Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe

There’s magic in the simplicity of Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates—a sweet, creamy, and savory bite that is absolutely unforgettable. The way the tangy, luscious goat cheese snuggles inside the tender, chewy dates, all wrapped in smoky bacon, creates an appetizer that’s downright irresistible. Whether you’re making these for a party, a cozy movie night, or just because you deserve a treat, Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are the perfect little indulgence that feels gourmet with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beautiful things about Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates is how a handful of good-quality ingredients can work together to create something so special. Each ingredient has its own personality and, when combined, they make every bite sing. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each one matters:

• Dates: Choose plump, medium dates, like Medjool; their natural sweetness and soft bite are the star foundation of this dish.
• Bacon: Regular-cut bacon crisps up perfectly and adds that savory, smoky note that pairs so well with the sweet dates.
• Goat cheese: Creamy, tangy goat cheese gives a rich, velvety counterpoint to both the sweet and smokey flavors—absolutely essential!

How to Make Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

Using a small, sharp knife, carefully make a slit down the side of each date. Gently open it up and remove the pit inside, being careful not to cut the date all the way through. This is your little pocket for that glorious filling.

Step 2: Stuff with Goat Cheese

Scoop up a small spoonful of goat cheese and nestle it into the cavity of the date. Don’t be shy! Aim for them to be generously filled but not overflowing. The goat cheese brings a tangy creaminess that transforms every bite into a new favorite.

Step 3: Wrap in Bacon

Cut each slice of bacon in half, then wrap each stuffed date with a half-slice of bacon. Tuck the ends underneath or secure with a toothpick if you like a tidy, party-ready look. The bacon will crisp up as it cooks, sealing in the flavors and adding irresistible texture.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 360F. Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates in a single layer, making sure they aren’t too crowded. Air fry for a total of 12 minutes, flipping halfway so both sides get golden and delicious. Your kitchen will smell incredible as the bacon crisps and the sweet-savory filling melts together.

How to Serve Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates

Garnishes

While Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are fabulous on their own, a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives brightens the plate and adds a lovely burst of green. A drizzle of honey or a scattering of crushed pistachios gives a touch of elegance and extra flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve these beauties as part of an appetizer spread with other Mediterranean-inspired bites, like marinated olives, roasted nuts, or crisp crudités. They also make a perfect complement to a cheese board—especially with sharp aged cheeses, crackers, and fresh fruit like grapes or pears.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t just pile them in a bowl! Thread them onto skewers for easy grab-and-go bites, or arrange them in a spiral on a round platter for a dramatic centerpiece. If you’re feeling playful, serve alongside small dipping bowls of honey for an extra drizzle just before eating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates (which, honestly, is a rare event), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days—just pop the lid and enjoy a bite whenever cravings strike.

Freezing

For longer storage, these stuffed dates freeze beautifully. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep their lovely texture for about a month—just thaw in the fridge and reheat for a treat on demand.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly-cooked magic, reheat your Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates in the oven or air fryer at 350F for about 5-7 minutes. This will crisp the bacon again and warm the filling so every bite is just as dreamy as when you first made them.

FAQs

Can I use another type of cheese instead of goat cheese?

Absolutely! While goat cheese provides a wonderful tang, you can substitute cream cheese or blue cheese for a different twist. Each cheese brings its own distinct flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.

Do I have to use bacon, or is there a vegetarian option?

You can skip the bacon for a vegetarian version. Simply bake or air fry the stuffed dates until they’re warmed through and slightly caramelized. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a touch of savory flavor in place of the bacon.

Can I make Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates ahead of time for a party?

Yes! You can assemble them in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. Pop them into the air fryer just before guests arrive for warm, freshly cooked appetizers without any fuss.

What’s the best way to keep them warm at a gathering?

If you need to keep them warm for serving, use a low oven (around 200F) and cover lightly with foil. They’ll stay deliciously warm for about an hour without drying out.

Can I add extra flavors inside the dates?

Absolutely! Tucking in a toasted almond, a sprinkle of herbs, or a tiny drizzle of honey inside the stuffed date with the goat cheese makes each bite even more special. There’s lots of room to be creative here.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a long-time fan or about to try them for the first time, Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are the kind of crowd-pleasing treat that always disappears quickly. They’re easy, elegant, and brimming with balanced flavor—just the thing to turn any gathering (or quiet evening) into something memorable. Go ahead, give Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates a try—your taste buds will thank you!

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