Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for that one magical appetizer that always disappears first at gatherings, look no further than Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese. Each bite is a swoon-worthy combination of salty, creamy, sweet, and smoky flavors that sparks instant joy. Pillowy-soft dates are filled with tangy goat cheese, then wrapped in crisped bacon for a truly addictive treat. Whether you’re hosting a big celebration or just want to spoil yourself with something special, these irresistible bites are guaranteed to impress. Ready to find your new favorite snack?
Ingredients You’ll Need
For Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese, a handful of quality ingredients work together to create show-stopping flavor and texture. Each component shines, so be sure to select the best you can find—trust me, every detail matters.
- Medjool dates (20, pitted): These dates are prized for their natural sweetness and luxurious softness, making them perfect for stuffing and wrapping.
- Goat cheese (4 ounces, softened): Tangy, creamy goat cheese provides a luscious contrast to the dates’ sticky sweetness.
- Bacon (10 slices, cut in half): Bacon crisps up beautifully in the oven, enveloping everything in smoky, savory goodness.
- Toothpicks: Essential for keeping your bacon-wrapped bundles secure while they bake.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This small step guarantees easy cleanup and ensures the Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese won’t stick. Set out your ingredients so everything’s ready to go.
Step 2: Slice and Fill the Dates
Gently slice each date lengthwise to create a little pocket if they aren’t already pitted. Use your fingers to stuff about 1 teaspoon of softened goat cheese inside each date, then press the opening closed. Don’t worry if a little cheese peeks out—this just adds to their rustic charm!
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Cut your bacon slices in half so they’re the perfect size for wrapping. Take a half-slice of bacon and roll it around each cheese-stuffed date, then secure with a toothpick to hold everything in place. This ensures the bacon cooks up evenly and stays snug around the filling.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Place your assembled Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness, until the bacon is beautifully caramelized and crisp.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your warm, golden bites to a serving platter and let them cool for a few minutes. They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the cheese is still melty and the bacon is at peak crispiness. Try drizzling them with a touch of honey or balsamic glaze for an extra flourish!
How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Garnishes
Add extra flair by sprinkling chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top. A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze not only elevates flavor but also delivers an attention-grabbing shine that looks gorgeous on your serving platter.
Side Dishes
Pair Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese alongside crisp salads, tangy marinated olives, or a vibrant cheese board. Their sweet-savory profile plays well with bright citrus salads, roasted veggies, and even sparkling wine.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable twist, arrange these bites on skewers as a centerpiece, or serve them in a rustic basket lined with parchment. You could also build an appetizer platter with nuts, crackers, and seasonal fruits to amplify the variety and elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to three days and make a delightful snack straight from the fridge!
Freezing
You can freeze your assembled (but unbaked) dates on a tray, then transfer them to a resealable bag for up to one month. Bake directly from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. It’s the ultimate party planning hack.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the dates on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. This brings back the bacon’s crispiness and gently warms the goat cheese without drying out the dates.
FAQs
Can I use another type Appetizer
Absolutely! Cream cheese, blue cheese, or even Manchego can be delicious swaps, but the tanginess of goat cheese is especially wonderful with the sweetness of the dates.
What if I only have regular (Deglet Noor) dates?
You can still use them, but Medjool dates are plumper and richer. If using smaller dates, adjust the amount of filling and bacon as needed—they’ll still be delicious!
Can I prepare Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese in advance?
Yes! Assemble the dates earlier in the day and refrigerate them covered. Pop them in the oven just before your guests arrive for fresh, hot appetizers.
Do I need to soak the toothpicks?
Soaking the toothpicks for about 10 minutes in water helps keep them from scorching in the oven, although with the short bake time it’s usually not a big issue.
How do I keep the bacon crispy?
For extra crispy bacon, bake the dates on a wire rack set over your baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate and fat to drain away, ensuring every bite is perfection.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese enough—every time I serve these, they steal the show! Whether for a cozy night in or a festive party, this little appetizer always impresses. Don’t be surprised if friends and family ask for the recipe—it’s that good. Happy cooking!
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Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20 pieces 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and creamy with these irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Dates stuffed with tangy goat cheese. A delightful appetizer that’s sure to impress at any gathering!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 10 slices bacon, cut in half
- toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare dates: Gently slice each date lengthwise to create an opening if not already pitted. Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese and press closed.
- Wrap dates: Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Bake: Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and let cool for a few minutes before serving warm.
Notes
- Try drizzling with a little honey or balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
- These make an easy appetizer for parties and can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
