Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese are the kind of appetizer that disappears almost as quickly as they hit the table. Sweet dates, creamy goat cheese, and crisp bacon create the perfect balance of salty and rich, while toasted pecans and balsamic glaze add texture and depth. They feel elegant enough for entertaining but are simple enough to make anytime you want something impressive with very little effort.
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More About Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Does it matter what dates i use?
Medjool dates are ideal for this recipe because they’re large, soft, and naturally caramel-like in flavor, which makes them easy to stuff and balances beautifully with the goat cheese and bacon. Smaller varieties can work, but they’re often firmer and harder to fill, with less room for the cheese. If using another type, choose dates that are soft and already pitted for the easiest preparation.
cheese variations
If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, cream cheese works well for a milder flavor and similarly creamy texture. Blue cheese creates a stronger contrast with the sweet dates, while feta offers a saltier option. Any soft cheese that can be easily tucked inside the dates will work.
Do I need to Use toothpicks?
Toothpicks help keep the bacon securely wrapped around the dates as it cooks, especially once the bacon begins to shrink in the oven. They also make the finished appetizer easier to serve and pick up. If your bacon stays in place well, you can skip them, but they make the process much easier.
Can I prep these ahead of time?
These are easy to prep ahead. Stuff the dates, wrap them with bacon, and secure them with toothpicks, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Once baked, add the pecans, parsley, and balsamic glaze just before serving for the best texture and presentation.
Make It A Spread
If you’re building an appetizer spread, these bacon wrapped dates pair beautifully with other easy crowd-pleasers. Serve them alongside creamy dips, warm baked appetizers, or crisp seafood for a mix of textures and flavors that feels effortless but impressive. A few simple additions can turn them into part of a full entertaining spread without much extra work.
Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates pitted
- 5 oz goat cheese
- 6 slices of bacon
For Garnish (Optional)
- ¼ cup toasted pecans roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet or oven-safe dish with parchment paper.
- Fill each date with a small amount of goat cheese, gently pressing it closed around the filling.12 Medjool dates, 5 oz goat cheese
- Cut the bacon slices in half and wrap each stuffed date with one piece of bacon. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon.6 slices of bacon
- Arrange the wrapped dates on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and caramelized.
- Transfer to a serving plate and finish with chopped parsley, chopped pecans, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.¼ cup toasted pecans, 1 tbsp fresh parsley, balsamic glaze
