Wo-devils On Horseback Recipe

Prepare dates

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top if available (helps crisp bacon). If dates are very dry, soak in warm water 10 minutes then drain. Slice each date lengthwise on one side and open like a book, keeping the date intact.

Stuff dates

If using almonds: insert one toasted almond into the cavity of each pitted date. If using cheese: use about 1/2 teaspoon of goat or blue cheese instead or in addition to the almond. Close the date around the filling.

Wrap with bacon

Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise. Wrap each stuffed date with one half-slice of bacon, covering the seam, and secure with a toothpick through the center. Arrange wrapped dates on the prepared rack or directly on the foil-lined sheet, seam side down.

Make glaze: in a small bowl mix the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar until a smooth paste forms. Brush or spoon about half of the glaze over the bacon-wrapped dates, reserving the rest for later.

Bake: place the baking sheet on the middle rack and bake for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, brush the reserved glaze over the tops and continue baking for 6–10 minutes more, or until bacon is crisp to your liking and glaze is bubbly and caramelized. If bacon is crisping too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the remaining time.

Finish and season: remove from oven and transfer to a serving plate. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the warm bites and garnish with chopped parsley if using. Let cool 2–3 minutes before serving (they will be very hot inside).