Name: Savory Dates with Goat Cheese Wrapped in Crispy Bacon Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces Pitted dates (Use pitted dates for easy stuffing.); 6 ounces Goat cheese (Consider cream cheese as a substitute.); 12 slices Bacon (Cut into halves or thirds according to date size.); 2 tablespoons Honey (Drizzle post-baking for sweetness.); 1 pinch Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1 pinch Pepper (Enhances flavor.); 2 tablespoons Fresh thyme leaves (For garnish.); 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley (For garnish.)

As I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of sizzling bacon filled the air, instantly transforming my humble abode into a scene of culinary magic. There’s something enchanting about the sweet and salty harmony of these Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese that makes them irresistible. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, but they also elevate any gathering with their gourmet flair. Perfectly balanced and packed with flavor, these little bites of delight are sure to impress your guests, whether at a holiday party or a cozy gathering with friends. Ready to indulge in a scrumptious appetizer that will make your taste buds dance? Let’s dive into this recipe that’s bound to become a new favorite!

Why are Bacon-Wrapped Dates a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: The fusion of smoky, crispy bacon with sweet dates creates an unforgettable taste that keeps you coming back for more.
Simple Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, you can make a sophisticated dish that looks as good as it tastes!
Crowd Pleaser: These delightful bites pair perfectly with any gathering, ensuring your friends and family will rave about them.
Versatile Pairings: Enjoy them with a drizzle of honey or fresh herbs for a gourmet touch. Consider complementing them with other favorites like Cranberry Cream Cheese or even Strawberry Goat Cheese for variety!
Effortless Make-Ahead: Prep your dates in advance for stress-free entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the party instead of spending time in the kitchen.

Dates with Goat Cheese Ingredients

For the Dates
• Dates – Use pitted dates for easy stuffing convenience and to avoid surprises!
• Goat Cheese – This creamy filling adds tanginess; consider cream cheese as a milder substitute.

For the Bacon
• Bacon – Provides the perfect salty crunch; cut into halves or thirds according to your date size for optimal wrapping.

For the Finish
• Honey – Drizzle this golden elixir post-baking for a touch of sweetness that complements the dates.
• Salt and Pepper – Just a sprinkle enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves and Parsley – These herbs bring freshness and a visually appealing touch to your appetizer.

Now you are all set to create these irresistible Dates with Goat Cheese Wrapped in Bacon!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dates with Goat Cheese Wrapped in Bacon

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is essential for achieving perfectly crispy bacon. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or placing a baking rack on top for optimal air circulation while the dates cook.

Step 2: Prepare the Dates
Take your pitted dates and slice them in half lengthwise, ensuring to remove any latent pits. This step allows for easy stuffing and ensures the sweet and salty flavors meld beautifully. Once halved, lay the dates open on your cutting board, ready to be filled with creamy goat cheese.

Step 3: Stuff Each Date
Using a small knife or a spoon, gently stuff about ½ to 1 teaspoon of goat cheese into each date half. Be generous, but make sure not to overfill, as this can make them difficult to wrap. The combination of the creamy cheese with the sweetness of the dates will be the star of this appetizer.

Step 4: Wrap the Dates in Bacon
Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date, covering them entirely. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to keep it from unraveling during baking. This will create a wonderful crispiness as it cooks, while the sweet dates with goat cheese remain tender inside.

Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place the bacon-wrapped dates neatly on the prepared baking sheet or rack, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. This spacing allows the hot air to circulate, crisping the bacon beautifully. Now your dates are ready to transform in the oven!

Step 6: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, flip the dates so they brown evenly on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when the bacon is golden and crispy, providing that perfect textural contrast to the tender date and goat cheese.

Step 7: Drizzle and Garnish
Once out of the oven, drizzle your bacon-wrapped dates with honey for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the savory flavors. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a touch of color and freshness. These Dates with Goat Cheese Wrapped in Bacon are now ready to serve!

Expert Tips for Dates with Goat Cheese Wrapped in Bacon

• Bacon Wrapping Technique: Ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly around the dates to prevent them from unraveling during baking. This maintains their shape and flavor integrity.

• Pitting Dates: Always double-check your dates for pits, even if they’re labeled pitted. A hidden pit can surprise your guests and disrupt the delightful experience.

• Crispy Finish: For optimal crispiness, turn the dates halfway through baking. This allows the bacon to crisp up evenly on all sides, enhancing the overall texture.

• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare and stuff the dates a day in advance, then refrigerate. Bake them just before serving for a fresh taste with minimal last-minute effort.

• Garnish with Flavor: Don’t skip the honey drizzle or fresh herbs. They elevate your Dates with Goat Cheese Wrapped in Bacon with a burst of flavor and a visually stunning presentation.

Dates with Goat Cheese: Flavorful Variations

Feel free to take these scrumptious dates on an exciting flavor adventure that suits your tastes and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the goat cheese with creamy almond cream for a delightful, nutty flavor without the dairy. This variation brings a unique twist while maintaining that luscious creaminess.
Herb-Infused: Mix fresh rosemary or thyme into the goat cheese before stuffing for an aromatic flavor explosion that elevates your appetizer to gourmet status.
Spicy Kick: Add a touch of heat by using jalapeño cream cheese instead of goat cheese. This spicy version will tantalize your taste buds and make your gathering even more memorable!
Sweet & Savory Fusion: Wrap the dates in prosciutto instead of bacon for a sophisticated, saltier alternative that beautifully complements the sweetness of the dates. Prosciutto adds a delectable richness to this dish.
Nutty Texture: Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans inside each date with the goat cheese for an appealing crunch. This will add both flavor and texture, making each bite even more satisfying.
Maple Drizzle: Instead of honey, try drizzling with warm maple syrup after baking for a delightful, caramelized sweetness that enhances the dish’s flavor profile. The maple brings a cozy autumn feel.
Stuffed Surprise: Experiment by adding a small piece of blue cheese along with the goat cheese for a tangy twist. The blue cheese adds depth and richness to the traditional flavor combination, turning this into a real showstopper.

These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to tailor your appetizer to suit any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a holiday party or just a cozy night in, there’s an option here for everyone. And don’t forget to serve these alongside some tasty dips, like Cranberry Cream Cheese or enjoy them with a light Strawberry Goat Cheese pizza to complement your savory delights!

How to Store and Freeze Dates with Goat Cheese Wrapped in Bacon

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked, wrapped dates in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Room Temperature: It’s best to serve these delicious dates immediately after cooking. If left out, they should not sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure freshness.

Reheating: When reheating, the oven is the best method. This will help the bacon regain its crispy texture and keep the dates deliciously soft and flavorful.

Make Ahead Options

These Dates with Goat Cheese Wrapped in Bacon are perfect for meal prep! You can stuff and wrap the dates up to 24 hours in advance, making your entertaining easy and stress-free. After preparing them, simply refrigerate the wrapped dates, ensuring they’re on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure they crisp up beautifully. Drizzle with honey and garnish as usual before serving. With this make-ahead approach, you’ll enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality appetizers without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Sweet and Salty Bacon-Wrapped Dates

The perfect gathering begins with a symphony of flavors; complete your meal with these delightful pairings.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture and buttery taste pair beautifully with the crispy bacon, adding comfort to your plate.
Fresh Arugula Salad: A light, peppery salad balances the richness of the dates, enhancing the overall dining experience with a refreshing crunch.
Herbed Quinoa: This nutty grain dish offers a nutritious, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the dates while keeping the meal light and wholesome.
Spiced Carrot Soup: A warm, slightly sweet bisque adds warmth and coziness to your gathering, creating a lovely contrast to the savory bites.
Honey-Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The flavors mirror the honey drizzle on the dates, while the crispy edges provide a delightful textural duo.
Red Wine: A glass of Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the savory elements, making each bite of the dates even more enjoyable.
Dark Chocolate Squares: End the meal on a sweet note; the bitterness of dark chocolate creates a perfect balance with the sweet and savory flavors on your palate.
Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like Brie or sharp Cheddar for a delightful appetizer spread that invites savory and sweet bites.
Pineapple Salsa: The tropical sweetness and acidity brighten every mouthful, offering a fun contrast to your bacon-wrapped dates.

Dates with Goat Cheese Wrapped in Bacon Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best dates for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting dates, go for those that are plump and moist, with a rich caramel color. Avoid dates that have dark spots all over or feel overly dry, as these can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Leftover bacon-wrapped dates can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, so they regain their delicious crispiness.

Can I freeze bacon-wrapped dates, and how?
Definitely! For freezing, prepare and wrap the dates but do not bake them. Place them in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time until the bacon is crispy and cooked through.

What if the bacon unravels during baking?
No worries! If you notice your dates are unraveling, try wrapping the bacon more tightly around the date before securing it with a toothpick. If you still encounter issues, consider using a thicker cut of bacon, which tends to hold together better during cooking.

Are these dates safe for guests with allergies?
It’s important to check! These bacon-wrapped dates contain dairy due to the goat cheese, so be mindful of guests with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You can substitute goat cheese with almond cream or a dairy-free cheese alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions.

How long can I leave the dates out at room temperature?
Good question! It’s best to serve these delicious dates warm right after cooking. If they are left at room temperature, they should not sit out for more than 2 hours to ensure they remain fresh and safe to eat.