Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese – Easy Party Appetizer

An Easy Appetizer That Steals the Spotlight

When it comes to crowd-pleasing party appetizers, nothing beats the sweet-and-savory perfection of Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese. This bite-sized treat is the kind of flavor bomb that disappears in minutes. The combination of tender Medjool dates, creamy tangy goat cheese, and crispy turkey bacon hits all the right notes: salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, game day event, or casual get-together, this appetizer is a surefire hit. Even better? It’s incredibly simple to make with just three main ingredients.

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🌟 Why You’ll Love These Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates

• Minimal ingredients, max flavor
• Naturally gluten-free and low-carb
• Make ahead and reheat easily
• Perfect balance of creamy, salty, and sweet
• Elevated yet easy for any skill level

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

• 20 Medjool dates, pitted
• 4 oz goat cheese
• 10 slices turkey bacon, halved
• Optional: toothpicks, maple syrup drizzle, or chopped nuts

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Dates

• Slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit (if not already pitted).
• Gently open each date and spoon or pipe in about 1 teaspoon of goat cheese.

2. Wrap with Turkey Bacon

• Cut each turkey bacon strip in half.
• Wrap a strip around each stuffed date and secure with a toothpick if needed.

3. Bake to Perfection

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is browned and slightly crispy.

4. Serve and Enjoy

• Let cool slightly.
• Optional: drizzle with honey or maple syrup or sprinkle with chopped pecans.

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🍽️ Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with sparkling juice or non-alcoholic spritzers
• Perfect alongside cheese boards
• Add to brunch spreads
• Great with mixed greens and vinaigrette
• Excellent with roasted nuts and olives

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🔁 Variations and Add-Ons

• Nutty crunch: Add a toasted almond or pecan inside the date with the cheese
• Spicy version: Mix goat cheese with chili flakes or jalapeños
• Sweet glaze: Brush with honey or maple syrup before baking
• Herby twist: Mix rosemary or thyme into goat cheese
• Blue cheese lover? Swap in blue cheese or cream cheese for a different profile

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📦 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freeze: Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes or until warmed through

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📊 Nutritional Info (Per Piece Approx.)

• Calories: 90
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbs: 6g
• Sugar: 5g

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🧠 Pro Tips

• Use fresh, plump Medjool dates—they’re the softest and most flavorful
• Chill goat cheese slightly to make stuffing easier
• Wrap bacon tightly for better crisping
• Use a wire rack on your baking sheet for even cooking
• Secure with toothpicks to keep everything in place

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❓ FAQs

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes—prep and refrigerate uncooked dates up to 24 hours ahead.

Q: Do I need to cook the turkey bacon before wrapping?
No—wrap raw, and it will cook in the oven.

Q: Can I use other cheeses?
Absolutely—cream cheese, feta, or blue cheese work well.

Q: Are they freezer-friendly?
Yes—freeze before baking, then bake from frozen with a few extra minutes.

Q: What if I don’t like goat cheese?
Use a smooth cheese like Boursin, mascarpone, or herbed cream cheese.

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✅ Conclusion: Your Go-To Party Favorite

Turkey Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese are one of those rare recipes that feel both indulgent and elegant while being incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll be rewarded with the ultimate sweet-savory bite that’s always the first thing to disappear at the table. Make them once, and they’ll become your new signature appetizer.

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