Bacon-wrapped dates with goat cheese

For a rotation dinner group, I hosted in December a "Heavy Hors d'oeuvres" food theme.

One of the recipes I made was an excellent dates wrapped in bacon and stuffed with goat cheese. The last time I had something similar was in Barcelona (November 2014) while on vacation. 

This is the recipe I used, in which I tripled the recipe: 
http://pinchofyum.com/bacon-wrapped-dates-with-goat-cheese

These went quickly so be sure to make a big batch!!!



8 slices bacon (I find that thin bacon works better)
16 dates
4 ounces goat cheese
toothpicks

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Slice the dates lengthwise on one side to create an opening. Remove the pit.

Using a spoon, stuff a small amount of goat cheese into the cavity of each date and press the sides together to close.

Cut the bacon slices in half. Wrap each date with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

Arrange evenly on a baking sheet with raised edges (otherwise grease will get everywhere) and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the dates and use the toothpick to turn each one so it's laying on its side. Bake for another 5-8 minutes, until browned to your liking, and turn the dates to the other side and repeat. 

Remove from the oven, place on a paper towel lined plate, and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

This was our spread of foods that evening:

I also made chicken wings with blue cheese dressing:   

http://monicacooks.blogspot.com/2015/12/chicken-wings-with-blue-cheese-dressing.html