The following is a brief introduction to the topic:
Since many years Cream Cheese and Pecan Stuffed Dates are a favorite at family parties and gatherings. These delicious morsels have a wonderful blend of sweetness, saltiness, and crunchiness, making them an instant hit at any buffet table. They are not only delicious but also easy to prepare and can be served chilled, which is rare for savory appetizers.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
It can be difficult to find a savory starter that does not require serving warm. This recipe is unique because it’s not served warm. This recipe is a delicious combination of rich dates, creamy cheese, crunchy pecans and salty bacon. One of my guests at a Christmas club party ate more than one. Although I was happy he liked them, I worried about his stomach later.
The Perfect Party Appetizer
These dates are not just tasty, but versatile as well. You can change the ingredients according to your tastes or what’s available. You can use Medjool or regular dates to make a delicious appetizer that you can pop in your mouth. The thick-sliced bacon gives the dish a hearty feel, while the thinner slices are perfect for smaller dates. The bacon caramelizes during baking and adds a delicious touch to every bite.
Recipe Overview
Yield: 30 Appetizers
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- One container of pitted Dates
- 30 Pecan Halves
- 10 slices of bacon
- Cream cheese or Neufchatel for a lighter alternative
- Alternative: goat cheese can be used as an alternative to cream cheese
Instructions
- Pre-heat the Oven. Preheat your Oven to 400degF.
- Preparing the Dates: Fill each date with between 1/8 and 1/4 teaspoons of cream cheese. Then, press a half pecan into the cream.
- Wrap with Bacon – Cut each bacon slice into three pieces. Wrap firmly one piece around each date and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the dates wrapped in foil on a baking tray. Bake the dates until they are crisp (about 14-16 minutes), turning them over halfway through.
- Let the dates cool and then serve.
Tip and Variations
- You can speed up cooking by putting the bacon in the microwave for about a minute before you wrap the dates.
- Monitor Baking. The first time, monitor the baking process to make sure that you don’t burn your bacon, especially if you are using thin bacon.
- Alternatives to Neufchatel Cream Cheese: Goat cheese is a tasty alternative.
- Festive Touch: Replace the toothpicks at Christmas parties with green and red ones to add a festive feel.
Final Thoughts
The Cream Cheese and Pecan stuffed dates are the ideal appetizer for any event, from a casual gathering to a holiday party. They are a hit with everyone because of their delicious combination of flavors. You can make a batch of these dates in no time. These stuffed dates will be a big hit at any party. Enjoy!