Save Sweet Medjool dates filled with tangy goat cheese, wrapped in crispy bacon—a perfect sweet-salty appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 16 large Medjool dates: pitted
- 4 oz (115 g) fresh goat cheese (chèvre):
- 8 slices thin-cut bacon: halved crosswise
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Step 2:
- With a small knife, make a lengthwise slit in each date and remove the pit if not already pitted
- Step 3:
- Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese, pressing gently to close the date around the filling
- Step 4:
- Wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon, securing the ends underneath or with a toothpick if needed
- Step 5:
- Arrange the wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet
- Step 6:
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until bacon is crisp and browned
- Step 7:
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving
Save Required Tools
Baking sheet Parchment paper Small knife Spoon or small spatula Toothpicks (optional)
Nutritional Information
Calories 85 Total Fat 4.5 g Carbohydrates 8 g Protein 3 g
Category & Details
Preparation Time 15 minutes Cooking Time 20 minutes Total Time 35 minutes Category Appetizer Difficulty Easy Cuisine Mediterranean Yield 16 pieces (serves 4–6 as an appetizer) Diet Gluten-Free
Save Recipe FAQ
- → What type of dates work best for stuffing?
Large Medjool dates are ideal due to their soft texture and natural sweetness, making them easy to stuff and complement the savory ingredients.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of goat cheese?
Yes, blue cheese or cream cheese can be good alternatives, providing a different tangy or creamy flavor profile.
- → How can I ensure the bacon stays crispy after baking?
Wrapping the bacon tightly and baking on parchment paper at 400°F helps crisp it evenly; flipping halfway through promotes uniform browning.
- → Is there a way to add extra flavor to the dates before baking?
Adding a toasted almond inside each date or drizzling honey or balsamic glaze afterward enhances the sweet-salty balance.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dates with cheese and bacon in advance and refrigerate before baking to save time before serving.