These Brie stuffed dates are wrapped in bacon and have a delicious sweet and savory taste! The soft cheese pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the dates and the crispiness of the bacon.
Honestly, they disappear fast at any gathering. I love to serve them warm right out of the oven—they’re like little bites of happiness! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These are the star of the dish. They’re naturally sweet and have a chewy texture. If you can’t find Medjool dates, you can use other types like Deglet Noor, but they might be less sweet and softer.
Brie Cheese: The creamy texture of Brie makes it ideal for stuffing. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, goat cheese works well and adds a tangy flavor. Cream cheese is another option, though it won’t melt as nicely.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory element. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon or prosciutto can be great swaps. For a vegetarian alternative, leave out the bacon entirely, or use veggie bacon.
Fresh Parsley: This adds color and a fresh note. If parsley isn’t available, cilantro or chives are excellent substitutes, though they offer different flavors. You could also try a sprinkle of dried herbs.
How Do I Ensure the Perfect Cheese Melting and Bacon Crisping?
To achieve the best results with melted cheese and crispy bacon, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven well to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
- Make sure to slice the dates just enough to stuff them without cutting all the way through.
- Wrapping bacon tightly around the dates helps it crisp up nicely. If using chopped bacon, make sure it’s cooked until just crispy before sprinkling on top.
- Keep an eye on your dates in the oven, as cooking times can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your bacon.
These tips will help you achieve that perfect gooey Brie and crispy bacon texture that makes these dates so delicious.
Brie Stuffed Dates
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 10 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped (or pancetta)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for drizzling)
- Crushed walnuts or pecans for extra crunch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll only need around 30 minutes from start to serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dates will bake evenly and the Brie will melt perfectly.
2. Prepare the Dates:
Take each Medjool date and carefully slice it lengthwise on one side. Make sure to gently open it up for stuffing, and if there are any pits left, remove them.
3. Stuff the Dates:
Take a small piece of Brie cheese and stuff it into each date. Push the cheese inside gently so it fits snugly.
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Next, take half a slice of the cooked bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date. If you prefer, you can sprinkle some chopped bacon on top instead.
5. Bake Your Dates:
Place the stuffed and wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. You want the Brie to be melty and the bacon to be slightly crispy.
6. Serve & Garnish:
Once baked, carefully remove the dates from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color. You can also add any crushed walnuts or pecans if you like a little extra crunch!
7. Drizzle (Optional):
If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the warm dates for a delicious sweet touch.
8. Enjoy:
These Brie stuffed dates are best served warm. Enjoy these delightful bites that are sweet, creamy, and savory. Perfect for appetizers or party snacks!
These Brie stuffed dates make a perfect appetizer or party snack with a delightful balance of flavors and textures! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Brie is creamy and melts beautifully, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a tangy twist or cream cheese for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that it won’t have the same decadent melt as Brie.
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
No problem! You can omit the bacon entirely for a vegetarian version. Alternatively, try wrapping the dates in prosciutto for a different but equally delicious flavor. You could also consider using veggie bacon for a plant-based option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the texture may not be as crispy.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can stuff and wrap the dates a few hours in advance or even the day before. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them a great make-ahead appetizer!