If you’re searching for the ultimate appetizer that bursts with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and herby flavors, look no further than this Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and Rosemary Recipe. Each bite brings the sticky sweetness of dates, the creamy tang of goat cheese, the smoky crispness of bacon, and a fragrant hint of fresh rosemary, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s both elegant and comforting. It’s the kind of dish that’s sure to impress guests yet simple enough to whip up any time you want to treat yourself and loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a crucial role in layering flavors and textures that make the dish pop. From the naturally sweet dates to the herbaceous fresh rosemary, this selection ensures each bite delivers a delightful harmony.
- Dates (12 oz., about 16, pitted): The star of the show, these provide natural sweetness and a soft, luscious texture that pairs beautifully with saltier ingredients.
- Bacon (8 oz., thin strips): Adds irresistible smoky, crispy goodness that contrasts the tender date and creamy cheese.
- Goat cheese (4 oz., room temperature): Offers a tangy, creamy filling that perfectly balances the sweetness and saltiness.
- Rosemary (1 tsp., fresh, finely chopped): Brings an aromatic, piney note that elevates the flavor profile elegantly.
- Salt (¼ tsp., to taste): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate balance.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and Rosemary Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. A properly warmed oven ensures that the bacon crisps up perfectly without burning while gently warming the dates and goat cheese.
Step 2: Prepare the Goat Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the room temperature goat cheese, finely chopped rosemary, and salt together until you have a smooth, flavorful spread. This mixture is what makes your dates stand out, blending creamy tang with herbaceous notes.
Step 3: Prep the Dates
Carefully slice an opening along each date, slicing gently to avoid cutting all the way through. Think of it as making a tiny taco shell. This pocket will hold the luscious goat cheese filling with no risk of it spilling out while baking.
Step 4: Stuff the Dates
Using a teaspoon, fill each date with 1 to 2 teaspoons of the goat cheese and rosemary mixture. Don’t be shy here—each date deserves a generous amount to get that luxurious bite.
Step 5: Wrap with Bacon
Cut your strips of bacon in half lengthwise to make them easier to wrap. Then, lovingly wrap each stuffed date with one piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed. This bacon hug not only tastes amazing but keeps the cheese nestled inside while cooking.
Step 6: Arrange for Baking
Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a wire rack set inside a foil-lined baking sheet. If you don’t have a wire rack, use parchment paper directly on the baking sheet. The rack helps ensure even cooking and crispiness by allowing air circulation under the dates.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for about 24 to 26 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and cooked through. If you’re using parchment paper, turn the dates every 7 to 8 minutes to crisp up the bacon evenly on all sides.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked to golden perfection, serve these treats immediately to enjoy the crisp bacon and warm, creamy filling at their best. Prepare for happy faces all around!
How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and Rosemary Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finish, sprinkle a little extra fresh rosemary or cracked black pepper over the top right before serving. This adds a lovely visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor that complements the dish’s core ingredients.
Side Dishes
Serve these delights alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or pair them with grilled vegetables for a balanced appetizer spread. They also make a fantastic finger food addition to wine tastings or cocktail parties.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, arrange the Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and Rosemary Recipe on a slate platter with sprigs of rosemary scattered around. You can also thread them on small skewers for easy grabbing or present them in mini muffin tins for a neat, elegant look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which might be hard to believe!), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the toothpicks in to maintain the shape and avoid any mess.
Freezing
These can be frozen by arranging the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet until firm and then transferring them to a freezer bag or container. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the bacon regains some of its crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep that perfect crisp texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cheese instead of goat cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese offers a unique tang, cream cheese or feta can also work well, though the flavors and textures will differ slightly.
Is it okay to use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits?
For this recipe, raw bacon wrapped around the dates is best because it crisps during baking and holds everything together. Pre-cooked bacon won’t provide the same texture or binding effect.
Can I prepare these ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the bacon-wrapped dates and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just make sure they’re baked fresh for the best taste and texture.
Are there alternatives to fresh rosemary?
Dried rosemary can substitute in a pinch, but use less as it’s more potent. You could also try thyme or sage for a different herbal note.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients, making it a safe and tasty option for gluten-sensitive guests.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and Rosemary Recipe is a show-stopping appetizer that combines simplicity with sophistication in every bite. Whether you’re planning a party or just craving something special, these little flavor bombs are sure to delight your palate and win over your friends. Give it a try—you just might discover your new favorite go-to snack that’s perfect any time of year!
Print
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and Rosemary Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Bacon-Wrapped Dates are a perfect appetizer combining the sweet, chewy texture of dates with the savory, crispy bacon and creamy goat cheese filling. Infused with fresh rosemary and baked to perfection, they make an irresistible bite-sized treat for any gathering.
Ingredients
Dates and Filling
- 12 oz. dates (about 16, pitted)
- 4 oz. goat cheese (room temperature)
- 1 tsp. fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- ¼ tsp. salt (to taste)
Bacon Wrap
- 8 oz. bacon (thin strips)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the dates evenly.
- Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the room temperature goat cheese with finely chopped rosemary and salt. Mix thoroughly until well blended for a flavorful filling.
- Slice Dates: Make a careful incision along the side of each date to create an opening without slicing through completely, resembling a small ‘taco’ shape.
- Stuff Dates: Spoon 1 to 2 teaspoons of the goat cheese mixture into each date’s opening, filling them generously but without overstuffing.
- Wrap with Bacon: Cut bacon strips in half lengthwise. Wrap one half-strip around each stuffed date and secure with a toothpick to hold it in place during cooking.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Place a wire rack over a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on the rack. If a wire rack is unavailable, line the baking sheet with parchment paper and place dates directly on it.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 24-26 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and cooked through. If using a parchment paper-lined sheet, turn the dates every 7-8 minutes to ensure even crisping of the bacon.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the bacon-wrapped dates immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Using thin bacon strips allows the bacon to cook evenly and become crispy within the baking time.
- Room temperature goat cheese mixes more easily with rosemary and salt and is easier to spoon into dates.
- If you don’t have a wire rack, turning the dates frequently is essential to avoid uneven bacon crisping.
- These make a great party appetizer and can be prepared ahead of time, then baked just before serving.
