Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Make the filling
- Stir the goat cheese and black pepper together in a small bowl until smooth.
Prepare and bake the dates
- Heat the oven to 400°F and line a rimmed 13x18-inch baking sheet with foil; set a wire rack on the sheet.
- Cut a lengthwise slit in each date without cutting all the way through.
- Fill each date with about 1 teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture.
- Cut each bacon slice in half crosswise.
- Wrap one piece of bacon around each date and secure it with a toothpick.
- Arrange the dates seam-side down on the rack.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the bacon is browned and crisp.
- Let the dates rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For the neatest filling, use softened goat cheese and avoid cutting all the way through the dates. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days; freezing is not recommended because the dates and bacon can lose their texture. For a pork-free option, use plant-based bacon and follow its package guidance for baking.
