Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Creamy Goat Cheese

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and savory. One bite of a perfectly baked stuffed date, bursting with creamy goat cheese, crunchy nuts, and wrapped in crispy bacon, and you’ll understand why this flavor pairing is timeless. These Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Creamy Goat Cheese are the ultimate appetizer for parties, cozy gatherings, or even a sophisticated snack to enjoy with your favorite beverage. They’re elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make once you get the hang of the prep.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary enthusiast looking to impress guests, this recipe offers layers of taste and texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into why this dish works so perfectly, how to make it flawlessly, and ways you can tweak it for your own kitchen adventures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Sweet & Savory Balance: The natural sweetness of Medjool dates meets the creamy tang of goat cheese and salty crunch of bacon for a harmonious bite every time.
• Elegant Yet Simple: These stuffed dates look impressive on a platter but are straightforward enough for a midweek snack.
• Customizable Flavor: Swap nuts, herbs, or drizzle balsamic glaze for extra flair.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dates in advance and bake just before serving.
• Great for Entertaining: Bite-sized and easy to serve at cocktail parties, holiday dinners, or festive gatherings.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe makes 20 stuffed dates—perfect for 4-6 servings as an appetizer. All ingredients are measured accurately to ensure perfect results.

Main Ingredients

• 20 Medjool dates, pitted
• 8 slices of bacon, cut in half

Filling

• 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)
• A pinch of salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish

• Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or small cookie scoop
• Knife for chopping nuts and rosemary
• Toothpicks (optional, for securing bacon)
• Small spatula or tongs for handling bacon-wrapped dates

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even cooking. This prevents sticking and makes serving a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Goat Cheese Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine:

• 4 oz (113g) creamy goat cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (or 1/4 teaspoon dried)
• A pinch of salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper

Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated. The texture should be creamy with small chunks of nuts for crunch.

Step 3: Stuff the Dates

Take each pitted date and carefully stuff it with a generous teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture. Press down gently to ensure the filling stays in place. Be mindful not to overfill, as the cheese may ooze out during baking.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each stuffed date with a half slice of bacon, tucking the end underneath to secure it. Use a toothpick if needed. This ensures that the bacon stays in place while baking.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the bacon-wrapped dates on your prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each date to allow the bacon to crisp evenly.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Turn the dates halfway through cooking if necessary for even browning.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the dates from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired for an added touch of sweetness and depth. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• Nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans, almonds, or pistachios depending on your preference.
• Herbs: Try thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a different herbal note.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit bacon and consider wrapping the stuffed dates in puff pastry or phyllo dough.
• Sweet Boost: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few dried cranberries to the goat cheese mixture for a holiday twist.
• Make Ahead: Stuff the dates ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before serving. Add 2-3 extra minutes to baking if baking from chilled.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

The flavor combination in these baked stuffed dates is a true delight:

• Sweet: The Medjool dates provide natural caramel-like sweetness.
• Savory: Crisp bacon adds a smoky, salty contrast.
• Creamy: Goat cheese brings richness and tanginess.
• Crunchy: Chopped nuts create texture and depth.
• Herbal: Fresh rosemary adds a subtle aromatic finish.

Side Dishes That Complement

• Fresh mixed greens or a light arugula salad
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots
• A charcuterie board with cheeses, fruits, and crackers

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Component	Amount
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	6 g
Carbohydrates	15 g
Fats	18 g
Fiber	2 g

Dietary Considerations: Contains dairy (goat cheese) and nuts. Bacon may be substituted for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare the Filling: Mix the goat cheese, nuts, honey, and herbs up to 24 hours in advance.
• Stuff Dates in Advance: Refrigerate the stuffed dates, wrapped or uncovered, for up to 12 hours.
• Baking from Cold: If baking directly from the fridge, add 2-3 extra minutes to crisp the bacon fully.
• Storage: Leftover baked stuffed dates can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of dates?
Yes, Medjool dates are preferred for their size and sweetness, but Deglet Noor or other large, soft dates can also work.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the optional balsamic glaze does not contain gluten.

3. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
You can, but partially cooked bacon works best for wrapping because it crisps in the oven without overcooking.

4. How can I prevent the bacon from unwrapping?
Use a toothpick to secure the bacon or tuck the end tightly underneath the date before baking.

5. Can I freeze these stuffed dates?
Yes. Freeze unbaked stuffed dates on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep	15 minutes
Baking	15-20 minutes
Cooling	5 minutes
Total	40 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm on a decorative platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
• Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.
• Garnish with extra chopped nuts or a sprinkle of fresh rosemary for visual appeal.

Recipe Variations

1. Cheesy & Nut-Free: Use only goat cheese and a drizzle of honey; skip nuts for a smooth, creamy bite.
2. Maple Bacon Dates: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a richer sweetness.
3. Pecan-Cranberry Twist: Add finely chopped dried cranberries with pecans for a festive holiday version.
4. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle cayenne or chili flakes into the goat cheese mixture for a sweet-spicy combination.

Ingredient Spotlight

Medjool Dates

• Selection: Look for plump, glossy, and soft dates. Avoid those that are dry or shriveled.
• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Goat Cheese

• Selection: Choose creamy, fresh goat cheese for optimal texture.
• Storage: Store in the fridge, tightly wrapped, and use within one week of opening for the best flavor.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Room Temperature Cheese: Allow goat cheese to soften slightly for easier mixing and stuffing.
• Even Bacon Cooking: Use thin slices and turn halfway to ensure uniform crispiness.
• Flavor Layering: Toast nuts lightly before adding to enhance their flavor.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Unbaked Dates: Freeze on a baking sheet, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Baked Dates: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat briefly in the oven to maintain bacon crispness.
• Avoid Microwave: Microwaving may make bacon chewy; oven reheating is recommended.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250
Protein	6 g
Carbs	15 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	12 g

Dietary Notes: Nut-containing, contains dairy, gluten-free, vegetarian option available.

Expanded Conclusion

These Sweet and Savory Baked Stuffed Dates with Creamy Goat Cheese are the perfect combination of elegance and ease. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create an appetizer that looks gourmet but tastes like it took hours to prepare. They are sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy all in one bite—making them irresistible for family, friends, or holiday gatherings.

Whether you’re planning a dinner party, holiday spread, or just a cozy snack, this recipe is a must-try. Take a moment to enjoy the sensory delight of sweet dates, tangy goat cheese, nutty crunch, and crisp bacon. Don’t forget to experiment with nuts, herbs, and glazes to make this recipe your own signature appetizer.

Try them today, share them with your loved ones, and watch as these baked stuffed dates disappear in minutes. Your guests will thank you, and you’ll have a new favorite go-to recipe that’s as delicious as it is impressive.

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