I’ll never forget the first time I served these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey at a dinner party. The way the sweet, caramelized dates contrasted with the tangy goat cheese and salty bacon had everyone raving. And the irresistible aroma of fresh rosemary and honey had my guests gathered around the platter, excitedly grabbing bite after bite. It was a total hit!
Since then, these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates have become my go-to appetizer for any occasion. They’re the perfect blend of savory and sweet, with a touch of herbaceous rosemary that really makes the flavors pop. Plus, they’re a cinch to prepare – the whole batch only takes 28 minutes from start to finish.
Table of Contents
Why This Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey
The secret to these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates is all in the perfectly balanced flavors and textures. The sweet, plump Medjool dates provide a luscious base, while the tangy goat cheese and salty bacon create an addictive contrast. And the fresh rosemary and honey drizzle add an elegant finishing touch that really makes this appetizer shine.
But it’s not just the flavors that make this recipe so special. The technique is also key – wrapping the bacon just right so it crisps up beautifully in the oven, and stuffing the dates with the creamy goat cheese mixture in a way that ensures every bite is perfectly balanced. It’s these little details that elevate this Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates recipe from good to downright crave-worthy.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these incredible Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted – These large, soft dates are the perfect vehicle for the savory-sweet filling. Their natural caramel-like sweetness pairs so well with the other components.
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened – The tangy, creamy goat cheese is the star of the show, providing a luxurious contrast to the dates and bacon.
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half crosswise – Crispy, salty bacon wraps around the dates, creating an irresistible texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons honey – The honey drizzle adds a final touch of sweetness and stickiness that brings everything together.
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary – Fresh rosemary lends an earthy, fragrant note that elevates the whole dish.
Step-by-Step Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey Instructions
Preparing Your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey
In just 28 minutes total (10 minutes of prep and 18 minutes of cook time), you can have a batch of these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates ready to serve. All you’ll need is a baking sheet, a small bowl, and a spoon.
1- Start by pitting the 12 Medjool dates. Run a sharp knife down one side of each date and gently remove the pit.
2- In a small bowl, mix the softened 4 ounces of goat cheese until it’s creamy and spreadable. Spoon a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of the goat cheese into the center of each pitted date.
3- Wrap a half-slice of the 6 slices of bacon around each stuffed date, overlapping the ends slightly to secure it in place.
4- Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates in a single layer on a baking sheet. You should have 24 bites total. Bake them in a 400°F oven for 18 minutes, until the bacon is crispy.
5- Remove the Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates from the oven and drizzle them with the 2 tablespoons of honey. Sprinkle the 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary over the top.
6- Serve these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey warm, with the honey still dripping down the sides of the caramelized dates. They’re irresistible!
Pro Tips for Success
Here are a few expert tips to ensure your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey turn out perfectly every time:
- Use room temperature goat cheese for the easiest stuffing. This will help it spread smoothly into the dates without tearing the delicate fruit.
- Wrap the bacon tightly and overlap the edges slightly to prevent the dates from unwrapping while baking.
- Keep an eye on the baking time – you want the bacon crisp but not burnt. The dates should be warm and softened, but still hold their shape.
- Let the Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates rest for 5 minutes after baking before drizzling with the honey and rosemary. This gives the flavors a chance to meld.
Serving and Storing Your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey
Perfect Pairings for Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey
These Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey make the perfect easy appetizer for any occasion. They’re elegant enough for a dinner party but also totally crave-worthy for casual get-togethers.
The 24 bites this recipe makes are just the right amount to serve as a starter before a main meal. They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, a light salad, or a cheese and charcuterie board. And they’re sure to be the talk of the party!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey are easy to prepare in advance. You can make the filling and stuff the dates up to 2 days ahead of time, then wrap in bacon and bake right before serving.
Once baked, the dates will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp the bacon back up before serving. You can also freeze the unbaked, bacon-wrapped dates for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey
Creative Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey Variations
While the classic Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey is truly a crowd-pleaser, you can get creative with some fun variations:
- Try swapping in figs or prunes instead of dates for a different texture and flavor profile.
- Use a flavored goat cheese, like garlic-herb or honey-lemon, to change up the filling.
- Sprinkle toasted nuts like almonds or pecans over the tops for an extra crunch.
- Swap the rosemary for fresh thyme or oregano for an herbal twist.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of honey for a savory-sweet balance.
Making Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey Diet-Friendly
This Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey recipe can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs:
For gluten-free: Use gluten-free bacon.
For dairy-free: Substitute the goat cheese with a cashew-based cheese spread.
For low-carb: Use a sugar-free honey substitute or sugar-free maple syrup.
For vegetarian: Omit the bacon and wrap the dates in prosciutto or pancetta instead.
No matter how you customize it, these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates will be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese besides goat cheese?
A: Absolutely! You can swap in other soft, tangy cheeses like cream cheese, feta, or even a sharp cheddar. Just be sure to use about 4 ounces, the same as the recipe calls for.
Q: How long do I need to bake the Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates?
A: The total baking time is 18 minutes in a 400°F oven. This ensures the bacon gets crispy while the dates and goat cheese warm through.
Q: Can I make these Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prep the dates up to 2 days in advance. Stuff them with the goat cheese, wrap in bacon, and store in the fridge until ready to bake.
Q: How many bites does this recipe make?
A: This Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey recipe yields 24 bites total, making it the perfect easy appetizer for a crowd.
Q: What if the bacon isn’t crispy enough after baking?
A: If the bacon isn’t as crisp as you’d like, simply pop the baked dates back in the oven for 3-5 minutes to let the bacon get extra crispy.
Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey
- Total Time: 28
- Yield: 24 bites
Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of creamy goat cheese, salty bacon, and sweet rosemary honey in these easy-to-make Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates. This elegant appetizer is perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you need a quick and delicious bite.
Ingredients
– 12 Medjool dates, pitted
– 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
– 6 slices bacon, cut in half crosswise
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut each date in half lengthwise and stuff with about 1 teaspoon of the goat cheese.
3. Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and chopped rosemary.
7. Drizzle the rosemary honey over the warm, bacon-wrapped dates.
8. Serve immediately.
Notes
These Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates can be assembled in advance and baked just before serving. For a spicy twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey. The dates can also be wrapped in prosciutto or pancetta instead of bacon.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 18
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
These Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey are simply irresistible. The way the flavors and textures all come together – the sweet dates, tangy goat cheese, salty bacon, and fragrant rosemary – is truly something special.
Once you try this easy, 28-minute recipe, I guarantee it will become a go-to appetizer in your repertoire. They’re perfect for entertaining, game days, or any time you need a tasty bite-sized treat. So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch today and prepare to have your guests raving!
Let me know how your Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey turn out in the comments. I’d love to hear your thoughts and see any photos you share. Enjoy!
