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Savory Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Creamy Goat Cheese

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These bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese offer a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. Quick and easy to prepare, they make an impressive appetizer for any gathering or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

  • Medjool dates, pitted (large, plump)
  • Bacon slices (regular or thick cut, center-cut preferred)
  • Creamy goat cheese (about 4 oz)
  • Fresh thyme leaves (optional, about 1 teaspoon)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
  • Optional: chopped nuts (toasted pecans or almonds)
  • Optional: honey drizzle (after baking)
  • Optional: smoked paprika or chili flakes (to sprinkle on bacon before baking)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix about 4 oz (115 g) of creamy goat cheese with a pinch of cracked black pepper and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves if using. Stir until smooth and well combined.
  3. Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each pitted date with goat cheese. Do not overfill to prevent cheese from oozing out during baking.
  4. Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon, wrapping snugly but not too tight, and secure with a toothpick inserted lengthwise.
  5. Place the wrapped dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each for even cooking.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning the dates halfway through baking to crisp the bacon evenly on all sides. Watch carefully towards the end to avoid burning.
  7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Optionally drizzle with honey or sprinkle smoked paprika.
  8. Serve warm. These are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently without losing crispness.

Notes

Use center-cut bacon for best crispiness without excess fat. Do not overstuff dates to prevent cheese from leaking. Turn dates halfway through baking for even crisping. Optionally broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispness but watch closely to avoid burning. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat gently in oven to maintain crispness. For vegetarian version, substitute bacon with thin eggplant slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon-wrapped dates, goat cheese appetizer, easy appetizer, party snacks, savory bites, holiday appetizers, crowd-pleaser

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/savory-bacon-wrapped-dates-stuffed-with-creamy-goat-cheese-recipe-easy-and-perfect-appetizer-ideas/