Save Impress your guests with this stunning yet simple appetizer featuring sweet Medjool dates filled with creamy goat cheese and wrapped in smoky beef bacon. The dates are baked until the bacon crisps up perfectly, creating an irresistible contrast of textures and flavors. Ready in just 35 minutes, this gluten-free dish serves 16 pieces and works beautifully for elegant dinners or casual gatherings. Optional drizzles of honey and fresh parsley add a finishing touch of sophistication.
The first time I made these bacon-wrapped dates, it was a complete accident of pantry odds and ends. After discovering beef bacon at my local halal market, I had been itching to try it in something special beyond the usual breakfast fare. The smokiness against the honey-sweet dates created such a perfect harmony that the entire batch disappeared before dinner was even served.
Last Ramadan, I served these as part of the iftar spread, and my usually reserved father-in-law kept sneaking back to the platter throughout the evening. Between his third and fourth piece, he quietly asked me for the recipe, which might be the highest compliment my cooking has ever received.
Ingredients
- Medjool dates: Their natural caramel-like sweetness creates the perfect foundation try to find the plumpest ones you can.
- Goat cheese: The tangy creaminess cuts through the sweetness of the dates I prefer a softer variety that spreads easily.
- Beef bacon: A beautiful alternative to pork with a deeper savory note that complements the sweet dates wonderfully.
- Honey: Just a light drizzle enhances the natural sweetness and adds a beautiful gloss.
Instructions
- Prepare your dates:
- Gently open each pitted date creating a little pocket for the cheese. If any still have pits, remove them carefully so the date stays intact.
- Fill with creamy goodness:
- Spoon about a teaspoon of softened goat cheese into each date cavity. Press the edges together lightly to seal some of the cheese inside.
- Wrap with bacon:
- Take your halved beef bacon slices and wrap each stuffed date snugly. Place them seam-side down so they dont unravel during baking.
- Bake to crispy perfection:
- Arrange them on your parchment-lined baking sheet with a little space between each. The magic happens at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes, with a flip halfway through.
- Add the finishing touches:
- Transfer the hot dates to a serving plate while still warm. Drizzle with a touch of honey and scatter fresh parsley over the top for color and freshness.
Save When my sister who claims to hate goat cheese devoured four of these without realizing what was inside, I knew I had stumbled onto something special. Her wide-eyed surprise when I revealed the filling turned into laughter, and now these dates make an appearance at every family gathering by popular demand.
Make-Ahead Options
Ive discovered these can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance and kept refrigerated. Just bring them to room temperature before baking for the best results. During summer parties, I often prepare a double batch the night before so I can spend more time with guests and less time in the kitchen.
Flavor Variations
The basic recipe is wonderfully adaptable to whatever your pantry holds. One memorable evening when I ran out of goat cheese, I substituted blue cheese mixed with a touch of cream cheese, and the result was so magnificent that it spawned an entirely new favorite version.
Serving Suggestions
These dates shine brightest when served immediately after baking, while the contrast between the hot crispy bacon and melty cheese center is at its peak. Watching guests take their first bite, that moment of pure pleasure spreading across their faces, never gets old.
- For an elegant presentation, arrange them on a wooden board with sprigs of fresh herbs scattered between.
- A small bowl of flaky sea salt on the side allows guests to add a finishing touch if desired.
- Keep toothpicks nearby for easy handling especially important if serving at a standing reception.
Save These bacon-wrapped dates have taught me that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most memorable flavors. Whether for an elegant gathering or quiet evening in, they bring a moment of pure indulgence to any table.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
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Yes, you can stuff and wrap the dates up to 4 hours ahead. Keep them refrigerated on the baking sheet, then bake just before serving for the crispiest bacon.
- → What cheese alternatives work well?
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Blue cheese or cream cheese are excellent substitutes for goat cheese, offering different flavor profiles while maintaining the creamy filling texture.
- → How do I prevent the bacon from burning?
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Turn the dates halfway through baking and keep an eye on them during the final minutes. If your oven runs hot, reduce the temperature slightly to 190°C (375°F).
- → What beverages pair well with this appetizer?
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Chilled sparkling wine, crisp white wine, or even a light rosé complement the sweet and savory flavors beautifully. Non-alcoholic options include sparkling water with citrus.
- → Can I add spice to the filling?
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Absolutely. Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes into the softened goat cheese before stuffing for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
- → Is this truly gluten-free?
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The core ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always verify packaged ingredients, especially bacon, which may contain additives. Check labels for any gluten contamination warnings.
