This “Goat Cheese & Bacon-Wrapped Dates Appetizer” is an easy holiday dish that’s quick to make, and a savory-sweet bite that everyone will love! The sweet dates are stuffed with creamy goat cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon, topped with fresh rosemary and drizzled with local honey.
We are embracing all things cozy and sweet this fall season, before the winter cold comes. And with it comes a long list of seasonal produce to add an abundance of flavor and nutrients to your meals! A few include winter squash-like pumpkin, butternut, kabocha, delicate, and acorn squash. You also have sweet potatoes, walnuts, almonds, pecans, apples, pears, cranberries, persimmons, Brussels sprouts, and root vegetables in season. And let’s not forget about kale and wild porcini mushrooms that are packed with essential minerals to support a healthy diet!
But this month, we’re diving further into the health benefits of fresh Medjool dates, that are one of November’s seasonal delights. Many studies have shown that they can reduce inflammation, improve hormone regulation, stimulate the immune system, and prevent DNA damage. Their fiber alone can boost digestion and heart health, while also lowering your risk of several chronic diseases.
Goat Cheese & Bacon-Wrapped Dates Appetizer
By @brightmomentco / Lauren Sephton
Servings: 12
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 6 oz. Creamy Goat Cheese
- 12-20 plump Medjool Dates
- ⅓ cup Honey or Maple Syrup
- 2-3 Tbsp. Milk
- 12 slices Bacon, thinly sliced, cut in half
- 2 Rosemary Sprigs, chopped
- Salt & Black Pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400ᵒ F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- Cut a slit lengthwise in the dates, splitting them open to remove and discard the pit.
- In a small bowl, use a rubber spatula to mix the goat cheese, milk, 2 Tbsp. honey, and chopped rosemary together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. (The mixture should be silky smooth and creamy, not dry.)
- Stuff each date with the goat cheese mix, then wrap in bacon. Place on the prepared baking pan.
- Brush with the remaining honey. Sprinkle with additional salt, chopped rosemary, and black pepper (optional).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bacon is crispy and golden.
- Serve warm with crushed walnuts (optional) and honey. Enjoy!
Now, it’s time to grab our aprons and enjoy the seasonal delights of autumn produce!
