What are Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates and how do I make them?

Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates are a savory appetizer featuring sweet dates filled with tangy blue cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon. To make them, pit the dates and stuff each with about a teaspoon of blue cheese. Then wrap every date with half a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the cheese melts slightly. This combination of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors makes for a popular party snack.

Can I prepare Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these dates ahead. Stuff and wrap the dates, then store them uncooked in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake them fresh to keep the bacon crispy. Alternatively, you can fully cook them and reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness before serving.

What types of bacon work best for Bacon Wrapped Dates?

Thin or regular-cut bacon works best because it crisps well without overpowering the date and cheese filling. Thick-cut bacon can be too heavy and might not cook evenly in the short baking time. Choose smoked bacon for added depth of flavor or opt for maple-flavored bacon for extra sweetness. Regardless of type, ensure the bacon is partially cooked or thin enough to fully cook while baking the dates.

Are there good alternatives to blue cheese for stuffing the dates?

Yes, if you prefer milder or different flavors, several cheeses work well. Cream cheese, goat cheese, or feta can be excellent substitutes that still offer creaminess without the strong tang of blue cheese. Mixing goat cheese with herbs or adding a sprinkle of nuts can also enhance flavor. These alternatives cater to guests who might find blue cheese too robust.

How many Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates should I serve per person?

Typically, plan on serving 2-3 dates per person as an appetizer. These bites are rich and flavorful, so a small portion serves well before a main meal or as part of a larger appetizer spread. For parties or buffets, prepare at least 4-5 dates per guest to ensure enough for seconds. Adjust depending on how many other dishes will be available.

Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates Recipe With 3 Ingredients

Name: Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: – 10 slices thin bacon Provides crispy, smoky wrap; – 20 Medjool dates, pitted Adds natural sweetness and texture; – 4 ounces blue cheese Brings tangy, creamy filling; – Freshly-ground black pepper Enhances seasoning; – Flaky sea salt Finishes with a salty crunch

Description

🥓 Enjoy a perfect balance of savory bacon and sweet Medjool dates in this easy 3-Ingredient Bacon Wrapped Dates recipe.
🧀 This appetizer combines crispy bacon with creamy cheese for an irresistible bite that’s quick to prepare and sure to please guests.

Ingredients

– 10 slices thin bacon Provides crispy, smoky wrap

– 20 Medjool dates, pitted Adds natural sweetness and texture

– 4 ounces blue cheese Brings tangy, creamy filling

– Freshly-ground black pepper Enhances seasoning

– Flaky sea salt Finishes with a salty crunch

Instructions

1-Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: 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.

2-Pre-cook bacon for flexibility: Lay the bacon strips on the baking sheet and pre-cook them for about 10 minutes until they’re halfway done but still flexible.

3-Pit and stuff the dates with cheese: 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.

4-Wrap and secure with toothpicks: 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.

5-Bake, flip, and season before serving: 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.

Notes

🔥 Pre-cook bacon to ensure crispiness without overcooking.
🔄 Flip dates halfway through baking for even crispiness.
🧀 Use richly flavored but firm cheese that holds well during baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 stuffed date

Keywords: Bacon Wrapped Dates, Easy Appetizer, Stuffed Dates, Bacon Recipes