Bacon-Wrapped Dates are a delightful appetizer featuring sweet Medjool dates stuffed optionally with creamy goat or blue cheese, wrapped in crispy, smoky bacon. This easy-to-make dish perfectly balances sweet, salty, and savory flavors ideal for parties or a flavorful snack.
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:12 pieces
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
12 Medjool dates (pitted)
6 slices of bacon (cut in half)
Optional: goat cheese or blue cheese for stuffing (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's ready for baking the bacon-wrapped dates.
Prepare Dates: If using cheese, stuff each pitted date with a small amount of goat cheese or blue cheese to add a creamy and tangy filling.
Wrap with Bacon: Take each cheese-stuffed or plain date and wrap it tightly with half a slice of bacon. Secure the bacon in place using a toothpick if needed to prevent unraveling during baking.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and browned, turning once halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the bacon-wrapped dates to cool slightly. Serve warm and enjoy this sweet and savory appetizer.
Notes
You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Using a toothpick makes it easier to handle and serve the wrapped dates.
For a spicy twist, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper inside the cheese filling or on top before baking.
Be sure to use Medjool dates for their larger size and sweetness, which pairs well with bacon.
If you prefer a less rich version, omit the cheese and enjoy the natural sweetness and bacon crispiness.
