There is something truly irresistible about the Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Bacon Recipe—a heavenly snack that perfectly balances the luscious sweetness of Medjool dates with the creamy tang of goat cheese and the smoky crispness of bacon. This dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser, blending textures and flavors that dance on your palate and leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in a special treat, these stuffed dates promise a delightful experience that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long list of complicated items to make this memorable dish—just a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the natural sweetness of dates to the savory punch of bacon, every component plays a vital role in creating that perfect bite.
- Medjool dates: These large, naturally sweet fruits are perfect for stuffing because of their soft texture and deep caramel flavor.
- Creamy goat cheese: Offers a smooth, tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the dates beautifully.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: Add a delightful crunch and a nutty earthiness to the creamy filling.
- Honey: Just a touch to enhance sweetness and glue the filling flavors together.
- Fresh rosemary: Infuses a subtle herbaceous aroma that brightens the overall taste.
- Salt: A pinch sharpens flavors and prevents the dish from being too sweet.
- Freshly cracked black pepper: Brings a mild kick that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Bacon slices: Wrapping the dates with bacon introduces a smoky, crispy texture that turns the dish from simple to show-stopping.
- Balsamic glaze (optional): A finishing drizzle that adds tangy sweetness and elegance.
How to Make Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Get Ready to Bake
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will save you the hassle of scrubbing later and keep your dates from sticking as they caramelize and crisp up.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Filling
In a bowl, mix together creamy goat cheese, chopped walnuts or pecans, honey, finely chopped fresh rosemary, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. This blend creates an irresistible filling that is smooth, nutty, and bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Stuff the Dates
Carefully open each pitted Medjool date and spoon in about a teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture. Press gently to fill each fruit generously but without bursting them — this step is where the magic begins, foreshadowing the incredible bite to come.
Step 4: Wrap Each Date in Bacon
Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around the stuffed date. Tuck the end underneath to secure it, and if needed, hold it in place with a toothpick. This wrapping is crucial as it crisps up beautifully and seals the filling inside.
Step 5: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Arrange your bacon-wrapped dates on the lined baking sheet, leaving enough space for air to circulate and cook them evenly. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the bacon turns golden and crispy. For the crispiest results, flip the dates halfway through baking.
Step 6: Add a Finishing Touch
Once baked, let your Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Bacon Recipe cool slightly so the flavors meld. If you love an added layer of richness, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a glossy, tangy finish.
How to Serve Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
To keep things simple yet elegant, sprinkle a few fresh rosemary leaves on top or a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt. These small touches add freshness and a hint of sophistication, making your dish practically irresistible at any gathering.
Side Dishes
While these stuffed dates shine on their own as bite-sized appetizers, pairing them with a light green salad or a cheese platter can elevate the experience. They also work nicely alongside charcuterie boards, complementing an array of meats, cheeses, and pickles.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try threading the wrapped dates on skewers for easy serving at parties. Another charming idea is to place each date in mini decorative paper cups, instantly transforming them into classy finger food that’s perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though they rarely last long), store the Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Bacon Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 3 days—ideal for enjoying the next day or two.
Freezing
You can freeze these stuffed dates after baking if you want to prepare them in advance. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to a month without losing their delicious flavor and texture.
Reheating
To bring the dates back to life, gently reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This warms the goat cheese filling and crisps the bacon back up beautifully, almost like they’re freshly made again.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses besides goat cheese?
Absolutely! While creamy goat cheese is ideal for its tanginess and smooth texture, soft cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta can work too but will alter the flavor slightly. Experimenting is part of the fun!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute bacon with plant-based alternatives or even prosciutto for a different twist. Another option is to simply omit the bacon and enjoy the sweet and savory contrast as is.
How do I pit the dates easily?
If your dates aren’t pre-pitted, use a small knife to slice along the side lengthwise, then gently remove the pit, keeping the date intact for stuffing. Medjool dates are soft, so this process is quite straightforward.
Is it necessary to use fresh rosemary?
Fresh rosemary offers a bright, herbal note, but dried rosemary can be used in smaller amounts if fresh isn’t available. Just remember that dried herbs tend to be more concentrated, so use about half the amount.
Can I prepare these ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! You can stuff and wrap the dates, then refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for a super convenient appetizer when hosting guests unexpectedly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so gratifying about the Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Bacon Recipe—each bite delivers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feels like a warm, comforting hug. Whether you’re surprising friends or treating yourself, this recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way possible. I hope you give this delightful dish a try because once you do, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
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Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 20 stuffed dates (serves about 6-8 as appetizer)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Creamy Goat Cheese is a delightful appetizer featuring Medjool dates stuffed with a creamy goat cheese mixture, chopped nuts, and fresh herbs, wrapped in crispy bacon, and optionally drizzled with balsamic glaze. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for parties or a tasty snack.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz (113g) creamy goat cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- A pinch of salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare the cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy goat cheese, chopped walnuts or pecans, honey, finely chopped fresh rosemary, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Stuff the dates: Carefully take each pitted date and stuff it with about a teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture. Press gently to ensure the filling stays inside.
- Wrap with bacon: Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon. Tuck the end of the bacon underneath to secure it around the date, and if necessary, use a toothpick to hold it in place.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to allow even cooking and crisping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. For even crispness, turn the dates halfway through the baking time.
- Cool and garnish: Remove the dates from the oven and let them cool slightly. If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze to add a tangy sweetness.
- Serve: Serve the stuffed dates warm as a flavorful appetizer or snack, perfect for entertaining or enjoying any time.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans depending on preference or availability.
- Use toothpicks to secure bacon if it tends to unwrap during baking.
- Adjust baking time based on how crispy you prefer the bacon.
- Optional balsamic glaze adds a beautiful finishing touch and extra flavor contrast.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and broil the stuffed dates for a few minutes until slightly browned.
