Bacon Wrapped Dates
Crispy bacon wrapped around sweet Medjool dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese. This sweet-and-savory appetizer is foolproof, make-ahead friendly, and always the first thing to disappear at parties.
Equipment
- baking sheet
- wire rack for extra crispy bacon
- toothpicks
Ingredients
- 24 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz goat cheese, softened
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon, halved crosswise
- 24 toothpicks
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place a wire rack on top if available.
- Stuff each pitted date with about 1 teaspoon of softened goat cheese, pressing gently to close.
- Wrap each date with half a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick through the center.
- If using glaze, whisk maple syrup (or honey) with balsamic vinegar and brush lightly over each wrapped date.
- Arrange dates on the rack and bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until bacon is deeply golden and crisp.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 1–2 minutes. Garnish with parsley or flaky salt if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Use thin-cut bacon for best results. Avoid overstuffing the dates to prevent cheese from leaking. A wire rack ensures even crisping.