Natalie's Mascarpone-Stuffed Dates

Per a reader's request, here is Natalie's recipe for mascarpone-stuffed dates.  This is the perfect mix of sweet and savory.  I'm still trying to figure out what "savory" food is, but I know that bacon counts!  And apparently Natalie says they are easy to make!  All I know is that they are easy to eat!

Natalie's Mascarpone-Stuffed Dates

1 lb Medjool Dates (plumper than regular dates)
8 oz tub of Mascarpone cheese*
Sea Salt OR bacon (not both)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Slit each date, remove the pit, and press the inside of the date with your fingers to make a good-sized cavity. Fill with mascarpone (use the tip of a spoon to fill with the cheese or a piping bag.) and chill in fridge for 15 minutes if desired.  If using bacon, wrap each date with 1/2 slice of bacon and pierce with toothpick to hold together.  Bake dates on cookie sheet in 375 degree oven for 10 minutes if not using bacon and 15-20 minutes (until bacon is cooked) if using bacon.  Be careful not to overcook.  Remove from oven and top with sea salt if not using bacon.  Let cool before serving.