Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe

Introduction

These Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them an elegant appetizer or snack. With a creamy goat cheese filling and a touch of crunch from walnuts, they are quick to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 12 Medjool dates (pitted)
• 4 oz goat cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans, toasted)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)
• Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish, optional)
• Balsamic glaze (for drizzling, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: If your dates are not already pitted, carefully slice each one lengthwise and remove the pit.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the softened goat cheese and chopped walnuts, mixing until well blended.
3. Step 3: Fill each date with the goat cheese mixture using a small spoon or your fingers, pressing gently to pack the filling inside.
4. Step 4: Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter. Drizzle with honey and balsamic glaze if desired, and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
5. Step 5: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For added texture and flavor, try toasting the walnuts or substituting with pecans.
• Use flavored goat cheese, such as herbed or honey goat cheese, for a different twist.
• Drizzle with a spicy honey or add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle kick.
• To make it vegan, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative.

Storage

Store stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. For best texture, serve them cold or at room temperature. Avoid storing with honey or balsamic glaze drizzled on, as it may affect texture; add these just before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other soft date varieties, but Medjool dates are preferred due to their large size and natural sweetness, which holds the filling well.

How far in advance can I prepare these stuffed dates?

You can stuff the dates up to a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated, but it’s best to add any drizzles or garnishes right before serving to maintain freshness.

Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 102 reviews

• Author: Lila
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 stuffed dates (serves 4 as appetizer) 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates are a delightful and easy appetizer featuring sweet Medjool dates filled with creamy goat cheese and crunchy toasted walnuts. Optionally drizzled with honey and balsamic glaze and garnished with fresh thyme, they offer a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, ideal for entertaining or a sophisticated snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dates

• 12 Medjool dates (pitted)

Filling

• 4 oz goat cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans, toasted)

Optional Toppings

• 1 tablespoon honey (for drizzling)
• Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
• Fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dates: If the Medjool dates are not already pitted, carefully slice each date lengthwise and remove the pit, making a cavity for the filling.
2. Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened goat cheese and chopped toasted walnuts. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and easy to spoon.
3. Stuff the Dates: Using a small spoon or your fingers, gently fill each date with the goat cheese and walnut mixture, pressing lightly to pack the filling inside without breaking the dates.
4. Serve: Arrange the stuffed dates neatly on a serving platter. If desired, drizzle with honey and balsamic glaze for added sweetness and tang. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a burst of herbal aroma and color. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to an hour before serving for a chilled appetizer.

Notes

• To toast walnuts or pecans, place them in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring frequently for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
• If you prefer a vegan option, substitute goat cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
• These stuffed dates are best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated for up to one hour before serving to maintain texture and flavor.
• Medjool dates are preferred due to their large size and natural sweetness, but other soft dates can be used in a pinch.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keywords: goat cheese stuffed dates, appetizer, Medjool dates, stuffed dates, walnut stuffed dates, party snacks, Mediterranean appetizer