If you’re looking for a simple yet show-stopping snack, I’m excited to share my favorite Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Walnuts Recipe. These little bites pack a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, crunchy, and just a hint of spice that makes them utterly irresistible. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just want a quick, elegant treat, this recipe will quickly become one you reach for again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: You can whip this up in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Elegant Flavor Combo: The sweetness of dates paired with tangy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts always impresses.
- Versatile Snack: Serve them as a fancy appetizer, party finger food, or even a sweet-savory nibble with wine.
- Minimal Ingredients: You’ll only need a handful of pantry staples, which means easy shopping and less waste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
I love how these ingredients come together naturally — fresh, sweet dates, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts create a beautiful texture contrast, while the honey and pepper add subtle depth. When shopping, choosing quality Medjool dates really makes a difference because they’re soft and caramel-like, perfect for stuffing.
- Medjool Dates: Look for plump, large ones with soft skin. They’re easier to stuff and taste luscious.
- Goat Cheese: Use fresh, creamy goat cheese at room temperature for easy spreading and the best tangy flavor.
- Walnut Pieces: Fresh or toasted walnuts add a nice crunch; you can roughly chop them if you want smaller bites.
- Honey: A little drizzle on top adds a lovely floral sweetness to balance the tang of goat cheese.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Use sparingly to add just a hint of heat without overpowering the natural sweetness.
Variations
I’ve experimented with a few twists on this Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Walnuts Recipe, and honestly, it’s so adaptable. Play around with the flavors to suit your mood or occasion—you might discover a new favorite combo!
- Swap Nuts: I sometimes use pecans or pistachios instead of walnuts for a slightly different crunch and flavor.
- Flavor the Cheese: Mixing a pinch of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the goat cheese adds an herby note that’s surprisingly lovely.
- Add a Salty Twist: Try wrapping each stuffed date with a small strip of crispy bacon if you’re feeling indulgent—it’s an instant crowd-pleaser.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a soft vegan cheese or almond-based spread to keep these friendly for lactose-intolerant guests.
How to Make Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Walnuts Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Dates
First things first, cut the Medjool dates lengthwise, making sure not to slice all the way through—kind of like opening a book. Then, gently remove the pits. This step is the key to smooth stuffing, so handle the dates carefully to keep them intact but fully opened for your filling.
Step 2: Fill with Goat Cheese
Next, spoon in the creamy goat cheese into each date’s cavity. I like using a small spoon or piping bag to keep it neat. The goat cheese should be at room temperature so it spreads easily—cold cheese can be stubborn and tear the dates.
Step 3: Add Walnuts
Pop a walnut piece right on top of the cheese, pressing it in slightly to anchor it. This not only adds that perfect crunch but also makes the dates look extra fancy. If you love the texture, feel free to add a couple smaller walnut pieces for extra nuttiness.
Step 4: Drizzle and Sprinkle
Finish off with a thin drizzle of warmed honey—take a tip from me and warm the honey slightly so it flows smoothly without overpowering the other flavors. Then sprinkle just a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. I also adore using Aleppo pepper when I have it on hand; it’s smoky and mild.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your stuffed dates on a pretty platter and watch them disappear fast. If you want to serve them warm, pop the platter in a preheated oven (about 350°F) for 5 minutes—warm cheese just melts into the date a bit more for that cozy feel.
Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Walnuts Recipe
- Choose Soft Dates: I learned the hard way that firmer dates are tough to stuff without tearing, so always pick soft Medjools.
- Room Temperature Cheese: Let your goat cheese sit out for at least 15 minutes before stuffing for smooth filling.
- Warm Honey Drizzle: Gently heat honey in the microwave for a few seconds before drizzling to avoid clumping and get a shiny finish.
- Balance the Heat: Use red pepper flakes sparingly and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors.
How to Serve Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Walnuts Recipe
Garnishes
I usually finish with a tiny pinch of fresh thyme leaves or a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios for that extra pop of color and flavor. A fresh herb garnish brightens the richness and makes these look seriously inviting on a platter.
Side Dishes
My family goes crazy for these alongside a cheese board with olives, cured meats, and crusty bread. They also pair beautifully with a light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette — the acidity cuts through the creamy goat cheese and sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like serving these stuffed dates on small wooden skewers or in pretty mini cupcake liners. You can also layer them on a glass tiered server for a classy look that’ll wow your guests. Trust me, presentation makes a difference!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stuffed dates store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend assembling them fresh, but if you need to prep ahead, stuff the dates and drizzle honey just before serving to maintain that lovely texture and shine.
Freezing
I’ve frozen stuffed dates before, but results are a bit hit-or-miss because the cheese and nuts can get soggy upon thawing. If you want to freeze, stuff the dates without drizzling honey or pepper, then thaw and add garnishes just before serving to keep them fresh.
Reheating
To reheat, I gently warm them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes—just enough to soften the cheese without melting it completely. This little trick revives the flavors and keeps the perfect texture, especially if serving warm is your thing.
FAQs
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Can I use other types of dates for this recipe?
While Medjool dates are ideal because of their soft texture and large size, you can try other dates like Deglet Noor if Medjools are unavailable. Just be sure to pick the plumper, fresher ones to make stuffing easier.
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Is there a vegan option for stuffed dates with goat cheese and walnuts?
Absolutely! You can replace goat cheese with plant-based cream cheese or nut-based cheese alternatives. Just ensure they’re creamy enough to spread easily and complement the sweetness of the dates.
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How far ahead can I prepare these stuffed dates?
For the best texture and flavor, I recommend assembling the dates no more than a few hours before serving. Preparing the dates and cheese filling separately a day ahead and assembling just before serving works well too.
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Can I make these stuffed dates spicy?
Yes! Besides the red pepper flakes, you can mix a touch of cayenne into the goat cheese or use a pinch of smoked paprika for a different kind of smoky heat that complements the sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Walnuts Recipe holds a truly special place on my appetizer rotation—not just because it tastes amazing, but because it’s so straightforward and fuss-free. I love how it comes together quickly, yet every bite delivers on flavor and texture. If you’re craving something sweet, savory, and a little bit fancy without the effort, I really hope you give these a try. Your friends and family will thank you!
Print
Stuffed Dates with Goat Cheese and Walnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 20 stuffed dates (serves 8 people)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight your guests with these elegant stuffed dates—sweet Medjool dates filled with creamy goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, drizzled with honey, and finished with a hint of red pepper flakes for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This quick and easy appetizer is perfect for entertaining and can be served at room temperature or slightly warmed.
Ingredients
Stuffed Dates Ingredients
- 20 large Medjool dates
- 4 ounces goat cheese, at room temperature
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup walnut pieces
- Warmed honey, for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (or Aleppo pepper), for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the dates: Cut each Medjool date lengthwise in half and carefully remove the pit, creating a cavity for the filling.
- Fill the dates: Spoon or pipe goat cheese into the cavity of each date, filling them generously but neatly.
- Add walnuts: Place a walnut piece on top of the goat cheese in each date, gently pressing it slightly into the cheese to secure it.
- Garnish: Drizzle each stuffed date with a small amount of warmed honey and sprinkle with red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
- Serve: Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter. They can be served immediately at room temperature or warmed briefly if preferred.
Notes
- Easy and quick to prepare, these stuffed dates make an impressive appetizer with minimal effort.
- For a warm serving option, briefly warm the dates in a low oven or microwave to enhance the flavors and soften the goat cheese.
- Use Aleppo pepper as a milder alternative to red pepper flakes for nuanced heat.
- Ensure goat cheese is at room temperature for easy filling.
- Medjool dates are preferred for their large size and soft, sweet flesh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 stuffed dates
- Calories: 227.5 kcal
- Sugar: 40.1 g
- Sodium: 52.8 mg
- Fat: 5.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45.5 g
- Fiber: 4.3 g
- Protein: 4.3 g
- Cholesterol: 6.5 mg
