t was the night of our housewarming party, and I was determined to wow our guests with a showstopping appetizer. That’s when I remembered my grandmother’s secret recipe for Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese – a delightful flavor combination that had been a hit at every family gathering. As I meticulously wrapped each plump date in a crispy bacon strip and topped it with a creamy dollop of goat cheese, the aroma filled the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to those cozy Sunday suppers. When I finally presented the tray of 12 perfectly crafted Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese to our friends, the look of pure delight on their faces was priceless. From the first bite, they were hooked, and I knew this recipe was destined to become a new household favorite.
Why This Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
What makes this Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese recipe so special is the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and creamy flavors. The crisp, savory bacon perfectly complements the subtly sweet dates, while the tangy goat cheese ties it all together in a delightful flavor explosion. And the best part? This recipe yields 12 servings, so you’ll have plenty to share with family and friends.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 4 oz. of goat cheese
- 1 tbsp. of honey
Step-by-Step Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese Instructions
Preparing Your Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
This recipe takes 25 minutes total – 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a baking sheet, a small bowl, and a spoon to get started. Let’s dive in!
1- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2- Slice each Medjool date in half lengthwise and stuff a small amount of goat cheese (about 1 tsp.) into the center of each date half.
3- Wrap a half-slice of bacon around each stuffed date and place them seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
4- Drizzle the honey over the top of the bacon-wrapped dates, making sure to cover each one.
5- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6- Carefully transfer the 12 Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese to a serving platter and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese turn out perfectly, be sure to use soft, fresh Medjool dates and high-quality, thinly sliced bacon. Letting the bacon-wrapped dates rest for a few minutes before serving will also help the cheese and honey set up nicely. And don’t be afraid to get creative with different flavor combinations, like adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Serving and Storing Your Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
Perfect Pairings for Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
These Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese make a wonderful appetizer or snack, and they pair beautifully with a variety of beverages, from crisp white wine to refreshing sparkling water. For a complete party spread, consider serving them alongside a selection of olives, roasted nuts, and a tangy cheese board. Each of the 12 servings is one delectable bacon-wrapped date, so your guests are sure to be impressed.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. For a make-ahead option, you can assemble the dates and wrap them in bacon up to 24 hours in advance, then bake them just before serving.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
Creative Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese Variations
While the classic combination of bacon, dates, and goat cheese is hard to beat, there are endless ways to put your own spin on this recipe. Try swapping out the goat cheese for blue cheese or brie for a different flavor profile. Or, for a touch of heat, add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot honey. You can also experiment with different types of nuts, such as chopped pecans or sliced almonds, to add a delightful crunch.
Making Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can use turkey bacon or opt for a dairy-free cashew or almond-based “cheese” in place of the traditional goat cheese. For a gluten-free version, simply ensure that the bacon you’re using is gluten-free. No matter which adaptations you choose, the 12 servings of Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese are sure to satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of goat cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other soft, creamy cheeses like brie, blue cheese, or even a flavored cream cheese.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 12 servings, with each serving being 1 bacon wrapped date.
Q: Can I make the Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese in advance?
A: Yes, you can assemble the dates and wrap them in bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Just bake them right before serving for best results.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: To reheat leftover Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: How do I know when the Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese are done?
A: The Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese are done when the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted, which should take about 15 minutes in the oven.
Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese is a delightful appetizer that combines the salty-crispy bacon, the sweet and soft dates, and the creamy goat cheese for an irresistible flavor and texture combination.
Ingredients
– 12 Medjool dates, pitted
– 4 oz goat cheese
– 12 slices of bacon, halved
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 2. Cut each date lengthwise and carefully remove the pit.
3. 3. Stuff each date with a small amount of goat cheese.
4. 4. Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick.
5. 5. Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
7. 7. Remove the toothpicks and serve the Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese immediately.
Notes
For a more elegant presentation, you can use smaller dates or cut the larger ones in half. Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cream cheese or blue cheese, for a variety of flavors.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Appetizers & Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese is the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s sure to become a new household favorite. With its irresistible flavor combination and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is a guaranteed hit for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to wow your friends and family with these 12 delectable Bacon Wrapped Dates Goat Cheese bites. Let me know in the comments how your batch turns out!
