Savory Cheese-Stuffed Dates

Sink your teeth into a delightful treat with these irresistible Stuffed Dates! Imagine the perfect blend of sweet Medjool dates oozing with smooth goat cheese, topped with a crunchy mix of walnuts, rosemary, and a touch of orange zest. These little bites are a surefire hit at any gathering, disappearing faster than you can set them out. The final touch of hot honey drizzle pulls all the flavors together in a glorious burst of sweetness. Trust me, these stuffed dates will have everyone reaching for more!

Every time I make these Stuffed Dates, they vanish in a blink of an eye. The roasted dates turn gooey and warm, while the goat cheese melts just right, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your guests raving. Whether you have vegetarians, cheese lovers, or picky eaters in the crowd, these stuffed dates cater to all tastes. With minimal effort and time required, you can effortlessly impress your guests with these gourmet-looking treats. Prepping them ahead and baking just before serving ensures your home is filled with the inviting aroma of these delectable morsels. So, line them up on a charming wooden board, drizzle with hot honey, and watch as these stuffed dates steal the spotlight at your next gathering.

Quick Benefits

• Easy and quick crowd-pleaser: Simple to prep, assemble, and bake; never fails to impress guests at gatherings.
• Versatile and customizable: Endless variations with different cheese and nut options; perfect for catering to various preferences.
• Make-ahead convenience: Can be prepared a week in advance and baked just before serving; ideal for planning and hosting stress-free events.
• Balanced flavors and textures: The combination of sweet dates, creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and fragrant rosemary with a hint of citrus and spice creates a harmonious taste experience.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Cheese-Stuffed Dates Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal effort required, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: A delicious sweet and savory combination that appeals to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this gourmet-looking dish that is actually quick and easy to prepare.
• Versatile Recipe: Endless possibilities for customization with various cheese, nut, and topping options to suit your preferences.
• Make-Ahead Option: Can be prepped in advance for convenience, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of the dates, creaminess of the goat cheese, crunch of walnuts, and hint of rosemary create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
• Satisfying Snack: A satisfying and indulgent treat that is sure to leave everyone wanting more.
• Beautiful Presentation: The dish is visually appealing, making it a stunning addition to any spread or charcuterie board.
• Great for Conversation: Sharing these stuffed dates encourages interaction and creates a lively atmosphere among guests.
• Kid-Friendly Option: Even kids who typically avoid dates may find themselves enjoying this sweet and salty snack.

Ingredients for Savory Cheese-Stuffed Dates

• 1/3 cup walnuts, finely chopped.
• 4 oz soft goat cheese, at room temperature.
• Hot honey to drizzle over.
• 12 oz Medjool dates, no pits.
• A pinch (1/4 teaspoon) of sea salt.
• 3 tablespoons high-quality olive oil.
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder.
• Zest from 1 orange and 2 teaspoons of its juice.
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced.

Pro Tips for Savory Cheese-Stuffed Dates

Pro tip 1: Chill the dates before slicing for easier handling and neater results. Keeping the nut topping in the fridge will make it readily available for quick assembly.

Pro tip 2: Mix the cheese and dates in advance, but assemble them right before serving to maintain the perfect texture. Consider setting up a DIY date bar for guests to customize their stuffed dates with different toppings.

Pro tip 3: If you’re short on time, prepare a double batch to keep up with the demand; these delectable bites tend to disappear quickly. Experiment with different variations like wrapping the dates in bacon or incorporating alternative cheeses and nuts for added flavor.

How to Make Savory Cheese-Stuffed Dates

Step 1: Prep

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Slice the dates lengthwise and fill each with 1 to 2 teaspoons of goat cheese.

Step 2: Make Topping

In a bowl, mix together walnuts, rosemary, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon, salt, and olive oil.

Step 3: Assemble

Arrange the stuffed dates in a baking dish and top them with the walnut mixture.

Step 4: Bake

After baking for approximately 15 minutes, allow a 5-minute cooling period before handling.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer the dates to a serving plate, drizzle with hot honey, and enjoy while warm.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the Stuffed Dates, it is best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help maintain the freshness of the dates and cheese filling. If you have any leftover nut topping, store it separately in the fridge to keep it crunchy for the next batch or for other recipes.

To make hosting easier, you can prepare the stuffed dates in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a week. When you are ready to serve, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. This way, you can have a delicious and impressive appetizer ready to go for your guests without the last-minute rush. Remember that allowing the cheese to cool slightly after heating will help it hold its shape and prevent it from becoming too runny.

If you want to add a kick of spice to your Stuffed Dates but don’t have hot honey, you can easily make your own by mixing some cayenne pepper into regular honey. Alternatively, you can opt for plain honey if you prefer a milder flavor. This versatile dish allows for various customizations, such as adding bacon, blue cheese, pistachios, or other creative toppings to suit your taste preferences or create a unique presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lactose-free option, you can substitute the goat cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese or a soft tofu mixed with a bit of lemon juice and salt for a tangy flavor.

If you prefer a nut-free version, you can replace the walnuts with toasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar crunchy texture and nutty taste.

To add a different flavor profile, consider swapping the rosemary with thyme, sage, or even a hint of cumin for a unique twist on these stuffed dates. Additionally, you can experiment with different citrus zests like lemon or lime for a refreshing citrusy note.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try arranging the stuffed dates on a beautiful wooden charcuterie board along with a variety of cheeses, nuts, and fruits. Add some sprigs of fresh rosemary and drizzle the entire board with hot honey for a stunning and delicious appetizer spread that will impress your guests.

Another fun idea is to set up a DIY date bar for a interactive and customizable experience. Provide bowls of different fillings such as blue cheese, bacon, pistachios, and maple candied pecans, along with the stuffed dates. Let your guests build their own combinations and get creative with the toppings. It’s a fun and engaging way to enjoy these tasty bites while catering to everyone’s preferences.

FAQs for Savory Cheese-Stuffed Dates

Can I prepare the stuffed dates in advance?

Absolutely, you can fill them up to a week early. Keep them cold in the refrigerator and warm them in the oven for about 15 minutes at 350°F before serving.

Is it necessary to use hot honey for drizzling?

If you don’t have hot honey, you can mix a little cayenne into regular honey for a spicy kick, or simply use plain honey if you prefer a milder flavor.

How can I prevent the goat cheese from oozing out of the dates?

If you give them a minute or two after baking, the cheese will hold its shape and won’t ooze everywhere when you move them.

Why is it recommended to chill the dates before slicing?

Chilling the dates makes them easier to slice and fill. This tip helps you prepare the stuffed dates more efficiently.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your Stuffed Dates creation, remember that the joy of sharing these delectable bites with loved ones is truly what makes them taste even sweeter. The versatility of this recipe allows you to get creative and customize to your heart’s content. Whether you decide to experiment with different cheeses, nuts, or drizzles, the possibilities are endless!

So, go ahead and whip up a batch of these irresistible Stuffed Dates for your next gathering. Watch as they disappear in a flash, leaving behind smiles and memories that will last a lifetime. Allow the warmth of these gooey, cheesy, and nutty treats to bring people together and create moments worth savoring. Stuffed Dates are not just a dish; they are a conversation starter, a crowd-pleaser, and a new tradition waiting to be shared.