Save Sweet Medjool dates filled with tangy goat cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon—a perfect sweet-salty appetizer for any occasion.
This is a family favorite I first made for a holiday party and it was gone in minutes.
Ingredients
- 16 large Medjool dates: pitted
- 4 oz (115 g) fresh goat cheese (chèvre): tangy, creamy cheese
- 8 slices thin-cut bacon: halved crosswise
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 400℉ (200℃). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- With a small knife, make a lengthwise slit in each date and remove the pit if not already pitted.
- Step 3:
- Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese, pressing gently to close the date around the filling.
- Step 4:
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon, securing the ends underneath or with a toothpick if needed.
- Step 5:
- Arrange the wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 6:
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until bacon is crisp and browned.
- Step 7:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save My family enjoys making these together during gatherings; it’s a fun and tasty tradition.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a toasted almond inside each date before stuffing with cheese. Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet finish. Goat cheese can be swapped with blue cheese if desired.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, small knife, spoon or small spatula, toothpicks (optional).
Nutritional Information
Per piece: 85 calories, 4.5 g total fat, 8 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein.
Save This appetizer is a perfect combination of flavors that will impress any crowd every time.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of dates works best?
Large Medjool dates are ideal because of their sweetness and soft texture, making them easy to stuff and complementing the salty bacon.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?
Yes, creamy cheeses like blue cheese or cream cheese can be great substitutes, adding different flavor profiles to the dish.
- → How do I ensure the bacon stays crispy?
Bake the wrapped dates on parchment-lined sheets at 400°F and turn halfway through cooking to achieve even crispiness.
- → Are there ways to add more texture or flavor?
Try adding a toasted almond inside each date before stuffing or drizzle honey or balsamic glaze on top before serving.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
You can stuff and wrap the dates in advance and refrigerate them before baking, but cook them fresh for the best texture.