Savory Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese-Stuffed Figs
Indulge in the harmonious blend of sweet and savory with these irresistibly delicious Bacon-Wrapped Figs stuffed with rich blue cheese. The soft, chewy figs complement the crispy, salty bacon, while the creamy blue cheese adds a tangy depth of flavor. Perfect for appetizers, cocktail parties, or a decadent snack, this elegant dish can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your gathering without the rush. Share these delightful bites with friends and family, and watch them disappear in no time!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
bacon
8 slices (Cut in half after pre-cooking.)
dried figs
16 (Slit lengthwise to create pockets.)
crumbled blue cheese
1/3 to 1/2 cup (Use Danish, Maytag, or Gorgonzola.)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier.
2
Arrange the bacon slices on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes until the bacon is partially cooked, rendering some fat but remaining pliable. Once done, transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain excess grease.
3
While the bacon cools, prepare the figs. Carefully slice each dried fig lengthwise to create a small pocket for the cheese, ensuring not to cut all the way through.
4
Stuff about 1 teaspoon of crumbled blue cheese into each fig's pocket. Gently press to close the slit.
5
Cut each strip of partially cooked bacon in half, and place a stuffed fig at one end. Roll the bacon around the fig, securing it with a toothpick at the seam. Repeat with the remaining figs and bacon.
6
Transfer the wrapped figs to a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, spacing them about ½ inch apart to allow for even cooking.
7
Bake the figs in the preheated oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and has reached a golden-brown color.
8
Remove the dish from the oven and allow the figs to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed hot or warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Bacon-Wrapped Blue Cheese-Stuffed Figs?
They are a sweet and savory appetizer made by stuffing dried figs with blue cheese, wrapping them in bacon, and baking until crispy.
What type of figs should I use for this recipe?
Dried figs are recommended because they are sturdy enough to be stuffed and hold their shape during the baking process.
Can I use fresh figs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh figs can be used, but they are softer and may require a shorter baking time to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
What is the best type of blue cheese to use?
Danish Blue, Maytag, or Gorgonzola are all excellent choices for their creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Why do I need to partially cook the bacon first?
Pre-cooking the bacon for 5-7 minutes ensures it becomes crispy in the final bake without overcooking the figs or the cheese.
How do I prepare the figs for stuffing?
Carefully slice each fig lengthwise to create a small pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
How much blue cheese should go into each fig?
About 1 teaspoon of crumbled blue cheese is the perfect amount for a standard dried fig.
How do I secure the bacon around the fig?
Wrap a half-slice of partially cooked bacon around the stuffed fig and secure it with a toothpick at the seam.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
How long do the wrapped figs bake for?
Once wrapped, the figs bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the bacon is golden-brown and crispy.
Can I prepare these figs ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff and wrap the figs in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, bacon, figs, and blue cheese are naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific cheese brand for additives.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Yes, though turkey bacon has less fat and may not wrap as easily or get as crispy as pork bacon.
What if I don't like blue cheese?
You can substitute blue cheese with goat cheese, cream cheese, or even a small piece of sharp white cheddar.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?
Try not to overstuff the figs and ensure the bacon wrap covers as much of the opening as possible.
Should I line my baking sheet?
Yes, lining your baking sheet with aluminum foil makes cleanup much easier as the bacon renders fat.
How should I serve these figs?
They are best served hot or warm, straight from the oven after a few minutes of cooling.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, adding a walnut or pecan half inside the fig along with the cheese adds a nice extra crunch.
How many figs does this recipe make?
This specific recipe is designed to make 16 bacon-wrapped stuffed figs.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat the figs?
Reheat them in a 350 degree oven or an air fryer for a few minutes to help the bacon get crispy again.
Can I freeze these?
It is best to freeze them after stuffing and wrapping but before the final bake. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-8 minutes or until the bacon reaches your desired crispiness.
What can I drizzle on top for extra flavor?
A drizzle of balsamic reduction or honey after baking complements the sweet and salty flavors perfectly.
What kind of baking dish is best?
A 9x13 inch baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet is ideal for spacing the figs correctly.
Is this a good recipe for parties?
Absolutely, they are elegant, bite-sized, and easy to eat while standing and socializing.
Can I use thick-cut bacon?
Standard bacon is better for wrapping; thick-cut bacon may be too bulky and take too long to crisp up.
How far apart should I space the figs on the pan?
Space them about 1/2 inch apart to ensure even heat distribution and crispiness.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
No, the fat from the bacon will provide enough lubrication to prevent sticking.
What wine pairs well with these figs?
A sweet dessert wine like Port or a crisp white wine like Riesling pairs beautifully with the blue cheese and figs.