LUNCH

Amazing Roasted Stuffed Dates: 15-Minute Feast

by basmer

10 de November de 2025

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Roasted stuffed dates have a magical way of turning simple ingredients into something truly elegant. I remember the first time I tried them at a holiday party – that perfect balance of sweet, chewy dates and a creamy, slightly savory filling was absolutely divine. They’re not just a treat for special occasions, though; I’ve found they make for incredibly easy stuffed dates that are perfect for any gathering. This stuffed dates appetizer is surprisingly simple to whip up, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while they roast is just incredible. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Stuffed Dates Recipe

This recipe for roasted stuffed dates is a true winner, and I think you’ll see why. They’re perfect for any occasion!

Lightning-fast prep: You can whip up a batch of these easy stuffed dates in under 15 minutes.
Incredibly versatile: Customize the filling to suit any taste, from sweet to savory.
Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Everyone adores these little bites of deliciousness.
Naturally sweet: Medjool dates provide a wonderful caramel sweetness that needs little enhancement.
Elegant presentation: They look so fancy, but are surprisingly simple to make for stuffed dates for parties.
Flavor explosion: The combination of chewy date, creamy filling, and a hint of salt is irresistible.
Quick snack or appetizer: Perfect for unexpected guests or a delightful afternoon treat.

Ingredients for the Best Stuffed Dates

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these phenomenal stuffed dates with cheese and nuts. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful roasted stuffed date recipe:

20 Medjool dates, pitted – These are the stars! Their natural caramel sweetness and soft texture are perfect for stuffing.
1/2 cup cream cheese (or goat cheese) – For that creamy, tangy filling. Goat cheese adds a wonderful sharpness that complements the dates beautifully.
1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds) – I love adding a mix of nuts for crunch. Walnuts or pecans work wonderfully, but stuffed dates with nuts like almonds are also fantastic.
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – A pinch of cinnamon adds a warm, cozy note that enhances the sweetness.
1 tablespoon honey (optional) – For an extra touch of sweetness and glaze.
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional) – Brushing the dates with a little olive oil before roasting gives them a lovely sheen and helps them caramelize.
Sea salt – Just a tiny pinch to balance the sweetness and bring out all the flavors.
Fresh herbs (optional garnish) – Like chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Additional chopped nuts (optional garnish) – For extra texture and visual appeal.

How to Make Roasted Stuffed Dates

Ready to create these irresistible little bites? This roasted stuffed date recipe is so straightforward, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make these elegant appetizers. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, gooey, and utterly delicious stuffed dates in no time. Let’s dive into how to make stuffed dates!

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your dates. If they aren’t already pitted, make a slit lengthwise down one side of each of the 20 Medjool dates and carefully remove the pit. You want a nice pocket for the filling.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine your chosen filling. I love using 1/2 cup cream cheese for its tanginess, but goat cheese is also fantastic for a slightly sharper flavor. Add in 1/4 cup chopped nuts – walnuts, pecans, or almonds are all excellent choices. If you’re going for a sweeter profile, stir in 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1 tablespoon honey. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and has a spreadable consistency.
Step 3: Now for the fun part – stuffing the dates! Generously fill the slit in each date with your prepared cheese and nut mixture. Don’t be shy; pack it in there so you get a good amount of filling in every bite.
Step 4: Arrange your filled dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze! If you like, you can brush the outsides of the dates lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil for a beautiful sheen and extra caramelization. Sprinkle each date with a tiny pinch of sea salt to enhance all those sweet and savory flavors.
Step 5: Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Roast for about 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for the dates to become wonderfully warm, slightly softened, and the filling to be heated through and perhaps just starting to bubble at the edges. They should look slightly caramelized and smell amazing!
Step 6: Once they’re perfectly roasted, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. If you desire, garnish your stuffed dates appetizer with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or chopped parsley for a pop of color, and a few extra chopped nuts for added crunch. Serve these delightful baked stuffed dates warm or at room temperature and watch them disappear!

Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Dates

Achieving the absolute best stuffed dates is all about a few simple tricks. I’ve learned these over time, and they make all the difference in turning a good recipe into an amazing one.

Always select plump, soft Medjool dates. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating they’re perfectly ripe and sweet for stuffing.
Don’t overfill the dates. A generous amount is good, but too much filling can spill out during roasting, making a mess and leaving you with less filling per date.
Roast them just until warm and slightly gooey. Over-roasting can make the dates tough and the filling dry. Keep an eye on them!

What’s the secret to perfect roasted stuffed dates?

The secret to the best stuffed dates lies in two things: using high-quality, soft Medjool dates and not overcooking them. Aim for just a few minutes in the oven until they’re warm and the filling is heated through.

Can I make stuffed dates ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the stuffed dates ahead! Fill them and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before roasting. This is a great time-saver for entertaining. For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out these cold lunch ideas for adults.

How do I avoid common mistakes with stuffed dates?

A common mistake is using dry dates; always pick soft ones. Another is over-roasting, which makes them tough. Also, ensure your filling isn’t too runny, or it will ooze out during baking.

Delicious Variations of Stuffed Dates

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the possibilities for stuffed dates are endless! I love experimenting with different flavor combinations to suit any craving or occasion. These variations are fantastic ways to explore the versatility of this simple dish.

Sweet Stuffed Dates: For those with a sweet tooth, skip the cheese and try filling your dates with nut butter like peanut or almond butter. A drizzle of extra honey or even a small piece of dark chocolate tucked inside before roasting creates a decadent treat. These are perfect for dessert!
Savory Stuffed Dates Recipe: Elevate your appetizer game with a truly savory stuffed dates recipe. Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the cheese filling, or even wrap each stuffed date in a small piece of crispy prosciutto before roasting. These savory options are always a hit.
Spicy Stuffed Dates: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a tiny sliver of fresh chili to the filling. This creates a delightful sweet-and-spicy kick that’s surprisingly addictive and makes for a bold appetizer.

Best Ways to Serve Roasted Stuffed Dates

These delightful roasted stuffed dates are incredibly versatile and can be served in so many wonderful ways. They truly shine as an elegant stuffed dates appetizer, perfect for impressing guests at parties or holiday gatherings. Imagine a platter filled with these warm, caramelized bites – they disappear fast!

For a lovely appetizer spread, serve them alongside other small bites like olives, cheeses, and crackers, making them perfect date and cheese bites. They also make a fantastic sweet and savory addition to a charcuterie board. Don’t forget them for brunch! A few warm stuffed dates can add a surprising and delicious touch to a brunch spread, offering a unique flavor profile that guests will talk about. For more brunch ideas, consider these healthy breakfast ideas for weight loss.

Nutrition Facts for Stuffed Dates

Here’s a look at the approximate nutritional breakdown for one of these delicious stuffed dates. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary slightly depending on the specific filling choices you make, especially if you opt for different cheeses or add-ins.

Calories: 80
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: N/A
Unsaturated Fat: N/A
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on filling choices.

How to Store and Reheat Roasted Stuffed Dates

One of the best things about these delightful roasted stuffed dates is how well they store, making them perfect for making ahead. Once they’ve come out of the oven, let them cool completely on the baking sheet. This is important to prevent any condensation from making them soggy. After they’re fully cooled, transfer your stuffed dates appetizer to an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. This means you can easily prep them for a party or have a quick snack ready to go! For more tips on food storage, you might find information on food safety helpful.

While I haven’t found freezing to be the best option as it can affect the texture of the dates and filling, refrigeration works wonders. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them gently. You can pop them back into a moderate oven at around 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes, or microwave them for about 20-30 seconds. You want them just warmed through, not overcooked, to recapture that lovely tender, gooey texture. Enjoying these baked stuffed dates later is almost as good as fresh from the oven!

Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Dates

Got questions about these delightful little bites? I’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying these delicious treats.

What are roasted stuffed dates?

Roasted stuffed dates are a popular appetizer or snack where the natural sweetness of dates is enhanced by roasting, and they’re filled with a delicious mixture. Typically, Medjool dates are pitted and then filled with ingredients like cream cheese, goat cheese, nuts, or even sweet fillings before being baked until warm and slightly caramelized. They offer a fantastic balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Why roast stuffed dates?

Why roast stuffed dates? Roasting them intensifies their natural sweetness, giving them a wonderfully soft, almost jammy texture. It also warms the filling, making it melty and delicious. This cooking method transforms simple dates into an elegant appetizer that’s perfect for parties or a special treat. Plus, the roasting process brings out a beautiful caramelization. For more information on the benefits of roasting vegetables, you can explore resources on cooking techniques.

Can I use different types of dates?

While Medjool dates are ideal because of their large size, soft texture, and caramel-like sweetness, you can certainly experiment with other varieties like Deglet Noor. Just be aware that they might be slightly smaller and firmer, so you may need to adjust the filling amount or roasting time slightly to achieve that perfect gooey consistency.

What are the best fillings for stuffed dates?

The best fillings really depend on your preference! For a classic combination, cream cheese or goat cheese with chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds is fantastic. You can also go for sweeter fillings like nut butter and a drizzle of honey, or even savory options like wrapping them in prosciutto before roasting. Experimenting with different flavor profiles is part of the fun! For more ideas on flavor pairings, check out these flavor variation guides.