Savory Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Creamy Goat Cheese
These savory bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese are a quick, easy, and addictive appetizer perfect for entertaining. The combination of crispy bacon, tangy goat cheese, and sweet dates creates a delicious balance of flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Medjool dates, pitted, large size preferred
- Bacon slices, thin-cut
- Goat cheese, soft and creamy, room temperature
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks for securing bacon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice each date lengthwise on one side to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through. Remove pits if not already pitted.
- Using a small spoon or your fingers, fill each date with about 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of goat cheese. Optionally, mix fresh thyme leaves and cracked black pepper into the cheese before stuffing.
- Cut bacon slices in half crosswise for thinner slices or use whole slices for thicker bacon. Wrap each stuffed date tightly with a bacon piece, securing with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped dates seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the dates halfway through baking to ensure even crisping. The bacon should be golden and crispy, and the cheese inside warmed and slightly melted.
- Let the dates cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a serving plate.
Notes
Use thin to medium-thin bacon slices for best crispiness. Pat dates dry before stuffing to prevent sogginess. Turn dates halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Let cool briefly before serving to allow cheese to set. For variations, try blue cheese, nuts inside dates, or drizzle with maple syrup after baking. Vegan and dairy-free options available using plant-based bacon and cashew cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bacon-wrapped date
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 200
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3.5
Keywords: bacon-wrapped dates, goat cheese appetizer, easy appetizer, party food, savory snacks, bacon and dates, stuffed dates