bacon wrapped stuffed dates

By Hollywood

Baked stuffed dates are edible jewels. They’re crispy-bacon-coated, tender mouthfuls of salty-sweet, savory treats. The dates are like smooth caramels, and the surprise cheese filling is the “oh-yeah” factor. I like to make a platter full, set them on the counter, and let my guests help themselves. They’re not shy.

Ingredients

• Makes 20
• 1/2 cup goat cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 20 whole dried dates, split, pitted
• 7 slices of bacon, cut crosswise into thirds

Preparation

Step 1

•Place oven rack on the bottom level. Set the oven to BAKE 400°.
•Combine cheeses together until smooth.
•Open each date and stuff with 1 full teaspoon of the cheese mixture. Pinch the dates closed, though they won’t close completely.
•Wrap each date securely in a piece of bacon and arrange the dates, seam side down, on baking sheet or broiler pan.
•Bake the stuffed dates on one side for 10 minutes. Flip the dates over with a fork or wooden spoon.
•Cook dates for another 5-8 minutes or until the bacon is browned and crispy.
•Transfer dates onto paper towel to absorb excess fat. Serve stuffed dates warm or at room temperature, on a clean platter.