Bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese are a simple and delicious treat that’s perfect for any gathering. The crispy salty bacon pairs beautifully with the sweet, soft dates, while the creamy goat cheese adds a tangy surprise in every bite. It’s a great mix of flavors and textures that’s irresistibly good.
I love making these little bites when friends come over because they always disappear fast! One tip I like to share is to secure the bacon with a toothpick so everything stays nicely wrapped while cooking. It’s so easy to prepare, yet feels a little fancy, which makes it one of my favorite go-to appetizers.
These are great served warm right out of the oven, maybe alongside a glass of red wine or a cold beer. I remember bringing them to a potluck once and getting asked for the recipe over and over. Honestly, they’re that good and make any gathering feel more special with very little effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dates: Medjool dates are great because they’re large, soft, and naturally sweet. If you can’t find them, you can use Deglet Noor dates, but they may be less soft and sweet.
Goat Cheese: The creamy tanginess of goat cheese balances the sweetness of dates. If you prefer, cream cheese or blue cheese can be a tasty alternative.
Bacon: Regular bacon provides crispiness and smoky flavor. For a leaner option, try turkey bacon, but it may be less crispy.
How Do I Keep Bacon Crispy and Dates Intact?
Wrapping dates with bacon can be tricky because bacon shrinks as it cooks. Here’s how to get crispy bacon without splitting the dates:
- Use thin-cut bacon so it crisps easily and wraps nicely.
- Cut bacon slices in half for a better bacon-to-date ratio.
- Secure with toothpicks to keep bacon tight around the date.
- Turn dates halfway through baking for even cooking and crispiness.
- Use a foil-lined baking sheet to catch bacon drips and help with cleanup.
- Don’t overstuff dates with cheese to avoid leaks when cooking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet with parchment paper or foil – I recommend this for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing dates and bacon in half safer and more precise.
- Toothpicks – essential for holding the bacon in place while baking, so everything stays wrapped tightly.
- Mixing spoon or small spoon – helpful for filling the dates smoothly with goat cheese.
- Cooling rack (optional) – great for draining excess fat and keeping bacon crispy after baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Stuff dates with cream cheese instead of goat cheese for a milder, creamier flavor.
- Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans inside the dates for extra crunch and flavor.
- Wrap dates in spicy chorizo or sausage slices instead of bacon for a different smoky, spicy taste.
- Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze before serving to add a touch of sweetness and shine.
Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 24 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz (115g) goat cheese, softened
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In just under 40 minutes, you’ll have delicious, crispy bacon-wrapped dates ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dates:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Carefully slice each date lengthwise to open it up, then remove the pit if it’s still inside.
2. Stuff the Dates:
Using a small spoon or your fingers, fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of softened goat cheese. Press gently so the cheese stays inside while baking.
3. Wrap with Bacon and Secure:
Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon. Use a toothpick to hold the bacon in place, making sure it’s wrapped snugly around the date.
4. Bake the Dates:
Arrange the wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through so the bacon crisps evenly and turns a beautiful golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the bacon-wrapped dates cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm as a tasty, savory-sweet appetizer or snack.
Can I Use Frozen Dates for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw frozen dates before stuffing and wrapping them. Thaw in the fridge overnight or leave at room temperature for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
Cream cheese or mascarpone work well as milder alternatives. You could also try blue cheese for a tangier twist, but adjust the amount to your taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Bacon Wrapped Dates?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to restore crispiness.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and stuff the dates, then wrap with bacon and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake. Bake just before serving for the best texture.