Bacon-Wrapped Brie Stuffed Dates with Toasted Almonds Recipe
Introduction
Stuffed dates are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for an appetizer or snack. With creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and crunchy almonds, these bites are sure to impress your guests. Ready in just a few simple steps, they are a quick and elegant treat.
Ingredients
- 3-4 strips bacon
- 6 oz brie
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 lb large Medjool dates
- Chives (chopped, for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place bacon strips on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until crisp. Remove and let cool completely.
- Step 2: Remove the rind from the brie and chop the cooled bacon into small pieces. In a food processor, combine the brie, bacon, and cream cheese. Blend until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag.
- Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced almonds in a single layer and toast for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Remove and crush the almonds into small pieces using a mortar and pestle or by placing them in a bag and gently crushing.
- Step 4: Cut a slit down the center of each Medjool date and remove the pit. Pipe the cheese mixture into the slit of each date. Press the top of each stuffed date into the crushed almonds to coat. Finish by sprinkling chopped chives on top.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, skip the almonds and roll the stuffed dates in finely chopped crispy bacon instead.
- Use goat cheese in place of brie for a tangier flavor.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for best taste and texture.
- If you don’t have a piping bag, simply use a small spoon to stuff the dates.
Storage
Store the stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. These are best enjoyed shortly after preparation but can be gently reheated in a low oven if preferred warm.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of dates?
Medjool dates are preferred for their large size and soft texture, which makes stuffing easier, but you can use other varieties if they are large and tender enough.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and toast the almonds in advance. Stuff the dates and coat with almonds just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
PrintBacon-Wrapped Brie Stuffed Dates with Toasted Almonds Recipe
These delicious stuffed dates combine sweet Medjool dates filled with a creamy mixture of brie, cream cheese, and crispy bacon. Coated with toasted crushed almonds and garnished with fresh chives, they make for an elegant appetizer or snack that’s both savory and sweet.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed dates 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat
- 3–4 strips bacon
Dairy
- 6 oz brie
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
Nuts
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Produce
- 1 lb large Medjool dates
- Chives (chopped, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place bacon strips on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until crisp. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Make the Filling: Remove the rind from the brie and cut it into chunks. Lightly chop the cooled bacon. Place brie, chopped bacon, and cream cheese into a food processor and blend until smooth. Transfer the mixture into a piping bag for easy filling.
- Prepare the Almonds: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced almonds in a single layer and toast for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and transfer almonds to a mortar and pestle, crushing them into small pieces.
- Stuff the Dates: Using a sharp knife, cut a slit down the center of each Medjool date and carefully remove the pit. Pipe the cheese and bacon mixture into each date’s cavity. Press the stuffed dates gently into the crushed almonds so they adhere to the outside. Finish by sprinkling chopped chives on top as a fresh garnish.
Notes
- Make sure the bacon is completely cooled before mixing with the cheese to prevent melting.
- Removing the rind from the brie helps to create a smoother cheese filling.
- To toast almonds evenly, stir frequently and keep an eye to avoid burning.
- This appetizer is best served chilled or at room temperature.
- For a nut-free version, omit the almonds and simply garnish with chives.
Keywords: stuffed dates, bacon, brie cheese, cream cheese, appetizer, Medjool dates, toasted almonds, party snack
