If you are searching for a delightful appetizer that perfectly balances sweet, salty, and smoky flavors, then look no further than this Beef-Wrapped Dates with Almonds or Goat Cheese Recipe. These little bites of heaven combine the rich, savory taste of beef bacon with the natural sweetness of dates, enhanced by the crunchy almonds or creamy goat cheese tucked inside. They are easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to become a crowd favorite at any gathering or a special treat to enjoy at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Although this dish is wonderfully simple, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. From the tender, sweet dates to the crispy beef bacon, every component is thoughtfully chosen to elevate this appetizer.
- 12 pitted dates: Naturally sweet and chewy, they provide the perfect base for this savory treat.
- 6 slices beef bacon, cut in half: Adds a smoky, salty layer and crisps beautifully when baked.
- 12 almonds or goat cheese (optional, for stuffing): Almonds bring crunch and nuttiness, while goat cheese offers creamy tanginess.
- Toothpicks for securing: Essential for keeping your beef-wrapped dates snug and intact during baking.
How to Make Beef-Wrapped Dates with Almonds or Goat Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 °F (190 °C), ensuring it’s at the perfect temperature for caramelizing your beef bacon. While the oven warms, carefully pit your dates if they are not already pitted and get your almonds or goat cheese ready for stuffing.
Step 2: Stuff the Dates
Gently open each date and tuck in one almond or a small dollop of goat cheese. This stuffing adds an exciting surprise with every bite, creating a lovely contrast to the savory bacon wrapper.
Step 3: Wrap with Beef Bacon
Take each stuffed date and wrap it tightly with half a slice of beef bacon. Secure the bundle with a toothpick to keep everything neatly in place while it cooks.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Lay the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them enough room to crisp up nicely. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, remembering to turn them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly and become irresistibly crispy on all sides.
How to Serve Beef-Wrapped Dates with Almonds or Goat Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To take your presentation up a notch, sprinkle the freshly baked beef-wrapped dates with a pinch of flaky sea salt or a dash of smoked paprika. A drizzle of chili-honey glaze just before serving adds a subtle kick and beautiful sheen that will impress your guests.
Side Dishes
These flavorful bites pair perfectly with a refreshing salad of arugula and citrus or alongside a bowl of marinated olives. For a more substantial spread, serve them with crusty bread and an assortment of cheeses to create an inviting Mediterranean-inspired appetizer platter.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve your beef-wrapped dates on decorative skewers or arrange them on a wooden board with sprigs of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary? They also shine when nestled in colorful mini cupcake liners for an elegant finger-food display that’s easy to grab and enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover beef-wrapped dates, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They remain delicious cold or at room temperature, making them a convenient snack or addition to your next meal.
Freezing
These can be frozen for up to 1 month if you want to prepare them ahead of time. Arrange the wrapped dates on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. This prevents them from sticking together and lets you thaw only what you need.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the beef-wrapped dates into a preheated oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 8–10 minutes until warmed through and again slightly crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bacon soggy and the dates overly soft.
FAQs
Can I use regular pork bacon instead of beef bacon?
Absolutely! While beef bacon offers a unique flavor and is the basis of this Beef-Wrapped Dates with Almonds or Goat Cheese Recipe, pork bacon works well too. It will still give you that deliciously smoky and crispy texture.
What if I am allergic to nuts and dairy?
No worries! You can enjoy this recipe without the almonds or goat cheese. The sweet and salty components alone create fantastic flavor, making the stuffing optional based on your dietary needs.
How do I make these spicy?
For a spicy twist, brush your dates with a chili-honey glaze or sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper before baking. It adds a delightful heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Can I prepare this recipe for a large party?
Definitely! This Beef-Wrapped Dates with Almonds or Goat Cheese Recipe scales up easily. Just adjust the quantities accordingly and bake in batches to maintain crispiness and even cooking.
How long do I cook the beef-wrapped dates?
Baking for 18 to 20 minutes at 375 °F (190 °C) is perfect. Turning them halfway ensures every angle gets crispy and caramelized to perfection, making each bite a delicious experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an elegant yet simple appetizer that feels both familiar and a little adventurous, try this Beef-Wrapped Dates with Almonds or Goat Cheese Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you taste that perfect blend of sweet, salty, and smoky, these little bites will very likely become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
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Beef-Wrapped Dates with Almonds or Goat Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sweet dates wrapped in savory beef bacon and baked until caramelized — an irresistible combination of sweet, salty, and smoky, perfect as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 pitted dates
- 6 slices beef bacon, cut in half
- 12 almonds or goat cheese (optional, for stuffing)
- Toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the beef-wrapped dates.
- Prepare the dates: Carefully stuff each pitted date with an almond or a small amount of goat cheese to add texture and flavor.
- Wrap with beef bacon: Take half a slice of beef bacon and wrap it tightly around each stuffed date. Secure it firmly with a toothpick to keep it in place during baking.
- Arrange for baking: Place the wrapped dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Bake the dates: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, turning the dates halfway through baking to achieve an even crispiness and caramelization on all sides.
- Serve: Remove the dates from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a touch of heat, brush the wrapped dates with a chili-honey glaze before baking to add a sweet and spicy kick.
- These beef-wrapped dates can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile appetizer for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
