If you are looking for a snack that perfectly balances sweet and savory with a touch of elegance, the Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe is an absolute winner. These little bites burst with the rich creaminess of goat cheese paired with the natural caramel sweetness of Medjool dates, while chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch. Drizzled with honey and baked just until warm, this treat is surprisingly simple to make yet impressively delicious. Whether for a casual gathering or a fancy appetizer, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorite go-to snacks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and just the right texture. Each component plays an essential role, from the tender sweetness of the dates to the tangy creaminess of the goat cheese and the nutty crunch of walnuts.
- 12 Medjool dates: These naturally sweet, large dates create the perfect base for stuffing.
- 4 oz goat cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the dates.
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped: Adds texture and a warm, nutty flavor.
- 1 tbsp honey: Enhances the natural sweetness and ties the flavors together.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and elevates all the other flavors.
How to Make Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for warming the dates without melting the goat cheese completely, allowing a soft, gooey texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Dates
Carefully make a small slit on one side of each Medjool date and remove the pit. This little act opens up the dates to become a perfect little pocket for the filling.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine goat cheese, chopped walnuts, honey, and salt. Stir gently so the ingredients meld together without losing the texture from the nuts. This mixture is where the magic happens, creating the creamy and crunchy filling.
Step 4: Stuff the Dates
Using a small spoon or your fingers, stuff each pitted date with the goat cheese mixture. Be generous but careful not to overfill since the cheese will soften a bit in the oven.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the stuffed dates seam side down on a baking sheet. This keeps the filling inside as they warm and bake evenly.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for about 10 minutes, just until the filling is warmed through and slightly softened. This step enhances the flavor and melds all the ingredients beautifully without losing the signature shapes.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Once the dates come out of the oven, enjoy them warm. They make a charming appetizer or snack that guests will rave about.
How to Serve Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation with a light drizzle of extra honey or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. A few fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs also add a lovely herbal note and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a cheese board featuring a variety of textures and flavors. It’s also fantastic alongside a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, consider serving these dates on decorative toothpicks or skewers for easy finger food. You can also arrange them on small plates alongside clusters of grapes or figs for a truly elegant spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 3 days, but for best taste, enjoy them the same day.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture of the dates and goat cheese can change slightly. If you do freeze them, wrap each date individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to one month.
Reheating
To reheat, place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until soft and warmed through. Avoid microwaving as this may make the goat cheese grainy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese offers a unique tangy creaminess, cream cheese or ricotta can be great substitutes if you prefer a milder flavor.
Are there alternatives to walnuts for the crunch?
Yes, pecans, almonds, or pistachios work wonderfully. Just chop them finely so they blend well into the cheese mixture without overpowering the dates.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and drizzle with agave instead of honey. The flavor balance remains delightful.
Can I prepare the stuffed dates in advance?
You can prep and stuff the dates a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated. Bake them just before serving for the freshest and warmest taste.
What makes Medjool dates ideal for this recipe?
Medjool dates are larger, softer, and naturally sweeter than other varieties, making them perfect for stuffing and complementing the creamy cheese filling.
Final Thoughts
This Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe is one of those delightful little dishes that are effortlessly impressive. It’s the kind of recipe that brings together sweet, salty, nutty, and creamy elements in perfect harmony, making every bite a celebration. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply craving a special treat, I encourage you to give this recipe a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 stuffed dates
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates, combining the natural sweetness of Medjool dates with creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts, baked to warm perfection and drizzled with honey for a perfect appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Dates
- 12 Medjool dates
Cheese Filling
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed dates.
- Prepare Dates: Make a slit in each Medjool date and carefully remove the pit to create space for the filling.
- Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine goat cheese, chopped walnuts, honey, and salt until evenly mixed to create a creamy, flavorful stuffing.
- Stuff Dates: Carefully fill each pitted date with the goat cheese mixture using a spoon or your fingers.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out slightly.
- Bake: Bake the dates in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until the cheese filling is warmed and slightly softened.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Use Medjool dates for their natural sweetness and softness, making them ideal for stuffing.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds for variation.
- Feel free to drizzle extra honey over the baked dates for added sweetness if desired.
- Serve as an elegant appetizer or a sweet and savory snack.
