Quick answer: The easiest date appetizers are stuffed dates with a salty filling. Fill pitted Medjool dates with goat cheese or an almond, wrap in bacon or prosciutto if you like, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes. Sweet, salty and ready in 30 minutes.
Last updated: 14 November 2026
Bacon-wrapped dates (makes 12)
- 12 soft Medjool dates, pitted
- 12 almonds (or 1 tsp goat cheese per date)
- 6 slices bacon, cut in half
- Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a tray with foil.
- Stuff each date with an almond or goat cheese.
- Wrap in half a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Bake 15 to 20 minutes, turning once, until the bacon is crisp.
- Rest for 5 minutes and serve warm.
Other easy date appetizers
- Goat cheese and honey: fill with goat cheese, add a few chopped pistachios and a drizzle of honey or date syrup.
- Prosciutto-wrapped: wrap a cheese-filled date in half a slice of prosciutto, no cooking needed.
- Blue cheese and walnut: a bold pairing for cheese boards.
- Cream cheese and chilli: a small spoon of cream cheese with a pinch of chilli flakes.
Date snacks
- Dates with almond butter or other stuffed fillings.
- Date balls and date bars for lunchboxes.
- A date and cheese platter with nuts and fruit.
Tips
- Choose plump, soft dates. Medjool dates are the easiest to open and stuff.
- Assemble up to a day ahead and bake just before serving.
- Cooked pork or dairy fillings should be refrigerated and eaten within 2 days.
Ready-made options: stuffed dates collection. More recipes in our date recipes guide.
Frequently asked questions
What do you serve with bacon-wrapped dates?
They work well on a party platter with olives, nuts and cheese, or with a simple salad.
Can I make date appetizers ahead?
Yes. Assemble a day ahead, keep refrigerated and bake just before serving.
Which dates are best for appetizers?
Large, soft Medjool dates.
