Prosciutto wrapped dates are the perfect blend of sweet and salty! You get soft, chewy dates wrapped in crispy, savory prosciutto. What’s not to love?
These little bites are super easy to make and always impress guests. I make them for parties, and they disappear fast—like magic! 🪄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These are large and sweet, making them ideal for stuffing. If Medjool isn’t available, try using Deglet Noor dates, although they are smaller and less sweet.
Prosciutto: This Italian cured meat adds a delicious salty flavor. If you’re looking for a less expensive option, you can substitute with thinly sliced bacon, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives a rich and creamy texture. You could use goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor. If you’re dairy-free, a vegan cream cheese could work too.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a lovely touch of color and freshness. If you’re not a fan of parsley, you could try using basil or chives for a different herb flavor.
How Do You Get the Prosciutto Just Right?
Getting that prosciutto crispy while ensuring the dates warm through is essential! Here’s how to nail it:
- Lay the prosciutto flat on a cutting board and cut it in half lengthwise. This makes wrapping easier.
- Wrap each stuffed date tightly, but not so tight that it squeezes the filling out. You want a snug fit to ensure it crisps up nicely.
- Bake until the prosciutto is browned and crispy but keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Usually, 15-20 minutes works well, but ovens can vary!
- Let them cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set a bit. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Dates
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 20 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
For the Wrapping:
- 10 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- Toothpicks for securing
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake. Altogether, you should be ready to serve these lovely treats in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the finely chopped parsley until it’s well combined. This tasty filling will add creaminess and a burst of flavor to your dates.
3. Stuff the Dates:
Now, take each pitted date and carefully stuff it with about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture. Don’t overfill; you want to be able to wrap them up snugly!
4. Wrap with Prosciutto:
Next, wrap each stuffed date with a piece of prosciutto, ensuring the date is fully covered. Use a toothpick to secure the prosciutto in place so it doesn’t unravel during baking.
5. Bake the Dates:
Place the wrapped dates on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each one. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and slightly browned.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the dates from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Arrange them beautifully on a serving platter and, if you like, garnish with additional parsley. Enjoy these delightful, sweet, and salty appetizers warm or at room temperature!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat Instead of Prosciutto?
Absolutely! If prosciutto isn’t your favorite or you want a different flavor, you can use bacon, pancetta, or even turkey bacon. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as bacon may take a bit longer to get crispy.
How Do I Store Leftover Prosciutto Wrapped Dates?
Store any leftover dates in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed and wrapped dates a few hours in advance. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. If assembling a day ahead, cover them tightly with plastic wrap.
What Can I Pair These Dates With for Serving?
These prosciutto wrapped dates pair wonderfully with a variety of options. Serve them with a platter of cheeses, toasted nuts, or a tangy dipping sauce like balsamic reduction for an extra touch!
