Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate party appetizer that combines sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible flavors! These Fontina Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates are not just a snack—they're a culinary experience that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy bacon exterior, revealing a molten core of creamy fontina cheese nestled inside a luscious, caramelized date. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet bite-sized sensation that's guaranteed to be the star of any gathering.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 6 ounces fontina cheese, cut into small pieces
- 12 slices bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Carefully slice open each Medjool date lengthwise, ensuring you do not cut completely through, creating a pocket for the cheese filling.
- Cut the fontina cheese into small, uniform pieces that will comfortably fit inside each date, approximately 1/2 inch in size.
- Gently stuff each date with a piece of fontina cheese, pressing it carefully into the date's cavity to ensure a secure fit.
- Take each bacon slice and cut it in half crosswise to create shorter strips that will wrap around the dates more easily.
- Wrap each cheese-stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, ensuring the bacon is snug but not overly stretched. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each to allow even cooking and crispy bacon.
- Lightly brush the dates with olive oil and sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the top for added flavor and seasoning.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, turning the dates halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispy bacon.
- Remove from the oven when the bacon is golden brown and crisp, and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Let the dates rest for 2-3 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent burning.
- Transfer to a serving platter, remove toothpicks, and serve warm as an appetizer or party snack.
Tips
- Choose Medjool dates for their large size and rich, soft texture—they're perfect for stuffing.
- Use room temperature cheese for easier stuffing and more even melting.
- Cut bacon strips in half to ensure a neat, proportional wrap around each date.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet; give each date space for crispy bacon.
- Use toothpicks to secure bacon if it tends to unravel during cooking.
- For extra flavor, consider lightly seasoning with smoked paprika or a touch of honey before baking.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is still warm and gooey for the best taste experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 45mg
