Bacon-wrapped dates filled with creamy goat cheese are a delightful treat. They blend sweet and salty flavors for a tasty bite that’s hard to resist!
Every time I make these, the bacon sizzle fills the kitchen and I can’t wait to sneak a few before serving! They’re perfect for parties—or just a cozy night in. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These dates are sweet and have a perfect texture for stuffing. If they’re not available, you could use Deglet Noor dates, but they might be less chewy and sweeter.
Goat Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess and tang. If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can replace it with feta or cream cheese for a milder flavor.
Bacon: I love using regular bacon for its balance of fat and crispiness. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works too, though it won’t crisp up as much.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely aroma. If you don’t have any, dried thyme or even rosemary can be used as a substitute.
How Can You Make Sure Your Bacon is Perfectly Crispy?
Getting the bacon just right can be tricky. Here’s how I ensure a crispy finish:
- Make sure to wrap the bacon tightly around the dates; this helps it crisp better.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to catch drips and prevent sticking.
- Rotate the pan halfway through cooking for even heat distribution.
- If you want extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning!
With these tips and insights, you’ll master this dish and impress everyone with your bacon-wrapped dates! Enjoy!
Bacon-Wrapped Dates With Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz goat cheese (soft and spreadable)
- 10 slices of bacon, cut in half lengthwise
- Toothpicks, for securing
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 15 minutes to prep, and then you’ll bake it for about 20-25 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes to have these tasty bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, go ahead and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your dates are ready for baking! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to make cleanup easier.
2. Stuff the Dates:
Take each pitted Medjool date and stuff it with about a teaspoon of soft goat cheese. You can use a small spoon or your fingers to do this. Just be careful not to overstuff them, or the cheese might ooze out while they’re baking!
3. Wrap with Bacon:
Next, take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date. Secure the ends with a toothpick so the bacon stays in place. Make sure to wrap it snugly for that perfect crispy finish.
4. Arrange for Baking:
Put all the wrapped dates on your prepared baking sheet, making sure the seams of the bacon are facing down. This will help keep them wrapped as they cook.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You can rotate the pan halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and get beautifully crispy all around!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they look golden and crispy, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Remove the toothpicks, and if you like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these warm as a delightful appetizer or snack. Your guests (and you!) will love the amazing combination of sweet dates, tangy goat cheese, and savory bacon. Yum!
Enjoy the wonderful contrast of flavors and the mouthwatering experience!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with cream cheese or feta. Just keep in mind that each cheese will bring a different flavor profile to the dish.
What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Bacon-Wrapped Dates?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again!
Can I Prepare These in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the stuffed dates up to a day in advance! Simply wrap them in bacon, secure with toothpicks, and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What Can I Pair These With?
These bacon-wrapped dates are fantastic on their own, but they pair well with a variety of dips like balsamic glaze or a spicy aioli. They also make great finger foods at parties alongside cheese platters or charcuterie boards!