How To Make The Best Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates Appetizer

This post is about a stuffed dates appetizer.

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If you're looking for an easy appetizer that looks gourmet, stop your scrolling. This stuffed dates appetizer is the perfect balance of salty & sweet. The combination of bacon, goat cheese (don't worry if you're not a fan, there are other options!), dates, & herbs is my fav.

This app can be prepped the night before, making it perfect for hosting. It simply goes in the oven & is ready to serve. It's a great dinner party appetizer, game day appetizer, & perfect for holidays!

This post is about a stuffed dates appetizer.

Making A Stuffed Dates Appetizer

The best thing about this recipe (excluding the delicious taste) is how easily you can make it ahead of time. I love a recipe that feels elevated, but is easy to make. I've outlined the steps I use & substitution notes below. If you have any specific questions about them, leave me a comment and I'll do my best to help!

How To Make A Stuffed Dates Appetizer:

1. Cut your bacon into thirds. (I like to cut my bacon by cutting right through the plastic container. By doing that, you're able to keep the unused bacon covered for longer.)

2. Slice your dates in the center, longways. Remove the pits. Make sure you do not slice all the way through the date. (I prefer to buy my dates pre-sliced & pitted to save on time.)

3. Add goat cheese to a small bowl. Drizzle ~3 tsp of honey over it. Adjust based on your preference. Add a pinch of salt and fresh thyme to taste. Mix to combine.

4. Add a scoop of the goat cheese to the inside of your dates. It should be enough to fill the dates. Overfilling will lead to browned/burnt cheese.

5. Take one piece of your cut bacon and tightly wrap it around your date. Secure it with a toothpick down the center. Lay them on the wire rack on top of your baking sheet.

6. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Flip halfway if necessary.

7. Remove from oven. Transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle with more honey. Finish them off with a sprinkle with fresh herbs and a pinch of salt. Enjoy!!

Stuffed Dates Recipe FAQs:

Can you make cream cheese stuffed dates instead?

You can! If you aren't a goat cheese fan, you can stuff your dates with cream cheese, Boursin cheese, brie, etc. Any soft cheese works for this recipe.

Can you prep the dates appetizer ahead of time?

Yes! Simply finish all steps up to wrapping your dates in bacon. Set everything, covered, in the fridge. Simple take it our & bake/finish the recipe when you're ready to serve.

How do you make savory stuffed dates instead of sweet?

You can make your dates appetizer savory by swapping the goat cheese & honey combo for something like Boursin cheese. Savory cheese is actually very good with a honey drizzle still, but if you'd like you can skip that part.

Recipe Notes:

Cook time:

For a crispier piece of bacon and added texture, keep your dates in the oven for an extra 5-ish minutes. Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your dates during those 5 minutes. It's very easy for them to overcook.

Adding more texture & flavor:

If you'd like to add more of a "crunch" to your dates, you can either cook them a bit longer for a crispier bacon or add some nuts to them!

Substitutions:

For herbs, your can substitute any herbs in place of the thyme. I like thyme best, but anything fresh is great! Any soft cheese can substituted in place of the goat cheese.

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