Bold flavors and simple ingredients come together in this irresistible roasted stuffed dates recipe. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in, these bites are sure to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of sweet dates and savory fillings creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the dates and adds a delightful texture.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for endless variations to suit any taste.
- It’s a quick and easy dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
- Stuffed dates are a great make-ahead appetizer for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 24 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup goat cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Small spoon or piping bag
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your dates won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Tip: If your dates aren’t pre-pitted, carefully make a slit and remove the pit without splitting the date in half.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped walnuts, honey, cinnamon, and sea salt. Mix until well blended. The walnuts add a nice crunch, but feel free to substitute with pecans or almonds for a different texture.
Step 3: Stuff the Dates
Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each date with the cheese mixture. Don’t overstuff, or the filling may ooze out during roasting. Tip: For a smoother filling, you can blend the goat cheese with a bit of cream to make it more pipeable.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Arrange the stuffed dates on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the dates start to caramelize and the filling is slightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the dates cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious warm or at room temperature. Drizzle with a little extra honey if desired for added sweetness.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra layer of flavor, try wrapping each stuffed date with a thin slice of prosciutto before roasting. The saltiness of the prosciutto pairs beautifully with the sweet dates. If you’re serving these at a party, consider making a double batch—they disappear quickly! For a vegan version, substitute the goat cheese with a plant-based cream cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the goat cheese for blue cheese or feta for a tangier taste.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Top the roasted dates with a balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.
- Use almond butter instead of cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Stuff the dates with a mixture of cream cheese and cocoa powder for a dessert-like treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can stuff the dates a day in advance and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to roast. Just bring them to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover roasted stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or gently reheated in the oven.
Can I use other types of dates?
While Medjool dates are ideal for their size and sweetness, you can use other varieties like Deglet Noor. Just keep in mind that smaller dates may require less filling and a shorter roasting time.
Summary
Roasted stuffed dates are a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a flavorful appetizer that’s sure to delight your guests.
