Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2

Prepare the dates. With a sharp paring knife, split each date in half lengthwise (but not all the way through) to open. Remove the pit and discard.

Step 3

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

Step 4

Wrap the dates in bacon. Cut the bacon slices in half. Wrap each date with a slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Arrange the dates evenly on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle black pepper on top.

Step 5

Bake. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once cooked, remove the tray from the oven and transfer the dates to a paper towel to catch any extra grease from the bacon.

Step 6

Prepare the honey drizzle. Whisk together the honey and cayenne pepper in a small bowl, until smooth without any lumps.

Step 7

Serve. Place the dates on a serving platter and add a drizzle of honey over the top with a sprinkle of finely minced rosemary. Pour any remaining honey into a small condiment bowl to serve for dipping.