Imagine you're hosting a dinner party, and you want to serve an appetizer that's both elegant and crowd-pleasing. You've heard of the classic Devils on Horseback, but you're looking for a more sophisticated twist. That's where Manchego Devils on Horseback come in. This Spanish-inspired variation takes the traditional recipe to new heights by incorporating tangy Manchego cheese and a honey-smoked paprika glaze. You'll find that these bite-sized morsels offer a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. But what's the story behind this delectable appetizer, and how can you make it at home?
Key Takeaways
- Manchego Devils on Horseback are appetizers made with dates stuffed with Manchego cheese and wrapped in bacon.
- The dish combines Spanish flavors with the traditional British "Devils on Horseback" recipe.
- Key ingredients include pitted dates, Manchego cheese, bacon, honey, and smoked paprika.
- The appetizers are baked at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- They are ideal for parties, can be prepared in advance, and are best served warm.
History
Despite its Spanish-inspired twist, Devils on Horseback has its roots in British cuisine. The original recipe, dating back to the late 19th century, featured prunes wrapped in bacon. This savory-sweet combination quickly gained popularity as an appetizer at dinner parties and social gatherings.
You'll find that the name "Devils on Horseback" is believed to be a playful contrast to "Angels on Horseback," a similar dish made with oysters instead of fruit. Over time, chefs and home cooks began experimenting with variations, leading to the creation of the Manchego-stuffed version you're learning about today.
The Spanish influence comes from the use of Manchego cheese, a sheep's milk cheese from the La Mancha region of Spain. This addition transforms the traditional British appetizer into a fusion dish, combining the best of both culinary worlds.
The smoked paprika in the honey glaze further enhances the Spanish flair, adding a subtle smokiness that complements the bacon and cheese. By making this recipe, you're participating in the ongoing evolution of a classic dish that continues to delight food enthusiasts around the world.
Recipe
Manchego Devils on Horseback is a delectable Spanish-inspired appetizer that combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon, tangy Manchego cheese, and sweet dates. This savory-sweet treat is perfect for parties or as an indulgent snack, guaranteed to impress your guests with its sophisticated taste and elegant presentation.
The smoky bacon wraps around the stuffed dates, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to the melty Manchego cheese and tender date inside. The honey and smoked paprika glaze adds an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the overall taste experience and making these bite-sized morsels truly irresistible.
- 24 pitted dates
- 4 oz (115g) Manchego cheese
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
- 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) smoked paprika
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the Manchego cheese into small cubes and stuff each date with a piece of cheese. Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Arrange the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix the honey and smoked paprika, then brush the mixture over the bacon-wrapped dates. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, turning halfway through cooking time.
For best results, use high-quality, thick-cut bacon and choose dates that are plump and moist. If the dates are too dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before stuffing.
To make ahead, prepare the stuffed and wrapped dates up to a day in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator. Brush with the honey mixture just before baking. Serve the Devils on Horseback immediately while they're still warm for the best taste and texture.
Cooking Steps
To prepare these mouthwatering appetizers, you'll start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Next, you'll cut the Manchego cheese into small cubes, stuff each date with a piece of cheese, and wrap them with bacon, securing each with a toothpick.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 400°F
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your Manchego Devils on Horseback cook evenly and achieve the perfect crispy texture.
While your oven heats up, you'll have time to prepare the other ingredients. It's important to allow your oven to reach the full temperature before you start baking, as this will help the bacon crisp up nicely and prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
If you're using a convection oven, you might want to reduce the temperature by about 25°F, as these ovens tend to cook food faster. Make sure your oven rack is positioned in the middle, which will provide the most even heat distribution.
As you wait for the oven to preheat, gather your ingredients and cooking utensils. This is also a good time to line your baking sheet with parchment paper, which will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2. Cut and Stuff Dates
With your ingredients at the ready, it's time to prepare the star of this appetizer: the dates. Begin by carefully examining each date, ensuring they're pitted and free from any stems or debris. If you've purchased unpitted dates, use a small knife to make a lengthwise incision and remove the pit.
Next, turn your attention to the Manchego cheese. Cut it into small cubes, approximately 1/4 inch in size, making sure you have enough to stuff all 24 dates.
Take each date and gently open it along the seam, creating a small pocket. Place a cube of Manchego cheese inside, pressing it firmly to ensure it's secure.
Once you've stuffed all the dates, it's time to wrap them in bacon. Cut each slice of bacon in half crosswise, giving you 24 pieces.
Wrap a piece of bacon around each stuffed date, making sure to cover it completely. Secure the bacon with a toothpick, piercing it through the date and out the other side.
As you work, place the wrapped dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly to ensure proper cooking.
Step 3. Wrap Dates With Bacon
Now that your dates are stuffed with Manchego cheese, it's time to wrap them in bacon. Take your half-slices of bacon and carefully wrap each stuffed date, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed. As you wrap, gently stretch the bacon to create a snug fit around the date.
Once wrapped, secure the bacon in place with a toothpick, inserting it through the seam to hold everything together. For best results, use thick-cut bacon, which will provide a satisfying crispiness when cooked. If your bacon slices are particularly long, you may need to trim them slightly to avoid excess overlap.
As you wrap each date, place it seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will help prevent the bacon from unraveling during cooking. Continue wrapping all your stuffed dates until you've used up your ingredients.
If you're making these in advance, you can cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you're ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and proceed with brushing the honey-paprika mixture over the bacon-wrapped dates before popping them in the oven.
Step 4. Brush With Honey Mixture
The final step before baking your Manchego Devils on Horseback is to brush them with a sweet and smoky honey mixture. This glaze will add a delicious caramelized flavor to your appetizers and help the bacon crisp up beautifully.
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of honey with 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Whisk these ingredients together until they're well blended, creating a smooth, amber-colored mixture.
Using a pastry brush, gently apply the honey glaze to each bacon-wrapped date. Make sure you coat the entire surface, paying special attention to the exposed bacon. This will ensure even caramelization and a glossy finish.
Don't worry if some of the glaze drips onto the baking sheet; it'll create a tasty, sticky base for your appetizers. If you find the honey mixture too thick, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for easier application.
Once you've brushed all the Devils on Horseback, they're ready for the oven. This honey-paprika glaze will transform into a sweet and smoky crust, perfectly complementing the savory bacon and rich Manchego cheese.
Step 5. Bake Until Bacon Crisps
Baking is the final crucial step in creating perfect Manchego Devils on Horseback. Once you've brushed the bacon-wrapped dates with the honey and smoked paprika mixture, it's time to transform them into crispy, golden-brown delights.
Place the prepared appetizers on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they're evenly spaced to allow for proper air circulation.
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and set a timer for 20 minutes. At the halfway mark, you'll want to turn the Devils on Horseback to ensure even cooking.
Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as bacon can quickly go from perfectly crisp to burnt. You're looking for a rich, golden-brown color and a crispy texture.
The exact cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the bacon, so trust your eyes and nose. When you smell that irresistible aroma of crispy bacon and see the desired color, it's time to remove them from the oven.
Let them cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and prevent burning your guests' tongues.
Final Thoughts
Indulging in Manchego Devils on Horseback is a surefire way to elevate your appetizer game. These savory-sweet bites offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making them an instant hit at any gathering. As you serve these elegant morsels, you'll notice guests reaching for seconds and thirds, drawn in by the irresistible combination of crispy bacon, tangy Manchego, and luscious dates.
Remember, the key to success lies in using high-quality ingredients and paying attention to detail during preparation. Don't rush the baking process; allow the bacon to crisp up properly for that satisfying crunch.
If you're planning ahead, take advantage of the make-ahead option, but always brush with the honey-paprika mixture just before baking for optimal flavor.
As you master this recipe, don't be afraid to experiment with variations. Try different cheeses or add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra texture. Whatever you do, serve these Devils on Horseback warm to fully appreciate their delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Your guests will be impressed, and you'll have a go-to appetizer that never fails to impress.
