Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates

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Ingredients

1. 16 large Medjool dates, pitted
2. 16 roasted almonds
3. Scant 1/4 cup mild goat cheese, crumbled
4. 8 slices of bacon (about 7 ounces), halved crosswise

1. Preheat the oven to 400°. Cut a lengthwise slit in the dates. Stuff each one with an almond and about 1/2 teaspoon of the goat cheese. Pinch the dates closed. Wrap each date securely in a piece of bacon and arrange the dates, seam side down, on a wire rack set on a baking sheet.
2. Bake the stuffed dates for about 20 minutes, or until the bacon is browned and crisp; turn each date after 10 minutes. Serve the stuffed dates warm or at room temperature.