Appetizers

Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

Name: Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 20 pitted dates; 10 slices of bacon (cut in half); 4 ounces of goat cheese; Toothpicks

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These bacon-wrapped dates filled with tangy goat cheese are a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer. They blend sweet, chewy dates with creamy goat cheese and salty, crispy bacon. The aroma while baking is smoky and inviting. Serve them warm for a contrast of soft, creamy center and crisp bacon shell. If you enjoy bold salty-sweet flavors, try a related savory idea like this bacon, goat cheese and tomato corn pizza for a full meal.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 10 (about 2 dates per person)
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving (2 stuffed dates)

Calories per serving: 215 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 32 g
Sodium: 240 mg

Why Make This Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

These bites are fast to make and deliver big flavor. They combine sweet dates, tangy goat cheese, and smoky bacon for a satisfying contrast. They work for parties, game day, or a simple weeknight treat. The texture is soft and creamy inside with a crisp, savory outside. They travel well and pair nicely with wine or cocktails.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

The method is straightforward: stuff dates, wrap in bacon, and bake until crisp. You can prep them ahead and bake before guests arrive. The goat cheese adds creaminess that balances the sweet date. Use a hot oven so the bacon crisps without drying the filling.

Ingredients:

20 pitted dates
10 slices of bacon (cut in half)
4 ounces of goat cheese
toothpicks

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment and set a rack on top if you have one. If your dates are not pitted, remove pits carefully. Cut each bacon slice in half so you have 20 pieces.

Step 2: Mixing

Spoon about a small dollop (approx. 1/4 teaspoon) of goat cheese into each pitted date. Press the cheese in so it sits snugly inside the date. Work steadily to keep the filling neat.

Step 3: Cooking

Wrap each stuffed date with one half-slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Place the wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet without crowding. Bake for about 15–20 minutes, turning once if needed, until the bacon is crisp and browned.

Step 4: Finishing

Let the dates rest a minute or two after baking so the cheese firms slightly. Transfer to a serving platter and serve warm. Remove toothpicks before eating if you prefer.

How to Serve Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

Serve warm as an appetizer or party snack. They pair well with dry white wine, sparkling rosé, or a light beer. For a buffet, place on a warming tray. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for color and brightness. Offer napkins — they are tasty and a little messy.

How to Store Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

Room temperature: Serve within 2 hours if left out for a party.
Refrigerate: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to re-crisp the bacon.
Freeze: Freeze on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 12–15 minutes.

Expert Tips for Perfect Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

Choose dates that are pliable but not dried out. Medjool works well for size and sweetness.
Use thin-cut bacon if you want quick crisping. Thicker bacon may need longer cook time.
Chill stuffed dates briefly before wrapping to keep the cheese from squeezing out.
Use a rack on the baking sheet so fat drains and bacon crisps evenly.
Turn once during baking for even browning.
For less mess, trim or remove toothpicks before serving.

Delicious Variations

Almond-Stuffed: Add a whole toasted almond with the goat cheese for crunch.
Honey & Thyme: Drizzle with honey and sprinkle fresh thyme after baking.
Blue Cheese Swap: Use blue cheese instead of goat cheese for a sharper bite.
Prosciutto Version: Replace bacon with prosciutto and cook until just crisp.
Spicy Maple: Brush bacon with a touch of maple syrup and a pinch of cayenne before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble stuffed and wrapped dates and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving to keep bacon crisp.

Q: What kind of dates should I use?
A: Medjool dates are best for size and sweetness. If using smaller dates, reduce filling slightly.

Q: Can I use turkey bacon or prosciutto?
A: Yes. Turkey bacon will be leaner and may crisp differently. Prosciutto gives a refined, saltier flavor and curls quickly—watch it closely.

Q: How do I stop the goat cheese from leaking?
A: Keep the goat cheese chilled until use and press it into the cavity. Don’t overfill and wrap gently but firmly with bacon.

Q: Are these gluten-free and low-carb?
A: They are naturally gluten-free. They are not low-carb because dates are high in natural sugars and carbs.

Q: How can I make them less sweet?
A: Use smaller or fewer dates, or choose a less sweet date variety. Adding salty toppings like toasted nuts or balsamic drizzle helps balance sweetness.

Conclusion

These bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese are an easy, delicious appetizer that brings sweet, creamy, and smoky flavors together in every bite. They bake quickly and can be prepped ahead for stress-free entertaining. For a version with rosemary and honey that adds herbal and sweet notes, try Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey. Give this recipe a try — your guests will ask for seconds.