I still remember the first time I made Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates in my little kitchen—it was one of those “aha” moments that turned into a beloved family tradition. The soft, sweet dates filled with creamy goat cheese then wrapped in salty, crispy bacon created this incredible contrast of flavors that absolutely delighted my taste buds. The aroma alone—smoky bacon mingling with the warm sweetness of caramelized dates and tangy goat cheese—fills the house with such cozy vibes. It’s no wonder these bite-sized gems quickly became my go-to bacon wrapped dates appetizer for any gathering, and an easy party snack that even my pickiest eaters can’t resist.
Back when I first discovered this combination, I struggled a bit balancing the bacon’s cooking time so it wouldn’t burn before the dates were warm enough. But once I got the timing down for Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates, it was smooth sailing. I love how this recipe fits perfectly into our bustling family life—even on days when time is tight, whipping up these stuffed dates recipes feels quick and satisfying. Plus, they’re a little fancy without any fuss, making them perfect for everything from casual weeknight bites to holiday celebrations.
If you’ve been hunting for that perfect mix of sweet, salty, creamy, and smoky—your search ends here with Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates. I can’t wait to share all my tips and stories about these luscious goat cheese appetizers that have been crowd-pleasers at my table. Whether you’re new to bacon date bites or a seasoned stuffed dates recipes fan, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into this easy party snacks adventure together. And if you want a twist on goat cheese treats, I’ve got a fun Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers recipe you might enjoy as well!
What You’ll Need for This Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
Here’s my tried-and-true list to make the best Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates, every single time:
- 24 Medjool dates, pitted: I always pick the big, soft Medjool dates because their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the tangy goat cheese. Plus, when making Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates, these dates are usually available at most grocery stores in the dried fruit aisle or even the fresh section.
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened: For my goat cheese appetizers, I prefer a creamy, mild variety to balance the flavors just right.
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon: I like to use thin-sliced bacon for crispiness without overwhelming the dates. Thick-cut works too but needs a bit more cooking time.
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (optional): This adds a delightful crunch in the center if you want a little texture contrast in your bacon date bites.
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional): For a herby touch that’s especially lovely in fall and winter versions of these stuffed dates recipes.
Here’s a neat Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates trick I picked up: Soften the goat cheese at room temperature for about 15 minutes before stuffing—it makes spreading easier and keeps the filling from falling out during wrapping. Also, when you’re short on time, you can buy pre-pitted dates, which is a real time saver for busy families making these easy party snacks.
For storing, keep any leftover goat cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. And if you have any unused dates, store them in a cool, dry place—they last surprisingly long!
If you want some tasty variations or need technique tips, I found these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey to be really inspiring for adding a sweet drizzle twist.
Let’s Make This Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates Together
Alright friend, time to roll up those sleeves and get started on making this mouthwatering Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates! Don’t worry if it’s your first time—I’ll walk you through every step, just like we’re cooking side by side.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is perfect for getting the bacon crispy without drying out the dates. In my kitchen, Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates usually take about 20-25 minutes to cook.
- Prepare your dates by slicing them halfway open and removing the pits (if not pitted already). Use a small knife or your fingers—easy does it! Stuff each date with about a teaspoon of softened goat cheese. For a fun twist, mix in some chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to add a little crunch.
- Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon. Starting at the opening, secure the bacon around the date, tucking the ends underneath to keep everything snug. If you’re worried about the bacon unraveling, toothpicks are your best friend here.
- Arrange the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. The rack helps the bacon crisp up evenly from all sides. Your kitchen should start to smell amazing—the smoky aroma is just the beginning of these irresistible bacon date bites.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through so all sides cook evenly and the bacon crisps up nicely. Keep an eye on them toward the end—they should be golden and crispy, a sign your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates are perfect.
- Let the dates cool slightly before serving. I learned the hard way with Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates that patience here saves your mouth from a goat cheese and bacon burn! While they’re cooking, I usually start prepping other easy party snacks or setting the table.
For cooking tips, check out Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese – Erin Lives Whole—they share some fantastic tricks about balancing flavors and bacon doneness you might find handy.
When you make these at home, feel free to tweak the amount of goat cheese or bacon to suit your family’s tastes. And remember, if you want a variation that’s a little creamier, try mixing the goat cheese with a bit of cream cheese like I do sometimes!
By the way, if you’re interested in more bacon and cheese treats, I have a crowd favorite recipe for Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball that’s fantastic for gatherings.
How I Love to Serve This Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
There’s just something about these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates that makes my family smile every single time I bring them out. We often serve them as a bacon wrapped dates appetizer right alongside some fresh, crisp greens or a simple charcuterie board, letting these little gems shine as the star of the party.
One of my favorite go-to pairings is serving these goat cheese appetizers with a glass of chilled sparkling wine or a nice, crisp cider. The bubbles cut through the richness and make each bite even more delightful. For casual weeknight dips or light meals, they also go wonderfully with a tangy, fresh salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette—simple but refreshing.
This recipe is perfect for holiday parties, casual get-togethers, and even birthday celebrations. I remember last Christmas when I brought a big platter of these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates and every guest kept asking for more—they’re definitely a crowd-pleaser. Presentation-wise, placing them neatly on a wooden board with some sprinkled fresh herbs adds that rustic charm everyone loves.
If you ever find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, by the way!), these bacon date bites also make a delicious addition to brunch or chopped up in a savory breakfast scramble. During fall, I like to add a hint of cinnamon or even drizzle a little honey on top for extra warmth and sweetness.
Friends always ask for this recipe after tasting these stuffed dates recipes at my gatherings—makes me so happy to share the love! If you’re curious to try something similar but with a bit of heat, check out my Bacon Jalapeno Cream Cheese Balls for another crowd-pleaser.
Your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates Questions Answered
Q1: Can I use regular cream cheese instead of goat cheese for these stuffed dates recipes?
You know what I do when my Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates need a milder flavor? I mix half goat cheese with half cream cheese for creaminess and less tang. It works great if you’re feeding kids or those new to goat cheese appetizers.
Q2: What’s the best way to keep the bacon from unwrapping while baking?
Toothpicks! This little trick saved me after several bacon date bites escaped. Just secure the bacon ends with a toothpick, and it keeps everything intact and looking pretty.
Q3: How do I make sure the bacon is crispy without burning?
I learned the hard way with Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates that baking at 375°F and using a wire rack yields perfectly crispy bacon. If you bake too hot, the bacon crisps too fast and can burn before the date is warm inside.
Q4: Can these be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep your stuffed dates recipes the day before and store them wrapped. Then, bake fresh right before serving for that irresistible crispy finish.
Q5: Are there good alternatives to bacon for dietary restrictions?
Yes! Turkey bacon or even prosciutto can be substituted if you’re looking for a lighter or different flavor. Though the classic bacon wrapped dates appetizer definitely has its own magic.
Q6: Can I add nuts or herbs in the filling?
Definitely! Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts add great texture, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme bring extra flavor layers—especially nice in the cooler months.
Q7: How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftover Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
If you want extra tips on balancing flavors and prepping ahead, Pinch of Yum’s Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese Recipe has some thoughtful advice I’ve used myself.
My Final Thoughts on This Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
This Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates recipe holds such a special place in my heart because it’s more than just a snack—it’s a little ritual of sharing good food and warmth with the people I love. Whenever I make these savory-sweet bacon date bites, my family instantly lights up, and the kitchen smells like happy memories waiting to be made.
Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates Pro Tips:
– Use thin-sliced bacon to get maximum crispiness without overcooking the dates.
– Soften goat cheese well before stuffing to prevent spilling during baking.
– Bake on a wire rack for even bacon crisping and easy cleanup.
We’ve tried several delicious variations over the years: sometimes swapping pecans for almonds, adding a rosemary honey drizzle, or mixing in a bit of cream cheese for extra smoothness. My kids love the creamier versions, while my hubby swears by the classic all goat cheese appetizers style. And honestly, no matter which way you make these stuffed dates recipes, they never fail to impress.
If you decide to make this your own, remember it’s all about balancing flavors and having fun in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid to try different cheeses or herbs to find your family’s favorite version. I hope your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates bring as much joy and comfort to your table as they do to mine.
For more recipes bursting with flavor and easy prep, check out my Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers or these irresistible Bacon Jalapeno Cream Cheese Balls. Happy cooking, friend, and here’s to many delicious bites to come!
Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates
Delight in the perfect appetizer with sweet dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese and wrapped in crispy bacon, offering a delicious balance of flavors and textures.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 10 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make a small slit in each date and remove the pit if not already pitted.
- Stuff each date with about 1 teaspoon of softened goat cheese.
- Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
- Place the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet.
- Optional: Drizzle with honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway until bacon is crisp and golden.
- Remove from oven, garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a toasted almond or pecan inside the date along with the goat cheese before wrapping with bacon.