Save It Sweet Medjool dates filled with tangy goat cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon—a perfect sweet-salty appetizer for any occasion.
This is a favorite at family gatherings and is always the first to disappear from the appetizer tray.
Ingredients
- Medjool dates: 16 large, pitted
- Goat cheese: 4 oz (115 g) fresh chèvre
- Bacon: 8 slices thin-cut, halved crosswise
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 400° F (200° C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare dates:
- Make a lengthwise slit in each date and remove the pit if not already pitted.
- Stuff dates:
- Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese, pressing gently to close the date around the filling.
- Wrap dates:
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon securing the ends underneath or with a toothpick if needed.
- Arrange:
- Place wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes turning once halfway through until bacon is crisp and browned.
- Cool:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Save It These treats always bring the family together especially during celebrations.
Additional Tips
For extra flavor add a toasted almond inside each date before stuffing with cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze before serving for a sweet finish.
Variations
Swap goat cheese for blue cheese if desired to give a sharper taste.
Save It A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines sweet and savory in every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of dates work best?
Large Medjool dates are ideal due to their natural sweetness and soft texture, making them easy to stuff and complementing the savory bacon.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of goat cheese?
Yes, creamy cheeses like blue cheese or cream cheese can be substituted to add different flavor profiles while maintaining the creamy filling texture.
- → How do I prevent bacon from unwrapping during baking?
Securing the bacon ends underneath the dates or using toothpicks helps keep the bacon wrapped tightly as it crisps in the oven.
- → Is there a way to add extra crunch or flavor?
Adding a toasted almond inside each date before stuffing introduces a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with the cheese and bacon.
- → What baking temperature and time are recommended?
Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes ensures the bacon crisps properly while the cheese inside remains soft and the dates heat through.