1. Preheat the oven to 400 F and line a small baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place the dates on the baking sheet, and using a small paring knife, cut a slit lengthwise on the dates and remove the pit.
2. Use a small spoon to scoop a teaspoon of goat cheese into the cavity of each date, packing it fairly firmly into the date.
3. Cut the bacon strips in half, then wrap a piece of bacon around each date and secure it with a toothpick. Bake the dates for 25 minutes, turning them halfway through, using tongs. Bake until the bacon is brown and crispy on all sides. Remove from the oven and allow the dates to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Dates are best served warm, but can be kept at room temperature for 12-14 hours. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days.