Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey are the perfect holiday appetizer. They combine sweet Medjool dates, creamy goat cheese, and crispy bacon for a delightful bite that everyone loves. These savory treats are quick to make and ideal for gatherings, parties, or cozy nights at home. The addition of rosemary honey elevates the flavor profile, making them an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious bites ready in no time.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of sweet and savory flavors appeals to all palates, ensuring your guests will return for more.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer at parties or as a unique side dish for family dinners.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean even beginner cooks can impress with this recipe.
• Elevated Flavor: The rosemary honey adds a gourmet touch that sets these bites apart from typical appetizers.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures the bacon becomes crispy without burning.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like honey and rosemary without spilling.

Ingredients

To create these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Filling

• 6 ounces creamy goat cheese
• 24 plump Medjool dates

For Wrapping

• 12 slices thinly sliced bacon, cut in half

For the Drizzle

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (using more or less to taste)
• kosher salt and black pepper

Optional Topping

• candied or toasted walnuts

How to Make Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dates

1. Split each date in half lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
2. Remove the pit from each date and discard it.
3. Stuff each date generously with goat cheese, then gently squeeze to seal.

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon

1. Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date.
2. Place the wrapped dates seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Make Rosemary Honey Drizzle

In a small mixing bowl, combine:
1. Honey
2. Chopped rosemary
3. Cayenne pepper
4. A pinch each of kosher salt and black pepper

Evenly drizzle half of this mixture over the dates on your baking sheet to help caramelize the bacon.

Step 5: Bake Until Crisp

Transfer your baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crisping up nicely.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm or at room temperature with any remaining honey drizzle and optional walnuts on top if desired.

Enjoy your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey as a standout appetizer that is sure to impress!

How to Serve Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

Serving Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey is all about enhancing their sweet and savory flavors. These delightful bites can be paired with various accompaniments to elevate your appetizer experience.

Appetizer Platter

• Create a beautiful appetizer platter featuring these dates alongside a variety of cheeses, crackers, and olives for a well-rounded selection.

Fresh Salad

• Serve these dates over a bed of arugula or spinach, drizzled with balsamic glaze for a fresh contrast that complements the richness of the dish.

Charcuterie Board

• Incorporate these stuffed dates into a charcuterie board. Their sweetness balances well with meats and other savory items, making them an attractive choice for gatherings.

Dipping Sauce

• Offer a side of herbed yogurt or creamy goat cheese dip. This adds another layer of flavor and allows guests to customize their bites further.

How to Perfect Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

To make your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Select ripe Medjool dates and high-quality goat cheese for the best flavor.
• Bacon Crispiness: Bake until the bacon is perfectly crispy. This enhances both texture and taste.
• Add Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. A little kick can elevate the overall flavor.
• Garnish Creatively: Use fresh rosemary sprigs as garnish for added aroma and visual appeal.
• Serve Warm: Enjoy these dates warm or at room temperature to fully appreciate their flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

Pairing side dishes with Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dates perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil add color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty dish is filling and pairs well, offering a healthy grain option.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast that complements the soft date filling.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Mini stuffed peppers filled with grains or vegetables provide an appealing color and flavor combination.
6. Hummus Platter: A selection of hummus varieties with fresh veggies makes for a refreshing side that complements the dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Boldly Overstuffing: Stuffing too much cheese into the dates can lead to spills during cooking. Use just enough goat cheese to fill each date without overflowing.
• Ignoring Bacon Quality: Using low-quality bacon can result in a greasy and unappetizing dish. Choose thinly sliced, high-quality bacon for better flavor and texture.
• Skipping the Honey Drizzle: Not drizzling honey on the dates before baking can prevent caramelization. Make sure to coat them properly to achieve that sweet glaze.
• Inadequate Oven Preheating: Failing to preheat the oven may lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is fully heated before placing the dates inside.
• Not Checking for Crispiness: Overlooking the cooking time can either leave the bacon too soft or overly crisp. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dates are completely cooled before sealing them.

Freezing Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until warm (watch closely to avoid making it soggy).
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with cream cheese or blue cheese for varying flavors.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, replace bacon with smoked tempeh and use a plant-based cream cheese alternative.

What are some variations of Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey?

You can add nuts like pecans or almonds inside the dates or experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage.

Can I prepare these dates ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can stuff and wrap them a day in advance; just store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

These Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey are not only delicious but also versatile. They’re perfect as appetizers at gatherings or enjoyed as snacks. Feel free to customize the fillings or toppings based on your preferences!