Easy Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese Recipe

If you’re searching for a flavor-packed appetizer that’s as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve, Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese are your new best friend in the kitchen. These sweet and savory bites bring together the caramel-like richness of dates, the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, and the smoky crunch of crispy bacon for an irresistible combination. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or wanting to elevate your appetizer game, this recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort and maximum delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless elegance: Combines simple ingredients into a sophisticated appetizer that wows guests.
• Perfect balance: The sweet dates and tart goat cheese contrast beautifully with smoky bacon.
• Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile serving: Great as party snacks, appetizers, or even cocktail pairings.
• Kid-friendly and gourmet: Appeals to all ages and can easily be customized to dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to make this crowd-pleaser. Every item adds a distinct layer of flavor or texture that transforms ordinary into extraordinary.

• Medjool dates: Soft and naturally sweet, they provide the base and natural sweetness.
• Goat cheese: Creamy and slightly tangy, it complements the dates perfectly.
• Bacon strips: Choose thin slices for easy wrapping and crisp more evenly.
• Toothpicks: Essential for securing the bacon around the stuffed dates.
• Optional additions: Ingredients like chopped nuts or honey add extra texture or sweetness.

Variations for Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—it’s surprisingly flexible! You can easily swap ingredients or add extras to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some delicious twists to consider.

• Nutty crunch: Add chopped almonds or pecans inside the dates for extra texture.
• Spicy kick: Include a small slice of jalapeño or drizzle hot honey for heat.
• Cheese swap: Try cream cheese, blue cheese, or feta instead of goat cheese.
• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based bacon alternatives for a meat-free version.
• Gluten-free twist: All original ingredients are naturally gluten-free, perfect for gluten-sensitive diets.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the dates

Start by carefully slicing each Medjool date lengthwise on one side to create a pocket. Remove the pit completely without cutting the date in half to maintain its shape for stuffing.

Step 2: Stuff with goat cheese

Spoon or pipe a generous amount of soft goat cheese into the cavity of each pitted date, making sure the cheese fills it nicely without overflowing.

Step 3: Wrap with bacon

Cut bacon strips in half or thirds, depending on their size. Wrap each stuffed date with a piece of bacon, tucking the end underneath to secure before inserting a toothpick through the center.

Step 4: Bake until crispy

Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Flip halfway to cook evenly.

Step 5: Serve warm

Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and transfer the bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese to a serving platter. They are best enjoyed warm for maximum flavor and texture contrast.

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

• Choose soft dates: Medjool dates are ideal because their softness pairs perfectly with creamy cheese.
• Chill goat cheese: Slightly firm goat cheese sets better inside dates and is less messy to stuff.
• Use thin bacon: It crisps faster and wraps easily without overpowering the flavors.
• Line your baking sheet: Prevent sticking and make clean-up easier with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
• Watch closely near the end: Bacon can burn quickly, so keep an eye to ensure perfect crispness.

How to Serve Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary adds freshness and enhances the aroma, while a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze brings an extra burst of sweet acidity that complements the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

These bites pair wonderfully with light salads, charcuterie boards, or alongside a crisp white wine or sparkling rosé for a balanced and elegant snack spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese on decorative platters lined with greenery, or skewer multiple bites on cocktail sticks for easy grab-and-go elegance at your next gathering or dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep them chilled to maintain the cheese’s freshness and bacon’s texture.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead of time, wrap the stuffed dates (without cooking) in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore crispy bacon and creamy cheese, avoiding the microwave which can make bacon soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese besides goat cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese, feta, or blue cheese work well too, offering different flavor profiles while maintaining that creamy contrast to the sweet dates and bacon.

Are bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive or celiac-friendly diets.

What’s the best way to remove the pits from dates?

Slice the date lengthwise on one side and gently pry open the pocket to remove the pit without tearing the fruit, which keeps the date intact for stuffing.

Can I prepare these ahead of time for a party?

You can stuff and wrap the dates a day ahead and keep them in the refrigerator. Just bake them fresh before your event for the best texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the bacon from curling while baking?

Using thinner bacon and securing the ends under the date with a toothpick helps keep the bacon snug and reduces curling during cooking.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese effortlessly combine simple ingredients into a deliciously unforgettable snack everyone will love. This recipe is your ticket to quick, crowd-pleasing appetizers that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen but come together in a flash. Roll up your sleeves, get creative with variations, and share these heavenly bites at your next get-together—you’ll be glad you did!

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