Pin It Sweet Medjool dates filled with tangy goat cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon—a perfect sweet-salty appetizer for any occasion.
This appetizer has become a favorite at family gatherings and holiday parties.
Ingredients
- 16 large Medjool dates: pitted
- 4 oz (115 g) fresh goat cheese (chèvre): soft and tangy
- 8 slices thin-cut bacon: halved crosswise
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare dates:
- With a small knife, make a lengthwise slit in each date and remove the pit if not already pitted.
- Stuff dates:
- Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese, pressing gently to close the date around the filling.
- Wrap dates:
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon, securing the ends underneath or with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange:
- Arrange the wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- for 18–22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until bacon is crisp and browned.
- Cool:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Pin It Sharing these bites always brings smiles to my family and friends.
Preparation Tips
For extra flavor, add a toasted almond inside each date before stuffing with cheese. Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet finish.
Substitutions
Swap goat cheese for blue cheese if desired for a stronger tang.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm as a perfect appetizer paired with your favorite wine.
Pin It These bacon-wrapped dates are sure to impress at any gathering.
Questions About This Recipe
- → What type of dates work best for this dish?
Large Medjool dates are ideal due to their softness and natural sweetness, which complements the creamy goat cheese and smoky bacon perfectly.
- → Can I substitute goat cheese with another cheese?
Yes, blue cheese can be used as an alternative to add a sharper, more pungent flavor, balancing the sweet and savory elements.
- → How to ensure the bacon stays wrapped during cooking?
Wrapping the bacon tightly around each stuffed date and securing ends underneath or with toothpicks helps keep it in place as it crisps in the oven.
- → What is the recommended oven temperature and baking time?
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and browned.
- → Are there any flavor enhancements suggested?
Adding a toasted almond inside each date before filling or drizzling with honey or balsamic glaze before serving adds extra depth and balance.