Cabot Gouda Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Sweet, salty, and cheesy in every bite, these Cabot Gouda Stuffed Bacon-Wrapped Dates are the perfect appetizer for holiday gatherings, gameday spreads, or any festive occasion. With creamy, nutty Cabot Gouda at the center, smoky bacon wrapped around, and a drizzle of hot honey on top, they’re easy to prep ahead and guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.
Equipment
- Traeger grill or oven
- Wire rack
- Foil-lined baking sheet
- Sharp knife
- Basting brush
Ingredients
- 20 Medjool dates pitted
- 1 block Cabot Gouda cheese cut into matchstick-sized pieces
- 10 slices bacon cut in half
- 2 tbsp hot honey
- 1 tbsp Smoke Junkie seasoning or your favorite BBQ rub
Instructions
- Preheat Traeger or oven to 350°F.
- Slice each date open and insert a matchstick of Cabot Gouda. Press to close.
- Wrap each stuffed date in half a slice of bacon and place seam side down on a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet.
- Brush each wrapped date with hot honey and sprinkle with Smoke Junkie seasoning.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 350°F. Increase temperature to 400°F and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until bacon is crispy and golden.
- Remove from oven and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
Swap hot honey for balsamic glaze, maple syrup, or sriracha honey for a flavor twist.
Use applewood or cherrywood pellets on your Traeger for extra smoke flavor.
Double the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd—these disappear fast!