Bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese are a sweet and salty treat! The crispy bacon perfectly hugs the soft dates, while the cheese adds a yummy twist.
These bites are always a hit at parties! Honestly, it’s hard to stop at just one. I like to serve them warm for the best flavor! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These naturally sweet dates are perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find them, you can use other varieties but keep in mind they might be less sweet or not as creamy.
Goat Cheese: Creamy goat cheese adds great flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can swap it for cream cheese or even feta cheese, which has a different texture but works well too!
Bacon: Regular bacon is the classic choice. For a healthier option, turkey bacon or prosciutto can work, though the texture and taste will differ a bit.
Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley adds a nice touch. You can also try rosemary for a stronger flavor. I enjoy a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving for an extra pop!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Crispy Bacon?
Getting that bacon nice and crispy takes just a little care! Follow these simple steps:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you add the dates; this helps the bacon start to cook right away.
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and to allow the fat to drain away, keeping the bacon crispy.
- Don’t crowd the dates on the pan; leaving some space helps the hot air circulate and crisp up the bacon all around.
- Turn the dates halfway through baking to get an even crisp on all sides.
With these tips, your bacon should turn out perfectly crispy every time!
Bacon-Wrapped Dates With Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dates:
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 10 slices of bacon, cut in half
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
- Toothpicks (for securing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty treat will take about 10 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking, totaling around 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for parties or just a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, get your baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper or foil. This helps with easy cleanup later!
2. Prepare the Dates:
Take each Medjool date and carefully make a small slit lengthwise, creating a little pocket for stuffing. If they aren’t pitted, make sure to remove the pit.
3. Stuff with Goat Cheese:
Grab your softened goat cheese and use about 1 teaspoon to fill each date. Don’t be shy—the creaminess of the cheese makes these dates extra delicious!
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Now, take a half strip of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date, making sure the cheese stays inside. Secure the bacon with a toothpick so it stays in place while baking.
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the bacon-wrapped dates seam side down on your prepared baking sheet. Give them a little space between each one so they fry up nicely!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. At the halfway mark, give them a gentle turn to ensure that the bacon gets crispy all around!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re nicely browned and crispy, take the dates out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. While they cool, chop some fresh thyme or parsley for garnishing. This adds a lovely touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your bacon-wrapped dates warm as a delightful appetizer or party snack. They are sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese gives a unique flavor, you can substitute it with cream cheese for a milder taste or feta cheese for a different twist. Just ensure the cheese is soft enough to stuff the dates easily!
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the bacon-wrapped dates a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This helps save time when you’re entertaining!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that crispy texture again!
Can I Make These on the Grill Instead?
Definitely! Preheat your grill to medium heat, then grill the bacon-wrapped dates for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the bacon is crispy. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
