3-Ingredient Bacon Wrapped Dates Recipe for Easy Appetizers

Why You’ll Love This Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Picture this: you’re hosting a get-together and want something simple yet amazing to serve. This blue cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates recipe fits the bill, offering ease of preparation that makes it ideal for busy folks like you. You’ll mix sweet dates with creamy cheese and salty bacon for a tasty bite that comes together quickly without much fuss.

Don’t overlook the health perks either the dates bring fiber and antioxidants, while the blue cheese adds calcium for strong bones. This mix of nutrients gives you a balance of protein and healthy fats, making it a fun way to enjoy good food that supports your daily needs. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can tweak it for different tastes or diets, turning it into a go-to option for any occasion.

The standout flavor comes from that perfect blend of sweet, salty, and creamy elements. Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself, these blue cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates create a moment everyone remembers. And with minimal ingredients, it’s easy to whip up even on a hectic day.

Health Benefits and Versatility

This recipe isn’t just delicious; it packs in benefits like better digestion from the fiber in dates and protein from the bacon. For busy parents or students, it’s a quick win that saves time without skimping on taste. You can adapt it for dietary needs, like going gluten-free or vegan, which keeps it accessible for everyone at your table.

Food enthusiasts will appreciate how this dish brings new flavors into your routine. Whether you’re a working professional looking for a speedy appetizer or a senior wanting something light, it’s flexible enough to fit right in. Let’s dive into why this recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen for bringing people together.

• Ease of preparation saves you time on busy nights.
• Health benefits include fiber for digestion and protein for energy.
• Versatility lets you customize for any dietary preference.
• Distinctive flavor makes every bite exciting and memorable.

Jump To

• 1. Why You’ll Love This Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
• 2. Essential Ingredients for Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
• 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates: Step-by-Step Guide
• 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
• 5. Mastering Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates: Advanced Tips and Variations
• 6. How to Store Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates: Best Practices
• 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
• 8. Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Essential Ingredients for Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these blue cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates turn out just right. This section breaks down everything you need, focusing on the precise measurements to ensure your recipe is spot-on. I’ll list them out clearly so you can follow along without any confusion.

Main Ingredients List

Here’s the comprehensive list of ingredients pulled directly from the recipe details. Each one is measured accurately for the best results:

• 10 slices of thin bacon (not thick-cut or turkey bacon)
• 20 Medjool dates that are pitted by making a shallow cut through the top half
• 4 ounces (about 113 grams) of crumbled blue cheese (or alternative cheeses such as goat cheese, feta, Manchego, Parmesan, or aged cheddar)
• Freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
• Flaky sea salt, to taste

These items create the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors. For special dietary options, you can swap things around, like using plant-based cheese for a vegan twist or checking that your bacon is gluten-free.

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Thin bacon	10 slices	Provides crispy, smoky wrap
Medjool dates	20, pitted	Adds natural sweetness and texture
Blue cheese	4 ounces	Brings tangy, creamy filling
Freshly-ground black pepper	To taste	Enhances seasoning
Flaky sea salt	To taste	Finishes with a salty crunch

If you’re diet-conscious, try turkey bacon for a lighter option or feta for a different cheese twist. This setup makes it simple to shop and prep, even if you’re new to cooking.

Check out my crab-stuffed cheddar bay biscuits for more appetizer ideas.

How to Prepare the Perfect Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to make these blue cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates? It’s straightforward and fun, taking just about 35 minutes total. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Lay the bacon strips on the baking sheet and pre-cook them for about 10 minutes until they’re halfway done but still flexible. While the bacon cooks, cut each date lengthwise at the top half to remove the pit, then stuff each one with approximately a spoonful of cheese and gently close it.

Once the bacon cools enough to handle, slice each strip in half. Wrap each stuffed date with a half-strip of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Replace the parchment paper on the baking sheet, arrange the wrapped dates evenly, and season with freshly-ground black pepper.

Bake for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, flipping halfway through until the bacon is crispy but not burnt. Remove from the oven, transfer to a wire rack, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and serve warm for the best flavor. This method ensures even crispiness and keeps everything tasty and fresh.

1. Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet.
2. Pre-cook bacon for flexibility.
3. Pit and stuff the dates with cheese.
4. Wrap and secure with toothpicks.
5. Bake, flip, and season before serving.

For variations, you can add nuts or herbs to mix things up. This dish has moderate protein and fat from the bacon and cheese, plus natural sweetness from the dates, making it a hit for busy parents or food enthusiasts.

This simple recipe has been a staple at my family events it’s that crowd-pleaser that always leaves everyone asking for more!

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Everyone has different needs, so customizing this blue cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates recipe is a breeze. For protein swaps, try turkey bacon or tempeh bacon to cut down on fat or go vegetarian. You can also replace blue cheese with goat cheese or feta for a milder taste that still melts beautifully.

When it comes to veggies and seasonings, add fresh herbs like rosemary for an extra pop. Or drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet glaze that complements the dates. If you want some heat, mix in smoked paprika or chili flakes to give it a spicy edge.

• Swap bacon for turkey or tempeh options.
• Use goat cheese instead of blue for dairy-free choices.
• Add herbs or spices for personalized flavors.

These changes make the recipe adaptable for diet-conscious individuals or baking enthusiasts. Remember, the key is to keep the quantities balanced so your dish stays delicious.

Mastering Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates: Advanced Tips and Variations

To take your blue cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates to the next level, try using a wire rack on the baking sheet for better air flow and even crisping. Lightly brush the bacon with honey before baking to add a sweet touch that pairs wonderfully with the dates. For flavor twists, swap blue cheese for goat cheese and toss in crushed walnuts for some crunch inside the dates.

Presentation matters too arrange them on a nice tray and top with fresh herbs for that gourmet feel. If you’re prepping ahead, stuff and wrap the dates, then chill them in the fridge until it’s time to bake. This keeps everything fresh and saves you time on the day of your event.

Variations can include adding fruits, herbs, chocolate, or even a drizzle of hot honey for a unique spin. Pre-cooking the bacon is a game-changer to avoid overcooking, and flipping during baking ensures that perfect crispy texture. Firm cheeses like Manchego hold up well, making your appetizers irresistible.

Pro Tips for Success

Always use thin bacon for the best results it’s quicker to crisp and doesn’t overwhelm the other flavors. If you’re a traveler or newlywed experimenting with new recipes, these tips will help you impress guests every time. Remember, the total prep time is just 15 minutes, so it’s perfect for working professionals.

Discover more easy appetizers like my cheesy pepperoni pizza roll-ups.

How to Store Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates: Best Practices

Once you’ve made these blue cheese stuffed bacon wrapped dates, storing them properly keeps them tasty for later. Pop any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to lock in that fresh flavor. For longer storage, freeze the cooled, uncooked stuffed dates on a baking sheet until solid, then move them to a freezer-safe container for up to a month.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to bring back that crispiness without drying things out. If you’re into meal prep, assemble the dates ahead and keep them chilled just bake fresh when needed. This approach works great for seniors or students managing their time.

• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
• Freeze uncooked dates for a month of storage.
• Reheat in the oven for best texture.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

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