Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

It was a chilly autumn evening when I first tried Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey. I can still remember the moment I popped one of those delectable bites into my mouth – the way the sweet, caramelized date perfectly complemented the tangy goat cheese and the salty, crispy bacon. And that drizzle of rosemary-infused honey? It was like magic in my mouth. From that very first taste, I knew this recipe was going to become a staple in my repertoire.

You see, I have a bit of a reputation among my friends and family as the “appetizer queen.” I love nothing more than dreaming up creative, flavor-packed bites that get people excited about what’s to come. And let me tell you, Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey always steals the show.

Why This Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

There’s just something so satisfying about the way the sweet, sticky dates, the tangy goat cheese, the salty bacon, and the aromatic rosemary all come together in this recipe. It’s a flavor explosion in every single bite. But the real secret is in the technique. By par-cooking the bacon before wrapping it around the dates, you ensure that it gets perfectly crispy without overcooking the delicate dates. And the rosemary-infused honey? That’s the finishing touch that takes this appetizer to the next level.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

• 12 Medjool dates, pitted: These large, plump dates are the perfect vehicle for this recipe. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the other flavors.
• 3 ounces goat cheese, softened: The creamy, tangy goat cheese filling provides a delightful contrast to the sweet dates.
• 6 slices bacon, cut in half: Crispy, salty bacon wraps each date in a savory blanket.
• 2 tablespoons honey: This honey is infused with fresh rosemary, adding a lovely herbal note.
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped: The aromatic rosemary complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Step-by-Step Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey Instructions

Preparing Your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 18 minutes, this Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey recipe comes together in a total of 28 minutes. All you’ll need is a baking sheet, a small bowl, and a sharp knife.

1- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2- Next, use a sharp knife to carefully slice each Medjool date in half lengthwise and remove the pit. Arrange the pitted dates on the prepared baking sheet.
3- In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the goat cheese into the center of each date half.
4- Wrap each goat cheese-filled date with a half slice of bacon, making sure to overlap the ends so the cheese doesn’t ooze out.
5- In a small saucepan, combine the honey and chopped rosemary. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the honey is warm and the rosemary is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
6- Drizzle the rosemary honey over the bacon-wrapped dates and bake for 18 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Serve immediately, garnished with any remaining rosemary if desired.

Pro Tips for Success

1- For the best texture, make sure to par-cook the bacon before wrapping it around the dates. This ensures the bacon gets perfectly crispy without overcooking the delicate dates.
2- When filling the dates with the goat cheese, be generous but don’t overstuff them. You want just enough cheese to complement the other flavors.
3- Keep a close eye on the honey as it warms – you don’t want it to boil, as that can cause the rosemary to become bitter.
4- Arrange the dates on the baking sheet with a little space between them to allow for even cooking and crisping of the bacon.

Serving and Storing Your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

Perfect Pairings for Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

This Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey recipe makes 12 servings, making it the perfect appetizer for any gathering. Serve them alongside a glass of crisp white wine, sparkling cider, or a bold red wine for a truly indulgent experience. For a more substantial meal, pair them with a fresh green salad or a simple cheese and fruit plate.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey are best served fresh, but they can be made ahead with ease. Prepare the dates up to a day in advance, covering and refrigerating them until ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply wrap them in the bacon, drizzle with the rosemary honey, and bake as directed.

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the dates are heated through.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

Creative Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey Variations

While the classic combination of Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this recipe. Try swapping the Medjool dates for dried figs or apricots for a twist on the flavors. You could also use different types of cheese, such as cream cheese or blue cheese, instead of the goat cheese. And for a seasonal touch, try garnishing the bites with a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a sprinkling of crumbled feta.

Making Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey Diet-Friendly

If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few simple substitutions you can try. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bacon or swap the bacon for prosciutto. For a lower-carb option, use a sugar-free honey substitute or replace the dates with halved cherry tomatoes or mini bell peppers. And for a dairy-free twist, try using a plant-based cream cheese or cashew-based cheese alternative in place of the goat cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?
A: Absolutely! While the tangy goat cheese filling is delicious, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like cream cheese, mascarpone, or even blue cheese.

Q: How long does it take to prepare and cook these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey?
A: This recipe has a total time of 28 minutes, with 10 minutes of prep time and 18 minutes of cook time.

Q: Can I make these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dates up to a day in advance. Simply wrap them in the bacon and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake and serve.

Q: How many servings does this Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey recipe make?
A: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it the perfect appetizer for a gathering.

Q: What should I do if the bacon isn’t getting crispy enough?
A: If the bacon isn’t crisping up as much as you’d like, try briefly broiling the bites for 1-2 minutes at the end of the cooking time. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

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Conclusion

Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey is a truly irresistible appetizer that’s sure to wow your guests. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and herbal flavors, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a quick and easy snack, I know you’ll love these flavor-packed bites as much as I do. So what are you waiting for? Grab the ingredients and get ready to experience a taste explosion in every single bite!