Roasted Stuffed Dates: The Ultimate Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe
Introduction to Roasted Stuffed Dates
Roasted stuffed dates are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of dates with the creamy richness of goat cheese, topped off with a crunchy walnut mixture. They make for an excellent appetizer or a sweet snack that can impress guests or simply satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or just looking for something delicious to enjoy at home, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
A Personal Story Behind My Roasted Stuffed Dates Journey
I first stumbled upon roasted stuffed dates at a local farmers’ market, where a friendly vendor offered samples. The explosion of flavors in each bite was unforgettable! The combination of the sweet, chewy date and the creamy goat cheese brought back fond memories of family gatherings. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to perfect my own version of this delightful dish, and now I can’t wait to share it with you!
What Makes This Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe Special?
This roasted stuffed dates recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the balance of flavors. The sweet dates complement the tangy goat cheese, while the walnut mixture adds a delightful crunch and aromatic herbs, making every bite a unique experience. Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish!
The Full Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (12-oz.) package pitted Medjool dates
- 1 (4-oz.) log goat cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/3 cup very finely chopped walnuts
- 2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary
- 1 tsp. orange zest plus 2 tsp. fresh orange juice (from 1 navel orange)
- 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. sea salt
- 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- A drizzle of hot honey for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375ºF (190ºC).
- Using a small sharp knife, carefully slice open the dates lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Gently open them and fill each date with 1 to 2 teaspoons of goat cheese. This adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the dates.
- Place the stuffed dates in a 9×9-inch baking pan, round cake pan, or small baking sheet. Make sure they are arranged evenly so they cook uniformly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, rosemary, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon, sea salt, and olive oil. This walnut mixture brings a great depth of flavor and texture to your stuffed dates.
- Spoon the walnut mixture generously over the stuffed dates, ensuring that each date gets a good amount of the topping.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking; you want them warm and slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Transfer the dates to a serving platter and drizzle with hot honey for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve warm for the best experience!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Roasted Stuffed Dates
These roasted stuffed dates are fabulous on their own, but you can elevate them further by serving them alongside a cheese platter or with a refreshing salad. For a fun twist, try adding different spices such as nutmeg or adding some crumbled feta cheese for a different flavor profile. You can also vary the nuts used; pecans or almonds would work well too. For a sweeter touch, consider sprinkling some powdered sugar over the dates before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Stuffed Dates
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While goat cheese is traditional, cream cheese or blue cheese can create a delicious alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their warmth and texture.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can stuff the dates a day in advance and bake them just before serving for maximum freshness.
Enjoy these delightful stuffed dates as a tasty appetizer or a sweet snack!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 180
- Servings: 6
Roasted Stuffed Dates
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 12-oz. package pitted Medjool dates
- 1 4-oz. log goat cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/3 cup very finely chopped walnuts
- 2 tsp. minced fresh rosemary
- 1 tsp. orange zest plus 2 tsp. fresh orange juice from 1 navel orange
- 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. sea salt
- 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- A drizzle of hot honey for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375ºF (190ºC).
- Using a small sharp knife, carefully slice open the dates lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Gently open them and fill each date with 1 to 2 teaspoons of goat cheese.
- Place the stuffed dates in a 9x9-inch baking pan, round cake pan, or small baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, rosemary, orange zest, orange juice, cinnamon, sea salt, and olive oil.
- Spoon the walnut mixture generously over the stuffed dates.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Transfer the dates to a serving platter and drizzle with hot honey.