We’re getting into appetizer season! The holiday parties are starting and that means you’ll need to bring your contribution to the potluck table. We’ve got you covered with Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates!
But first, we need to talk about bacon. Did you know bacon often contains gluten?! We’re not sure how many times we get “the look” when asking a server if their restaurant serves bacon that’s gluten- free… Bacon may contain gluten!! The major issue? Often bacon is processed in facilities where gluten is present, causing a high risk for cross contamination. As well, often a “smoke” flavoring is used when curing the bacon. This is usually made with barley malt, which contains gluten.
However; the good news is that there is gluten-free bacon! It only takes a careful eye reading labels and then remembering which brands will become your go-to. Look for the “gluten-free” symbols or if a smoke flavouring has been used in the ingredients list.
Same thing goes for nuts! Nuts don’t naturally contain gluten, but they could be processed in a facility that is not gluten-free and be at risk for cross contamination. Make sure to check the labels for warnings of “may contain wheat” or “gluten”.
Once you’ve picked your favourite cheese and favourite nuts, use these and stuff your dates. Wrap them in a blanket of bacon. We’ve given you some ideas of cheese and nut combinations in the recipe, but don’t be afraid to try some different ones!
20
servings15
minutes18
minutesA delicious bite of perfection -wrapped in bacon, cheese and a nutty crunch. Your guests will thank you if they make it out of your kitchen before you eat them all! They’re that amazing.
Ingredients
20 Approx dates, pitted
1/3 cup cream cheese OR equivalent blue cheese
20 almonds approximately OR 20-30 shelled pistachios
1 pkg gluten-free bacon
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400° F
- Fill dates with cheese, not over full but a fair amount. We like using cream cheese or blue but don’t be nervous to try something different!
- Add a nut to the cheese and close date. Again our favorites are almonds and pistachios…but we dare you to be adventurous! If you’re using pistachios, you may need to add 2 per date depending on the size.
- Cut package of bacon in half. Using half a piece of bacon per date, wrap tightly and set loose edge down on baking pan.
- Bake 12 min, turn dates and continue baking for remainder 8 min. Or until bacon is browned and slightly crispy.
- Enjoy! Stacey and Meg
Notes
Get wrapping, pour a glass of wine and enjoy!