Bacon wrapped dates goat cheese has become my go-to appetizer for literally any occasion. I first discovered how magical this combination could be at a friend’s holiday party a few years ago. The moment I popped one of these sweet and savory bites into my mouth, I was hooked! The salty, crispy bacon perfectly complements the chewy, sweet dates, and then you hit that creamy, tangy goat cheese – it’s a flavor explosion! Seriously, these easy bacon wrapped dates goat cheese bites are the best appetizer I’ve made in ages. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
Get ready to wow your guests with these incredible bites. Here’s why this recipe is a winner:
- Effortless Elegance: They look and taste gourmet, but are surprisingly simple to whip up.
- Flavor Symphony: The perfect balance of sweet dates, savory bacon, and tangy goat cheese is irresistible.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese are always the first to disappear at any party.
- Quick Preparation: You can have these ready for the oven in under 15 minutes.
- Versatile Appetizer: Ideal for holidays, game nights, or just a special treat any day of the week.
- Diet-Friendly: Naturally vegetarian and easily adaptable for other dietary needs. Learn more about dietary adaptations.
- Satisfying Texture: Crispy bacon meets chewy date and creamy filling for a delightful mouthfeel.
- Impressive Presentation: These goat cheese stuffed dates wrapped in bacon are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Ingredients for Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
Gather these simple ingredients for the most delightful bacon wrapped dates goat cheese recipe. The quality of your ingredients really shines through in this dish!
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted – These are the stars for sweetness and chewiness; make sure they’re soft and plump.
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened – Opt for a creamy, plain goat cheese. Softening it makes it much easier to stuff into the dates. This creamy goat cheese filling is key!
- 12 slices bacon, halved – Use regular-cut bacon, not thick-cut, so it crisps up nicely without burning before the dates are warm.
- Toothpicks – To secure the bacon around the dates.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
Whipping up these incredible bacon wrapped dates goat cheese hors d’oeuvres is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll have a show-stopping appetizer in no time!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is crucial for getting that bacon perfectly crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup – trust me, you’ll thank yourself later for this simple step.
- Step 2: Prepare your dates. Slice each Medjool date lengthwise, just deep enough to remove the pit. I find using a small paring knife works best. You want to create a pocket for the cheese without cutting all the way through.
- Step 3: Get your creamy goat cheese bacon wrapped dates filling ready. In a small bowl, stir the softened goat cheese until it’s smooth and spreadable. If it’s too firm, a few extra seconds of stirring will do the trick.
- Step 4: Stuff the dates generously with the goat cheese. Use a small spoon or even your fingers (if you don’t mind a little cheese on them!) to fill each date cavity. Don’t be shy; this creamy filling is what makes these bites so divine.
- Step 5: Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon. Overlap the bacon slightly and secure it firmly with a toothpick. This ensures the bacon stays put as it cooks and crisps up beautifully.
- Step 6: Arrange the goat cheese stuffed dates wrapped in bacon on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t touching too much, so the heat can circulate and crisp the bacon evenly on all sides.
- Step 7: Bake for 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’re looking for the bacon to be wonderfully crispy and golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is absolutely heavenly.
- Step 8: Carefully remove the toothpicks before serving. Let the bacon wrapped dates goat cheese cool slightly – they are best served warm, allowing that gooey cheese and crispy bacon to meld together perfectly.
Pro Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
I’ve made these little bites more times than I can count, and over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make them absolutely perfect every time. These tips will ensure your bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese are a guaranteed hit.
- Use plump, soft Medjool dates for the best texture and sweetness. If your dates are a bit firm, a quick soak in warm water for 5-10 minutes can help.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give each bite enough space so the bacon can get nice and crispy on all sides.
- For extra flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of black pepper or a tiny bit of smoked paprika over the goat cheese before wrapping.
- Always use regular-cut bacon; thick-cut bacon will take too long to crisp up, potentially overcooking the dates.
What’s the secret to perfect Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese?
The real secret lies in the balance: perfectly ripe dates, creamy, tangy goat cheese filling, and bacon that’s just the right crispness. Ensuring your bacon is halved helps it cook evenly without overwhelming the delicate flavors of the date and cheese. For more on flavor pairings, check out our latest recipes.
Can I make Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can stuff and wrap the dates up to 24 hours in advance. Store them on a baking sheet covered tightly in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve; they might need an extra couple of minutes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese?
A common pitfall is using dates that are too dry or bacon that’s too thick, which leads to uneven cooking. Also, ensure your goat cheese is softened properly so it’s easy to stuff and melts beautifully. For more cooking tips, visit our homepage.
Best Ways to Serve Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
These delightful bacon dates goat cheese bites are incredibly versatile and can elevate any gathering. They’re fantastic on their own as a stunning appetizer, but also pair beautifully with other dishes.
- As a Standalone Appetizer: Arrange them on a platter with a small bowl of balsamic glaze for dipping. The tangy glaze adds another layer of flavor to the sweet and savory profile.
- Part of a Cheese Board: These gourmet bacon wrapped dates goat cheese bites are a perfect addition to a charcuterie or cheese board, offering a warm, sweet-and-salty contrast to cured meats and other cheeses.
- With a Light Salad: For a more substantial appetizer or light lunch, serve a few alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens cut through the richness beautifully.
Nutrition Facts for Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
These delicious bacon wrapped dates goat cheese bites are a treat, and understanding their nutritional profile helps in enjoying them mindfully. Here’s an approximate breakdown per bite:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of bacon and goat cheese. For information on how we handle your data, please see our privacy policy.
How to Store and Reheat Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
Even though these bacon wrapped dates goat cheese hors d’oeuvres are best enjoyed fresh, knowing how to store and reheat them properly is super helpful. If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s what you need to do.
First, let the bacon wrapped dates with creamy goat cheese filling cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from making them soggy. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. For more details on data privacy, refer to our GDPR information.
When you’re ready to reheat, the best method is to place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the bacon is re-crisped. This reheating method helps bring back that delicious crispy texture!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
What are bacon wrapped dates goat cheese?
These are a popular appetizer made by stuffing pitted dates with creamy goat cheese and then wrapping them in bacon before baking until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is warm and gooey. They offer a fantastic sweet, savory, and tangy flavor profile that people absolutely love.
Why use goat cheese with bacon wrapped dates?
Goat cheese is the perfect partner for bacon wrapped dates because its tangy, slightly earthy flavor cuts through the sweetness of the date and the richness of the bacon. This contrast creates a more complex and well-rounded taste experience, making these bacon dates goat cheese bites incredibly addictive. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
Can I substitute the goat cheese in bacon wrapped dates?
Absolutely! While goat cheese is classic, I’ve had success with other soft cheeses like cream cheese (for a milder flavor), brie (for a richer taste), or even small dollops of blue cheese for a bolder kick. However, the tangy creaminess of goat cheese is truly special in this easy bacon wrapped dates goat cheese recipe.
What’s the best way to get the bacon crispy?
The key is to use regular-cut bacon, not thick-cut, and to halve the slices. Baking at a higher temperature, like 400°F (200°C), as outlined in the recipe, also helps immensely. Ensure the dates aren’t too close together on the baking sheet so air can circulate for maximum crispiness. For terms of service, please visit our terms.
Variations of Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese You Can Try
While the classic recipe for bacon wrapped dates goat cheese is heavenly, don’t be afraid to experiment! These variations offer exciting new flavors and cater to different preferences, making your appetizer game even stronger.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, try adding a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or a sliver of jalapeño inside the date along with the goat cheese. This creates a delightful sweet, savory, and spicy sensation.
- Herbaceous Delight: Mix finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the softened goat cheese before stuffing. The fresh herbs add an aromatic layer that complements the other flavors beautifully, making these a more gourmet bacon wrapped dates goat cheese experience.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a small toasted pecan or almond inside the date before stuffing it with goat cheese. This adds a wonderful textural contrast and nutty flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the bacon and dates.
- Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: After baking, give your tangy goat cheese bacon dates a light drizzle of balsamic glaze. This adds a touch of acidity and sweetness that elevates the entire bite.
Bacon Dates Goat Cheese: 15Min Appetizer Magic
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the irresistible combination of crispy bacon, sweet dates, and creamy goat cheese in this easy-to-make appetizer. Perfect for parties, holidays, or any gathering, these bacon wrapped dates goat cheese bites are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 12 slices bacon, halved
- Toothpicks
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice each date lengthwise and carefully remove the pit.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Stuff each date half with a small spoonful of the goat cheese.
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the toothpicks and serve the bacon wrapped dates goat cheese warm.
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality Medjool dates and fresh, soft goat cheese.
- You can also try variations by using different types of cheese or adding a sprinkle of spices or herbs.
- These are best served immediately, but they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
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