Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Dates
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Dates are the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. This easy-to-make appetizer will be a hit at your next party.
This recipe is made with just four simple ingredients: fresh jalapeños, creamy goat cheese, sweet dates and smoky bacon. A great appetizer you can make ahead of time and store in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
The jalapeños add a touch of heat, goat cheese brings a smooth tangy layer, dates provide a natural sweetness, and the bacon ties it all together with a crispy, salty finish. For your next party, pair these stuffed dates with Tinto De Verano or Vanilla Grapefruit Gin Sour cocktails.
Ingredients you will need
- Dates – Freshness is key! You do not want to use dry dates. Medjool dates are the best choice; they are large enough to stuff and stay moist and chewy even after baking.
- Jalapeños – medium sized peppers work the best. Look for ones that are firm, deep green, with no spots. Remove the seeds and membrane.
- Bacon – use regular cut (not thick), so it crisps up nicely and is easy to wrap around the dates. Thick cut bacon will take too long to crisp.
- Goat Cheese – goat cheese adds a creamy and tangy contrast to the sweet dates and spicy jalapeños. It also melts well without becoming runny.
If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, here are a few excellent alternatives:
Cream cheese: Mild, smooth, and cream, it is the most common substitute for stuffed jalapeños.
Boursin cheese: Adds a rich, herb flavor that pairs perfectly with bacon.
Blue cheese or gorgonzola: Has a stronger, savory flavor (great with maple-glazed bacon).
Ricotta or mascarpone: For a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the dates – Slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit.
- Add the filling – Stuff each date with a small amount of goat cheese and a thin slice of jalapeño.
- Wrap with bacon – Cut bacon slice in half, then wrap each date and secure with a toothpick.
- Bake – Arrange on the baking sheet, leaving room between each date. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the bacon is crispy.
- Serve warm – Allow to cool for 5 minutes and serve warm.
Easy to make party appetizers
These delicious appetizers are easy to make and will certainly be a hit at your next gathering.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Dates
Ingredients
- 20 dates pitted (I prefer mejool dates)
- 10 slices bacon regular sliced (not thick)
- 2-3 medium Jalapeño Peppers seeded and sliced
- 2.5-3 ounces Goat Cheese
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make a lengthwise slit on one side of each date and remove the pit, creating a small pocket for the stuffing.
- Add a slice of jalapeño inside each date then stuff goat cheese into the remaining space. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press the cheese firmly into the date.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on the outside of each stuffed date.
- Wrap each stuffed date with half strip of bacon, ensuring that the bacon covers the entire date and only overlaps slightly and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Leave some space between each date to allow for even cooking.
- Bake the dates for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon becomes crispy and browned to your liking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the dates cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
