Baked Dates in Cheddar-Rosemary Pastry

Perhaps one of the most exiciting aspects of this recipe is how much they look like pigs in a blanket. We all know how the appeal and simplicity of pigs in a blanket works great for appetizers. While the recipe below for Baked Dates in Cheddar-Rosemary Pastry (from Gourmet magazine) takes a little more effort, the results are delicious. These date delights are like a savory dessert and make the perfect snack or party nibbler.

Baked Dates in Cheddar-Rosemary Pastry

1/2 cup butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
3/4 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary leaves
1 1/3 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
2 teaspoons cider vinegar
48 pitted Medjool dates (I used another kind)


1. Pulse butter, cheddar, rosemary, flour, salt, and cayenne in a food processor until mixture resembles cornmeal. Add vinegar and 2 T. very cold water and pulse just until mixture holds together. Lay a piece of plastic wrap on your counter and turn dough out onto it. Form dough into a 6-inch square, cover with more plastic wrap, and chill at least 1 hour.

2. Preheat oven to 400. Put chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and roll out into a 12" square. Cut square into 48 1x3" strips. Wrap each date with a strip, then arrange on 2 baking sheets. Bake until pastry is light golden about 15 minutes. Serve hot.