Bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese are a perfect little bite that combines sweet, salty, and creamy all at once. The dates are soft and naturally sweet, the goat cheese adds a tangy creaminess, and the bacon wrapping crisps up nicely to give a satisfying crunch. It’s such a simple dish but feels special every time you make it.
I love making these for gatherings because they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Whenever I serve them, people keep coming back for more, which makes me think they’re kind of addictive! One of my favorite tricks is to secure each date with a toothpick before baking so the bacon stays wrapped and everything cooks evenly. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
These bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese are great served warm right out of the oven. I like to arrange them on a pretty platter so everyone can grab one easily. They work just as well for a fancy appetizer or a casual snack. Honestly, eating them always brings back that cozy feeling of sharing simple food with friends and family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These are large and soft, perfect for stuffing. If you can’t find Medjools, try other soft, large dates like Deglet Noor, but soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften.
Goat Cheese: It adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweet dates and salty bacon. If you want a milder flavor, cream cheese or ricotta are good substitutes.
Bacon: I like using thin-sliced bacon as it crisps well and wraps nicely around the dates. Turkey bacon can be used if you want a leaner option but watch the cooking time as it cooks faster.
How Do You Wrap and Bake the Dates Without Bacon Falling Off?
Keeping the bacon wrapped tight and even is key. Here’s how to get it right:
- Cut bacon slices in half to fit snugly around each date.
- Use a toothpick to secure the bacon after wrapping—it keeps everything together during baking.
- Place dates seam side down on the baking sheet to help keep the bacon in place.
- Turn the dates halfway through baking to ensure even crisping, but handle gently so nothing unwraps.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Sharp knife – helps you cut the bacon in half and make small slits in the dates easily.
- Toothpicks – they keep the bacon wrapped tightly around the dates while baking.
- Small spoon or teaspoon – perfect for stuffing each date with goat cheese without making a mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap goat cheese for cream cheese or blue cheese for a different tangy flavor.
- Add a small piece of cooked bacon or prosciutto inside the date for extra smoky flavor.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or almonds over the cheese before wrapping for crunch.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey after baking for a sweet and tangy finish.
Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz (110 g) goat cheese, softened
- 10 slices bacon, cut in half
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
- Toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake, so in total about 30-35 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for making just before your guests arrive or as a tasty snack anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to make cleanup a breeze and keep the dates from sticking.
2. Prepare the Dates for Stuffing
Take each date and make a small slit lengthwise to open it up. If your dates aren’t already pitted, remove the pits carefully. You want a pocket to fill with cheese but keep the date mostly intact.
3. Stuff the Dates with Goat Cheese
Using a teaspoon or your finger, gently fill each date’s opening with about a teaspoon of softened goat cheese. Be generous, but don’t overstuff—as you want the dates to hold their shape.
4. Wrap Dates in Bacon
Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon. The bacon should cover most of the date and the cheese filling. Secure it tightly with a toothpick to keep everything wrapped during baking.
5. Arrange and Bake
Place the bacon-wrapped dates on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve and Garnish
Once done, let the dates cool just a bit so they’re easier to handle. Transfer them to a serving platter. If you like, add a small sprig of fresh thyme on each for a burst of color and a subtle herbal note.
Serve warm and enjoy these delightful little bites! They’re perfect for parties, snacks, or whenever you want a sweet, savory treat.
Can I Use Frozen Dates for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen dates, thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before stuffing. This ensures they’re soft and easier to work with.
What Can I Substitute for Goat Cheese?
If you don’t have goat cheese, cream cheese or blue cheese make great alternatives. Cream cheese will offer a milder flavor, while blue cheese adds a bolder tang. Just soften before stuffing.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and wrap the dates ahead, then store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake directly from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftover Bacon Wrapped Dates?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes to keep the bacon crisp.