Bacon-Wrapped Date Appetizers with Goat Cheese and Maple Glaze Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for an appetizer that’s sweet, savory, and downright addictive, you’re going to love my Bacon-Wrapped Date Appetizers with Goat Cheese and Maple Glaze Recipe. This little bite-sized treat has been my go-to for parties and family gatherings because it’s simple to make yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Seriously, when I first tried this recipe, I couldn’t believe how the flavors all came together so perfectly—sweet dates, creamy goat cheese, salty crispy bacon, and that luscious maple glaze make magic happen in every bite. Stick with me and I’ll walk you through exactly how to nail this recipe every time!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Bacon-Wrapped Date Appetizers with Goat Cheese and Maple Glaze Recipe plays a starring role. I always recommend using Medjool dates—they’re naturally sweeter and softer, which makes stuffing easier and tastier. Oh, and make sure your goat cheese is softened for easy filling!

• Medjool Dates: Pick soft, plump ones with pits removed; freshness really amps up that natural sweetness.
• Goat Cheese: Softened goat cheese melts slightly while baking, creating that creamy, tangy center everyone raves about.
• Bacon Slices: Use regular-cut bacon instead of thick-cut to ensure it crisps up nicely in the 20-minute bake time.
• Maple Syrup: This adds a gorgeous glaze and enhances the sweet-savory balance perfectly.
• Cooking Spray: Just a little helps prevent sticking on the baking sheet.
• Chopped Parsley: A fresh pop of color and brightness when sprinkled on right before serving.

Variations

One of the reasons I adore this Bacon-Wrapped Date Appetizers with Goat Cheese and Maple Glaze Recipe is how easy it is to mix things up. Feel free to experiment with fillings or wrapping styles—personalizing it makes the experience more fun and can adapt to your taste or dietary needs.

• Cheese Swap: I once tried cream cheese instead of goat cheese for a milder, creamier filling and it was just as delicious!
• Nutty Surprise: Adding a toasted almond or pecan inside the date alongside the cheese gives a lovely crunch.
• Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the maple glaze before baking.
• Make It Vegetarian: Replace bacon with thinly sliced eggplant or a plant-based bacon alternative for meat-free options.

How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Date Appetizers with Goat Cheese and Maple Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Dates and Goat Cheese

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it’s warming up, gently slice each Medjool date lengthwise and remove the pit if you haven’t already. Then, using a small spoon or even a piping bag if you want to be fancy, fill each date with about a teaspoon of softened goat cheese. Press the date closed carefully so the cheese stays tucked inside during baking.

Step 2: Wrap Each Date with Bacon

Cut your bacon slices in half to make them easier to manage. Wrap each stuffed date tightly with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. This little trick prevents the bacon from slipping off, which I learned the hard way during my first attempt. Don’t skip the toothpick—you’ll thank me later.

Step 3: Add Maple Glaze and Bake

Lay the bacon-wrapped dates on a cooking spray-coated baking sheet so they don’t stick. Brush each one generously with maple syrup—this is what gives the appetizer that irresistible glossy finish and extra layer of sweet flavor. Pop them into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, turning them occasionally so the bacon crisps evenly on all sides. Keep an eye on them because bacon can go from perfect to burnt quickly.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

When the bacon is browned and crispy, pull the dates out and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for that vibrant color and hint of freshness. I love serving these right away while they’re still warm and crispy—you’ll find that’s when they taste best!

How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Date Appetizers with Goat Cheese and Maple Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

I love to garnish these appetizers with freshly chopped parsley because it adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of brightness that balances the sweetness beautifully. Sometimes I also sprinkle some finely chopped toasted nuts for texture, but the parsley is my tried-and-true go-to.

Side Dishes

These bacon-wrapped dates go perfectly alongside light salads or cheese boards as part of a bigger appetizer spread. I often pair them with some crusty bread, or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I arrange the dates on a beautiful wooden serving board with toothpicks standing upright so guests can grab them easily. Another idea I tried was skewering several on mini cocktail sticks for neat, party-ready finger foods. Adding a few sprigs of herbs or edible flowers around the platter really amps up the presentation and impresses every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers—and trust me, that doesn’t often happen—store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend reheating them in the oven to keep the bacon crispy rather than using a microwave, which makes it soggy.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these before by wrapping them individually in parchment and popping them into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen for a few extra minutes until the bacon crisps up nicely again. It’s a great time saver for busy days!

Reheating

To reheat, I preheat the oven to 375°F and place the dates on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the bacon is re-crisped and the cheese is warmed through. This method really keeps them tasting fresh and delicious.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Bacon-Wrapped Date Appetizers with Goat Cheese and Maple Glaze Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites because it’s so easy, flavorful, and always impresses. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just craving a little sweet and salty snack, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why it’s the talk of my kitchen and my go-to for celebrations. Can’t wait for you to make it your own and hear how your friends and family go crazy for these bites!

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