I’ll never forget the first time I tried Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese. It was at a fancy dinner party, and the host had prepared this incredible appetizer. As soon as I popped that first sweet and savory bite into my mouth, I was hooked. The crispy bacon, the creamy goat cheese, and the caramelized dates created a flavor explosion that had me coming back for seconds… and thirds. From that moment on, I knew this Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese recipe was going to become a go-to for me, whether I was hosting a gathering or attending one.
Table of Contents
Why This Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
What makes this Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The salty, crispy bacon perfectly complements the sweet, caramelized dates, while the creamy goat cheese ties it all together. Plus, this recipe yields 12 servings, so it’s the perfect appetizer for any size gathering.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 12 medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 12 slices bacon, cut in half
Step-by-Step Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese Instructions
Preparing Your Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
This recipe takes 35 minutes total – 15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a baking sheet and a small bowl to get started.
1- First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut each Medjool date in half lengthwise and carefully remove the pit.
2- Next, use a small spoon to stuff each date half with about 1 tsp of the softened goat cheese.
3- Wrap each stuffed date half with a half-slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
4- Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching. Drizzle the honey over the top.
5- Bake the Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese for 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6- Remove the toothpicks, transfer the Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese to a serving platter, and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:
- Use room temperature goat cheese for easier stuffing
- Make sure to wrap the bacon tightly around the dates to prevent unwrapping
- Keep an eye on the baking time – you want the bacon to be crispy but not burnt
- Adjust the amount of honey to your personal taste preference
Serving and Storing Your Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
Perfect Pairings for Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
This Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese recipe makes 12 servings, with each serving being 2 pieces. It’s the perfect appetizer to serve at a party, a family gathering, or even as a casual snack. Try pairing it with a crisp white wine, a light beer, or a sparkling cocktail for a delicious and elevated experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese are best enjoyed fresh, but you can make them up to 2 days in advance. Store the baked, cooled Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply pop them in the oven for 5-10 minutes to reheat and crisp up the bacon.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
Creative Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese Variations
While this classic Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese recipe is hard to beat, you can get creative with some fun variations. Try swapping the goat cheese for blue cheese or brie, or adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different types of dates, such as Deglet Noor or Barhi, to change up the sweetness.
Making Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free version of this recipe, simply use gluten-free bacon. To make it vegan, replace the goat cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and the bacon with a plant-based bacon substitute. For a low-carb option, use a sugar-free honey substitute or omit the honey altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?
A: Absolutely! Goat cheese is the traditional filling, but you can experiment with other soft, creamy cheeses like brie, blue cheese, or even cream cheese.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 12 servings, with each serving being 2 pieces.
Q: Can I make the Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make these up to 2 days in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Q: What’s the best way to avoid the bacon from unwrapping?
A: Make sure to wrap the bacon tightly around the dates and secure it with a toothpick. This will help the bacon stay in place during baking.
Q: Can I freeze the Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese?
A: While you can freeze these appetizers, the texture and flavor may not be as good as freshly made. It’s best to enjoy them within 2-3 days of baking.
Print
Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese is a delightful sweet and savory appetizer that is easy to make and sure to impress your guests. The combination of creamy goat cheese, sweet medjool dates, and crispy bacon creates an irresistible flavor explosion in every bite.
Ingredients
– 12 medjool dates, pitted
– 4 oz goat cheese, softened
– 12 slices bacon, cut in half
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. Cut a slit in each date and carefully remove the pit.
3. 3. Stuff each date with about 1 teaspoon of the softened goat cheese.
4. 4. Wrap a half slice of bacon around each stuffed date, securing it with a toothpick.
5. 5. Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
7. 7. Remove the toothpicks and serve the bacon-wrapped dates warm.
Notes
For a more savory flavor, try using a flavored goat cheese, such as herb or garlic. You can also sprinkle a bit of brown sugar or paprika on the bacon-wrapped dates before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese is a simple yet incredibly delicious appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Give it a try at your next gathering, and get ready for rave reviews! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and photos in the comments below.
