Maple Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese for the Holidays

Is there anything better than a recipe that looks like you spent all day in the kitchen but secretly comes together in a flash? I’m convinced these Maple Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese are the ultimate answer to your holiday entertaining prayers. They’re the kind of bite that disappears from the platter in minutes, leaving everyone wondering what kind of kitchen magic you just performed. And trust me, I’ve been there—trying to juggle a turkey, sides, and keeping guests happy. This appetizer is your secret weapon. It’s a perfect little package of sweet, savory, salty, and creamy that just works.

Top Reasons To Make It

• They are seriously impressive but deceptively simple to make. No fancy skills required.
• You can prepare them entirely ahead of time, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen when your guests arrive.
• The combination of flavors is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering, from Friendsgiving to Christmas Eve.
• They feel fancy but use just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients.
• Bacon. Enough said, right?

Ingredients

• 18-20 Medjool dates: Their soft, caramel-like sweetness is the perfect base.
• 4 ounces plain goat cheese, softened: For that tangy, creamy center that balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Adds a wonderful crunch and toasty flavor.
• 9-10 slices of maple-flavored smoked turkey bacon: Provides the classic smoky, salty flavor and crisp texture.
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup: For brushing and creating a gorgeous, sticky-sweet glaze.
• 1 teaspoon balsamic glaze (optional): A little drizzle at the end adds a lovely depth of flavor.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Trust me, this makes cleanup a dream.
2. Carefully slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit. You’re creating a little pocket for the filling.
3. In a small bowl, mix the softened goat cheese and chopped pecans. Honestly, using your hands is the easiest way to get it all combined.
4. Take a small spoonful of the goat cheese mixture and gently stuff it into the cavity of each date. Don’t overfill, or it’ll ooze out.
5. Slice each piece of turkey bacon in half. Wrap one half-slice of bacon around each stuffed date, securing it with a toothpick. The toothpick is key—it holds everything together while they bake.
6. Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching. Brush each one generously with the maple syrup.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and cooked through. You might want to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
8. Let them cool for just a minute or two on the pan—they’ll be molten lava hot! If you’re using it, drizzle with the balsamic glaze right before serving.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

These little delights are stars on their own, but they play well with others. They’re a fantastic addition to any Thanksgiving charcuterie board ideas you might have, nestled next to some cured meats, crackers, and fresh fruit. For a Friendsgiving food spread, they pair beautifully with other easy finger foods like spiced nuts or a simple cheese ball. And if you’re thinking about holiday appetizers for a Christmas party, set them out alongside some sparkling cider or a warm mulled cider for a truly cozy vibe. So good.

Variations & Substitutions

Don’t have exactly these ingredients? No worries! This recipe is very forgiving.

• No goat cheese? Cream cheese is a fantastic, mild substitute.
• Not a fan of pecans? Try almonds or walnuts, or just leave them out for a purely creamy center.
• For a spicy kick, add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper to the goat cheese mixture. Just a little bit wakes up all the flavors.
• If you can’t find maple-flavored turkey bacon, use the regular smoked variety and just be a little more generous with the maple syrup glaze.

Storage & Reheating

You can assemble these Maple Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat cheese up to a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge on their baking sheet until you’re ready to bake. Leftovers? They reheat surprisingly well. Pop them in an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or in a conventional oven until warm and crispy again. I don’t recommend freezing them, as the texture of the dates can get a little mushy.

Cooking Tips For Success

• Make sure your goat cheese is at room temperature. It makes mixing and stuffing so, so much easier.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper. The dripping maple syrup and bacon juices will create a sticky mess otherwise.
• If your bacon isn’t getting as crispy as you’d like, you can pop them under the broiler for a minute at the end. But watch them like a hawk!
• Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. The cheesy filling will be extremely hot and needs a minute to set.
• The best tip? Double the recipe. They go fast.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make these ahead of time for Thanksgiving? Absolutely! Assemble them, cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake them right before your guests arrive.
• What are some other easy Thanksgiving appetizers ideas? Besides these, a simple baked brie or a board with a few great cheeses and some olives is always a hit.
• Are these considered Christmas appetizers too? You bet. They’re perfect for any holiday party where you want a special, hassle-free bite.
• Can I use regular bacon? The recipe is written for turkey bacon, but you can use thin-cut pork bacon; just know the cooking time might be a tad longer to get it crisp.