Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Blue Cheese

Sweet, salty, creamy, and crisp — these Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates are a foolproof appetizer that disappears fast at every gathering. They feel elegant enough for a holiday spread, make a perfect cocktail-hour bite, and are remarkably simple to prepare. Soft Medjool dates hold a small nest of gooey blue cheese, then get wrapped in bacon that bakes to a golden crisp, delivering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors in each bite.

Make them for a dinner party, potluck, or weekend snack — you can assemble in minutes and bake just before serving so they’re warm, melty, and irresistible.

Why You’ll Love Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

Sweet meets savory: The caramel notes from Medjool dates pair beautifully with tangy, creamy blue cheese and smoky, crisp bacon.

Few ingredients, big impact: You only need Medjool dates, blue cheese (Gorgonzola or a mild variety), and bacon to create an impressive appetizer.

Prep ahead friendly: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and bake just before serving to keep entertaining stress-free.

Ingredients

• 12 pitted Medjool dates — choose soft, plump dates for easy stuffing.
• 4 oz blue cheese or Gorgonzola — let it sit at room temperature so it’s easy to portion and spread.
• 6 slices bacon, cut in half — use regular or thick-cut bacon depending on how crispy you like it.

How to Make Blue Cheese–Stuffed Bacon–Wrapped Dates

1. Preheat and prepare: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Stuff the dates: Gently open each date lengthwise and fill with about 1 to 1½ teaspoons of blue cheese. A small spoon or piping bag works well to control the amount.
3. Wrap with bacon: Wrap each stuffed date with half a slice of bacon and tuck the end underneath so it stays secure while baking.
4. Arrange seam-side down: Place the wrapped dates on the prepared sheet tray with the seam side down to help them hold together.
5. Bake until crisp: Roast for 18–22 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bacon is deep golden and crisp and the cheese is softened.
6. Serve: Let the dates cool slightly and serve warm or at room temperature for best texture and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• Room-temperature cheese spreads easily and reduces tearing the date when stuffing.
• Don’t overfill: Use a modest amount of cheese so it softens without overflowing during baking.
• Flip halfway: Turning the dates once ensures even browning and crispness on all sides.
• Use toothpicks if needed: If your bacon slices are very short or thin, a toothpick can secure the wrap while baking; remove before serving if desired.

Make Ahead & Storage

Assemble the dates up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake straight from the fridge, allowing a minute or two extra cooking time if needed. Leftovers will keep in an airtight container for 2–3 days; reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through to preserve crispiness.

Variations & Serving Ideas

• Nuts & textures: For extra crunch, tuck a toasted almond or walnut half inside the date under the cheese.
• Alternate cheeses: If blue cheese is too strong, try a mild goat cheese or cream cheese blended with herbs for a creamier, subtler filling.
• Sweet finish: Drizzle a tiny amount of honey or balsamic glaze over the finished dates for an elegant touch.
• Serve on a platter: Present warm with toothpicks and a small bowl of grainy mustard or a light dipping sauce for guests.

FAQ

Recipe Summary

Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates: 12 servings. Prep time about 10 minutes; cook time 18–22 minutes. An effortless, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring pitted Medjool dates filled with blue cheese and wrapped in bacon. Assemble ahead, bake when needed, and enjoy a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory in every bite.

Nutrition information varies by ingredients and portion sizes; values should be treated as estimates.