Sweet and Savory Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe

These Sweet and Savory Roasted Stuffed Dates are the kind of snack or appetizer that disappears in minutes—and for good reason! They’re incredibly easy to make, filled with rich, contrasting flavors, and can be prepped in just 10 minutes. Warm, caramelized dates filled with creamy cheese and wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon… it’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory in every bite. Ideal for holiday platters, dinner parties, or just a cozy night in, this recipe proves that elegance doesn’t have to be complicated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Fuss-Free: Just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep. These come together quickly and roast beautifully in the oven while you relax or prep your main meal.
• Incredible Flavor Contrast: The sweetness of the dates pairs beautifully with tangy cheese and salty bacon. Every bite is an experience!
• Elegant Yet Effortless: These little bites look fancy and sophisticated but are shockingly simple to make—no culinary degree required.
• Customizable: Whether you’re team goat cheese or prefer cream cheese, or want to go plant-based, this recipe has room to play.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll want to gather before roasting:

• Medjool Dates: Rich, soft, and naturally sweet. These are perfect for stuffing thanks to their large size and chewy texture.
• Soft Cheese: Goat cheese offers a tangy contrast, while cream cheese gives a milder, smooth flavor. Either works wonderfully, or try mixing both for extra depth.
• Bacon: Adds that irresistible smoky crunch. Thin-cut bacon crisps up nicely and wraps easily around the dates.
• Toothpicks: Keep everything securely wrapped during roasting—don’t skip them.
• Optional Garnishes: Chopped pistachios, a drizzle of honey, or a balsamic glaze can elevate these even more.

Variations

• Vegetarian-Friendly: Skip the bacon and wrap your stuffed dates in strips of roasted red pepper or thinly sliced zucchini. Still delicious and elegant.
• Nutty Twist: Add a toasted almond or walnut inside the date with the cheese for added crunch and richness.
• Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of chili flakes or hot honey into the cheese for a bit of heat.
• Blue Cheese Lovers: Swap goat cheese for a pungent blue cheese if you’re craving a bolder bite.

How to Make Sweet and Savory Roasted Stuffed Dates

Step 1: Prep the Dates

Slice each Medjool date lengthwise on one side to open them up. Carefully remove the pits and discard. You should now have a “pocket” ready to be filled.

Step 2: Stuff the Dates

Using a small spoon or your fingers, fill each date with your chosen cheese. Don’t overstuff—just enough to fill the cavity without overflowing.

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon

Cut bacon slices in half. Wrap each stuffed date with a piece of bacon and secure it with a toothpick.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Place the wrapped dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden.

Step 5: Optional Garnishes

After removing from the oven, drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze, or sprinkle with crushed nuts for a gourmet finish.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overstuff: Too much cheese can ooze out while baking. A modest amount goes a long way.
• Secure the Bacon: Toothpicks help the bacon stay in place and make for easy serving.
• Line Your Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper or a wire rack over a tray to catch the grease and prevent sticking.
• Make It Ahead: You can stuff and wrap the dates ahead of time, then roast right before serving.

How to Serve

These dates shine warm from the oven, with that delightful mix of melty cheese and crisp bacon. Serve them on a platter with cocktail picks for easy snacking.

Pairing Ideas:

• Drinks: They go perfectly with sparkling wine, Prosecco, or even a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Other Appetizers: Pair with olives, cheese boards, or roasted nuts for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.
• Salads: Add a few to an arugula or spinach salad with balsamic dressing to take it to the next level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow end up with leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Stuffed, uncooked dates can be frozen for up to a month. Wrap them and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, just add 5 extra minutes to roasting time.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes until warmed through and the bacon is crisp again. Avoid microwaving—they’ll lose their texture.

FAQs

Can I use another type of date besides Medjool?
You can, but Medjool dates are preferred because of their size, texture, and natural sweetness. Smaller dates may be harder to stuff and dry out faster during roasting.

What kind of cheese works best for stuffing?
Goat cheese is a classic for its tangy bite, but cream cheese, blue cheese, or even mascarpone can work. Choose based on your flavor preference!

Can I prepare these in advance for a party?
Absolutely! Stuff and wrap the dates a day ahead and keep them in the fridge. Pop them in the oven just before serving so they’re warm and fresh.

Is there a dairy-free version?
Yes—use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or even a spoonful of hummus for a savory plant-based version.

Final Thoughts

These Sweet and Savory Roasted Stuffed Dates are a little bite of heaven—easy to make, stunning to serve, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, they hit all the right notes. Give them a try—you’ll be hooked after the first bite!

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