Prosciutto wrapped dates are a sweet and salty treat that packs a punch! The juicy dates are wrapped in thin, savory prosciutto, making for a delightful snack or appetizer.
I love making these for gatherings. They disappear so fast, it’s like magic! Plus, they are super easy to whip up—just wrap, bake, and enjoy the tasty goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These are the star of the show! They’re sweet, chewy, and perfect for stuffing. If you can’t find Medjool dates, try Deglet Noor dates. They’re sweet, but not as soft.
Prosciutto: This Italian cured ham adds a nice salty flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, turkey or chicken bacon can work, but it won’t be quite as rich or traditional.
Cheese: Blue cheese is fantastic for that kick, but if you’re not a fan, goat cheese or even cream cheese makes a creamier, milder option. I love cream cheese for extra smoothness!
Toothpicks: These are essential for holding everything together. If you’re serving them at a party, fancy cocktail picks can add a nice touch!
How Do You Make Sure the Prosciutto Stays Crispy?
Achieving crispy prosciutto is all about the cooking time and temperature. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before placing the dates in.
- Keep an eye on them as they bake. Around the 15-minute mark, check for crispness—oven times can vary!
- Let them cool slightly after baking. They continue to crisp up a bit as they cool.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy prosciutto wrapped dates that everyone will love!
Prosciutto Wrapped Dates
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 10 slices of prosciutto (each slice cut in half lengthwise)
- 1/2 cup blue cheese (or goat cheese or cream cheese), crumbled or softened
- Toothpicks, for securing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for when you need a quick appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Dates:
Take your Medjool dates and carefully pit them by slicing one side open and removing the pit. Be gentle, so you don’t break the date!
3. Stuff the Dates:
Now it’s time to stuff your dates! Take about a teaspoon of your chosen cheese (blue, goat, or cream cheese) and fill each date with it. Don’t overstuff them—just enough to fit snugly.
4. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Next, take a half slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each stuffed date. Secure it with a toothpick to hold everything in place. The prosciutto should hug the date nicely!
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space between each one. This helps them cook evenly.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the prosciutto is crispy and the cheese looks melted and delicious.
7. Let Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They’ll be hot, so don’t dive in just yet! Serve them warm and watch them disappear!
Enjoy these warm, sweet, salty, and savory bites as a delightful appetizer or a tasty snack! They’re sure to impress your guests!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While blue cheese adds a nice tang, you can also use goat cheese for a creamier texture or cream cheese for a milder flavor. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite!
How Do I Store Leftover Prosciutto Wrapped Dates?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to get the prosciutto crispy again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the wrapped dates in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just wait to bake them until you’re ready to serve for a fresh and warm appetizer.
What Should I Serve with Prosciutto Wrapped Dates?
These are excellent on their own or served with a dipping sauce like balsamic glaze or honey. Pair them with a cheese platter, crackers, and fruit for a beautiful appetizer spread!
