These bacon wrapped dates are stuffed with goat cheese, covered in bacon, then brushed with maple syrup before they go into the oven to bake to perfection. A super easy and unique 4 ingredient appetizer!
You can never go wrong with bacon, whether it’s bacon mac and cheese, bacon deviled eggs, or these sweet and savory bacon wrapped dates.
When I’m looking to serve something a little unexpected at a party, I turn to these bacon wrapped dates. They’re fun to eat, simple to make and always get rave reviews from family and friends.
How do you make bacon wrapped dates?
This recipe starts with large Medjool dates. Cut each date open and remove the pit. Fill the dates with goat cheese, then wrap each date in a slice of bacon and secure the bacon with a toothpick. Brush the dates with maple syrup, then bake until the bacon is golden brown. Sprinkle with parsley, then serve immediately and enjoy.
How do you pit dates?
The easiest way to pit a date is to use a small paring knife. Cut a line lengthwise down each date. The cut should be about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick, you’ll know when to stop when your knife hits the pit. Gently pull the date open and remove the pit. You can also buy pre-pitted dates at many grocery stores which makes prep time go much faster.
Tips for the perfect appetizer
- You can use a small spoon to fill your dates, or a piping bag fitted with a plain tip.
- Do not use thick cut bacon for this recipe, it will take much longer to cook.
- You can serve your dates with the toothpicks intact, or remove the toothpicks for a more elegant presentation.
- Be sure to turn your dates occasionally as they cook so that the bacon will crisp up on all sides.
- You can asssemble your dates up to 8 hours before you plan to bake them.
Bacon wrapped dates variations
This is an easy and simple way to do bacon wrapped dates, but there are many different ways to customize this recipe to your tastes.
- Coating: Try wrapping your dates in prosciutto or pancetta instead of bacon. If you use prosciutto, just be aware that the cook time will be reduced.
- Cheese: Instead of goat cheese, use cream cheese, blue cheese or a mixture of cheeses.
- Fillings: It is very common to add nuts to stuffed dates. Add a whole almond or a pecan half for a bit of added crunch.
- Spices: You can mix spices into your goat cheese such as Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder or onion powder. Fresh herbs such as minced chives are also a nice touch.
Can you reheat bacon wrapped dates?
These dates can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for later use. Place chilled dates on a sheet pan, then bake at 350 degrees F for 6-8 minutes or until dates are warmed through and bacon is crisp.
Everyone will be so impressed when you bring this fun snack to your next gathering. That sweet and salty combination just can’t be beat!
More easy appetizer ideas
Bacon Wrapped Dates Video
Bacon Wrapped Dates
Ingredients
- 20 Medjool dates pits removed
- 6 ounces goat cheese softened
- 10 slices bacon cut in half
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.
- Use a small spoon or a piping bag to stuff each date with about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese. Press each date shut.
- Wrap each date in a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Brush the maple syrup all over the wrapped dates.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until bacon is browned and crispy.
- Sprinkle with parsley then serve immediately.
Amy says
I had these as an appetizer at a restaurant, and had to try. I baked the wrapped dates in an air fryer perfectly for 9 minutes at 400, and then sprinkled with blue cheese crumbles. QUICK & DELICIOUS!!!!
Nancy Kenaston says
I stuff mine with ALMONDS instead of cheese. Never thought of the maple syrup! GREAT idea!
Linda Townshend says
I had these at a friend’s. They are amazing. I want to make them for a neighborhood get together but sunne of my neighbors funny eat pork. Would turkey bacon work, or can you suggest an alternate wrap instead of bacon?
Sara says
I think turkey bacon would be fine it might just cook quicker since there’s less fat!
Mike says
Been making them for years. This is the best I’ve made the goat cheese gives it just the right blend of flavors.
Love it.
Julie says
Can you use manchego cheese?
Sara says
I believe it would work but I haven’t tested it this way myself!
Randi Wightman says
How far in advance can I assemble them?
Sara says
One day in advance!
Carla says
These were amazing! A little bundle of flavor! Thanks for the great recipe and instructions.
Kristy says
The whole house smelled so good when I made these yummy treats!
Janice Meiburger says
Could I substitute cream cheese or some other cheese for the goat cheese? Not a fan of goat cheese.
Sara says
Yes cream cheese is fine!
Janet says
It’s better to stuff the dates with a firmer cheese, such as queso or feta, so it doesn’t get runny, during baking.
R says
I used blue cheese with great results!
Angela Allison says
LOVE this dish! The creamy cheese, sweet dates, and salty bacon satisfied all of my tastebuds. So easy to make! Will definitely make again 🙂
Emmeline says
One of my favorite appetizers of all time – I make it almost every time i have friends over for dinner. I have never stuffed mine, just wrapped dates in bacon – but love the suggestion of putting goat cheese inside so will try this next time around!
Tonje says
One of my absolute favorite appetizers!
Anita says
I love everything about these little treats. These will be great to serve at a party indeed.
Cathy says
Dates are my FAVORITE…and bacon just makes them better! Such a perfect little bite!
Chrissie Baker says
Y.U.M. this has all of my favorite things in one bite sized treat!
Toni says
I really love this idea! A great combination of flavors!
katerina says
Oh wow! Such an amazing appetizer! A MUST try recipe!!
Vikki says
I’ve never had anything like this before but it is so delicious! What a flavorful appetizer
Carrie Robinson says
I just love the sweet & salty combo happening here! 🙂