Turkey bacon wrapped dates stuffed with creamy goat cheese bring sweet, savory, and crisp textures to the Thanksgiving appetizer table. I love how a handful of simple ingredients turns into an elegant bite that is easy to share.
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Bacon Dates
These little bites are simple to prep, easy to serve, and full of contrast: soft dates, tangy goat cheese, and crisp turkey bacon. You can assemble them ahead of time, then bake just before guests arrive for a warm appetizer that feels special without keeping you in the kitchen.
Turkey Bacon Dates Ingredients & Substitutions
- 16 large pitted dates, Medjool dates work especially well
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 8 slices turkey bacon, cut in half crosswise
- 16 toothpicks, soaked in water for 10 minutes if using wooden toothpicks
- 1 tablespoon honey, optional, for drizzling
- Freshly ground black pepper, optional
If you prefer a milder filling, use softened cream cheese instead of goat cheese. For a little extra crunch, tuck a toasted almond into each date before wrapping.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Turkey Bacon Dates
1. Prepare the oven and dates
Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or set a wire rack over the sheet. If your dates are not already pitted, make a small lengthwise cut and remove the pits.
2. Fill each date
Spoon about ¾ teaspoon of goat cheese into each date. Press the date gently closed around the filling, taking care not to squeeze the cheese out.
3. Wrap and secure
Wrap one half-slice of turkey bacon around each date and secure it with a toothpick. Arrange the dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
4. Bake until crisp
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, turning the dates once halfway through, until the turkey bacon is browned and crisp. If needed, give them a few more minutes in the oven, checking often near the end.
5. Finish and serve
Let the dates cool for a few minutes before serving. Add a light drizzle of honey and a little black pepper, if you like.
Tips for Success
- Choose plump, soft dates so they are easy to fill and wrap.
- Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for a few minutes to make filling easier.
- Place the wrapped dates seam-side down to help keep them together as they bake.
- For more even browning, use a wire rack set over your baking sheet.
- Allow the appetizers to rest briefly after baking. The filling will be very hot straight from the oven.
Variations of Turkey Bacon Dates
Try adding a toasted almond or pecan inside each date for crunch. A pinch of chopped fresh thyme or rosemary in the goat cheese adds an herby note that suits a Thanksgiving spread. You can also finish the baked dates with a little hot honey for gentle warmth, or use cream cheese for a softer, milder filling.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Turkey Bacon Dates
Serve these warm as part of a Thanksgiving appetizer board with roasted nuts, sliced pears, grapes, and crackers. They pair nicely with a crisp green salad or other small bites, such as stuffed mushrooms and vegetable skewers. Arrange them on a platter with a small bowl of honey for guests who enjoy a sweeter finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerate leftover dates in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, until warmed through. The microwave works in a pinch, but the turkey bacon will be softer. For make-ahead prep, fill and wrap the dates, cover, and refrigerate for up to one day before baking.
Memories Made Around the Table
I love appetizers that invite everyone to linger near the table and reach for just one more. These sweet-and-savory dates feel right at home at a holiday gathering, whether they are passed around before dinner or tucked onto a shared platter while everyone catches up.
FAQs
Can I make these dates ahead of time?
Yes. Stuff and wrap the dates up to one day ahead, then cover and refrigerate them. Bake shortly before serving for the best texture.
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Use a modest amount of goat cheese and gently close each date around it. Wrapping the turkey bacon snugly and placing the seam underneath also helps.
Can I serve these at room temperature?
They are best warm, but you can serve them at room temperature for a party platter. Let them cool slightly after baking, and avoid leaving them out for more than two hours.
Can I use another cheese?
Yes. Cream cheese makes a mild, creamy filling, while a soft blue cheese gives the dates a bolder savory flavor. Use a similar amount and fill each date lightly.
Final Thoughts
With a creamy center and crisp, savory wrap, these stuffed dates are an easy addition to a Thanksgiving appetizer spread. Make a batch for your next gathering and serve them warm for a small bite that is big on flavor.
Goat Cheese Dates
Equipment
- 1 Rimmed baking sheet Line with parchment paper or use with a wire rack
- 1 Toothpicks Soak wooden toothpicks in water for 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 16 large pitted dates Medjool dates work especially well
- 4 ounces goat cheese softened
- 8 slices turkey bacon cut in half crosswise
- 16 toothpicks soaked in water for 10 minutes if using wooden toothpicks
- 1 tablespoon honey optional, for drizzling
- freshly ground black pepper optional
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or set a wire rack over the sheet. If your dates are not already pitted, make a small lengthwise cut and remove the pits.
- Spoon about ¾ teaspoon of goat cheese into each date. Press the date gently closed around the filling, taking care not to squeeze the cheese out.
- Wrap one half-slice of turkey bacon around each date and secure it with a toothpick. Arrange the dates seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, turning the dates once halfway through, until the turkey bacon is browned and crisp. If needed, give them a few more minutes in the oven, checking often near the end.
- Let the dates cool for a few minutes before serving. Add a light drizzle of honey and a little black pepper, if you like.