Maple Pecan Bacon-Wrapped Goat Cheese Dates
This elegant appetizer blends sweet, savory, and creamy flavors into one bite-sized treat. Soft Medjool dates are filled with a lightly sweetened whipped goat cheese mixture, wrapped in crisp bacon, and finished with a drizzle of warm maple syrup. The addition of pecans and cinnamon brings a cozy holiday richness, making this recipe ideal for gatherings or quiet nights at home.
This dish actually became a favorite in my kitchen during a winter evening when I needed something quick but special. I grabbed what I had on hand—dates, goat cheese, and a few slices of bacon—and hoped for the best. The moment they came out of the oven, the warm maple aroma and sizzling bacon had everyone hovering around the baking sheet. They disappeared faster than anything else I served that night, and I’ve made them every winter since. It’s the kind of appetizer that feels effortless but tastes like you put real thought into it.
Ingredients
- 16 Medjool dates, pitted
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, halved
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 2 tbsp cream cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped pecans
- 1 tsp maple syrup, plus extra for drizzling
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Fresh cracked black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions
1. Make the Whipped Goat Cheese
Combine the goat cheese and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Stir in pecans, maple syrup, cinnamon, and black pepper. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Dates
Slice each date lengthwise if needed. Fill each with a spoonful of the whipped goat cheese mixture.
3. Wrap with Bacon
Wrap each filled date with half a slice of bacon. Place seam-side down on a lined baking sheet. Use toothpicks to secure if needed.
4. Bake
Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the bacon is crisp and caramelized. Broil for 1 minute for extra crispiness if desired.
5. Finish and Serve
Drizzle lightly with warm maple syrup and sprinkle with extra pecans. Serve warm.
If you liked these bacon-wrapped dates, you’ll love my Hot Bubbly Spinach Artichoke Dip.
Hot Bubbly Spinach Artichoke Dip
https://www.featuredbite.com/hot-bubbly-spinach-artichoke-dip/
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or putting together a simple appetizer board, these maple pecan bacon-wrapped dates always make an impression. They come together quickly, require just a handful of ingredients, and disappear the moment they hit the table. If you’re looking for another crowd-pleasing appetizer to pair with these, try my Hot Bubbly Spinach Artichoke Dip — it’s just as simple and always a favorite.
Flavor Notes
- Maple and bacon create a balanced sweet-savory caramelization.
- Pecans add a nutty crunch that pairs well with the creamy filling.
- Whipped goat cheese creates an extra smooth texture.
- Cinnamon brings a subtle warmth that enhances the natural sweetness of the dates.
These are the kitchen essentials I use regularly and highly recommend.
Premium Heat-Resistant Ground Beef Smasher
Multi-Purpose Stainless Steel Scraper/Chopper
KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitt 2-Pack Set
The Original Pro Chopper – Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer
Silicone Baking Mat (3-Pack), Reusable Non-Stick
