Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil
Using a small spoon, stuff each date with cheese (about 1 teaspoon per date)
Push a cranberry into the center of the date
Gently push the edges of each date pocket closed around the filling
Wrap each date in a half slice of bacon, rolling to enclose it completely.
Secure each bacon wrapped date with a toothpick and place on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 20 minutes, turning halfway through until bacon is brown and crisp.
Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a serving plate.
Notes
Be sure to allow some time for the dates to cool a little before serving. The filling will be very hot.This recipe is easily doubled (or tripled!) if required. Just be sure to leave enough space around each piece when baking. You may need two baking sheets.A drizzle of balsamic vinegar splashed on the dates before serving is a delicious touch.Refrigerate any leftovers