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Bacon-wrapped dates are my quick and impressive go-to appetizer when hosting friends or craving something sweet and savory. They come together fast but taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.
I first made these for a holiday party last minute and they vanished before I could refill the platter they were such a hit
Ingredients
- Medjool dates: pitted for natural sweetness look for plump ones with shiny skin for the best texture
- Bacon: cut in half because the smaller pieces wrap better and cook evenly choose your favorite type whether classic or smoked for added flavor
- Goat cheese: softened so it’s easy to stuff and melts delightfully inside opt for fresh creamy goat cheese for richness
- Honey: to drizzle adds a floral sweetness that contrasts the salty bacon pick a pure, raw honey if you can find it for the best flavor
Instructions
- Build The Oven Setup:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. Line a baking sheet generously with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Stuff The Dates:
- Take each pitted date and gently open it enough to fill with approximately one teaspoon of softened goat cheese. This creamy center provides a delightful surprise when you bite into the crisp bacon.
- Wrap With Bacon:
- Cut the bacon slices in half and carefully wrap each stuffed date with a half slice. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to keep everything neatly in place during baking.
- Arrange On The Sheet:
- Place the bacon-wrapped dates spaced out on the prepared baking sheet. This spacing ensures even cooking and allows the bacon to crisp on all sides.
- Bake Until Crispy:
- Put the sheet in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes turning the dates halfway through to cook the bacon evenly until it becomes crispy and golden. The cheese inside softens deliciously while the bacon crisps outside.
- Add The Finishing Touch:
- As soon as they come out of the oven, drizzle the warm dates with honey. This sticky glaze adds a sweet, glossy finish that complements the smokiness perfectly. Let them cool briefly before serving so they hold their shape.
My favorite part is the silky goat cheese melting inside with every bite. These always remind me of bringing a tray to family gatherings and watching them disappear in minutes
Storage Tips
Store leftover bacon-wrapped dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat crisp bacon, place them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8 minutes rather than microwaving, which makes bacon chewy.
Ingredient Swaps
Try cream cheese if you prefer a milder filling or experiment with blue cheese for a pungent twist. Pancetta or prosciutto can replace bacon if you want a less smoky flavor but still crave saltiness.
Serving Ideas
Serve these as part of a cocktail hour spread with olives, nuts, and cheeses. They also pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or bubbly. For extra flair, drizzle with a balsamic reduction instead of honey or sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
These bacon-wrapped dates bring a perfect mix of smoky and sweet for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of dates work best for this dish?
Medjool dates are preferred because of their large size, natural sweetness, and soft texture, making them ideal for stuffing.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of goat cheese?
Soft cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta can be substitutes, but goat cheese adds a distinctive tang that complements the bacon and dates well.
- → How can I ensure the bacon crisps evenly?
Wrapping dates tightly and baking on parchment allows heat to circulate. Turning the dates halfway promotes even crisping without burning.
- → Are there alternative finishing touches besides honey?
Drizzling with a balsamic reduction introduces a subtle acidity and depth that enhances the flavor contrast beautifully.
- → Can nuts be incorporated in this preparation?
Yes, adding a toasted almond or candied pecan inside each date offers a delightful crunch that balances the creamy cheese and tender fruit.