Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Dates Recipe with Goat Cheese

Introduction

The combination of sweet, salty, and creamy is truly magical, and that’s exactly what you get with these irresistible bacon-wrapped dates with goat cheese. Picture this: plump Medjool dates stuffed with tangy goat cheese, wrapped snugly in savory bacon, and baked to perfection. It’s indulgence in every bite! Honestly, these are the kind of appetizers that disappear within seconds at any gathering.

I still remember the first time I made these for a holiday party. At first, I was skeptical – could something so simple really wow my guests? But as I pulled them out of the oven, the aroma of crispy bacon and caramelized sweetness filled the room, and let me tell you, they were a hit! Everyone was asking for the recipe, and I’ve been making them ever since.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing for the holidays, or just want a snack that feels like a treat, these bacon-wrapped dates are perfect. They’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are guaranteed to impress. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses just three main ingredients—dates, goat cheese, and bacon—making it incredibly convenient.
• Quick and Easy: You can have these prepped and ready to bake in under 20 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute appetizers.
• Irresistible Flavor Combo: The balance of sweet dates, creamy goat cheese, and salty bacon creates a unique and unforgettable taste.
• Perfect for Entertaining: These bite-sized treats are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a holiday party or a casual get-together.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe for dietary needs or add creative twists (like a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of nuts).

What really sets this recipe apart is its simplicity paired with gourmet-level flavor. Trust me, after just one bite, you’ll understand why these bacon-wrapped dates are always the star of the party. They’re not just food—they’re a moment of pure joy.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Medjool Dates: These are the best choice for this recipe. Their natural sweetness and soft texture make them easy to stuff. Make sure to pit them beforehand!
• Goat Cheese: Opt for creamy goat cheese that’s easy to spread. If you prefer, you can use flavored goat cheese for an extra twist (like honey or herb-infused).
• Bacon: Thin-cut bacon works best here, as it crisps up nicely without overpowering the dates. You can use regular or turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Optional Add-Ons: If you want to get fancy, consider drizzling honey over the baked dates or sprinkling chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for added texture.

This recipe is incredibly forgiving, so don’t stress if you need to make substitutions. For example, cream cheese can replace goat cheese, or prosciutto can be used instead of bacon for a slightly different flavor profile.

Equipment Needed

• Sharp Knife: To slice the dates and remove the pits.
• Small Spoon: Perfect for scooping and stuffing the goat cheese into the dates.
• Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet is all you need. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Toothpicks: These help secure the bacon and keep everything snug while baking.

If you don’t have toothpicks, you can place the dates seam-side down on the baking sheet, but they might unravel slightly. I’ve used skewers in a pinch, cutting them to size, and they worked just fine!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the dates: Slice each date lengthwise, but don’t cut all the way through. Remove the pits and discard them.
3. Stuff the dates: Take a small spoonful of goat cheese (about 1 teaspoon) and gently fill each date. Don’t overstuff—just enough to fill the cavity.
4. Wrap with bacon: Cut each bacon strip in half. Wrap one half around each stuffed date and secure with a toothpick. Make sure the edges of the bacon overlap slightly.
5. Arrange on baking sheet: Place the wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning the dates halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The bacon should be crispy and golden.
7. Cool and serve: Allow the dates to cool for 5 minutes before serving. They’ll be piping hot, so don’t skip this step!

If you notice the bacon isn’t crisping up to your liking, you can broil the dates for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t skip the toothpicks: They’re essential for keeping the bacon secured around the dates during baking.
• Use parchment paper: This prevents the bacon grease from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup way easier.
• Keep an eye on the oven: Bacon can go from perfectly crisp to burnt very quickly, so check on your dates during the last few minutes of baking.
• Test one before serving: Take one out and cut it in half to ensure the bacon is fully cooked and the cheese is warm and gooey.
• Pre-stretch the bacon: If your bacon strips are a bit thick, gently stretch them with your fingers before wrapping to help them cook evenly.

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the bacon with eggplant or zucchini strips for a veggie version. Brush the strips with olive oil and season with smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
• Seasonal Twist: Add seasonal flavors by sprinkling the goat cheese with cinnamon and nutmeg before stuffing the dates. Perfect for fall gatherings!
• Sweet and Spicy: Wrap the dates with spicy bacon and drizzle with honey for a sweet-heat combo.
• Nutty Crunch: Add crushed pecans, walnuts, or almonds inside the dates along with the goat cheese for extra texture.
• Cheese Swaps: Use blue cheese for a stronger flavor or cream cheese for a milder option.

Personally, I love adding a sprinkle of sea salt to the baked dates to enhance the sweet and savory flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make them your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These bacon-wrapped dates are best served warm, straight out of the oven. Arrange them on a serving platter with fresh herbs or a small dish of honey for dipping. They pair beautifully with sparkling wine, a crisp white, or even a fruity red.

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the bacon soggy.

Pro tip: If you want to prepare these ahead of time, assemble them fully and store them covered in the fridge. Bake them fresh when guests arrive!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each bacon-wrapped date contains approximately:

• Calories: 75
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Sugar: 5g

Medjool dates are a great source of natural sugars and fiber, making them a healthier alternative to processed snacks. Goat cheese is rich in nutrients like calcium and healthy fats, while bacon provides a satisfying salty contrast. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for other dietary preferences.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s a guaranteed hit, these bacon-wrapped dates with goat cheese are the answer. They’re sweet, salty, creamy, and absolutely addictive. Whether you customize them with your favorite toppings or stick to the classic recipe, they’re bound to be a success.

I personally love making these for gatherings because they’re so simple yet feel fancy. Give them a try, and let me know how they turn out! Drop a comment below or share your own creative twists—I’d love to hear what you come up with. Let’s keep the deliciousness going!

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the bacon-wrapped dates ahead and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just pop them in the oven right before serving.

Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes! You can swap goat cheese for cream cheese, blue cheese, or even ricotta for a different flavor profile.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Definitely. Turkey bacon is a great alternative and will still crisp up nicely. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey bacon may cook faster.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your bacon and cheese are certified gluten-free.

How do I keep the bacon from unraveling?

Use toothpicks to secure the bacon around the dates, or place them seam-side down on the baking sheet to prevent them from coming undone.

Print