Prepare to elevate your appetizer game with a mouthwatering recipe that combines the sweet, luscious texture of fresh figs, the creamy richness of herbed goat cheese, and the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon. These elegant bite-sized delights are not just a dish, but a culinary experience that will transform your next gathering into a gourmet celebration. Whether you're hosting a sophisticated dinner party or looking to impress your guests with a simple yet extraordinary starter, these bacon-wrapped stuffed figs are guaranteed to be the star of the table.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 fresh figs
- 6 oz goat cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or basil)
- 12 slices bacon
- Honey for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Carefully wash the fresh figs and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim off the tough stem ends.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese with finely chopped fresh herbs. Mix thoroughly until the herbs are evenly distributed. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Gently cut a small slit in the side of each fig, creating a pocket for the cheese filling. Be careful not to cut all the way through.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully stuff each fig with the herbed goat cheese mixture, filling them generously but not overfilling.
- Cut the bacon slices in half crosswise to create shorter strips that will wrap around the figs more easily.
- Wrap each stuffed fig with a half slice of bacon, securing the bacon with a toothpick if needed. Ensure the bacon is wrapped snugly but not too tight.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped figs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and golden brown, and the figs are heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle lightly with honey just before serving.
- Serve warm as an appetizer or elegant party bite, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose ripe, soft figs that are just slightly firm to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Use high-quality, thick-cut bacon for the best crispy results.
- If the bacon doesn't want to stay in place, secure it with a toothpick, but remember to remove before serving.
- For a flavor variation, experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil in the goat cheese mixture.
- Watch the figs closely while baking to prevent the bacon from burning.
- Serve immediately after baking for the optimal combination of warm, crispy bacon and melted cheese.
- For a make-ahead option, you can stuff the figs and wrap with bacon several hours in advance, then bake just before serving.
- The honey drizzle is optional but highly recommended, as it adds a beautiful sweet contrast to the savory bacon.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
