🥓 Sweet‑And‑Savory Bacon‑Wrapped Dates – Classic Thanksgiving Appetizer Made Easy
Indulge in the perfect sweet‑and‑savory bite with these bacon‑wrapped dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese and a hint of rosemary. Crispy bacon, caramelized dates, and tangy cheese create a flavor explosion that’s a guaranteed crowd‑pleaser. Ready in just 20 minutes, these appetizers bring elegance to any Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients
- 12 large dates, pitted
- 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1/2 cup creamy goat cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Cut the bacon slices in half and cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Step 3: Stuff each date with a small amount of goat cheese and a sprinkle of rosemary.
- Step 4: Wrap each stuffed date with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
- Step 5: Place the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the dates are caramelized.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick and Easy
This recipe is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and easy Thanksgiving appetizer.
👥 Crowd-Pleasing
The combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Tips and Variations
Variation 1: Spicy Bacon
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the bacon for an extra kick of heat.
Variation 2: Fresh Herbs
Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roasted turkey
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Green bean casserole
Make-Ahead Instructions
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the stuffed dates up to a day in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Troubleshooting
Q: What if my bacon is not crispy?
A: Try baking the bacon for an additional 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
Final Thoughts
Indulge in the perfect sweet‑and‑savory bite with these bacon‑wrapped dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese and a hint of rosemary.
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