Bacon Wrapped Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe

Prepare dates

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top if available (rack helps bacon crisp). Using a paring knife, make a lengthwise slit in each pitted Medjool date to open it, leaving one side attached so it holds shape.

Make goat cheese filling

In a small bowl, soften the goat cheese by stirring with a fork until smooth. Stir in the chopped toasted nuts (if using), honey, and the cracked black pepper until combined. Taste and adjust honey or pepper to preference.

Stuff dates

Using a small spoon or a piping bag (or zip-top bag with a corner snipped), fill each opened date with about 1/2 tablespoon of the goat cheese mixture. Press the date closed gently so the cheese is secure but visible.

Prepare bacon

Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise to make 24 shorter strips. If bacon is particularly thick, partially cook it in a skillet or in the oven for 4–6 minutes until it just starts to render fat but is still pliable; drain on paper towels. This helps ensure it crisps fully during baking without overcooking the dates.

Wrap dates

Wrap one bacon half-strip around each stuffed date so the seam is on the underside. Secure with a toothpick inserted through the bacon and date. Place wrapped dates seam-side down on the prepared rack or directly on the lined baking sheet if no rack.

Glaze

Brush the top of each bacon-wrapped date with a light coating of brown sugar or maple syrup (about 1/2 teaspoon each). Sprinkle lightly with smoked paprika if using for a hint of smokiness.

Bake

Bake in the preheated 400°F (205°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, rotating the pan once halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and caramelized. If using raw thick-cut bacon, bake 20–25 minutes and check frequently to avoid burning. For extra crispness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely.

Finish & serve

Remove from oven and let rest 2–3 minutes on the rack. If desired, drizzle a small additional amount of honey or maple syrup over the hot dates for shine. Transfer to a serving platter, remove toothpicks as guests prefer, and serve warm or at room temperature.

Storage

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 6–8 minutes to re-crisp the bacon before serving.