Bacon-wrapped Dates Stuffed with Chorizo

We're coming into the height of the entertaining season, and appetizers are a great way to feed people.  I usually try to have equal amounts of hot and cold starters.  These stuffed dates take a little time, but each step is easy, and well worth it.

Here's what you'll need:
12 Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 lb smoked Gouda, cut into 12 logs
3 links fresh chorizo, skins removed
6 slices bacon, cut in half
1/4 c maple syrup
2 TBLS balsamic vinegar

Preheat oven to 400.

Make a slice in each date, so you can open it.  Flatten it out.

Cut each link of chorizo into quarters.  Roll each piece around a log of cheese.

Stuff the cheese-chorizo log into the date.  Close the date around the filling and squeeze to secure.

Wrap one half-slice of bacon around each date.  Place on cookie sheet with the loose end of the bacon down on the sheet.

 Bake at 400 for 7-8 minutes, until bacon begins to crisp.  Turn over and bake 7-8 minutes longer.

Combine the maple syrup and the vinegar in a small dish.

When the bacon is crisp, remove the dates from the oven.  Brush them with the syrup mixture.  Bake 2-3 minutes more.

Enjoy!