Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey

Sweet, salty, creamy, and savory—these bacon-wrapped dates are a one-bite wonder. Stuffed with tangy goat cheese and finished with a warm drizzle of honey, they’re the perfect mix of indulgent and simple. This double batch is great for parties, ensuring your guests will be coming back for more. With their unique flavor combination and easy preparation, these bites are sure to impress on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet dates and tangy goat cheese wrapped in crispy bacon creates a delightful balance that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these tasty treats in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer for parties, a finger food for picnics, or even as a fun addition to your dinner table.
• Customizable Ingredients: Add nuts or switch up the type of bacon to create variations that suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These bites disappear fast at gatherings, making them a favorite among friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious bacon-wrapped dates, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Toothpicks
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even cooking surface that ensures all dates cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
• Toothpicks: Keeps the bacon securely wrapped around the dates for perfect presentation.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like goat cheese before stuffing the dates.

Ingredients

For the Dates

• 40 Medjool dates, pitted
• 20 slices bacon, cut in half
• 1½ cups goat cheese, softened
• 4 tbsp honey
• Optional: Add a toasted almond or candied pecan inside each date for crunch
• Optional: Use smoked or peppered bacon for extra depth
• Optional: Drizzle with balsamic reduction instead of honey for a gourmet touch

How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Stuff the Dates

Carefully stuff each date with about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese. Ensure they are generously filled but not overflowing.

Step 3: Wrap in Bacon

Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon. Secure it with a toothpick to hold everything in place.

Step 4: Bake the Dates

Arrange the wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning them once halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Drizzle with Honey

Remove the dates from the oven and drizzle them with honey while they are still warm. Allow them to cool slightly before serving to ensure they hold their shape.

How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey

Bacon-wrapped dates with goat cheese and honey are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these bites can enhance your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Start your meal off right by serving these delicious bites as an appetizer. Their blend of flavors will excite your guests’ taste buds.

With a Cheese Platter

• Pair these dates with a selection of cheeses. The creamy goat cheese complements hard cheeses perfectly, creating a wonderful contrast.

On a Salad

• Add chopped bacon-wrapped dates to salads for a sweet and savory twist. They work well with mixed greens, nuts, and vinaigrette dressings.

Drizzled with Balsamic Reduction

• For added sophistication, drizzle balsamic reduction over the dates before serving. This enhances their flavor and presentation.

How to Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey

Perfecting this recipe is easy with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh Medjool dates and high-quality goat cheese for the best flavor.
• Use Smoked Bacon: A smoked or peppered bacon adds depth and richness to each bite.
• Stuff Generously: Don’t skimp on the goat cheese; generous stuffing makes each date more flavorful.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven; remove them when the bacon is crispy but not burnt.
• Serve Warm: These dates are best enjoyed warm, so serve them immediately after baking for maximum enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey

These sweet and savory bites pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here’s a list of perfect companions to enhance your meal.

1. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the dates.
2. Quinoa Pilaf
   Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and vegetables creates a nutritious base that complements the flavors of the bacon-wrapped dates.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies like asparagus or bell peppers add color and texture, making for an appealing plate.
4. Garlic Bread
   Crispy garlic bread offers a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the stuffed dates, making it an excellent choice.
5. Cheesy Polenta
   Creamy polenta infused with cheese serves as a comforting side that pairs well with the sweet-savory profile of the dish.
6. Hummus Platter
   A variety of hummus flavors served with pita chips or veggie sticks provides additional snacking options alongside your main dish.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms
   Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese or herbs make for another delightful finger food option at your gathering.
8. Fruit Chutney
   A tangy fruit chutney provides an excellent contrast to the richness of the bacon-wrapped dates, enhancing their flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Not using the right cheese: Choosing a goat cheese that’s too firm can make stuffing difficult. Opt for a softer variety to ensure easy filling.
• Overcooking the bacon: If you cook the bacon too long, it will become tough. Keep an eye on them while baking and aim for crispy but not burnt.
• Skipping the toothpicks: Forgetting to secure the bacon with toothpicks can lead to messy results. Always use a toothpick to hold everything together while baking.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can affect cooking times and crispiness. Make sure your oven is at 375°F (190°C) before placing the dates inside.
• Ignoring flavor variations: Sticking strictly to one flavor profile can be boring. Experiment with different types of nuts or cheeses for added texture and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dates to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently, until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté gently over low heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or cream cheese for different flavors.

How do I prevent the dates from drying out?

Make sure not to overcook them and store them properly after cooking. Drizzling honey just before serving helps retain moisture.

Are there any good substitutes for goat cheese?

You can use cream cheese or ricotta as alternatives if you’re looking for a milder flavor.

How spicy can I make these dates?

Consider adding jalapeño slices or hot sauce inside the dates if you enjoy spicy food!

Final Thoughts

Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese & Honey are not only delicious but also versatile. They make for an impressive appetizer at any gathering or party. Feel free to customize them by adding various nuts or trying different cheeses according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!