Prosciutto wrapped dates are sweet little bites that pack a flavorful punch! The soft, sticky dates are perfectly paired with savory, crispy prosciutto for a tasty treat.
They are an easy snack for parties or when you want something special at home. Just wrap, bake, and enjoy! Trust me, once you try one, you’ll be coming back for more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These dates are the star of the dish. They’re naturally sweet and soft, making them perfect for stuffing. If you can’t find Medjool dates, you could use Deglet Noor dates, but they are less sweet and drier.
Prosciutto: The salty, crispy prosciutto complements the sweetness of the dates nicely. If you’re looking for a substitution due to dietary restrictions, turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative can work, although the flavor will be different.
Cheese: I love using blue cheese for its bold flavor, but goat cheese is a milder option. For a creamier texture, soft cream cheese can be used too! Pick what you enjoy the most.
Fresh Rosemary: While this is optional, fresh rosemary adds a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have any, you can skip it or use another herb like thyme or basil for a different touch.
How Do I Get the Prosciutto Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy prosciutto is crucial and it’s easier than you think! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven properly. 375°F (190°C) is just right for crispy goodness.
- Arrange the dates on a rack if you have one. This allows the heat to circulate and helps the prosciutto get crispy on all sides.
- Keep an eye on them while baking! After about 15 minutes, check if they’re golden brown and crispy as ovens can vary in temperature.
- Let them cool slightly once out of the oven. This helps the prosciutto firm up a bit more.
Happy cooking! These bites are sure to impress!
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Dates
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 10 slices of prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 4 oz blue cheese (or goat cheese or cream cheese), crumbled or softened for filling
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks, for securing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, expect to spend about 30-35 minutes from start to enjoying these tasty bites.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven will help the prosciutto get perfectly crispy!
2. Prepare the Dates:
Take each Medjool date and carefully make a small slit in the side, removing the pit if it’s not already pitted. This will create a pocket for the cheese filling.
3. Stuff the Dates:
Using about 1/2 teaspoon of blue cheese, fill each slit in the date. If you’re using a softer cheese like goat or cream cheese, you can scoop it in easily with a small spoon or your fingers.
4. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Take a half slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each stuffed date. If needed, secure the prosciutto in place with a toothpick. This step makes sure everything stays together during baking!
5. Arrange for Baking:
Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack, making sure they’re not overcrowded so they can crisp up nicely.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for that lovely golden color and crispy texture!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re beautifully golden, take them out and let them cool slightly. If you want to add a touch of elegance, sprinkle fresh rosemary sprigs over the top before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the prosciutto-wrapped dates warm. These sweet and savory bites are sure to be a hit! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While blue cheese provides a bold flavor, you can easily substitute it with goat cheese for a milder taste or cream cheese for a creamy, rich filling. Choose what you enjoy most!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crispiness.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the dates by wrapping them in prosciutto and assembling them a few hours before baking. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to pop them in the oven for the best results!
What Should I Serve with Prosciutto Wrapped Dates?
These bites are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with a light salad, a charcuterie board, or serve them alongside dips like balsamic reduction or honey for dipping!
