Introduction
Let me set the scene: It’s Friday night, friends are coming over, and you want to serve something that feels elegant but doesn’t take all day to prepare. You also want it to be a little surprising—something beyond the usual chips and dip. That’s when I discovered the magic of Whipped Goat Cheese Bacon Date Jam.
This recipe is a total flavor bomb. Imagine silky-smooth whipped goat cheese topped with smoky, salty bacon and a sticky-sweet, caramelized date jam. It’s the kind of appetizer that makes people stop mid-bite and say, “Wait—what is this?!”
What I love about it is how easily it comes together. It feels gourmet enough for a dinner party but is simple enough to whip up for a casual wine-and-cheese night. Plus, it checks every craving box: creamy, savory, sweet, and just a little tangy.
If you’re ready to wow your guests (or honestly, just yourself), then buckle up—this Whipped Goat Cheese Bacon Date Jam is about to become your new entertaining staple.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this showstopper:
For the Whipped Goat Cheese
- 8 oz goat cheese – Creamy and tangy base.
- 4 oz cream cheese – Helps mellow the tang and add smoothness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Adds richness.
- 1 tbsp honey – For a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens the flavor.
For the Bacon Date Jam
- 6 slices bacon – Cooked until crispy.
- 1 cup Medjool dates (pitted, chopped) – Sweet and sticky base.
- 1 small shallot, finely diced – Adds depth.
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar – Balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup water – Helps the jam simmer down.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes – Optional, for a little heat.
Garnishes (optional)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary
- Extra drizzle of honey
- Crushed walnuts or pecans
Substitution Ideas
- Dairy-free: Swap goat cheese and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Kite Hill makes great options.
- Vegetarian: Leave out the bacon and make a straight-up date jam. Add smoked paprika for that smoky vibe.
- Nut-free: Skip the walnut garnish and top with toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch.
- Extra tang: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the jam for brightness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Whipped Goat Cheese Bacon Date Jam is way easier than it looks. Here’s how:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, chop into small bits. Keep a tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet for the jam.
Step 2: Make the Date Jam
Using the reserved bacon fat, sauté shallots until soft and golden. Add chopped dates, balsamic vinegar, water, and red pepper flakes. Stir and let it simmer for 8–10 minutes until the dates break down into a sticky, jam-like consistency. Add chopped bacon and stir to combine.
💡 Pro Tip: If the mixture looks too dry, add an extra splash of water.
Step 3: Whip the Goat Cheese
In a food processor, combine goat cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, honey, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and fluffy. This usually takes 1–2 minutes, and scraping down the sides helps get that perfect texture.
Step 4: Assemble
Spread the whipped goat cheese onto a serving plate or shallow bowl. Spoon the bacon date jam on top. Finish with herbs, nuts, or an extra drizzle of honey for presentation.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve immediately with crostini, pita chips, or fresh veggies. Warning: it disappears fast!
Extra Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a charcuterie board for an elevated appetizer spread.
- Spread on warm baguette slices or crackers.
- Use as a topping for grilled chicken or pork tenderloin.
- Make it brunch-worthy by spreading it on bagels.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat the bacon date jam gently on the stove with a splash of water if it thickens too much.
- Whipped goat cheese can be made a day ahead—just give it a quick stir before serving.
Variations
- Spicy kick: Add a spoonful of hot honey to the topping.
- Herby: Blend fresh thyme or basil into the goat cheese for more flavor.
- Fruit twist: Mix in figs or cranberries with the dates for seasonal variety.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Based on 8 servings:
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
(Source: The East Coast Kitchen)
FAQ Section
How long does it take to make Whipped Goat Cheese Bacon Date Jam?
About 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a last-minute appetizer!
Can I substitute the dates?
Yes! Figs or dried cranberries work beautifully. Just keep in mind that they may need a little extra water to soften.
Can I freeze it?
You can freeze the date jam portion, but the whipped goat cheese is best fresh. If freezing, store the jam separately for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
There you have it—the perfect appetizer that’s creamy, sweet, smoky, and downright irresistible. Whipped Goat Cheese Bacon Date Jam is one of those recipes that looks and tastes way fancier than the effort it takes to make.
Whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just treating yourself to a fancy snack, this recipe delivers every single time. Trust me, people will ask for the recipe—and you’ll feel like a kitchen rockstar for pulling it off in just 20 minutes.
So grab that goat cheese, fry up some bacon, and get ready to impress. And don’t forget—if you make this, snap a pic and tag me. I’d love to see how you served your Whipped Goat Cheese Bacon Date Jam!