These Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are a sweet and savory treat that will make your taste buds dance! They combine soft dates with creamy goat cheese for a tasty bite.
They’re super easy to make—just stuff the dates, and you’re ready to impress! I love serving them at parties, and honestly, they disappear faster than I can make them! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Medjool Dates: These are the star of the show with their natural sweetness and chewy texture. If you can’t find Medjool dates, look for other soft varieties like Deglet Noor, but they might be less sweet and a bit firmer.
Goat Cheese: The creamy goat cheese gives the dish its rich flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to substitute with cream cheese or ricotta, though it will change the flavor profile slightly. Add a bit of lemon juice to mimic the tanginess of goat cheese.
Pistachios: Chopped pistachios add a lovely crunch. You can swap them for walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds if you prefer. Just think about what textures you enjoy in your snacks!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and a lovely glaze. If you’re looking for a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup works beautifully here!
How Do I Properly Stuff Dates?
Stuffing dates is simple, but there are a few tricks to make it even easier. Start by slicing them lengthwise; this helps keep the contents secure.
- Using a small knife, carefully open the date without slicing all the way through, and remove the pit if needed.
- In a bowl, mix your goat cheese with any additional flavorings like herbs or spices.
- Use a small spoon or your fingers to fill each date with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—you want a nice amount of stuffing!
- Finally, topping with nuts not only looks pretty but adds a nice crunch that contrasts with the creamy cheese.
This simple technique will help you create beautifully stuffed dates that are sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 12 Medjool dates, pitted
- 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Pinch of black pepper (optional)
For Garnish:
- 12 whole almonds or pecans (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and you might want to chill it for about 15 minutes before serving. So in total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes to enjoy these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Dates:
Using a small knife, gently slice each Medjool date lengthwise on one side. Be careful not to cut all the way through! Remove the pit if it’s not already pitted. This creates a little pocket for the delicious filling.
2. Make the Goat Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the softened goat cheese with half of the chopped pistachios. If you want to add extra flavor, mix in a little black pepper and some fresh thyme leaves. Stir everything together until it’s creamy and well mixed.
3. Stuff the Dates:
Using a small spoon or your fingers, take a generous spoonful of the goat cheese mixture and stuff it into each date, filling it nicely. The more, the merrier!
4. Garnish Your Dates:
Top each stuffed date with a whole almond or pecan for added crunch. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful touch to the presentation.
5. Finish It Off:
Next, sprinkle the remaining chopped pistachios over the stuffed dates for a pop of color and crunch. Drizzle a little honey on top for a touch of natural sweetness!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange your beautiful goat cheese stuffed dates on a serving platter. You can serve them immediately or pop them in the fridge for about 15 minutes to let the flavors blend. Either way, they are sure to be a hit!
Enjoy this delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion! They bring together the sweetness of dates, the creaminess of goat cheese, and the crunch of nuts for a truly irresistible bite.
Can I Use Different Nuts for Garnish?
Absolutely! While this recipe suggests almonds or pecans, you can use walnuts, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds if you’re looking for a nut-free option. Just choose what you enjoy most!
How to Store Leftover Stuffed Dates?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. These dates are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature!
Can I Make These in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dates a few hours ahead of time. Stuff them and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. Just drizzle with honey right before serving to keep them looking fresh!
What if I Don’t Like Goat Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute goat cheese with cream cheese or mascarpone for a milder taste. Add a little lemon juice for tang if you miss that goat cheese flavor.
