If you love a perfect combination of salty, sweet, creamy, and smoky flavors, you are going to adore this Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Honey Recipe. These bite-sized treats are astonishingly simple yet incredibly indulgent, blending the chewy sweetness of Medjool dates with tangy goat cheese, all wrapped in crispy bacon and finished with a drizzle of golden honey. Whether you’re planning a party appetizer or a cozy night in snack, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite that’s as easy to make as it is to devour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to whip up these heavenly bites. Each component plays a vital role in creating the harmonious balance that makes this dish so special, from the moist sweetness of the dates to the savory crispness of the bacon.
- 24 Medjool dates: The natural sweetness and chewy texture make them the perfect base for stuffing.
- 12 slices bacon (regular cut, not thick-sliced): It crisps beautifully, adding a smoky saltiness that contrasts perfectly with the sweet dates.
- 4 oz goat cheese: This creamy, tangy filling elevates the flavor profile and adds a luscious softness inside each date.
- 2 Tbsp honey: A final drizzle of honey adds a golden touch of floral sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Honey Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This temperature is just right to crisp the bacon perfectly without burning it. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the dates from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Pit and Stuff the Dates
Using a small paring knife, carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise and remove the pit. This creates a cozy little cavity for the creamy goat cheese. Stuff each date generously with goat cheese, which will melt slightly during baking and add that irresistible creamy center.
Step 3: Wrap the Dates with Bacon
Cut the bacon slices in half so each piece is just the right size to wrap around the date. Take each goat cheese-stuffed date and wrap it snugly with bacon, placing it seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. This helps keep the bacon securely wrapped as it crisps up in the oven.
Step 4: Drizzle with Honey and Bake
Before popping them in the oven, drizzle each bacon-wrapped date lightly with honey. This not only adds extra sweetness but also helps the bacon caramelize to a gorgeous golden color. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the bacon reaches your preferred crispness. Keep an eye on them near the end to avoid overcooking.
How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Honey Recipe
Garnishes
These bites are stunning on their own, but adding a garnish can elevate the presentation and introduce fresh flavor notes. Try a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbaceous touch, or scatter crunchy toasted almonds or pistachios on top for extra texture and a nutty contrast.
Side Dishes
Serve these delightful dates with light, refreshing sides that cut through the richness. A crisp mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works wonders, or opt for some pickled vegetables to add acidity and balance. These small bites also pair beautifully with a chilled glass of sparkling wine to complement their complex flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, thread these bacon-wrapped stuffed dates onto wooden skewers for a charming finger food presentation. You might even place them in mini cupcake liners to keep the bacon grease contained and make them easy to pick up. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh herbs for a cozy, inviting appetizer display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors will deepen but keep in mind the bacon will lose some crispness over time.
Freezing
These bacon-wrapped dates freeze well if you want to prepare them in advance. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back the crispiness of the bacon, reheat leftover dates in a preheated 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the bacon soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat cheese?
Absolutely! Cream cheese or blue cheese are great alternatives that also complement the sweetness of the dates and saltiness of the bacon well. Just pick your favorite creamy cheese for a similar texture.
Is it necessary to pit the dates?
Yes, pitting the dates is important because the stones inside are hard and inedible. Plus, removing the pits creates space for the delicious goat cheese filling to shine.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
While bacon is central to this recipe’s signature flavor, you could swap it for plant-based bacon alternatives or use prosciutto for a similar salty effect if you prefer a different protein choice.
How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling during baking?
Placing the wrapped dates seam-side down on the baking sheet helps hold the bacon in place. You can also use toothpicks to secure the bacon if you worry about it unraveling.
What type of dates work best for this recipe?
Medjool dates are the best choice due to their large size, natural softness, and rich sweetness, which makes them ideal for stuffing and wrapping.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Honey Recipe is one of those magical dishes that brings together simple ingredients into something utterly spectacular. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, each bite is a little celebration of flavor and texture. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a cherished staple in your kitchen as it has become in mine!
