Roasted Stuffed Dates

Discover a delicious snack with our easy Roasted Stuffed Dates recipe—perfectly sweet, savory, and ready in minutes! This delightful treat combines the natural caramel notes of dates with a flavorful filling, enhanced by roasting to bring out a warm, irresistible flavor. Whether you’re craving a quick energy boost, hosting guests, or looking for an elegant appetizer, roasted stuffed dates are a fantastic choice that balances simplicity and gourmet flair effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses just a handful of staples, making it easy to prepare anytime.
• Fast Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes without any complicated steps.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Combines sweet, salty, and savory in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Option: Works great as a snack, appetizer, or even a light dessert.
• Great for All Diets: Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and easily adaptable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Though the ingredient list for Roasted Stuffed Dates is short, each component plays a vital role in building the complex flavors, textures, and colors that make this snack stand out. Gather simple yet premium ingredients for a delicious result.

• Medjool Dates: Large, soft dates with a naturally rich sweetness perfect for stuffing.
• Goat Cheese or Cream Cheese: Adds creamy tanginess contrasting the sweet dates beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or almonds bring crunch and a nutty depth of flavor.
• Balsamic Glaze (optional): A drizzle provides a tangy sweetness that enhances the roasted flavors.
• Olive Oil: Brushed over the dates before roasting to caramelize and add savory richness.
• Sea Salt: A pinch to balance flavors and highlight the natural sweetness.

Variations for Roasted Stuffed Dates

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so you can easily switch up ingredients or tailoring it to your dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Here are some fun twists to try out.

• Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of nuts for crunch.
• Sweet & Spicy: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne for a little kick.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap goat cheese for blue cheese or ricotta for varied creaminess and flavor profiles.
• Stuffed with Bacon: For a savory upgrade, wrap the dates in crispy bacon before roasting.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After roasting, drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a decadent treat.

How to Make Roasted Stuffed Dates

Step 1: Prepare the Dates

Slice each date lengthwise on one side and carefully remove the pit, making a pocket for the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a small bowl, combine the goat cheese with finely chopped nuts for texture, or prepare any filling variation you prefer.

Step 3: Stuff the Dates

Using a spoon or your fingers, fill each date cavity generously with the cheese and nut mixture, pressing lightly to pack it in.

Step 4: Arrange and Season

Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush lightly with olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt.

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Roast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, until the dates are heated through, cheese is slightly golden, and edges begin to caramelize.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Optionally drizzle with balsamic glaze or your favorite topping before serving to elevate flavor and presentation.

Pro Tips for Making Roasted Stuffed Dates

• Choose Soft Medjool Dates: They are easier to stuff and have a naturally luscious texture.
• Don’t Overfill: Filling too much can cause the dates to burst open while roasting.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Soft cheeses that are fresh will create a creamier contrast with the sweet dates.
• Baking Time Matters: Keep an eye on the oven to avoid burning the dates or cheese.
• Toast Nuts First: Lightly toasting nuts before adding to filling enhances their fragrance.

How to Serve Roasted Stuffed Dates

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary on top for added aroma and a splash of color. A light dusting of powdered sugar or finely crushed pistachios can also add visual appeal and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair these roasted stuffed dates with a crisp green salad, board of assorted cheeses, or a handful of olives to create a well-rounded appetizer spread that excites the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the dates on a wooden board or elegant platter with skewers for guests to pick up easily. You can also layer them with thin prosciutto slices or wrap in phyllo dough before roasting for a fancy twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any unused roasted stuffed dates in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to retain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

If you’d like to prepare in advance, arrange stuffed dates on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before roasting or serving.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes to bring warmth and refresh the roasted flavors without drying the dates out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dates?

Yes, while medjool dates are ideal for their size and softness, smaller dates like deglet noor can be used but may require careful pitting and shorter roasting times.

What if I am allergic to nuts?

You can omit nuts entirely or substitute them with seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds to maintain crunch without allergen risks.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Replace cheese with vegan cream cheese or nut-based cheeses to enjoy a plant-based version of roasted stuffed dates.

Is it necessary to roast the dates?

Roasting enhances the flavors by caramelizing the sugars and warming the filling, but you can serve them fresh and stuffed if you prefer a cooler, softer bite.

What drinks pair well with roasted stuffed dates?

These snacks pair beautifully with light whites like Riesling, sparkling wine, or even a fragrant herbal tea for a non-alcoholic option.

Final Thoughts

Roasted stuffed dates are one of those magical snacks that feel both homey and sophisticated, delivering bold flavor with minimal effort. I hope you give this easy recipe a try in your kitchen and share the joy of this sweet and savory delight at your next gathering or snack time. You’ll love how fast it comes together and how perfectly it satisfies those snack cravings!

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