Baked Dates in Cheddar Rosemary Pastry

1¾ hours | 1½ hours prep | SERVES 48

Ingredients

1/2       cup butter, chilled and cut in pieces
3/4       cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1          tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, minced
1 1/2    cups flour
1/2       teaspoon salt
1/4       teaspoon cayenne
2          teaspoons cider vinegar
48        pitted dates

Directions

1.         In food processor, pulse butter, cheddar, rosemary, flour, salt, and cayenne until mixture
            resembles cornmeal.

2.         Add vinegar and 2 tablespoons cold water and pulse until mixture holds together.

3.         On a piece of plastic wrap, form dough into a 6 inch square. Cover with more plastic wrap.

4.         Chill for at least 1 hour.

5.         Preheat oven to 400°F.

6.         On a lightly floured surface, roll dough out into a 12 inch square. Cut square into 48 1 inch by
            3 inch strips.

7.         Wrap each date with a strip, then arrange on 2 baking sheets. Bake about 15 minutes, until
            lightly golden. Serve hot.

8.         Leftover pastry strips make delicious crackers.

This recipe courtesy of holyfoodimports.com