Elevated Devils on Horseback: Easy Blue Cheese and Bacon Bites
Devils on Horseback are a classic appetizer, known for their delightful combination of sweet dates and savory bacon. This recipe takes that familiar favorite to the next level by incorporating creamy, tangy blue cheese. The result is an irresistible bite-sized treat that’s perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or even a sophisticated snack. These Elevated Devils on Horseback with Blue Cheese are surprisingly easy to make, yet they deliver a complex and satisfying flavor profile that will impress your guests.
## Why This Recipe Works
* **Sweet and Savory Balance:** The inherent sweetness of the dates is perfectly balanced by the saltiness of the bacon and the pungent tang of the blue cheese.
* **Textural Contrast:** The soft, chewy dates, creamy blue cheese, and crispy bacon provide a delightful textural contrast that keeps each bite interesting.
* **Easy to Prepare:** Despite their sophisticated flavor, these Devils on Horseback require minimal effort and ingredients. You can even assemble them ahead of time and bake them just before serving.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adapt the recipe to your liking by using different types of blue cheese, adding a drizzle of honey, or incorporating other flavorful additions.
## Ingredients
* **16 Medjool Dates:** Medjool dates are preferred for their large size, soft texture, and rich caramel-like flavor. Pitted dates are recommended to save time, but you can easily pit them yourself. If using smaller dates, you may need to adjust the amount of blue cheese and bacon accordingly.
* **4 ounces Blue Cheese:** A good quality blue cheese is essential for this recipe. Roquefort, Gorgonzola, or Stilton are all excellent choices. Crumble the cheese before stuffing the dates for easier handling. If you’re not a fan of strong blue cheese, you can use a milder variety or even substitute it with goat cheese or brie.
* **8 slices Bacon:** Use thin-cut bacon for optimal crispness. Thick-cut bacon can be used, but it may require a longer cooking time. Consider using maple-smoked bacon for an added layer of sweetness and flavor. Ensure the bacon is cooked until crispy but not burnt, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
* **Optional: Honey or Maple Syrup:** A drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds a touch of extra sweetness and complements the other flavors beautifully. Use a high-quality honey or pure maple syrup for the best results. Drizzle sparingly, as you don’t want to overpower the other flavors.
* **Optional: Balsamic Glaze:** A balsamic glaze provides a tangy and slightly sweet counterpoint to the richness of the other ingredients. Use a good quality balsamic glaze for the best flavor. Drizzle sparingly after baking.
* **Optional: Fresh Thyme or Rosemary:** A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary adds a touch of herbal complexity and visual appeal. Use finely chopped herbs and sprinkle them over the Devils on Horseback just before serving.
## Equipment
* **Baking Sheet:** A baking sheet is needed to bake the Devils on Horseback in the oven. Line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
* **Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil:** Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil prevents the Devils on Horseback from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
* **Small Knife:** A small knife is needed to slice the dates and stuff them with blue cheese.
* **Cutting Board:** A cutting board is needed to slice the bacon.
* **Oven:** An oven is needed to bake the Devils on Horseback.
## Instructions
### 1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the bacon cooks evenly and the dates become slightly caramelized without burning. Make sure your oven is properly calibrated for accurate temperature.
### 2. Prepare the Dates
If using unpitted dates, carefully slice each date lengthwise with a small knife and remove the pit. Be careful not to cut all the way through, as you want to keep the date intact so you can easily stuff it. Gently open the date to create a small pocket for the blue cheese.
### 3. Stuff the Dates
Crumble the blue cheese and stuff each date with approximately 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of blue cheese, depending on the size of the date. Don’t overstuff the dates, as the cheese may melt and leak out during baking. Pack the cheese in firmly to ensure it stays in place.
### 4. Wrap with Bacon
Cut each slice of bacon in half. Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, overlapping the ends slightly. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary. This will help the bacon stay in place during baking. Ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly around the date for even cooking.
### 5. Bake
Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the dates are heated through. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them. If the bacon starts to burn, reduce the oven temperature or cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil.
### 6. Cool Slightly and Serve
Remove the Devils on Horseback from the oven and let them cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to cool slightly and prevent burning your mouth. If using toothpicks, remove them before serving. Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze and sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
## Tips for Success
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of the ingredients directly impacts the flavor of the final dish. Use good quality dates, blue cheese, and bacon for the best results.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** Overcrowding the baking sheet can prevent the bacon from cooking evenly. Bake the Devils on Horseback in batches if necessary.
* **Adjust Baking Time as Needed:** The baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the bacon. Keep an eye on them and adjust the baking time accordingly.
* **Serve Immediately:** Devils on Horseback are best served immediately while the bacon is crispy and the cheese is warm and melty. They can be reheated, but the bacon may lose some of its crispness.
* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the Devils on Horseback ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving for the best results. Be sure to bring them to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
* **Toothpick Safety:** If using toothpicks to secure the bacon, remember to remove them before serving to prevent choking hazards.
## Variations
* **Goat Cheese Devils on Horseback:** Substitute the blue cheese with goat cheese for a milder, tangier flavor.
* **Brie Devils on Horseback:** Use brie cheese for a creamy, decadent variation.
* **Spicy Devils on Horseback:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the blue cheese filling for a touch of heat.
* **Almond-Stuffed Dates:** Stuff the dates with a whole almond before wrapping them with bacon for added texture and flavor.
* **Maple-Glazed Bacon:** Brush the bacon with maple syrup before baking for a sweeter, caramelized flavor.
* **Vegan Devils on Horseback:** Use plant-based bacon and vegan cream cheese alternative for a vegan version. Consider using smoked paprika for added smoky flavor.
## Serving Suggestions
* **Appetizer:** Serve as an appetizer at your next party or gathering. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
* **Holiday Treat:** These are perfect for holiday gatherings, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve.
* **Game Day Snack:** Enjoy them as a snack while watching your favorite sports team.
* **Wine Pairing:** Pair them with a glass of port wine, sherry, or a full-bodied red wine for a delightful flavor combination.
* **Charcuterie Board Addition:** Add them to your charcuterie board for a sophisticated and delicious addition.
## Storage
* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover Devils on Horseback in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bacon may lose some of its crispness, but they will still be delicious.
* **Reheating:** Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the bacon will become soggy.
* **Freezing:** Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the dates and bacon may change.
## Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately)
* Calories: 150-200
* Fat: 10-15g
* Saturated Fat: 5-7g
* Cholesterol: 20-30mg
* Sodium: 200-300mg
* Carbohydrates: 10-15g
* Fiber: 2-3g
* Sugar: 8-10g
* Protein: 5-7g
*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: Can I use different types of dates?**
A: Yes, you can use other types of dates, such as Deglet Noor, but Medjool dates are preferred for their larger size and softer texture.
**Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?**
A: Yes, you can substitute the blue cheese with goat cheese, brie, or another type of cheese that you enjoy.
**Q: Can I make these ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can assemble the Devils on Horseback ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving.
**Q: Can I freeze these?**
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the dates and bacon may change.
**Q: How do I prevent the bacon from burning?**
A: If the bacon starts to burn, reduce the oven temperature or cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil.
**Q: Do I need to use toothpicks?**
A: Toothpicks are optional, but they can help keep the bacon in place during baking.
**Q: Can I make these vegan?**
A: Yes, you can use plant-based bacon and vegan cream cheese alternative for a vegan version.
Enjoy these delectable Elevated Devils on Horseback with Blue Cheese. They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering!