Devils on Horseback with a Twist

Ingredients

• 12 pitted dates 12 pitted dates
• 6 slices of bacon 6 slices of bacon
• 2 ounces (56g) cream cheese 2 ounces (56g) cream cheese
• 2 ounces (56g) goat cheese 2 ounces (56g) goat cheese
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat: 12g (6g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 12g (10g sugars)
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, goat cheese, and chopped walnuts until well combined.
3. 3.
   Slice each date lengthwise and stuff them with the cheese and walnut mixture.
4. 4.
   Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
5. 5.
   Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the dates.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cream cheese — Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
• Goat cheese — Use a mild and creamy goat cheese for a balanced flavor. If you prefer a stronger taste, opt for a more aged and tangy goat cheese.
• Walnuts — Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry skillet before chopping them. This will enhance their nutty flavor and add a pleasant crunch to the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a touch of sweetness, drizzle the wrapped dates with a little honey before baking.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some chili flakes or cayenne pepper over the dates before baking.
• Experiment with different types of cheese fillings, such as blue cheese or feta, to create unique flavor combinations.
• Serve the Devils on Horseback with a tangy dipping sauce, such as balsamic reduction or spicy aioli, for an extra burst of flavor.
• Make sure to soak the toothpicks in water before using them to prevent them from burning in the oven.

Serving advice

Serve the Devils on Horseback as an appetizer at your next gathering or as a delicious snack for a cozy night in. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal, arrange the Devils on Horseback on a bed of arugula or mixed greens. The vibrant colors of the greens will provide a beautiful contrast to the golden-brown bacon.