Roasted Stuffed Dates

If you’re looking for a way to impress your friends and family at your next gathering, these Roasted Stuffed Dates are just the ticket! They combine sweet, chewy Medjool dates with creamy goat cheese, topped with a crunchy rosemary-walnut mix, and drizzled with a hint of hot honey. Trust me, this recipe is a favorite of mine because it’s so simple yet feels special enough for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive celebration.

What I love most about these delicious bites is how they balance flavors and textures perfectly. The sweetness of the dates pairs beautifully with the tangy cheese and the nutty crunch. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them an ideal appetizer that will leave your guests raving!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a gourmet appetizer ready in no time!
• Crowd-pleaser: These tasty bites are perfect for parties and gatherings—everyone loves them!
• Wholesome ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prep them in advance and bake just before serving for a stress-free experience.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the toppings or fillings to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe comes together with some straightforward and wholesome ingredients. Each one adds its own special touch to create the perfect bite-sized treat!

For the Dates

• 1 (12-oz.) pkg. pitted Medjool dates
• 1 (4-oz.) log goat cheese (soften to room temperature for easier handling)

For the Topping

• 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

For Garnish

• A drizzle of hot honey for garnish (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible and lends itself well to variations based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Change the cheese: Try using cream cheese or feta for a different flavor profile.
• Nut alternatives: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds if you prefer something different.
• Add spice: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
• Fresh herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil instead of rosemary.

How to Make Roasted Stuffed Dates

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF. This ensures that when your stuffed dates go in, they get nice and warm right away.

Step 2: Prepare the Dates

Using a small sharp knife, slice open each date lengthwise—make sure not to cut all the way through! Gently break them open and fill each one with about 1 to 2 teaspoons of softened goat cheese. Arrange these little gems in a baking pan; this step is crucial as it sets up for even baking.

Step 3: Make the Walnut Mixture

In a small bowl, combine finely chopped walnuts, minced rosemary, orange zest, fresh orange juice, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and extra-virgin olive oil. Mix everything well! This mixture not only adds flavor but also gives your stuffed dates a delightful crunch.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spoon that delicious walnut mixture generously over each stuffed date. Now it’s time to transfer your pan into the preheated oven! Bake for about 15 minutes until everything is warmed through and slightly golden.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Remove from the oven and let sit for about five minutes before transferring them onto a serving platter. Drizzle with hot honey if desired—this adds an amazing touch of sweetness! Serve these roasted stuffed dates warm and watch them disappear in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Stuffed Dates

Making Roasted Stuffed Dates is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right dates: Opt for Medjool dates as they are larger, sweeter, and have a softer texture, making them perfect for stuffing and roasting.
• Soften your cheese: Allow the goat cheese to come to room temperature before using it. This makes it easier to fill the dates without tearing them apart.
• Mix it up with flavors: Feel free to experiment with the filling! Adding herbs like thyme or spices like nutmeg can give your stuffed dates an exciting twist.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Arrange the stuffed dates in a single layer in your baking dish. This ensures even cooking and allows for that lovely caramelization on each date.
• Serve immediately for best taste: These stuffed dates are best enjoyed warm right out of the oven. If you need to prepare them ahead of time, simply reheat briefly before serving.

How to Serve Roasted Stuffed Dates

Presenting your Roasted Stuffed Dates beautifully will make them even more inviting! Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some extra minced rosemary or parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Zest accents: A little extra orange zest can brighten the flavors and add visual appeal to your dish.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean quinoa salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil complements the sweet and savory notes of the stuffed dates.
• Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette: The peppery arugula balances well with the sweetness of the dates, while a light lemon vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal.
• Hummus platter: Serve with a variety of hummus flavors alongside pita chips and fresh vegetables for dipping. It creates a wonderful contrast of textures.
• Roasted vegetable medley: Seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots can bring earthy flavors that pair nicely with the sweetness of the dates.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your guests with Roasted Stuffed Dates that not only taste divine but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Roasted Stuffed Dates make for an excellent appetizer to prepare in advance, perfect for parties or gatherings. You can easily store them and enjoy their delightful flavors later!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stuffed dates in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, consume them within this timeframe for the best taste.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze these dates, arrange them on a baking sheet first.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place the frozen stuffed dates on a baking sheet and bake at 375ºF for about 10-15 minutes.
• Keep an eye on them to ensure they heat through without burning.
• You can also microwave them briefly, but this may affect texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Roasted Stuffed Dates that might help you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of goat cheese for Roasted Stuffed Dates?

Absolutely! While goat cheese adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with cream cheese or ricotta for a different taste. Just ensure that it’s soft enough for easy stuffing.

What can I serve with Roasted Stuffed Dates?

These dates pair beautifully with a variety of dips or spreads such as hummus or tzatziki. They also make a great addition to charcuterie boards alongside fruits and nuts.

How do I prevent my Roasted Stuffed Dates from becoming too sticky?

To minimize stickiness, make sure your dates are pitted properly and consider using parchment paper on your baking sheet. This will help with clean-up and keep the dates from sticking.

Are Roasted Stuffed Dates suitable for dietary restrictions?

Yes! This recipe is gluten-free and does not contain pork or alcohol. Always check your specific dietary needs when preparing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Roasted Stuffed Dates! They’re not only delicious but also a delightful way to impress your friends and family at any gathering. Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings. Happy cooking!