6 slices natural, thinly sliced, uncured bacon, cut again into thirds
honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Check each date to make sure it is completely free of pits, as sometimes a tiny piece of pit can be left inside the date.
Cut the Asiago cheese into matchsticks, about 1” long (or the length of one date). Stuff the dates with the Asiago cheese sticks.
Wrap the dates tightly with the slices of bacon. Secure each with a toothpick.
Brush with some melted honey.
Place dates on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper and place the tray in the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and golden. Turn them once or twice in between for even cooking.
Remove from the oven and place on paper towels for a minute or so to absorb the drippings. Let them cool for a few minutes and serve them warm.
Notes
-- I always use Medjool dates, which are soft and sweet. Do not use the smaller, dry dates, as they will most probably break as you stuff them. -- Dates can be stuffed, wrapped and refrigerated for one day before baking.
Recipe by Marilena's Kitchen at https://marilenaskitchen.com/bacon-wrapped-dates/