Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese

Bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese are one of those appetizers that instantly impress. Sweet, savory, and rich, this easy-to-make snack is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or even a simple weeknight treat. The combination of smoky bacon, tender dates, and tangy goat cheese creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible. For an extra touch of flavor, a drizzle of honey adds the perfect finishing note.

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Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a casual get-together, or looking for a make-ahead appetizer, these bacon-wrapped dates are always a hit. Their simplicity makes them approachable for even novice cooks, but the result feels gourmet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect flavor balance: The sweetness of the dates, the creaminess of the goat cheese, and the smoky bacon come together in a crowd-pleasing bite.
• Simple and fast: With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is ready in under 40 minutes.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can assemble the dates in advance and bake them just before serving.
• Naturally gluten-free: Everyone can enjoy this appetizer, regardless of dietary restrictions.
• Versatile for any occasion: From holiday feasts to game nights, these little bites fit every menu.

If you enjoy bite-sized appetizers, you might also like other easy crowd-pleasers such as creamy spinach dip, stuffed mushrooms, or mini baked brie bites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these delicious bacon-wrapped dates requires only a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Dates: Opt for fresh, soft varieties like Medjool dates. Their natural sweetness and tender texture make them ideal. Pre-pitted dates are a convenient option.
• Goat cheese: Use a plain, creamy goat cheese that spreads easily. It adds a tangy contrast to the sweet dates.
• Bacon: Choose regular sliced bacon, not thick-cut, for perfect crispiness. Thin slices wrap around the dates nicely and cook evenly.
• Honey: Optional, but a drizzle of honey (regular or spicy) enhances the sweet-savory balance.
• Toothpicks: Essential for securing the bacon around each date.

These ingredients are simple, yet when combined, they create an appetizer that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create perfectly baked bacon-wrapped dates with goat cheese:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the dates: Slice each date lengthwise on one side to create a pocket for the cheese. Remove the pits if necessary.
3. Stuff the dates: Fill each pocket with a small amount of goat cheese. Be careful not to overfill.
4. Wrap with bacon: Cut each slice of bacon in half to make approximately 5-inch pieces. Place a stuffed date in the center and wrap the bacon around it. Secure with a toothpick.
5. Arrange on a baking sheet: Place the wrapped dates on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Repeat with remaining dates.
6. Bake: Cook in the oven for 10 minutes. Flip the dates and bake another 5 minutes. Flip one last time and bake a few more minutes until the bacon is crisp all around.
7. Serve: Allow the dates to cool slightly, then drizzle with honey if desired. Serve warm.

These simple steps guarantee a delicious, perfectly balanced appetizer every time.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Bacon-Wrapped Dates

• Avoid using thick-cut bacon; thin slices cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
• Fresh dates are key—they provide a tender, chewy texture that pairs beautifully with creamy goat cheese.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the dates up to two days in advance and refrigerate. Bake them fresh before serving.
• For an extra flavor twist, try adding a few crushed nuts or a sprinkle of herbs inside the cheese pocket.

Serving Suggestions

Bacon-wrapped dates are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic appetizer for:

• Holiday dinners such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve.
• Game day or Super Bowl parties.
• Casual family gatherings or potlucks.

Pair them with a simple cheese board, a refreshing salad, or a glass of sparkling wine for an elegant touch. These bites are perfect for entertaining and sure to disappear quickly from the plate.

Storage and Make-Ahead

• To store: Keep leftover dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in the oven to regain crispiness.
• Make-ahead option: Assemble the bacon-wrapped dates in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to maintain the bacon’s crisp texture.

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This appetizer strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any event. If you love easy yet impressive appetizers, these bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.

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