There are so many variations of Devils on Horseback that we are giving you many variations in this recipe. Choose the ingredients that appeal to you.

If you like oysters, try their angelic sisters, Angels on Horseback.

Variations

Goat’s cheese, bleu cheese or cream cheese are excellent substitutes for the smoked almonds.
You don’t need to use a lot of cheese…just enough to close the prunes or dates securely.
Prosciutto may be substituted for the bacon.

Variations Based on the Filling (instead of or in addition to the date)

Apricots: Dried apricots offer a slightly tarter and less intensely sweet flavor than dates. This provides a nice contrast to the salty bacon.
Prunes: Prunes are another popular dried fruit option. They are generally less sweet than dates but still offer a pleasant chewiness and slight tang.
Figs: Fresh or dried figs can be used. Fresh figs will be softer and more delicate, while dried figs offer a denser texture and more concentrated sweetness.
Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates/Apricots/Prunes: A small piece of blue cheese (like Gorgonzola or Stilton) can be inserted into the date or other fruit before wrapping in bacon. The salty, pungent cheese pairs wonderfully with the sweet fruit and smoky bacon.
Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates/Apricots/Prunes: Similar to blue cheese, a small piece of goat cheese offers a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Almond Stuffed Dates: An almond can be inserted into the date for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Nut Butter Stuffed Dates: A small amount of peanut butter or almond butter can be used as a filling. This adds creaminess and a different flavor dimension.
Chorizo or Sausage Stuffed Dates: For a savory and slightly spicy twist, a small piece of cooked chorizo or other flavorful sausage can be used as a filling.
Cream Cheese and Herb Stuffed Dates: A mix of cream cheese and fresh herbs (like chives or parsley) can be a delightful and refreshing filling.

Variations Based on the Bacon

Maple Bacon: Using maple-cured bacon or brushing the bacon with maple syrup before baking adds a hint of sweetness and a distinct maple flavor.
Spicy Bacon: Using spicy bacon (like peppered bacon) or rubbing the bacon with chili powder or cayenne pepper before wrapping adds a kick of heat.
Brown Sugar Glazed Bacon: Sprinkling brown sugar over the bacon before baking creates a sweet and caramelized crust.
Thick-Cut Bacon: Using thick-cut bacon provides a meatier texture and a more substantial bite.

Variations Based on Glazes and Finishes

Balsamic Glaze: Drizzling a balsamic glaze over the finished Devils on Horseback adds a tangy and slightly sweet finish.
Honey Glaze: A simple honey glaze can enhance the sweetness and create a sticky, delicious coating.
Maple Syrup Glaze: Similar to using maple bacon, a maple syrup glaze adds a sweet and autumnal flavor.
Spicy Glaze: A glaze made with honey and sriracha or other hot sauce can add a sweet and spicy kick.
Fresh Herb Garnish: Garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives adds a touch of freshness and color.

Other Creative Variations

Wrapped in Prosciutto: While not technically bacon, using prosciutto instead offers a different salty and savory flavor profile.
Mini Bell Peppers: Instead of dried fruit, wrap small pieces of roasted bell pepper in bacon. This offers a savory and slightly sweet alternative.
Water Chestnuts: Water chestnuts provide a satisfying crunch and a neutral flavor that pairs well with bacon.
Scallops: For a more upscale variation, wrap small scallops in bacon and bake.

Tips for Success

Use Pitted Dates/Fruit: This makes them easier to stuff and eat.
Secure the Bacon: Use toothpicks to secure the bacon around the fruit if necessary.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the Devils on Horseback space to crisp up evenly.
Drain Excess Grease: After baking, you can briefly place them on paper towels to absorb excess grease.

The possibilities for variations are quite extensive. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of fruits, cheeses, nuts, and glazes to find your favorite version of Devils on Horseback!

Devils on Horseback

Print Recipe

There are so many variations of Devils on Horseback that we are giving you a couple variations in this recipe. Choose the ingredients that appeal to you.

Author: Linda Jolly
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24
Category: Appetizers
Method: Oven
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

24 prunes or dates
24 smoked almonds
24 slices bacon

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Instructions

Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Have ready a tall-rimmed baking sheet or use a 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking pan. Soak wooden picks in water for 30 minutes before using.
Slit open prunes or dates. If using dates that have not been stoned, carefully remove the stones.
Insert a smoked almond into each prune or date.
Wrap each of the dates in half a strip of bacon, then pierce them through with a wooden pick.
Arrange the dates on a baking sheet or in baking pan.
Bake for 10 minutes, then flip and put them back in for another 12 to 15 minutes, until the bacon is crisp.
Let cool for a a few minutes, take them off the baking sheet, and serve.

Notes

Photo credit: gtrwndr87 on Visualhunt