Irresistible Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates: The Ultimate Sweet & Savory Party Appetizer

Prepare to delight your taste buds and impress your guests with these incredible Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates. This recipe delivers a perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors, making it a show-stopping appetizer at any gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a batch of these delectable bites that are guaranteed to be the first to disappear from the party platter.

About These Delicious Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates

Imagine the rich, caramel sweetness of Medjool dates, perfectly complemented by the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, and then enveloped in crispy, salty bacon. This isn’t just an appetizer; it’s a culinary experience. Whether you choose to add a hint of fresh thyme or a fiery drizzle of hot honey, these stuffed bacon-wrapped dates are designed to be an unforgettable treat. While the thyme and hot honey are optional, they elevate the flavor profile, transforming a simple three-ingredient snack into something truly extraordinary.

When hosting, I always look for recipes that are simple, require minimal ingredients, and can feed a crowd without stress. This recipe checks all those boxes, delivering an explosion of sweet, salty, and savory flavors in every bite. They are incredibly easy to make, yet sophisticated enough for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant holiday parties.

Why You’ll Adore This Recipe:

• Effortless Elegance: This recipe proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or complex techniques to create a gourmet appetizer. It’s simple to assemble, making it ideal for busy hosts.
• Perfect Sweet & Salty Balance: The contrast between the smoky, crispy bacon, the naturally sweet dates, and the zesty goat cheese is truly irresistible. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more.
• Fantastic for Make-Ahead Prep: Planning a party can be hectic, but these dates can be prepared days or even weeks in advance! You can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for a few days, or freeze them for up to a month, allowing you to focus on other party details closer to the event.
• Crowd-Pleaser: From casual game nights to sophisticated cocktail parties, these bacon wrapped dates are universally loved. They disappear quickly, so consider making a double batch!

What Exactly Are Bacon Wrapped Dates? (A.K.A. Devils on Horseback)

Bacon wrapped dates are a classic appetizer often referred to as “Devils on Horseback.” The concept is delightfully simple: plump, sweet dates are pitted, filled with a savory cheese mixture, and then snugly wrapped in a slice of bacon before being baked until the bacon is perfectly crisp and the dates are warm and gooey. The combination creates a textural and flavor masterpiece that has delighted guests for generations.

While the exact origins are a bit hazy, this appetizer has roots in European culinary traditions, often appearing in various forms across different cuisines. The “Devils on Horseback” moniker is believed to have originated in England, evolving from a similar dish called “Angels on Horseback,” which involved oysters wrapped in bacon. The dates’ rich, dark color and the fiery kick of some variations might have inspired the “devilish” name. Regardless of their history, they remain a timeless and highly sought-after party food.

Essential Ingredients for Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

One of the beauties of this recipe is its minimal ingredient list, focusing on quality to deliver maximum flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Medjool Dates: These are the star! Medjool dates are prized for their large size, soft, chewy texture, and rich, caramel-like sweetness. I highly recommend buying them with the pits in, as they tend to be fresher and more succulent. Pitting them yourself is a minor step that significantly enhances the final taste and texture. If you’re short on time, pre-pitted dates can work, but choose a brand known for freshness.
• Goat Cheese: The quintessential tangy element. Fresh goat cheese (chevre) offers a creamy texture and a distinct, slightly tart flavor that beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the dates and the richness of the bacon. Feel free to use your favorite brand or experiment with different varieties of goat cheese. Other excellent cheese alternatives include creamy blue cheese, pungent gorgonzola, or salty feta for a different flavor profile.
• Fresh Thyme: An optional but highly recommended addition. Fresh thyme adds a subtle, earthy, and aromatic note that truly elevates the overall flavor. Its delicate herbal essence pairs wonderfully with both the goat cheese and the dates. If fresh thyme isn’t available, a tiny pinch of dried thyme can be used, but fresh is definitely preferred for its vibrant taste.
• Bacon: The crispy, savory wrapper that ties everything together. It’s crucial to use regular-cut bacon for this recipe. Thick-cut bacon will not cook through properly in the oven, leaving you with undercooked pork and potentially burnt dates. The goal is perfectly crisp bacon that renders its fat and adds a delightful crunch.
• Honey (or Hot Honey): An optional finishing touch that adds another layer of sweetness and, if using hot honey, a pleasant spicy kick. A light drizzle just before serving enhances the sticky-sweet exterior and provides a beautiful sheen. Hot honey, in particular, creates a fantastic sweet-and-spicy dynamic that guests rave about.
• Toothpicks: Don’t overlook these! They are essential for securing the bacon around the dates. A pro tip: soak your wooden toothpicks in water for at least 10 minutes before use. This simple step helps prevent them from burning or charring excessively in the hot oven, ensuring they stay intact and easy to remove.

Essential Tools for Making This Recipe

Gathering your tools before you start will make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: A medium-sized bowl from your set of mixing bowls is perfect for combining the goat cheese and fresh thyme.
• Spoon: For stirring the cheese mixture and delicately stuffing the dates.
• Small Paring Knife: Crucial for carefully slicing the dates and removing the pits if you’re using pitted dates.
• Half Sheet Baking Pan: You’ll need at least one of these to bake the dates. It provides ample space for the dates to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: To line your baking sheet. This prevents sticking, makes for easy cleanup, and helps the bacon crisp up beautifully.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Dates

Making these gourmet appetizers is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:

1. Prepare Your Dates and Filling

• Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Line a half sheet baking pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze.
• Pit the Dates: If using Medjool dates with pits, carefully slice each date lengthwise with a small paring knife. Open the date gently and remove the pit, discarding it. This creates a perfect cavity for your cheese filling.
• Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the goat cheese with the freshly chopped thyme (if using). Stir gently until the thyme is evenly distributed throughout the cheese.

2. Stuff and Wrap the Dates

• Stuff the Dates: Take a small amount of the goat cheese mixture, roughly 1 to 2 teaspoons, and gently stuff it into the cavity of each pitted date. Be careful not to overstuff, as too much cheese can ooze out during baking.
• Prepare Bacon: Cut each slice of regular-cut bacon in half. This ensures that the bacon cooks thoroughly and crisps up perfectly around the date.
• Wrap the Dates: Take one half-slice of bacon and snugly wrap it around each stuffed date. Overlap the ends slightly to ensure a secure fit. Once wrapped, thread a pre-soaked toothpick through the bacon and date to hold everything in place. The soaked toothpick helps prevent burning.

3. Bake to Perfection

• Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the assembled, toothpick-secured dates in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced about 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking and proper crisping of the bacon.
• Initial Bake: Bake for 10 minutes in the preheated oven.
• Flip and Finish: Carefully flip each date over using tongs. Continue baking for another 6 to 8 minutes, or until the bacon is beautifully crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them during this stage to prevent over-browning.
• Cool & Serve: Once baked, remove the dates from the oven and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Allow them to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving. They will be very hot straight out of the oven! For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, drizzle with a little hot honey and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley just before serving.

Expert Tips and Tricks for the Best Bacon Wrapped Dates

Achieving perfectly crisp bacon and gooey centers is key to these irresistible bites. Here are some essential tips to ensure your stuffed bacon wrapped dates are a resounding success:

• Don’t Overstuff: It’s tempting to pack each date with as much delicious cheese as possible, but resist the urge! Overstuffing can lead to the cheese melting out and creating a messy baking sheet. Use about 1 to 2 teaspoons of filling per date, allowing enough room for the bacon to wrap securely.
• Choose the Right Bacon and Wrap Smartly: As mentioned, regular-cut bacon is essential. Thick-cut bacon will take too long to crisp, resulting in overcooked dates and still-chewy bacon. When wrapping, use only half a slice of bacon per date. Wrap it just once around the date with a slight overlap to secure it with a toothpick. This ensures the bacon cooks evenly and crisps up without needing to pre-cook it.
• Soak Your Toothpicks: This seemingly small step makes a big difference. Soaking wooden toothpicks in water for 10-15 minutes before use prevents them from burning and splintering in the hot oven, making them much easier to remove before serving.
• Space Them Out: Don’t crowd the baking sheet. Give each date about an inch of space on all sides. This allows hot air to circulate freely around each piece, promoting even cooking and crispy bacon. If your sheet pan is too crowded, the bacon will steam rather than crisp.
• Monitor Bacon Crispness: Ovens can vary, so the baking times are approximate. Keep an eye on your dates, especially during the final few minutes. You want the bacon to be golden brown and crispy, but not burnt.
• Cool Before Serving: These dates are delicious warm, but they are incredibly hot right out of the oven. Letting them cool for at least 5 minutes prevents burnt mouths and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Creative Variations to Customize Your Bacon Wrapped Dates

While the classic goat cheese filling is phenomenal, these dates are incredibly versatile! Experiment with different flavors to create unique appetizers that cater to various tastes. Making a few different variations can be a fun way to offer your guests an exciting array of choices:

• Change Up the Cheese:
  • Blue Cheese or Gorgonzola: For a bolder, more pungent flavor, swap out the goat cheese for blue cheese or gorgonzola. The strong, salty notes of these cheeses pair beautifully with the sweet dates and savory bacon.
  • Feta Cheese: If you prefer a salty, slightly briny alternative, feta cheese works wonderfully. Its crumbly texture and sharp taste add a Mediterranean twist.
  • Cream Cheese or Mascarpone: For a milder, creamier filling, try plain or herb-infused cream cheese or mascarpone. These options create a very smooth texture that contrasts nicely with the chewy date.
  • Flavored Goat Cheese: Many brands offer flavored goat cheese (e.g., honey, garlic and herb, fig). Using these is an effortless shortcut to introducing new flavor dimensions without adding extra ingredients.
• Introduce More Fresh Herbs: Don’t limit yourself to thyme! Other fresh herbs like finely chopped rosemary, sage, parsley, or even basil can add delightful aromatic complexity to the cheese filling. Rosemary and sage are particularly complementary to bacon and sweet fruit.
• Add a Nutty Crunch: Incorporating finely chopped nuts into the cheese filling, or even placing one whole nut (like an almond or pecan) inside the date alongside the cheese, adds a fantastic textural contrast. Good choices include pistachios, walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans. Toasting the nuts lightly beforehand can enhance their flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Beyond hot honey, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for internal heat, or brush the bacon with a dash of cayenne pepper before baking for an extra spicy crust.
• Sweet & Spicy Glaze: Instead of just honey, consider a quick glaze made from a mix of honey, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of chili flakes brushed on the dates halfway through baking.

For even more innovative filling ideas, explore recipes that specifically feature a variety of stuffed dates, offering endless possibilities to customize this appetizer.

Prepare These Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates in Advance

One of the best features of this recipe is its excellent make-ahead potential, which significantly reduces stress when preparing for a party. You have two convenient options for advanced preparation:

Refrigerator Method:

You can fully assemble the bacon wrapped dates (pitting, stuffing, and wrapping with bacon and toothpicks). Once assembled, arrange them in a single layer on a plate or tray and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply transfer them to a baking sheet and bake as instructed. This method is perfect for preparing a day or two before your event.

Freezer Method:

For longer-term preparation, the freezer is your friend! Assemble the dates as described above. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch each other to prevent them from freezing into a single block. Freeze until they are solid, which usually takes about 4 to 5 hours. Once frozen solid, transfer the dates to a resealable freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.

To bake from frozen, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first. Then, proceed with the baking instructions as usual. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Wrapped Dates

Can You Freeze Cooked Bacon Wrapped Dates?

I do not recommend freezing bacon wrapped dates after they have been cooked. The texture of both the bacon and the dates tends to degrade significantly upon thawing and reheating. The bacon can become soggy, and the dates can turn mushy. For the best results, always freeze them prior to baking, following the freezer prep method outlined above.

How Do You Reheat Leftover Bacon Wrapped Dates?

If you find yourself with any leftovers (a rare occurrence!), reheating them to their original glory is simple. Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Place the leftover dates in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are thoroughly heated through and the bacon has crisped up again. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the bacon chewy and unappetizing.

Do Dates Go Well on a Cheese Board?

Absolutely! Dates, especially these sweet and savory bacon-wrapped ones, are a fantastic addition to any cheese board or charcuterie board. Their unique flavor profile and delightful texture provide a wonderful contrast to traditional cheeses, cured meats, and crackers. They add a touch of gourmet sophistication and are sure to be a conversation starter among your guests.

Can These Be Served Cold?

While the flavors would still be present, these bacon wrapped dates are not designed to be served cold. Their optimal taste and texture are achieved when they are warm or at room temperature. The warm date becomes softer, the cheese slightly melty, and the bacon perfectly crisp. Serving them cold would result in firmer dates and chewier bacon, diminishing the overall experience.

Can I Make These in an Air Fryer?

Yes, absolutely! The air fryer is an excellent tool for making crispy bacon wrapped dates. To do so, preheat your air fryer to 400˚F (200˚C). Place the prepared, unbaked dates in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. You will likely need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, then carefully flip them. Continue cooking for another 5 to 6 minutes, or until the bacon is wonderfully crisp and golden. Keep a close eye on them as air fryers can cook quickly!

What Kind of Bacon Should I Use for This Recipe?

For the best results, always use regular-cut bacon for this recipe. Thick-cut bacon will not render its fat and crisp up adequately within the baking time required for the dates. This can lead to undercooked bacon and potentially burnt dates. Regular-cut bacon cooks perfectly, achieving that ideal crispy texture that makes these appetizers so addictive.

What to Serve Alongside Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

These delightful bacon wrapped dates are the quintessential party food, making them suitable for virtually any gathering. They pair beautifully with a wide array of other appetizers and are a natural fit for a sophisticated charcuterie or cheese board. Here are some complementary dishes and drinks to complete your party spread:

Complementary Appetizers:

• Marinated Mozzarella Balls: Offer a fresh, tangy contrast with these vibrant marinated mozzarella balls, bursting with herbaceous flavors.
• Greek Hummus: A creamy and savory Greek hummus, served with warm pita bread and fresh vegetables, provides a lighter, dip-friendly option.
• Cheese Corn Balls: For another cheesy, bite-sized delight, try these crispy cheese corn balls, offering a different texture and flavor profile.
• Tomato Puff Pastry Tarts: Elegant and savory, tomato puff pastry tarts bring a fresh, bright element to the table.
• Mashed Potato Fritters: Enjoy the comforting creaminess of mashed potato fritters, featuring a golden, crunchy exterior and tender interior.
• Roast Beef Sliders: For something more substantial, savory roast beef sliders with caramelized onions are a hearty choice that always satisfies.
• Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms: A timeless classic, sausage stuffed mushrooms offer a rich, umami-packed flavor that’s universally loved.
• Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts: If you love the bacon-wrapped theme, these crunchy bacon wrapped water chestnuts are another easy and addictive favorite.
• BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp: Simple yet impressive, BBQ bacon wrapped shrimp provides a delightful seafood option with smoky flavors.

If you’re hosting a special occasion like New Year’s Eve, be sure to check out our complete list of New Year’s appetizers for more festive ideas!

Perfect Party Cocktails:

No party is complete without a refreshing beverage! Here are some big-batch cocktail ideas to pair with your appetizers, suited for every season:

• Spring: A light and zesty Limoncello Spritz, made with just three ingredients, can easily be scaled up for a crowd.
• Summer: Cool down with a pitcher of refreshing Vodka Strawberry Lemonade, crafted with fresh lemons and ripe strawberries for a quintessential summer drink.
• Fall: Embrace autumn flavors with a warming Cranberry Orange Moscow Mule, perfect for ginger beer lovers. For a more sophisticated option, try a vibrant Pomegranate Negroni.
• Winter: Get into the holiday spirit with a festive Christmas Punch or an easy-to-make Christmas Sangria – both designed to serve a large gathering during the colder months.

How to Store and Reheat Bacon Wrapped Dates

Proper storage and reheating ensure you can enjoy these delicious appetizers even after the party is over, or prepare them well in advance.

• Storing Leftovers: Any leftover cooked bacon wrapped dates should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain delicious for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the bacon might lose some of its crispness once refrigerated.
• Reheating Leftovers: To restore their best texture, reheat leftover dates in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Place the dates in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are fully heated through and the bacon has re-crisped slightly. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the bacon soggy.
• Freezing for Advance Prep: As discussed, you can prepare these dates up to a month in advance by freezing them uncooked. Assemble the dates (stuff and wrap with bacon). Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch. Freeze until solid (4-5 hours), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as per the instructions. Do NOT freeze them after they have been baked, as the texture will be significantly compromised upon reheating.

More Tasty Goat Cheese Recipes to Explore

If you’re a fan of the tangy, creamy goodness of goat cheese, you’re in for a treat! This versatile cheese adds a unique zest to many dishes. Here are a few more goat cheese recipes you might enjoy:

• Spinach and Artichoke Goat Cheese Dip: Elevate a classic with a tangy twist. This spinach and artichoke goat cheese dip is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping.
• Cranberry Walnut Goat Cheese Ball: A beautiful and easy appetizer, this cranberry walnut goat cheese ball is a festive addition to any cheese board, offering sweet, nutty, and tangy notes.
• Whipped Goat Cheese Salsa Dip: Simple, elegant, and incredibly delicious, this whipped goat cheese salsa dip is a no-fuss appetizer that’s suitable for any time of year, pairing wonderfully with fresh salsa.

Finally, if you make this delicious stuffed bacon wrapped dates recipe, please consider leaving a rating and/or a comment below! Your feedback is invaluable, and I love hearing about your culinary successes. I always make an effort to respond to every comment, so feel free to ask any questions you might have.

Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram if you share your creations! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite part of what I do – it means the world to me!