Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious appetizer or dessert? Look no further! These stuffed dates with cream cheese are the perfect bite-sized treat that's both elegant and satisfying. They're unbelievably simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. Perfect for a casual weeknight snack, a sophisticated party platter, or a sweet ending to a delicious meal, these stuffed dates are sure to impress. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted (about 10-12 large dates)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Pinch of cinnamon, chopped pecans or almonds instead of walnuts, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dates:
Gently wash the Medjool dates and carefully remove the pits from each date using a small knife or a pitter tool. Try to keep the dates intact, avoiding tearing them.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy. If you like a hint of spice, add a pinch of cinnamon at this stage.
Step 3: Stuff the Dates:
Spoon a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture into each pitted date. You can use a small spoon or a piping bag for a more elegant look.
Step 4: Add the Walnuts (or Nuts of your Choice):
Sprinkle the finely chopped walnuts (or your preferred nuts) over the cream cheese filling in each date.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!:
Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle with melted dark chocolate just before serving. These are best served immediately or chilled for a short period to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stuffed Dates:
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is properly softened to make mixing and stuffing easier. You can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
- Choose Ripe Dates: Medjool dates are ideal for stuffing because of their soft texture and rich flavor. Make sure your dates are plump and soft for best results.
- Don't Overfill: While you want a generous amount of filling, avoid overstuffing the dates as they might burst.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with different nuts, seeds, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to customize the flavor profile.
Variations:
- Chocolate Stuffed Dates: Add cocoa powder to the cream cheese mixture for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Spicy Stuffed Dates: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes into the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Stuffed Dates: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used, but a single stuffed date will likely contain approximately:
- Calories: 80-100
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 12-15g
- Sugar: 8-10g
These delicious stuffed dates are a healthy and satisfying treat that's perfect for any occasion. They're a great example of how easy and quick homemade cooking can be, providing a delicious and healthy alternative to store-bought snacks. Enjoy this simple yet elegant recipe!