halfway through cooking to ensure the bacon crisps evenly on all sides.
- Remove from the oven when the bacon is golden brown and crispy. Let the dates rest for 2-3 minutes to cool slightly.
- Optional: Drizzle the warm dates with honey for an extra touch of sweetness that complements the salty bacon and tangy Gorgonzola.
- Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm as an appetizer or party snack.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh Medjool dates and high-quality Gorgonzola cheese to enhance the flavor of your dish. The better the ingredients, the more impressive the final result!
- Preheat the Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before baking. This ensures that the bacon cooks evenly and becomes perfectly crispy.
- Don’t Overstuff: When filling the dates with Gorgonzola, avoid overstuffing them. A teaspoon of cheese per date is just right; this allows the cheese to melt without overflowing during cooking.
- Wrap Tightly: When wrapping the bacon around the dates, ensure that it’s snug but not overly tight. This helps the bacon crisp up nicely while still allowing the dates to maintain their shape.
- Turn for Even Cooking: Remember to turn the dates halfway through baking. This simple step ensures that all sides of the bacon get beautifully crispy and golden brown.
- Add a Sweet Finish: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle the warm dates with honey right before serving. The sweetness of the honey complements the salty bacon and tangy cheese perfectly.
- Serve Warm: These stuffed dates are best enjoyed warm, so serve them immediately after baking for the ultimate flavor experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
