Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Slice dates lengthwise on one side to create an opening; remove the pit.

Using a spoon, stuff a small amount of goat cheese into the cavity of each date and press sides together to close.

Cut bacon slices in half. Wrap each date with a slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick. (Usually, my bacon pieces wrap around the date 1-1/2 times; if it's wrapping more than twice around the date, trim your bacon slices shorter. If the bacon layer is too thick, it won't cook well).

Arrange dates evenly on a baking sheet with raised edges (otherwise, grease will get everywhere). Bake for 10 minutes.

Remove from oven and use toothpick to turn each date over so it's laying on its side, and bake for another 5 to 8 minutes until bacon is browned to your liking.

Remove from oven, place dates on a paper towel lined plate, and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.