Imagine biting into a sweet, chewy date, only to discover a delightful surprise inside that dances on your taste buds. Stuffed dates are the perfect blend of flavor and texture—like a hug for your mouth! They are sweet but also savory, providing a complex taste experience that you just can’t resist. savory veggie burgers Whether you’re serving them at a fancy dinner party or enjoying them as a late-night snack, these little gems promise joy in every bite.
I first stumbled upon stuffed dates at a friend’s potluck, where they had quickly become the star of the show. Everyone was raving about them, and here I was trying to act cool while my taste buds were throwing a party of their own. delicious apple and brie bites Since then, I’ve made it my mission to master this recipe. Ideal for holidays, gatherings, or simply indulging yourself, these bites will make you the life of any event!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These stuffed dates are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal cooking skills.
- The rich flavor profile combines sweetness with savory accents to tantalize your taste buds.
- Visually appealing with their glistening exterior, they make any platter pop with color.
- Perfect for appetizers or snacks, they’re versatile enough for any occasion!
Ingredients for Stuffed Dates
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Medjool Dates: Choose plump and soft Medjool dates for the best sweetness and chewiness.
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy filling that pairs perfectly with dates.
- Chopped Nuts: Almonds or walnuts add crunch; feel free to mix it up based on your preference!
- Bacon (optional): Crisped bacon bits add an amazing smoky flavor that enhances the sweetness.
- Honey: A drizzle of honey elevates the dish with extra sweetness and gloss.
How to Make Stuffed Dates
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first—set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will be the magic box that turns your delicious ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.
Step 2: Prepare Your Dates
Carefully slice each Medjool date lengthwise without cutting all the way through. You want them open like a cozy little pocket ready to be filled!
Step 3: Whip Up the Filling
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with chopped nuts. If you’re feeling adventurous (and who isn’t?), throw in some crispy bacon bits for that extra layer of flavor.
Step 4: Stuff Those Dates
Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each opened date pocket generously but don’t go overboard; we don’t want any stuffing escaping!
Step 5: Bake Them Up
Place your stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (trust me; no one likes sticky clean-up). Bake for about 15-20 minutes until they’re warm and slightly gooey.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Once out of the oven, drizzle honey over them while they’re still warm. Serve immediately and watch as everyone swoons over how incredible they are!
Transfer to plates and enjoy these delectable bites that combine every flavor you didn’t know you needed!
You Must Know
- Stuffed dates are not just a treat; they are the ultimate party snack!
- Sweet, salty, and with a hint of crunch, they make any gathering feel special.
- Plus, they are incredibly easy to whip up, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time socializing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create succulent stuffed dates, start by prepping your ingredients. Begin by pitting the dates and selecting your fillings. Roast nuts or sauté ingredients as needed before stuffing them into the dates. This sequence ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your stuffed dates based on what you love or have at home! Swap out traditional fillings for cream cheese or goat cheese and try different toppings like crumbled bacon or coconut flakes. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Keep your stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy them warm again, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to get that delightful melty goodness back.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly stuffed dates every time, make sure you use fresh dates—they’re softer and more flavorful.
- Don’t overwhelm the date with filling; a little goes a long way!
- Lastly, experiment with sweet and savory combinations to find your perfect match.
Sometimes I can’t believe how quickly my friends devour these stuffed dates—they become a hit at every gathering! Just last week, my neighbor asked for the recipe after polishing off a whole plate in minutes.
FAQs :
What are stuffed dates?
Stuffed dates are a delicious snack made by filling dates with various ingredients. Common fillings include nuts, cheese, or chocolate. They offer a sweet and savory taste, making them perfect for parties or as a healthy treat. Stuffed dates are easy to make and can be customized to suit your preferences. Simply select your favorite type of date, remove the pit, and fill it with your choice of filling. This versatile snack is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
How do I prepare stuffed dates?
Preparing stuffed dates is quick and simple. Start by selecting fresh Medjool or Deglet Noor dates for sweetness. Carefully slice each date lengthwise to remove the pit. Once the pit is removed, you can stuff the date with your desired filling, such as almond butter or cream cheese. For an extra touch, you can wrap the stuffed dates in bacon and bake them until crispy. Serve them at room temperature for the best flavor.
Can I make stuffed dates in advance?
Yes! Stuffed dates can be made in advance, making them a convenient option for gatherings. Once prepared, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you’re ready to serve, take them out and let them come to room temperature. This ensures that they maintain their delicious flavors and textures. Making them ahead of time allows you to enjoy more time with your guests.
What can I pair with stuffed dates?
Stuffed dates pair beautifully with various beverages and dishes. For a simple pairing, serve them alongside cheese platters featuring soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie. You can also complement their sweetness with red wine or sparkling water infused with lemon or mint. tasty cranberry and brie phyllo cups Additionally, consider serving stuffed dates as part of a charcuterie board, where they can balance savory meats and other snacks for a delightful experience.
Conclusion for Stuffed dates :
In summary, stuffed dates are a versatile and healthy snack that everyone will love. With endless filling options like nuts or cheese, you can easily customize them to suit different tastes. They are quick to prepare and can be enjoyed fresh or made in advance for convenience. Whether served at parties or enjoyed as a sweet treat during the day, stuffed dates offer both flavor and nutrition that makes them irresistible.
Delicious Stuffed Dates
Delight in the sweet and savory explosion of flavors with these stuffed dates! Each bite combines the rich creaminess of full-fat cream cheese, the satisfying crunch of nuts, and the optional smokiness of bacon, creating a truly irresistible treat. Perfect for parties or as a quick snack, these visually stunning bites are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 oz full-fat cream cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
- 4 strips bacon (optional), cooked and crumbled
- 2 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice each date lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with chopped nuts and crumbled bacon if using.
- Generously stuff each date with the cream cheese mixture.
- Arrange stuffed dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until warm and gooey.
- Drizzle honey over warm dates before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed date
- Calories: 72
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
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