Easy Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect bite-sized appetizer to wow your guests, look no further than Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese. This irresistible combination blends the smoky, crispy goodness of bacon with the sweet, chewy dates and creamy tang of goat cheese. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a quick savory snack, this recipe offers a simple yet elegant way to please any crowd with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just a few simple steps are all it takes to create an impressive appetizer.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet dates, salty bacon, and tangy goat cheese create a mouthwatering trio.
• Party Favorite: These bite-sized treats disappear fast at any gathering or celebration.
• Customizable: Adjust fillings and spices to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Minimal Ingredients: No need for fancy or hard-to-find items—making it accessible for everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of fresh, quality ingredients makes this Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese recipe special. Each component plays an important role in delivering the final delicious bite, from the sweetness and texture of the dates to the crispy saltiness of the bacon and the creamy tang of the goat cheese.

• Medjool Dates: These large, soft dates are perfect for stuffing due to their natural sweetness and chewy texture.
• Goat Cheese: Choose creamy, spreadable goat cheese to complement the rich flavor of the dates.
• Bacon: Thin-sliced bacon crisps quickly around the dates, adding irresistible smokiness.
• Toothpicks: Essential for securing the bacon and making these appetizers easy to serve and eat.
• Optional Spices: A pinch of black pepper or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor if desired.

Variations for Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to switch up ingredients or add twists while keeping the same tasty foundation. Feel free to experiment so you can personalize it to your palate or occasion.

• Add Nuts: Stuff dates with a whole almond or pecan for added crunch and richness.
• Use Different Cheeses: Swap goat cheese for cream cheese, blue cheese, or feta to change the flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a sprinkle of chili flakes or insert a small piece of jalapeño inside the dates for some heat.
• Maple Glaze: Brush bacon with maple syrup before baking for a sweet glaze and caramelized finish.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace bacon with thin slices of smoked eggplant or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (about 200 degrees Celsius) so it’s ready to crisp the bacon perfectly without burning it.

Step 2: Prepare the Dates

Carefully slice each date lengthwise on one side and remove the pit. Be gentle so you don’t split the dates entirely apart.

Step 3: Stuff with Goat Cheese

Spoon or pipe a generous amount of goat cheese into each date’s cavity, filling it completely for rich, tangy flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

Cut bacon slices in half or thirds to fit each date snugly. Wrap each stuffed date with a piece of bacon and secure it firmly with a toothpick to prevent unraveling.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes. Turn them halfway through cooking for even crispiness and watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Once golden and crispy, remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm for the best experience with melting cheese and crisp bacon.

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

• Choose High-Quality Bacon: The better the bacon, the more flavorful and crispy your bites will be.
• Don’t Overstuff: Use just enough goat cheese to fill the dates without causing leakage during baking.
• Use Toothpicks: They keep everything in place and make serving effortless.
• Line Your Baking Tray: Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
• Add a Light Drizzle: A drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze after baking enhances flavor beautifully.

How to Serve Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

Garnishes

Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or chopped parsley over the finished dish to add a burst of color and subtle herbal notes that complement the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

Offer alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and create a complete appetizer tray.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange on a wooden serving board or a decorative platter with small bowls of dipping sauces such as spicy mustard or fig jam to elevate the presentation and flavor options.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked bacon wrapped dates by placing them on a tray first to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes to keep the bacon crisp and cheese warm instead of microwaving, which can make bacon soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese, blue cheese, or feta all offer unique tastes that pair well with dates and bacon, allowing you to tailor the flavor to your liking.

How many do servings does this recipe make?

This recipe typically yields about 20-24 pieces, perfect for serving 6-8 people as an appetizer depending on portion sizes.

Are bacon wrapped dates gluten free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten free as long as you choose gluten-free bacon, which is commonly available at most stores.

Can this appetizer be made vegetarian?

Yes, by substituting bacon with smoked eggplant slices, tempeh, or another plant-based alternative, you can enjoy a vegetarian version.

What’s the best type of date to use?

Medjool dates are best for Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese due to their large size, tender texture, and natural sweetness that complements the other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese offer an irresistible blend of flavors that make for a quick, elegant, and crowd-pleasing appetizer. Whether you’re preparing for a special event or just indulging at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite go-to option. Grab your ingredients and start creating these savory bites that promise joy in every delicious mouthful!

Related Posts

• Are Homemade Fish Cakes Worth Trying?
• Easy Pickled Beets Recipe to Try Now
• Crispy Fried Okra Recipe to Try Today

Print