Name: Bacon Wrapped Dates Bliss: A Sweet Savory Appetizer Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces Medjool Dates (Pre-pitted recommended for quicker prep.); 6 ounces Goat Cheese (Cream cheese is substitute for milder flavor.); 6 slices Bacon (Regular cut preferred for best results.); 3 tablespoons Maple Syrup (No substitute for this flavor.); 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (Omit if not desired.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I strolled through a bustling market last week, the scent of sizzling bacon filled the air, transporting me back to a cozy gathering where Bacon Wrapped Dates were the star of the show. These delightful bites balance sweet and savory sensations, with creamy goat cheese nestled inside plump Medjool dates and wrapped in crispy bacon. Best of all, this recipe boasts just five simple ingredients and a quick prep time, making it an ideal appetizer for spontaneous get-togethers or planned celebrations. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply indulging in a gourmet moment at home, these irresistible snacks are sure to be a hit. Ready to impress your guests with a little culinary magic? Let’s dive in!

Why are Bacon Wrapped Dates so irresistible?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just five ingredients, this recipe is easy to master, making it a perfect choice even for novice cooks.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Bacon Wrapped Dates are a guaranteed hit at any gathering, combining flavors that everyone loves.

Unique Flavor Pairing: The combination of crispy bacon and creamy goat cheese nestled in sweet Medjool dates creates a delightful explosion of taste in every bite.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to mix things up with different cheese or nut fillings, tailoring the recipe to your taste and creativity.

Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can serve up this gourmet snack, allowing you more quality time with your guests.

Elegant Presentation: These bite-sized delights not only taste fantastic but also look visually appealing, elevating your appetizer game to new heights.

Bacon Wrapped Dates Ingredients

For the Filling

Medjool Dates – Sweet and chewy, providing a luscious base; opt for pre-pitted dates for quicker prep.
Goat Cheese – This creamy delight adds a tangy richness; cream cheese works well for a milder flavor.

For the Wrapping

Bacon – Adds a savory, crispy texture; choose regular cut for the best results, avoiding thick-cut bacon.

For the Glaze

Maple Syrup – Essential for bringing a glistening sweetness; there’s no substitute for this delightful flavor.

For Garnish

Chopped Parsley – Adds a fresh touch; feel free to omit it if you prefer a simpler appearance.

These Bacon Wrapped treasures are not only easy to make but brimming with flavors that will captivate your taste buds.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Wrapped Dates Bliss

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, grab a baking sheet and coat it generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your delightful Bacon Wrapped Dates come out easily and maintain their crispy texture.

Step 2: Fill the Dates with Goat Cheese
Take each Medjool date and, using a small spoon or piping bag, fill it with about 1 teaspoon of creamy goat cheese. Gently press the date closed to encase the cheese inside. As you work through your batch, ensure the filling is nice and compact for the best flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Next, take half a slice of bacon and tightly wrap it around each stuffed date, securing the ends with a toothpick. This not only holds the bacon in place but also gives each bite the perfect balance of savory and sweetness. Arrange the wrapped dates neatly on the baking sheet, ready for baking.

Step 4: Brush with Maple Syrup
Generously brush the bacon-wrapped dates with maple syrup, allowing it to coat each piece for a shiny, sweet glaze. This step will enhance the flavors and add a delightful caramelization to the bacon as it cooks. Ensure all sides are covered, then prepare to bake.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Turn the dates halfway through to achieve even cooking and a golden-brown finish. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes; you’re aiming for crispy bacon and a satisfying, warm center.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the Bacon Wrapped Dates are perfectly golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, if desired. Serve immediately while they’re warm, letting the sweet and savory flavors shine in each irresistible bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Bacon Wrapped Dates are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped dates up to 24 hours in advance by following a few simple steps. Start by stuffing the dates with goat cheese and wrapping them with bacon, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to impress your guests, simply brush them with maple syrup and bake them straight from the fridge for about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This way, your delicious appetizer will be just as irresistible, giving you more time to enjoy your gathering without the last-minute rush!

How to Store and Freeze Bacon Wrapped Dates

Fridge: Store any leftover bacon wrapped dates in an airtight container. They’ll remain fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors for a bit longer.

Freezer: If you want to make them ahead, freeze uncooked bacon wrapped dates on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place the bacon wrapped dates on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 6-8 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the bacon wrapped dates in advance and store them in the fridge; bake just before serving for a warm, fresh appetizer.

Expert Tips for Bacon Wrapped Dates

Choose Quality Bacon: Select high-quality regular cut bacon for the best crispiness; avoid thick-cut, as it may not cook evenly.
Pre-Pitted Dates: Save time by using pre-pitted Medjool dates to streamline your prep process without compromising flavor.
Maple Syrup Application: Don’t skimp on the maple syrup—this key ingredient caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the sweetness and flavor of the bacon.
Turning for Even Cooking: Make sure to turn the dates halfway through baking to achieve that perfect golden-brown and crispy exterior all around.
Elegant Presentation: For an upscale touch, consider removing toothpicks** after baking and serving on a decorative platter to impress guests.

These expert tips will ensure your Bacon Wrapped dates are a delightful success!

Bacon Wrapped Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Bacon Wrapped Dates to suit your taste and add a personal touch!

Cheese Swap: Use blue cheese instead of goat cheese for a bolder flavor. This sharp contrast pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of dates!
Creamy Alternative: Swap in cream cheese for a milder, richer filling. This change creates a creamier texture that melts beautifully in the oven.
Nutty Surprise: Try stuffing the dates with almonds or pecans for a crunchy surprise inside! It adds a delightful texture contrast while complementing the sweet and salty flavors.
Spicy Kick: Add a touch of jalapeño to the cheese filling for those who enjoy heat. This fiery twist elevates the overall flavor profile and provides an exciting bite!
Honey Drizzle: Swap maple syrup for honey to drizzle over the bacon-wrapped dates. This will give them a unique flavor twist while keeping the sweetness intact!
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the goat cheese filling for an aromatic addition. The herbs will enhance the flavors and add elegance to your dish.
Vegetarian Version: Go bacon-free and use smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for a delicious vegetarian alternative. You’ll still enjoy that crispiness without the meat!
Add a Glaze: Experiment with a balsamic glaze for drizzling after baking. This will introduce a tangy-sweet flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

These variations will spark joy in your cooking adventure, allowing you to customize your Bacon Wrapped Dates to please every palate. For more delicious ideas, consider trying a flavorful Mediterranean variation or a sweet twist with pecans and maple for a truly unique appetizer delight!

What to Serve with Sweet and Savory Bacon Wrapped Dates?

The perfect pairings can elevate your Bacon Wrapped Dates into a full feast, tantalizing your taste buds and creating a delightful dining experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
The velvety texture balances the crispy bacon, making it an ideal side to soak up the sweet maple glaze.
Refreshing Arugula Salad:
A zesty arugula salad adds a fresh crunch and brightens up the rich flavors of the dates, enhancing your meal.
Spicy Roasted Carrots:
These tender, sweet-roasted carrots with a hint of spice provide a wonderful contrast to the savory bacon and sweet dates.
Honey-Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts:
The slightly bitter Brussels sprouts harmonize beautifully with a sweet glaze, complementing the dates’ flavor profile.
Stuffed Mushrooms:
Earthy mushrooms stuffed with cheese and herbs create an additional rich flavor experience, making every bite happier.
Sparkling Wine:
A crisp sparkling wine refreshes the palate and underscores the sweet-savory balance of the dates, heightening the overall experience.
Dark Chocolate Fondue:
For dessert, dip fruits and marshmallows into dark chocolate; it’s a playful ending that resonates well after enjoying the dates.
Homemade Lemonade:
The bright acidity of classic homemade lemonade counters the richness and enhances the dynamic flavors of your appetizer.

Elevate your gathering with these delightful sides, and watch your guests indulge in a memorable culinary experience!

Bacon Wrapped Dates Recipe FAQs

What type of dates should I use?
I highly recommend using Medjool dates for their sweetness and chewiness. They bring a delightful texture to the dish. If you’re looking for speed, pre-pitted Medjool dates save time and prevent the hassle of removing pits as you prepare.

How should I store leftover bacon wrapped dates?
Store any leftover bacon wrapped dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Just remember to heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 6-8 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

Can I freeze bacon wrapped dates?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked bacon wrapped dates, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and they will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What if my bacon isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice that some of the bacon isn’t crisping up while others are, ensure that you’ve wrapped the bacon tightly around each date and spaced them well on the baking sheet. Turning them halfway through baking helps to achieve an even cook, so don’t forget that step!

Are these suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, this bacon wrapped dates recipe is gluten-free! Be sure to check your bacon packaging to ensure that there are no hidden gluten ingredients. If you have guests with lactose sensitivities, you can substitute goat cheese with lactose-free cream cheese, which works wonderfully too.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly! While goat cheese gives a lovely tangy flavor, feel free to experiment with filled options like blue cheese for a bolder taste, or even cream cheese for a creamier texture. The more the merrier when it comes to creating your own version of these delightful bites!