Description
These addictive appetizers combine chewy Medjool dates, tangy goat cheese, and crispy thick-cut bacon for a perfect sweet and savory bite that is easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 ounces goat cheese (chèvre), softened
- 6–8 slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half crosswise
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 13×9 inch baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Make a small slit down the side of each date with a paring knife and gently remove the pit, keeping the date open like a pocket.
- Roll softened goat cheese into small logs and stuff about one teaspoon into each date.
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon, starting at the bottom and spiraling up. Tuck the end under or secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Place dates on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes to allow bacon to crisp further.
- Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze and sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Use thick-cut bacon to prevent burning. If dates are dry, soak in warm water for 10 minutes and pat dry. Do not overstuff with cheese to prevent leaking. For make-ahead, prep up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate. Reheat in oven at 350°F; do not microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 date
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 6
Keywords: bacon wrapped dates, goat cheese appetizer, sweet and savory snacks, party bites, easy appetizers, medjool dates, bacon recipes