Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Feta Stuffed Medjool Dates
Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and savory with these Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Feta Stuffed Medjool Dates. Each plump medjool date is carefully split and stuffed with creamy, mild feta cheese, then wrapped in rich, crispy bacon, creating a delightful appetizer that is sure to impress at your next gathering. Discover how the warm, melted feta complements the savory, crispy bacon, resulting in a mouthwatering bite-sized treat. Perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
large medjool dates
16 (pitted and slit)
mild feta cheese
2 ounces (cut into sticks)
bacon
8 slices (cut in half)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2
Using a sharp knife, carefully create a slit along the long side of each medjool date. Be cautious not to cut all the way through. Remove and discard the pits from the dates.
3
Cut the feta cheese into 16 sticks, each measuring approximately 1 inch by 1/4 inch.
4
Stuff each date with a stick of feta cheese, ensuring it is fully enclosed.
5
Take one piece of bacon and wrap it tightly around each stuffed date, securing the cheese inside. Make sure the bacon overlaps slightly to hold it in place.
6
Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on the rack of a broiler pan to allow for even cooking.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 14 to 15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy. Turn the dates halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispness.
8
Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes before transferring to a serving plate. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Feta Stuffed Medjool Dates?
They are a sweet and savory appetizer consisting of large Medjool dates stuffed with feta cheese and wrapped in bacon, then baked until crispy.
How many ingredients do I need for this recipe?
This recipe requires only three main ingredients: Medjool dates, mild feta cheese, and bacon slices.
What type of dates should I use?
Large Medjool dates are the best choice because they are naturally sweet, soft, and large enough to hold the stuffing.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
While feta provides a great tangy balance, you could substitute it with goat cheese or blue cheese if you prefer.
How do I prepare the dates?
Using a sharp knife, create a slit along the long side of the date, remove the pit, and discard it before stuffing.
How much feta cheese goes inside each date?
Each date should be stuffed with one stick of feta cheese measuring approximately 1 inch by 1/4 inch.
How many slices of bacon do I need?
You need 8 slices of bacon, which are then cut in half to create 16 pieces for the 16 dates.
What is the best way to wrap the bacon?
Wrap one half-slice of bacon tightly around each stuffed date, making sure it overlaps slightly to keep the cheese enclosed.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius for optimal crispiness.
How long do the bacon-wrapped dates need to bake?
They should bake for 14 to 15 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Should I turn the dates while they are in the oven?
Yes, turn the dates halfway through the cooking time to ensure the bacon crisps evenly on all sides.
What kind of pan is best for baking these?
A broiler pan with a rack is recommended as it allows heat to circulate around the dates and lets excess fat drip away.
How long should they cool before serving?
Let them cool for about 5 minutes after removing them from the oven to avoid burning your mouth on the hot cheese.
Can I serve these at room temperature?
Yes, while they are excellent warm, they can also be enjoyed at room temperature during a party.
Are these suitable for a holiday appetizer?
Absolutely, their elegant sweet and savory flavor profile makes them a popular choice for holiday gatherings.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, with only three ingredients and simple assembly steps, it is a very easy and beginner-friendly recipe.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can pit, stuff, and wrap the dates ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to bake.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat the bacon-wrapped dates?
Reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes until the bacon is crisp again.
Can I use thick-cut bacon?
Standard bacon is preferred because thick-cut bacon may take much longer to crisp and might not cook through before the dates burn.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It offers a complex balance of sweet from the dates, salty and smoky from the bacon, and tangy and creamy from the feta.
Should the bacon be cooked before wrapping?
No, use raw bacon slices to wrap the dates; they will cook perfectly in the oven during the 15-minute bake time.
Do I need toothpicks to hold the bacon?
Usually, overlapping the bacon tightly is enough to hold it, but you can use toothpicks if you find the bacon is unraveling.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 16 stuffed dates, which typically serves 4 to 8 people as an appetizer.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, adding a whole almond or a pecan half inside the date along with the feta adds a nice crunch.
Is the feta cheese melted when served?
Feta doesn't melt like mozzarella; it becomes soft, warm, and creamy, which provides a great texture.
Can I use turkey bacon instead?
Yes, but keep in mind that turkey bacon has less fat and may not crisp up in the same way as traditional pork bacon.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most bacon, dates, and feta are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your specific brands to be sure.
Why do I need to remove the pits?
The pits are hard and inedible; removing them creates the cavity needed to hold the feta cheese stuffing.
Can I use smaller dates?
You can, but you will need to cut the feta sticks smaller and it may be more difficult to wrap the bacon securely.