Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Method

1. If your dates are not already pitted, slice each one lengthwise on one side only (not all the way through) and pop out the pit with your fingers, keeping the date mostly intact.
2. In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) together with a fork until smooth and well combined.
3. Using a small spoon or a butter knife, fill the cavity of each date with about 1/2 teaspoon of the cheese mixture, pressing the date closed gently around the filling.
4. Wrap one half-slice of bacon around each stuffed date, overlapping the ends slightly, and secure it with a toothpick pushed through the bacon and into the date.
5. Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 375 degrees Fahrenheit, or preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit if you would rather cook these indoors.
6. If grilling, arrange the wrapped dates on a grill-safe wire rack or in a grill basket so they do not fall through the grates, then place them over indirect heat (the cooler side of the grill, away from direct flame).
7. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes with tongs, until the bacon is browned and crisp on all sides; if using the oven, place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake for the same amount of time, flipping once halfway through.
8. Watch closely in the last few minutes, since the honey drizzle you add next can burn quickly if the heat is too high.
9. Once the bacon looks fully crisp, transfer the dates to a serving platter and drizzle them with the honey while still warm.
10. Sprinkle the flaky sea salt and the chopped roasted almonds over the top if using, remove the toothpicks or leave them in for easy handling, and serve warm.