Irresistible Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates with Blue Cheese – Perfect Party Appetizer

The first time I made prosciutto-wrapped dates with blue cheese, it was for a small holiday get-together. I wanted something that looked fancy but didn’t require hours in the kitchen. Little did I know, these little bites would steal the show! The combination of sweet, sticky dates, creamy blue cheese, and salty, crisp prosciutto is simply magical. It’s one of those recipes that’s deceptively simple but tastes like a gourmet treat.

Whether you’re hosting a big party or a casual gathering, these prosciutto-wrapped dates are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone reaching for seconds. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and absolutely packed with flavor. Plus, they’re easy to customize based on your personal taste. Let me show you how to put together this irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: You’ll only need about 20 minutes to assemble and bake these tasty bites.
• Minimal Ingredients: It’s amazing what you can do with just three simple items—dates, prosciutto, and blue cheese!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party, game night, or an elegant dinner, these treats fit right in.
• Unforgettable Flavor: The contrast between sweet dates, salty prosciutto, and tangy blue cheese is pure bliss.
• Customizable: Want to swap out the blue cheese for goat cheese or add a crunch with nuts? You’ve got options!

What truly sets these prosciutto-wrapped dates apart is their elegance combined with simplicity. They look like you spent hours in the kitchen when in reality, they’re one of the easiest appetizers you can make. Plus, they’re baked to perfection, so you get that irresistible crispy prosciutto texture that pairs so beautifully with the gooey, melted cheese inside. It’s truly the best of both worlds.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses just three main ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor balance.

• Medjool Dates: Soft, chewy, and naturally sweet, Medjool dates are the best choice for this recipe. Make sure to remove the pits before stuffing them.
• Blue Cheese: A creamy and tangy blue cheese like gorgonzola works wonderfully here. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can opt for goat cheese or cream cheese instead.
• Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto is essential for wrapping the dates and creating that crispy, salty exterior. Look for good-quality prosciutto for the best flavor.

Optional Ingredients:

• Toasted Almonds or Walnuts: For a crunchy surprise inside the date.
• Honey: A drizzle of honey before serving adds an extra layer of sweetness.

These ingredients are kitchen-friendly and easy to find at most grocery stores. Plus, they don’t require any complicated prep—just a little slicing and stuffing, and you’re good to go!

Equipment Needed

• Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for baking these dates to perfection. If you don’t have one, you can use an oven-safe dish.
• Parchment Paper: This is a lifesaver for easy cleanup and preventing sticking.
• Sharp Knife: You’ll need a sharp knife to slice the dates and trim the prosciutto.
• Small Spoon: Perfect for scooping and stuffing the cheese into the dates.
• Tongs: These make handling the hot dates much easier when removing them from the oven.

If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease your baking sheet with olive oil. Also, if you don’t have tongs, a spatula works in a pinch. This recipe is forgiving, so don’t stress about having the “perfect” tools.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prep the dates: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each date lengthwise. Remove the pit but be sure not to cut all the way through the date—it should open like a book.
3. Stuff the dates: Take a small spoon and scoop about half a teaspoon of blue cheese (or your preferred cheese) into the cavity of each date. If you’re adding nuts, press a toasted almond or walnut into the cheese for extra crunch.
4. Wrap with prosciutto: Cut the prosciutto slices into thirds lengthwise. Wrap each stuffed date with a strip of prosciutto, making sure the cheese is fully enclosed.
5. Bake: Place the wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crisp and slightly golden.
6. Cool slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dates cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to handle.

Pro Tip: If you notice the cheese oozing out while baking, don’t worry—just let it cool slightly and tuck it back inside with the edge of a knife. These little imperfections make them look homemade and delicious!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t overstuff: A little cheese goes a long way! Overfilling the dates can lead to cheese spilling out during baking.
• Wrap tightly: Make sure the prosciutto is snug around the date to ensure it crisps up nicely and holds everything together.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh prosciutto and soft Medjool dates will give you the best flavor and texture.
• Test the baking time: All ovens vary slightly, so keep an eye on the dates during the last couple of minutes to avoid overcooking.
• Keep it simple: If you’re short on time, skip the nuts and keep the stuffing minimal—it’ll still taste fantastic!

One mistake I made the first time was leaving the prosciutto too loose; it unraveled a bit during baking. Now, I wrap it tightly, and it crisps up beautifully every time!

Variations & Adaptations

• Cheese Swap: If blue cheese isn’t your thing, try goat cheese, cream cheese, or even brie for a milder flavor.
• Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts entirely if you’re working around allergies—it won’t compromise the flavor.
• Vegetarian Twist: Replace prosciutto with roasted red pepper strips for a meat-free alternative that’s still delicious.
• Sweet and Spicy: Drizzle the dates with hot honey after baking for a sweet-spicy kick.
• Seasonal Flavors: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheese for a wintery vibe, or mix in chopped fresh herbs like rosemary for a summery twist.

I once swapped the blue cheese for a mix of cream cheese and honey, and the result was a sweeter, kid-friendly version that disappeared in record time!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these prosciutto-wrapped dates warm to enjoy that gooey cheese and crispy prosciutto at their best. Arrange them on a pretty platter or a wooden board for a rustic look, and garnish with a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary for an elegant touch.

Pair these savory-sweet treats with sparkling wine, a bold red, or even a festive cocktail like a cranberry mojito. They also work beautifully alongside a cheese board or charcuterie spread for a cohesive appetizer table.

To store leftovers, place the dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to crisp up the prosciutto again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the prosciutto rubbery.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each prosciutto-wrapped date contains approximately:

• Calories: 70
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 5g

Dates are naturally high in fiber, which aids in digestion, while blue cheese provides a good source of calcium. Prosciutto adds protein and flavor, making these appetizers a satisfying option. For those watching their carb intake, this is a great treat—just be mindful of portion sizes.

If you’re gluten-free, this recipe is naturally safe for you! However, make sure to double-check the label on your prosciutto for any hidden additives. For keto or low-carb diets, these can fit in perfectly when eaten in moderation.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about biting into a warm, gooey prosciutto-wrapped date stuffed with tangy blue cheese. It’s a party appetizer that’s truly unforgettable and guaranteed to be a hit with your guests. Plus, it’s easy to make and customize, whether you need a nut-free option or a vegetarian twist.

Every time I make this recipe, it reminds me of the joy of sharing good food with great company. I hope you’ll give these prosciutto-wrapped dates a try—they’re the perfect balance of elegance and simplicity. Let me know in the comments how you like to customize yours, or tag me in your party pics!

Happy cooking, and I hope these little bites bring as much happiness to your table as they have to mine!

FAQs

Can I make these prosciutto-wrapped dates ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them ahead of time and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake them right before serving for the best texture.

What’s the best way to pit dates?

Simply slice along the side of the date with a sharp knife and gently remove the pit with your fingers or a small spoon.

Can I use bacon instead of prosciutto?

Absolutely! Bacon works well, but it will need slightly longer cooking time to crisp up—around 20 minutes.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cheese alternative like almond-based cream cheese or skip the cheese and add a nut stuffing for flavor.

What’s the best way to serve these at a party?

Arrange them on a platter with fresh herbs for garnish, and include cocktail picks for easy serving. Keep them warm in the oven until guests arrive!

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