Bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese are a delightful treat! The sweet and salty combo makes every bite oh-so-yummy. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
Whenever I make these, they vanish in no time! It’s hard to resist the crispy bacon and gooey cheese. Just a heads up, you might need extra dates—trust me on this one! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These are my favorite for their sweetness and size. If you can’t find Medjool, try Deglet Noor dates, though they are less sweet and smaller. Either option works, just make sure they are pitted!
Goat Cheese: Soft goat cheese adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan, cream cheese is a good alternative, or you could mix it with herbs for extra flavor. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s spreadable!
Bacon: I personally love using thick-cut bacon for added flavor and crispiness. Turkey bacon is a lighter option if you’re looking for a healthier substitute, but it may not crisp up the same way.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish. If you don’t have it, try chives or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a kick!
How Can I Ensure the Bacon is Crispy?
Achieving crispy bacon on your dates can be tricky, but there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Preheat your oven well before baking. A hot oven is key!
- Arrange the dates seam-side down. This helps the bacon cook better without unraveling.
- Flip the dates halfway through cooking time. This allows all sides to get crispy.
- For extra crunch, broil them for the last couple of minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning!
With these tips, you’ll have a delightful batch of bacon-wrapped dates that everyone will enjoy!
Bacon-Wrapped Dates With Goat Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 pitted Medjool dates
- 4 oz (115g) soft goat cheese
- 10 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Toothpicks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty appetizer will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 20-25 minutes to bake, for a total of around 35-40 minutes. A bit of time for some deliciousness, but totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This helps with easy cleanup later and stops the dates from sticking!
2. Stuff the Dates:
Take your pitted dates and use a small spoon or your fingers to fill each one with about 1 teaspoon of soft goat cheese. Don’t be shy! Just pack it in there nicely for a gooey, cheesy center!
3. Wrap ‘Em Up:
Next, grab a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date, making sure to secure it with a toothpick. The bacon should fit snugly but not too tight; we don’t want it to burst open while baking!
4. Bake to Perfection:
Place the bacon-wrapped dates seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through for that perfect crispy bacon goodness!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and transfer the dates to a serving plate. Sprinkle them with finely chopped parsley for a lovely touch of color and freshness.
6. Enjoy!
Serve these warm, and get ready for compliments! Each bite is a delightful mix of sweet, salty, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for any gathering!
This appetizer truly is a crowd-pleaser, combining the stickiness of dates, smooth goat cheese, and crispy bacon. Don’t be surprised if they disappear fast!
Can I Use Other Cheeses Instead of Goat Cheese?
Absolutely! If goat cheese isn’t your flavor, you can try cream cheese for a milder taste or even blue cheese for a stronger flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese is spreadable for easy stuffing!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get the bacon crispy again!
Can I Make These Bacon-Wrapped Dates in Advance?
You can prepare the dates up to a day ahead! Stuff and wrap them, then cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge!
What Can I Serve These With?
These bacon-wrapped dates pair beautifully with a variety of dips, such as balsamic vinegar reduction, pesto, or even a spicy aioli. They also work well as a topping on a cheese platter for a fun appetizer spread!
