4 ounces goat cheese, softened at room temperature
12 slices turkey bacon, cut in half widthwise
24 toothpicks
1 tablespoon honey, for drizzling
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. If your dates are not already pitted, make a small lengthwise slit in each date and remove the stone.
Using a small spoon or a piping bag, fill the cavity of each date with about a teaspoon of the softened goat cheese. Press the sides of the date back together slightly to enclose the cheese, though it is fine if some is still visible.
Take a half-slice of turkey bacon and wrap it snugly around the center of the stuffed date. Ensure the ends of the turkey bacon overlap slightly. Secure the wrap by piercing a toothpick straight through the center of the date.
Place the dates on the prepared baking sheet with some space between each one. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each date over using tongs. Bake for another 8 to 10 minutes until the turkey bacon is browned and crispy. Be careful not to let the natural sugars in the dates burn.
Remove the tray from the oven and let the dates cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the warm honey over the top and sprinkle with the freshly chopped rosemary before serving to your holiday guests.
