Let me tell you, the moment those warm, sweet dates wrapped in salty, crispy prosciutto came out of the oven, I was hooked. The scent alone—rich, smoky, with a whisper of tangy goat cheese—was enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I first made these perfect prosciutto-wrapped dates with creamy goat cheese on a chilly weekend when I wanted a snack that felt fancy but was dangerously easy. Honestly, the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to make this sweet-and-savory bite for holiday parties, but back then, she stuffed the dates with almonds and wrapped them in bacon. This modern twist with creamy goat cheese and prosciutto has become my personal favorite. You know what? I wish I’d discovered this combo sooner—it’s pure, nostalgic comfort with a grown-up flair.

My family couldn’t stop sneaking these off the platter as they cooled (and I can’t really blame them). Perfect for potlucks, last-minute appetizers, or just treating yourself, these prosciutto-wrapped dates with creamy goat cheese have become a staple at our gatherings. I’ve tested this recipe more times than I can count—in the name of research, of course—and it always wins rave reviews. You’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This perfect prosciutto-wrapped dates recipe with creamy goat cheese stands out because it’s the right balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and crispy all in one bite. Having made countless appetizers over the years, I can confidently say this recipe delivers on flavor and ease.

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in about 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have these pantry staples—no last-minute grocery runs needed.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Whether it’s a holiday party, brunch, or casual get-together, these always impress without the fuss.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the combination of flavors and textures.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The crispy prosciutto shell with the creamy goat cheese filling is comfort food reimagined.

What makes this recipe different? It’s the creamy goat cheese that really sets it apart. Unlike cream cheese or blue cheese, goat cheese creates a silky smooth filling that melts just enough inside the warm date. Plus, wrapping with thin, high-quality prosciutto ensures a delicate crispness without overpowering the natural sweetness of the dates. This isn’t just another date appetizer—it’s the best version you’ll find anywhere.

More than a recipe, it’s the kind of bite that makes you close your eyes after the first taste. Perfect for impressing guests without stress or just treating yourself to something special at home.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most items are pantry staples, and you can easily swap a few if needed.

• Medjool Dates: About 20 large, pitted (the star of the show—choose soft, plump ones for best results)
• Goat Cheese: 4 ounces (115 grams), softened (I recommend a creamy, mild goat cheese like Chavrie for smooth filling)
• Prosciutto: 10 slices, halved lengthwise (look for thinly sliced, high-quality prosciutto to get that perfect crisp)
• Honey: 1 tablespoon (optional, adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully)
• Fresh Thyme: 1 teaspoon leaves, finely chopped (adds a fresh herbal note, but you can skip if you don’t have it)
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste (gives a tiny kick that balances the sweetness)
• Almonds or Walnuts: Optional, about 20 halves for stuffing if you want crunch inside the dates

Substitution tips: Use dairy-free goat cheese or cream cheese for a lactose-free version. If you can’t find prosciutto, thinly sliced pancetta or even bacon works in a pinch, though the texture will differ. Fresh thyme can be swapped with rosemary or oregano if you prefer a different herb profile.

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat (makes cleanup a breeze)
• Mixing bowl for softening and seasoning goat cheese
• Small spoon or piping bag to fill dates (piping bag helps keep things tidy)
• Tongs or fork for turning the wrapped dates while baking
• Sharp knife for slicing dates and prosciutto

If you don’t have parchment paper, aluminum foil works fine, but be sure to grease it lightly to prevent sticking. For a budget-friendly option, you don’t need fancy tools; a butter knife and a sturdy baking sheet will get the job done just fine.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This moderate heat crisps the prosciutto nicely without burning it.
2. Scoop out the goat cheese into a mixing bowl. Add honey, fresh thyme, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently until smooth and combined. This takes about 2 minutes. The honey is optional but adds a subtle sweetness that complements the dates beautifully.
3. Prepare the dates: Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise on one side, creating an opening. Remove the pit if not already pitted. If you like extra crunch, stuff a half almond or walnut inside each date before filling with goat cheese.
4. Fill each date with about a teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture. Use a small spoon or piping bag for cleaner results. Try not to overfill, or the cheese will ooze out during baking.
5. Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of prosciutto. The prosciutto should be snug but not overly tight. Place them seam side down on the lined baking sheet to help keep the wrapping intact.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the prosciutto should be crispy and slightly golden, but not burnt. Halfway through, turn the dates gently with tongs or a fork for even crisping.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making them easier to handle and enhancing the creamy texture inside.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature. Drizzle a little extra honey on top if you want to add a touch more sweetness and shine.

Pro tip: If your goat cheese feels too firm, microwave it for 10 seconds to soften it slightly before mixing. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each date enough space so the prosciutto crisps properly.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

One of the trickiest parts is wrapping the dates just right. If the prosciutto slices are too thick, they won’t crisp up well—so go for thin, delicate slices. I learned the hard way that thick slices stay rubbery, which nobody wants.

Make sure your dates are soft and plump. Older or dry dates won’t give you that luscious, chewy texture that makes this recipe shine. If your dates feel tough, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then pat dry.

Don’t skip the resting time after baking—that quick cool-down helps the cheese firm up just enough to avoid a messy bite.

When baking, keep the oven rack in the middle position to ensure even heat distribution. If your oven tends to run hot, check the dates a few minutes earlier to avoid burnt edges.

Multitasking tip: While the dates bake, you can prep a simple salad or mix a refreshing cocktail to round out your appetizer spread. Efficiency is key when entertaining!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up? Here are some tasty variations I’ve tried and loved:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drop of hot honey to the goat cheese for a subtle heat that wakes up the palate.
• Nutty Twist: Swap almonds for pistachios or pecans inside the dates for a different crunch and flavor profile.
• Cheese Swap: Use blue cheese or cream cheese mixed with herbs if goat cheese isn’t your thing—though it won’t be quite as silky.
• Vegan Version: Replace goat cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese and use thinly sliced smoked tempeh instead of prosciutto.
• Cooking Method: Try pan-searing the wrapped dates over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side for a quicker alternative to baking (just watch closely to avoid burning).

Personally, I once tossed a few dates with chopped sun-dried tomatoes inside for an unexpected burst of tang—definitely worth a try if you love bold flavors.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these perfect prosciutto-wrapped dates warm or at room temperature for the best texture contrast. They pair beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to bring back that crispiness and warm the cheese without drying them out.

Flavors actually deepen if you make these a few hours ahead and let them sit at room temperature—just don’t wrap and bake too far in advance or the prosciutto gets soggy.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each prosciutto-wrapped date with creamy goat cheese delivers a balanced bite of protein, healthy fats, and natural sweetness. Medjool dates provide fiber and essential minerals like potassium, while goat cheese offers calcium and probiotics beneficial for digestion.

This appetizer is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs compared to many party snacks. Prosciutto adds a savory protein kick without the heaviness of bacon. Just watch portions if you’re monitoring sodium intake—the prosciutto is salty but worth every bite.

From a wellness perspective, this recipe satisfies sweet and savory cravings with whole ingredients, making it easier to stick to mindful eating without feeling deprived.

Conclusion

In my book, these perfect prosciutto-wrapped dates with creamy goat cheese are the ultimate quick-fix appetizer that feels fancy but is dangerously easy. The sweet, salty, creamy, and crispy combo is the kind of bite that makes you smile and want more.

Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts, herbs, or spices—this recipe is forgiving and flexible, just like good comfort food should be. I love how it brings people together around the table, no matter the occasion.

If you try this recipe, drop a comment below to share your tweaks or favorite pairings—I love hearing from you! And hey, don’t forget to share this post with friends who need a little appetizer magic in their lives.

Happy cooking, and here’s to many delicious bites ahead!

FAQs

Can I prepare these prosciutto-wrapped dates ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them a few hours before baking and keep them covered in the fridge. Just bake right before serving to keep the prosciutto crispy.

What if I can’t find Medjool dates?

Look for other large, soft dates like Deglet Noor, but they might be less sweet and plump. Soaking them briefly in warm water helps soften if needed.

Can I use cream cheese instead of goat cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese works fine, though the texture will be less tangy and creamy compared to goat cheese.

How do I store leftover prosciutto-wrapped dates?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.

Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses no wheat or gluten ingredients.

Perfect Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates Recipe with Creamy Goat Cheese

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• Author: David
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 20 servings 1x

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Description

Warm, sweet dates wrapped in salty, crispy prosciutto filled with creamy goat cheese create a perfect balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and crispy in one bite. This quick and easy appetizer is ideal for entertaining or treating yourself.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 4 ounces (115 grams) goat cheese, softened
• 10 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 20 halves almonds or walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scoop out the goat cheese into a mixing bowl. Add honey, fresh thyme, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently until smooth and combined.
3. Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise on one side, creating an opening. Remove the pit if not already pitted. If desired, stuff a half almond or walnut inside each date before filling with goat cheese.
4. Fill each date with about a teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture using a small spoon or piping bag.
5. Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of prosciutto, placing them seam side down on a lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, turning the dates gently halfway through baking for even crisping. The prosciutto should be crispy and slightly golden but not burnt.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature. Drizzle extra honey on top if desired.

Notes

Use thinly sliced prosciutto for best crispness. If dates are dry, soak in warm water for 10 minutes and pat dry before use. Let dates rest after baking to allow cheese to set. Can substitute dairy-free goat cheese and smoked tempeh for a vegan version. Avoid thick prosciutto slices to prevent rubbery texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed and wrappe
• Calories: 70
• Sugar: 5
• Sodium: 210
• Fat: 4.5
• Saturated Fat: 1.8
• Carbohydrates: 6
• Fiber: 1
• Protein: 3

Keywords: prosciutto wrapped dates, goat cheese appetizer, easy appetizer, party snack, sweet and salty appetizer, holiday appetizer