Bacon Wrapped Dates

Sweet Medjool dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese, wrapped in bacon and baked until crisp. An easy sweet and salty appetizer with just 3 main ingredients.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings (2 dates each)

Calories 170 kcal

Ingredients

24 Medjool dates pitted
4 oz goat cheese softened (or blue cheese)
12 slices regular-cut bacon cut in half crosswise
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup optional, for drizzling
black pepper to taste
24 toothpicks

Instructions

Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and set a wire rack on top if you have one.
Slice each date open along one side and remove any pits. Fill each date with about 1 tsp goat cheese and press closed.
Wrap each date with a half slice of bacon. Secure with a toothpick and place seam side down on the pan. Sprinkle with black pepper.
Bake for 10 minutes, flip, then bake 8 to 12 minutes more, until the bacon is browned and crisp.
Cool for 5 minutes (the filling is very hot). Drizzle with honey if you like and serve warm.

Notes

Tip: Regular-cut bacon crisps up at the same time the dates warm through. Thick-cut bacon takes longer and can stay chewy.
Make ahead: Stuff and wrap the dates up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3 to 4 minutes.
Variations: Stuff with an almond or blue cheese instead of goat cheese, or brush with a little balsamic glaze after baking.

Keyword bacon wrapped dates, easy christmas appetizer, goat cheese dates, stuffed dates