Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey

This recipe for Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey combines the richness of creamy goat cheese, the sweetness of Medjool dates, and the smoky flavor of crispy bacon. Enhanced by a drizzle of rosemary-infused honey, these bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or special occasions. Easy to prepare, these dates can be made ahead and finished in the oven just before serving.

Clare Greco
Updated on Monday 02 December 2024
Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates
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The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors, Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey are a show-stopping appetizer. Whether hosting a holiday dinner or a casual gathering, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • Creamy goat cheese: 6 oz, softened for stuffing
  • Medjool dates: 24, pitted
  • Bacon: 12 slices, halved
  • Honey: 1/3 cup, for glaze
  • Fresh rosemary: 1 tbsp, chopped
  • Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tsp, optional
  • Kosher salt & black pepper: to taste
  • Candied walnuts: optional, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
Slice dates lengthwise, remove pits, and stuff with goat cheese. Squeeze gently to close.
Step 3:
Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon and place seam side down on the baking sheet.
Step 4:
Mix honey, rosemary, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to make the glaze. Drizzle half over the dates.
Step 5:
Bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crispy. Optionally drizzle remaining glaze and sprinkle walnuts before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
  • Prepare ahead and store refrigerated. Add glaze before baking.

Helpful Notes

  • Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier wrap.
  • Swap goat cheese for cream cheese if desired.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

  • Chef Anna suggests marinating dates in balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
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Some more ideas

Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey are an irresistible blend of sweet and savory flavors. Creamy goat cheese is stuffed into pitted Medjool dates, then wrapped in smoky bacon and drizzled with a rosemary-infused honey glaze. The bacon crisps up perfectly in the oven, and the honey caramelizes for a delightful finish. Optional toppings like candied or toasted walnuts add a crunchy contrast. This easy-to-make appetizer is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or as a quick snack. Make ahead for convenience, and bake just before serving.

Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Rosemary Honey offer a sweet and savory appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or parties.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes

Category: Tasty Bites

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 24 Servings (Serves 6-8 as an appetizer)

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 6 oz creamy goat cheese, softened for easy stuffing.
02 24 Medjool dates, pitted.
03 12 slices bacon, cut in half for wrapping.
04 1/3 cup honey, for the glaze.
05 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped for aroma.
06 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, optional for heat.
07 Kosher salt, to taste.
08 Black pepper, to taste.
09 Candied or toasted walnuts, optional for garnish.

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Slice each date lengthwise, remove the pit, and stuff it with goat cheese. Squeeze gently to close.

Step 03

Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, placing the seam side down on the baking sheet.

Step 04

In a small bowl, mix honey, chopped rosemary, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to make the glaze.

Step 05

Drizzle half of the honey mixture over the bacon-wrapped dates, ensuring a nice coating.

Step 06

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.

Step 07

Optionally, drizzle the remaining honey and sprinkle candied or toasted walnuts on top before serving.

Notes

  1. These sweet and savory dates are perfect for holiday gatherings or as an appetizer.
  2. You can prepare these ahead of time and refrigerate, adding the glaze just before baking.
  3. Adjust cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 110
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 10g
  • Protein: 4g