Stuffed Dates Recipe

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy appetizer or snack that’s both sweet and savory, stuffed dates are the perfect choice. These delicious treats can be made with various fillings like goat cheese, nut butter, or cream cheese.

You can get creative and mix in ingredients like walnuts, bacon, or even jalapeños for an extra kick. Stuffed dates are not only versatile but also healthy, fitting into diets like vegan, paleo, and gluten-free. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty snack, stuffed dates are sure to impress.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Making stuffed dates can be fun and delicious with a variety of ingredients. Below is a list of common ingredients used with some possible substitutes.

1. Dates

   • Medjool dates: Known for their large size and sweetness.
   • Substitute: Any large dates, but Medjool are preferred for their soft texture.

2. Nuts

   • Walnuts: Great for their rich flavor.
   • Substitute: Pecans, almonds, or pine nuts.

3. Cheese

   • Blue cheese: Offers a strong, tangy taste.
   • Substitute: Goat cheese, cream cheese, or ricotta.

4. Nut Butters

   • Peanut butter: A classic choice.
   • Substitute: Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.

5. Sweeteners

   • Honey: Adds a natural sweetness.
   • Substitute: Maple syrup or agave nectar.

6. Spices

   • Aleppo pepper: For a mild heat.
   • Substitute: Paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Toppings and Extras

• Chocolate

  • Dark chocolate: Perfect for dipping.
  • Substitute: Milk chocolate or white chocolate.

• Bacon

  • Adds a savory taste when paired with cheese.
  • Substitute: Turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian option.

• Herbs

  • Fresh thyme: Enhances flavor.
  • Substitute: Rosemary or omit if preferred.

These ingredients provide a variety of flavors and textures, making your stuffed dates both versatile and tasty. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have available!

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare Dates

Using a small knife, cut a slit in each date and remove the pits. Gently open the dates for stuffing.

Step 3: Choose Fillings

Fill each date with your choice of stuffing. Here are some options:

• Goat Cheese: Creamy and tangy
• Nut Butter: Almond, cashew, or peanut butter
• Walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture

Step 4: Optional Add-Ons

You can also add extras for more flavor:

• Drizzle with honey
• Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for some heat

Step 5: Wrap with Bacon (Optional)

Cut bacon strips in half. Wrap half a bacon strip around each stuffed date, placing seam-side down on the baking sheet.

Step 6: Baking

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the dates are warm and the filling is slightly browned.

Step 7: Serve

For serving, arrange the dates on a platter. They taste great warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

When making stuffed dates, Medjool dates are usually the best choice. They are large, sweet, and easy to fill with various ingredients.

Tips for Filling

• Use a small spoon to scoop and fill dates neatly.
• For a smoother texture, blitz nuts or cheese in a food processor before stuffing.
• If you want a rich flavor, try mixing fillings. For example, peanut butter with chocolate chips or blue cheese with bacon bits.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate dates filled with cheese or other perishable items in an airtight container. They stay fresh for 5-7 days.
• To freeze stuffed dates, place them on a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge 24 hours before serving.

Tricks for Serving

• Sprinkling a bit of sea salt on top adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness.
• Use a toothpick to help keep the date closed if the filling is too thick.
• For a fun snack, dip the stuffed dates in melted chocolate and let them harden in the fridge.

Follow these simple tips, and your stuffed dates will be a hit at any gathering!

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Stuffed dates are versatile and can be made in many ways. Here are some tasty ideas to get you started:

Recipe Variations

1. Peanut Butter and Chocolate:

   • Fill dates with peanut butter.
   • Dip in melted chocolate.
   • Sprinkle with sea salt.

2. Blue Cheese and Bacon:

   • Mix blue cheese and crumbled bacon.
   • Stuff the dates.
   • Top with fresh thyme leaves.

3. Goat Cheese and Walnuts:

   • Stuff dates with goat cheese.
   • Add chopped walnuts.
   • Bake until cheese is golden.
   • Drizzle with honey.

4. Cream Cheese and Jalapeños:

   • Combine cream cheese with chopped pickled jalapeños.
   • Fill the dates.
   • Toast panko bread crumbs and sprinkle on top.

Serving Suggestions

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  Appetizer Platter:
  Arrange stuffed dates on a platter with a vegan cheese ball, hummus, and baked chips. They make a delightful addition to any party.

  
  
• 
  

  Freezing and Storage:
  Place dates in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge 24 hours before serving.

  
  
• 
  

  Immediate Serving:
  Bake the stuffed dates for a warm treat. Serve them fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture.