Savory Bacon-Wrapped Dates – Easy Goat Cheese Appetizer Recipe

Posted on November 23, 2025

The smell of sizzling bacon and caramelized dates wafting through my kitchen is the kind of thing that instantly makes everyone wander in, noses up, wondering what magic is happening. The first time I made these savory bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese, I wasn’t expecting them to disappear so fast. Honestly, they barely made it to the serving platter. That salty-sweet combo, with the creamy tang of goat cheese nestled inside a tender date, is pure bliss — the kind of bite-sized indulgence that stops conversation mid-sentence.

I first had something like these at a tiny tapas bar years ago, tucked along a cobblestone street where the owner served them hot off the pan. I was instantly hooked. The crisp bacon contrasted with the soft date in such a perfect way that I knew I had to recreate it at home. After a few rounds of “testing” (in the name of research, of course), I found the sweet spot — literally and figuratively — with a balance of smoky, creamy, and just the right hint of sweetness.

Now, these bacon-wrapped dates have become my go-to appetizer for everything from holiday parties to lazy Sunday hangouts. My family can’t resist sneaking them right off the baking tray (and I can’t really blame them). They’re dangerously easy to make, always a hit, and feel a bit fancy without any fuss. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner, need a quick potluck treat, or just want something that feels a little special, this recipe is the one to bookmark. Trust me — after one bite, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are appetizers, and then there are show-stoppers like these savory bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese. They look fancy, taste incredible, and take almost no effort. I’ve made them for years, and every time, someone asks for the recipe. Here’s why this little bite of joy deserves a permanent spot in your entertaining rotation:

Quick & Easy: You can whip up a batch in under 30 minutes. Perfect for last-minute guests or when you need something impressive fast.
Simple Ingredients: Just three main ingredients — bacon, goat cheese, and dates. Nothing fancy, but the flavor payoff is huge.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday parties to wine nights or even date night dinners, these fit right in.
Crowd-Pleaser: Sweet, salty, creamy, and crispy — they hit every craving note. Even picky eaters love them!
Unbelievably Delicious: The goat cheese melts into the warm date while the bacon crisps up around it for an irresistible contrast.

What makes this version different? A few little tricks I’ve learned: using thin-cut bacon so it crisps evenly without overpowering the date, and choosing soft, plump Medjool dates for the best texture. Plus, I like to add just a tiny drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of black pepper before baking for that extra flavor pop. This recipe isn’t just good — it’s the one that makes people close their eyes and hum after the first bite. It’s comfort meets elegance, easy enough for a casual night but impressive enough for the holidays. It’s the kind of recipe that turns a simple appetizer into a memory.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed bite. You probably have most of them on hand, and if not, they’re easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need for the best savory bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese:

For the Dates

Medjool dates (20 large, pitted) – Soft, sweet, and caramel-like. Avoid the smaller Deglet Noor dates; they’re firmer and less rich.
Goat cheese (4 oz / 115 g) – Creamy, tangy, and perfectly complements the sweetness of the dates. I like using a mild, spreadable goat cheese.

For the Wrapping

Bacon strips (10 slices, cut in half) – Use thin-cut bacon so it crisps evenly. Thick-cut tends to cook slower and can overpower the bite.

Optional Flavor Enhancers

Honey (1–2 tsp) – Adds a touch of sweetness and helps caramelize the bacon beautifully.
Fresh cracked black pepper – For a bit of heat and contrast.
Toothpicks – To secure the bacon while baking (and make serving easier!).

Ingredient Tips: Look for plump, soft dates — they should feel slightly sticky but not mushy. If your dates are a little dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then pat dry before stuffing. For goat cheese, choose one with a smooth texture. You can even mix in a pinch of herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for a twist. And when it comes to bacon, avoid the thickest slices — they take too long to crisp, leaving the dates overcooked.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy gadgets for these bacon-wrapped dates. Just a few kitchen basics will get the job done perfectly:

Baking sheet – Line it with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Wire rack (optional) – Helps the bacon cook evenly and stay crisp on all sides.
Small spoon or piping bag – Makes stuffing the goat cheese into the dates neat and simple.
Toothpicks – Essential for holding the bacon in place while baking.
Tongs – For flipping the dates halfway through baking.

If you don’t have a wire rack, no worries — just flip the dates halfway through so they brown evenly. And if you’re making a big batch, use two trays so they’re not crowded. Bacon needs a little breathing room to crisp up properly!

Preparation Method

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. If using a wire rack, place it on top of the sheet.
Prepare the dates: If your dates aren’t pitted, make a small slit lengthwise and remove the pit. Don’t cut all the way through — you want them to stay intact like little pockets.
Stuff the dates: Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each date with about 1 teaspoon (5 g) of goat cheese. Press gently to close the slit.
Wrap with bacon: Take half a slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around each stuffed date. Secure with a toothpick through the center to keep the bacon in place.
Add optional toppings: If desired, brush lightly with honey and sprinkle with freshly cracked pepper. This adds a beautiful glossy finish and extra flavor depth.
Bake: Arrange the wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared tray. Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them — bacon can go from perfect to burnt in a flash!
Rest before serving: Let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving. The goat cheese will be piping hot right out of the oven.

Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, broil them for 1–2 minutes at the end. Just watch them closely so they don’t char. You’ll know they’re ready when the bacon edges are crisp, the cheese is just starting to ooze slightly, and your kitchen smells downright heavenly.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

After making this recipe a dozen times (and counting), I’ve learned a few tricks for getting perfect results every single time:

Pick the right dates: Medjool dates are best because they’re larger and softer. If you use smaller ones, reduce the goat cheese filling to keep things balanced.
Don’t overstuff: A little goat cheese goes a long way. Overfilling can cause it to leak out during baking.
Let the bacon breathe: Spread the dates out on your tray. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.
Flip halfway: Turning them ensures even browning on all sides and prevents soggy bottoms.
Use thin bacon: Thick-cut bacon takes longer to cook and can make the dates tough. Thin or regular-cut bacon crisps beautifully.
Keep them warm: You can hold baked dates in a warm oven (around 200°F / 95°C) for up to 30 minutes before serving.

One time, I made the mistake of wrapping the bacon too tightly — it ended up squeezing out the goat cheese during baking. Lesson learned: a gentle wrap works best. And if you want to prep ahead, you can assemble them a few hours early and refrigerate until baking time. They taste just as good fresh out of the oven!

Variations & Adaptations

One of the best things about these savory bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese is how easily you can customize them. Here are a few fun twists to try:

Nutty Crunch: Tuck a toasted almond or pecan inside each date before adding the goat cheese. It adds a lovely crunch and extra richness.
Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot honey into the goat cheese for a sweet‑heat combo.
Herb Lovers: Stir chopped rosemary, thyme, or basil into the goat cheese before stuffing for an aromatic touch.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap goat cheese for a dairy-free cashew cheese spread. It’s surprisingly creamy and works beautifully.
Prosciutto Swap: For a lighter version, use thin prosciutto slices instead of bacon. They crisp quickly and add a more delicate saltiness.

Personally, my favorite variation is adding a tiny bit of blue cheese mixed into the goat cheese — it gives the filling a bold, savory edge that pairs perfectly with the sweet date. You can really make these your own depending on your mood or what’s in the fridge.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These bacon-wrapped dates are best served warm, right off the tray. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board or a simple white platter — they look gorgeous no matter what. A light drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving takes them from great to unforgettable.

They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, a bubbly rosé, or even a dark stout if you’re feeling cozy. For a full appetizer spread, serve alongside marinated olives, crostini, or roasted nuts. They also make an excellent addition to a holiday charcuterie board.

Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving — it softens the bacon and ruins the texture.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each bacon-wrapped date stuffed with goat cheese comes in around 120–140 calories, depending on bacon thickness. They’re rich in protein from the bacon and goat cheese, and the dates provide natural sugars plus fiber and potassium. Goat cheese is easier to digest for many people than cow’s milk cheese and adds a nice calcium boost. While these aren’t exactly “light,” they’re satisfying enough that a few go a long way.

For those watching dietary needs, you can easily make these gluten-free (just check your bacon brand). They’re also naturally low-carb if you use smaller dates or limit the honey glaze. The balance of protein, fat, and natural sweetness makes them a surprisingly smart appetizer choice for special occasions.

Conclusion

There’s something timeless about these savory bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese. They’re the kind of recipe that feels indulgent yet simple — a perfect mix of sweet, salty, creamy, and crisp. Every time I make them, I’m reminded why I love cooking: bringing people together over something that feels special without being complicated.

So whether you’re hosting friends, planning a date night, or just craving a treat that feels fancy with minimal effort, this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation. Try a few variations, make them your own, and don’t forget to share your favorite twist in the comments. You might just find yourself making them “for research” a few times too!

FAQs

Can I make bacon-wrapped dates ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them a few hours before baking, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture.

Can I use another type of cheese?

Absolutely. Cream cheese, blue cheese, or even feta work well if you want to change up the flavor.

Do I need toothpicks?

They’re helpful for keeping the bacon in place, but not essential. Just place the dates seam-side down when baking.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crisp.

Are these good served cold?

They taste best warm, but you can serve them at room temperature for parties. Reheat gently if you prefer them hot and melty inside.

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