Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese Recipe
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese are a deliciously sweet and savory appetizer that combines the rich flavors of creamy goat cheese and crispy bacon with the natural sweetness of dates. These bites are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a special treat!
Ingredients List
For the Bites:
- 12 pitted Medjool dates – The star ingredient.
- 4 ounces (115g) goat cheese – Softened for easy filling.
- 12 slices of bacon – Cut in half.
- Toothpicks – For securing the bites.
Timing
Making Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese is quick and easy! Here’s a breakdown of the timing:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Dates
- Stuff the Dates: Using a small spoon or your fingers, fill each pitted date with about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese. Press the cheese in gently to ensure it stays inside.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
- Wrap Dates: Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date, covering it completely. Secure the bacon with a toothpick.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easier cleanup.
Step 5: Bake the Bites
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the dates are heated through. You may want to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dates cool for a few minutes.
- Serve: Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a serving platter and enjoy warm!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per piece (based on a recipe yielding 12 bites):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 4g |
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for a better texture and flavor.
- Fresh Dates: Use fresh Medjool dates for the best taste and texture.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to try other cheeses, like blue cheese or cream cheese, for a different flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Keep an eye on the dates while baking to avoid overcooking the bacon.
- Skipping the Toothpicks: Make sure to secure the bacon with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
Storing Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but uncooked bacon-wrapped dates for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines sweet, savory, and creamy flavors all in one bite. They are easy to make and sure to impress your guests!
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dates and wrap them in bacon a few hours in advance and then bake them right before serving.
What can I serve with these bites?
These bites pair well with cocktails, wine, or a cheese platter.
Can I use other types of dates?
Yes! You can use any pitted dates, but Medjool dates are preferred for their size and sweetness.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese Recipe
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Bites:
- 12 pitted Medjool dates – The star ingredient.
- 4 ounces (115g) goat cheese – Softened for easy filling.
- 12 slices of bacon – Cut in half.
- Toothpicks – For securing the bites.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Dates
- Stuff the Dates: Using a small spoon or your fingers, fill each pitted date with about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese. Press the cheese in gently to ensure it stays inside.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
- Wrap Dates: Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed date, covering it completely. Secure the bacon with a toothpick.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easier cleanup.
Step 5: Bake the Bites
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the dates are heated through. You may want to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dates cool for a few minutes.
- Serve: Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a serving platter and enjoy warm!
