Bacon-wrapped dates filled with creamy goat cheese are a wonderful treat! The sweet dates mix perfectly with the salty bacon, making each bite super tasty!
These little bites are always a hit at parties. I mean, who can resist crispy bacon? Next time, I’m definitely making a double batch because they disappear fast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These are the star of the dish! Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the salty bacon. If Medjool dates aren’t available, you can use other types, but they might be less sweet.
Goat Cheese: Creamy goat cheese adds a tangy flavor that enhances the sweet dates. If you have dietary restrictions, cream cheese or feta can work as nice alternatives, though the flavor will change a bit.
Bacon: I recommend using thick-cut bacon for a hearty bite. Turkey bacon is a lighter option, though it won’t be as crispy. Vegans might opt for smoky tempeh or a plant-based bacon alternative.
Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish with fragrance. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs will work—but use them sparingly as they are more concentrated.
How Do You Get the Bacon Extra Crispy?
Crispy bacon makes all the difference! Here are some tips to ensure your bacon gets nice and crispy while still ensuring the dates are perfectly cooked:
- Start with a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps render the fat from the bacon quickly.
- Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil to catch drippings and keep cleanup easy.
- Make sure to turn the dates halfway through baking. This helps crisp up all sides of the bacon evenly.
- Keep an eye on them toward the end of cooking! Bacon can go from crispy to burnt quickly.
Enjoy your cooking! These bites are sure to impress anyone who tries them. 🍽️
Bacon-Wrapped Dates With Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 10 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Toothpicks for securing
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious appetizer takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or party dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the bacon will get nice and crispy once you pop the dates in!
2. Prepare the Dates:
Take each Medjool date and carefully slice it lengthwise on one side. Make sure you don’t cut all the way through; you just want to create an opening to remove the pit.
3. Add the Goat Cheese:
With a teaspoon, stuff each opened date with about 1 teaspoon of softened goat cheese. Don’t be shy; it’s a delicious addition!
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Now, take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date, making sure to secure it with a toothpick. This helps keep everything together while baking.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place all the bacon-wrapped dates on your lined baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a bit of space between each one to allow for even cooking.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and let the dates bake for 20-25 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through to ensure all sides get crispy and caramelized!
7. Cool & Garnish:
Once they’re golden brown and crispy, take them out of the oven and let cool for a minute. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh thyme or rosemary on top for a lovely touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these warm as a delightful appetizer or snack. Your guests will love the sweet and savory combo! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute goat cheese with cream cheese or feta for a different flavor profile. Just remember that each cheese will bring its own unique taste, so choose one that you love!
How Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the dates earlier in the day. Assemble and wrap them, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready, simply bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Bacon-Wrapped Dates?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Freeze Bacon-Wrapped Dates?
Yes! You can freeze them before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, assemble them, place on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
