Why Make This Recipe
Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a simple dish to prepare for gatherings or a snack. These little bites offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The creamy goat cheese paired with the sweetness of the dates and the savory crunch of the bacon creates an irresistible combination. Plus, they are easy to make, which makes them a great choice for casual get-togethers or parties.
How to Make Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates
Ingredients:
- 20 dates
- 250 g bacon (diced)
- 40 g walnuts (roughly chopped)
- 1 tbsp rosemary (finely diced)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 250 g goat cheese
- 1 orange zest
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees C (350 degrees F).
- Using a sharp knife, slice the dates lengthwise and remove the seed. Be careful not to cut the dates in half.
- In a cold pan, add the diced bacon and turn the heat to high. Cook for 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Add the walnuts, two-thirds of the rosemary, maple syrup, and brown sugar to the pan. Cook for another 5 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and you have a jammy consistency.
- In a food processor, combine the goat cheese, two-thirds of the orange zest, olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth.
- Stuff the dates with about a teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture and lay them on a baking tray.
- Sprinkle the candied walnuts and bacon mixture over the top.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Once done, sprinkle the remaining rosemary and orange zest over the dates and serve immediately.
How to Serve Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates
Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates can be served as an appetizer or snack at any occasion. They are best enjoyed warm right after baking. Arrange them on a nice platter, and they will catch everyone’s eye. You can serve them alongside some fresh greens or with a light dip if you like.
How to Store Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates
Leftover Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten within a couple of days but can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to restore their warmth and flavor.
Tips to Make Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates
- Make sure to choose large, fresh dates for easy stuffing.
- Adjust the number of walnuts based on your preference; you can also use other nuts like pecans.
- Feel free to add a little spice, like red pepper flakes, to the goat cheese mixture for added heat.
Variation
You can try different types of cheese, like cream cheese or ricotta, if you want a creamier texture. Additionally, you could drizzle honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness.
FAQs
Can I make these dates ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed dates and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for the best taste.
Are there any substitutions for bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon or even cooked, crumbled sausage as an alternative.
Can I freeze Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed dates before baking. Just make sure to wrap them well and bake directly from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy them.
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Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Deliciously sweet and savory bites filled with creamy goat cheese, perfect for gatherings or snacks.
Ingredients
- 20 dates
- 250 g bacon (diced)
- 40 g walnuts (roughly chopped)
- 1 tbsp rosemary (finely diced)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 250 g goat cheese
- 1 orange zest
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees C (350 degrees F).
- Using a sharp knife, slice the dates lengthwise and remove the seed. Be careful not to cut the dates in half.
- In a cold pan, add the diced bacon and turn the heat to high. Cook for 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Add the walnuts, two-thirds of the rosemary, maple syrup, and brown sugar to the pan. Cook for another 5 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and you have a jammy consistency.
- In a food processor, combine the goat cheese, two-thirds of the orange zest, olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth.
- Stuff the dates with about a teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture and lay them on a baking tray.
- Sprinkle the candied walnuts and bacon mixture over the top.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Once done, sprinkle the remaining rosemary and orange zest over the dates and serve immediately.
Notes
Serve warm and enjoy with fresh greens or a light dip. Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 dates
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg